SOUTHERN ILLINOIS — A Jefferson County grain and beef cattle farmer is joining the Republican primary race for Illinois’ 115th District House seat. John Howard has been involved with the Farm Bureau for many years, and now he wants to represent Southern Illinois in Springfield.

Howard says he doesn’t like what is happening in Springfield on a variety of issues.

Howard says he’s had to work all his life, and that’s exactly what he plans to do in Springfield.

Howard currently serves as the Vice President of the Jefferson County Farm Bureau.