State Senator Dale Fowler announced today that he will resign from the Illinois Senate following the conclusion of the spring legislative session, bringing to a close nearly a decade of service to the people of the 59th Senate District.
First elected in 2016 and serving since 2017, Fowler said the decision is rooted in a promise he made when he first sought office: to serve with purpose, to give the job everything he had, and to know when the time was right to step away. His departure also fulfills his longtime commitment to serve no more than 10 years and to opt out of a legislative pension.
“I have been truly blessed to serve the people of Southern Illinois in the Senate,” Fowler said. “This has never been about a title for me. It has always been about the people, the communities, and the opportunity to make a difference for the region I call home. I am grateful for the trust the people of the 59th District placed in me, and I will always carry that with me.”
During his time in office, Fowler built a record centered on economic development, regional cooperation, and improving quality of life across Southern Illinois. Since Fowler took office, Southern Illinois has demonstrated strong growth across several industries, including manufacturing, a reflection of the region’s expanding economic momentum. He worked closely with local officials, fellow lawmakers, community organizations, healthcare providers, educators, and business leaders to strengthen communities and expand opportunity throughout the region.
Notable accomplishments include helping bring Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort to Southern Illinois, championing the SI Treasures tourism initiative, and supporting the state’s first-ever STAR bond project, which helped pave the way for the Oasis Powersports and Family Entertainment Center.
Among his signature accomplishments is the creation of the Southern Illinois Made Expo, which highlights the region’s manufacturers, workforce, and spirit of innovation. The event has raised more than $500,000 for local veterans’ organizations, reflecting Fowler’s longstanding commitment to both economic growth and honoring those who have served our country.
Fowler has also played an important leadership role within the Senate Republican Caucus, serving as Assistant Republican Leader and helping bring the voice and priorities of Southern Illinois to Caucus discussions and policy development. In the legislature, he has served on a wide range of committees, including Higher Education, Energy and Public Utilities, Labor, Transportation, Local Government, Licensed Activities, Assignments, and the Special Committee on Tourism. He currently serves as Minority Spokesperson of the Senate Higher Education, Education, and the Commerce Committees, as well as Republican spokesperson on the Special Committee on Tourism.
“I have served in many roles during my time here, but none of what I’ve done here or accomplished would have been possible without the support of my Republican colleagues and the outstanding staff who have stood with me every step of the way,’ said Fowler.
“Senator Fowler is a constant advocate for the people of Southern Illinois, working to create economic opportunities for our more rural communities and downstate region,” said Senate Republican Leader John Curran. “His dedication to improving the lives of Southern Illinoisans, and his proven track record as an effective legislator make him a true leader in our Caucus. He will be missed.”
Fowler’s service has always extended beyond the Capitol. He founded Clothes for Southern Illinois Kids in 2001 and Heaven’s Kitchen in 2018, and he continues to support charitable and community-based efforts across the region through the Fowler-Bonan Foundation.
“I leave this office with a full heart,” Fowler said. “I am proud of the work that has been done on behalf of the people of the 59th District during my time in the Senate, and I look forward to continuing to serve Southern Illinois and its people in meaningful ways in the next chapter of my life.”
He added, “I want to thank God for guiding me on my purpose-driven mission, as well as my family that has meant everything to me through these years of service, and I’m so thankful for their love, encouragement, and support along the way.”