Holmes tops Hurtado in 42nd Senate

Democratic State Sen. Linda Holmes defeated Republican challenger Peter Hurtado to win a 2-year term representing the 42nd District in the Aurora area.

With all precincts reporting, Holmes claimed 64 percent of the vote to Hurtado's 36 percent, according to unofficial totals.

Holmes, 53, of Aurora said her top focuses are promoting job growth and small business success, balancing the state budget and coming to a compromise on pension reform.

"The big issue we'll be tackling in the upcoming session is going to be the pension reform," Holmes said.

Holmes also touted achievements that have helped Aurora's downtown revitalization, such as assistance in securing a tax credit to help pay for RiverEdge Park. The park is scheduled to host its grand opening in June.

She defeated Hurtado, 53, a small-business owner who lives in Plainfield outside the district and would have been required to move if elected. He said he was running in the 42nd District to represent community groups and Latino voters, whom he says are "underrepresented."

The 42nd District includes parts of Aurora, Naperville, North Aurora, Montgomery, Oswego Township and Boulder Hill.