SALEM, IL — A Salem city council member and business owner says he’s throwing his hat into the ring for the Congressional seat being vacated by Rep. John Shimkus.

Craig Morton has announced his intent to run as a Democrat. Morton owns the Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy in Salem and is a member of the Salem City Council.

He said his decision followed Shimkus’ decision not to run and also stemmed from what he sees as a lack of moderate candidates in either party.

Morton said the initial response to his candidacy was good since he started circulating petitions recently.  He is in his sixth year as a member of the Salem City Council.