Steve McClure is a Republican state senator representing the 54th District in Illinois, based in Springfield. Born on March 8, 1984, in Springfield, he was elected in November 2018 and sworn into office on January 9, 2019. His family has a strong tradition of public service, with both parents working in Illinois state government and grandfathers serving in the military. A former prosecutor, McClure served as chief of the Juvenile Division and later in the Felony Division of the Sangamon County State's Attorney's Office, handling cases involving drug dealers, violent criminals, gang members, financial exploitation of seniors, and more. He also participated in the Lincoln Land Adult Fatality Review Team. Notable achievements include passing legislation addressing the public school teacher shortage, COVID-19 student learning gaps, bus driver shortages, internet exploitation protections, veteran job opportunities, and allowing DCFS frontline workers to carry pepper spray for self-defense. He holds leadership roles as Assistant Republican Leader, Assistant Floor Leader for the Senate Republican Caucus, leader on criminal law issues, and Republican leader on the Criminal Law Committee.

Education and Political Experience

• High School: Springfield High School, where he excelled academically and athletically as co-captain of the wrestling team, breaking the single-season record in his weight class; worked summers at the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
• Bachelor's Degrees: Arizona State University .
• Master's Degree: University of Illinois at Springfield , while interning for the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus analyzing budgets.
• Law Degree: Valparaiso University School of Law.
• Early Career: Legislative intern and appropriations staff for Senate Republicans; assistant state's attorney .
• Political Roles: Elected to Illinois Senate in 2018 ; Assistant Republican Leader since 2019 or 2020.