As State's Attorney since 1995, I continue to appreciate the responsibilities of serving as State's Attorney in Tazewell County and the need for honesty and integrity in conducting the people's business. I approach every aspect of this job from the standpoint that I need to maintain a high standard for others to follow. I accept the fact of life that I am a role model for my children and my community.

Over the past 16 years, we have had the opportunity to face challenges and enjoy great success in Tazewell County. If only the rest of the State could learn from our efforts. When I first ran for office, my perceived weaknesses have proven to be my strength. I do not come from a politically connected family. I worked my way through college in many types of jobs: bookkeeper, pizza maker, floor polisher, custodian, gas station attendant, waiter, to name a few, and still had time to serve as a volunteer fireman. I worked my way up from an entry level prosecutor. I am what I am.

One of my goals is to continue to strengthen the people's respect for the criminal justice system and its government. In order to have justice, the system must not only be fair but the public must perceive that it is fair. The law must apply to everyone equally regardless of their status. We must remain relentless in providing for public safety but at the same time defend our individual liberties. I recognize that in order to be aggressive against crime we must be aggressive in addressing the root causes of crime not just the offender.

I have worked in the trenches of the criminal justice system and I know we have many dedicated people pursuing justice everyday. Victims need a criminal justice system that treats them with dignity and provides treatment and closure.

After over 25 years of practicing law, I have not lost my optimism. I know that if we can engage people of strong beliefs and character to participate in our government then we can restore the public's confidence

Stewart Umholtz
State’s Attorney
Tazewell County, Illinois