Arthur L. Turner facts for kids

Arthur L. Turner (born December 2, 1950) is a former American politician. He was a member of the Democratic Party. He served in the Illinois House of Representatives for many years. He represented the 9th District from 1981 to 2010. During his time there, he also held an important leadership role as the Deputy Majority Leader. In 2010, he ran for the Democratic Party nomination for Lieutenant Governor of Illinois. He came in second place in that race.

Education and Early Career

Arthur Turner's Schooling

Arthur Turner attended St. Mel High School. He graduated with high honors. After high school, he went to Illinois State University. There, he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Business Administration. Later, he continued his studies at Lewis University. He earned a Master of Science degree in Social Justice from Lewis University.

Working Before Politics

After finishing his master's degree, Arthur Turner began his career. From 1973 to 1981, he worked as an investigator. He worked for the States' Attorney's office in Cook County, Illinois. This job helped him understand how the legal system works.

Serving as a State Representative

Starting in the Illinois House

Arthur Turner became a member of the Illinois House of Representatives in 1981. Early in his time as a representative, he faced a difficult challenge. This challenge was related to an election in 1982. After this situation, Turner and his team filed a civil lawsuit. They won the lawsuit, which helped protect the fairness of elections.

Important Roles and Committees

As a State Representative, Arthur Turner was part of key groups. He was a member of the Committee of the Whole. He also served on the Rules Committee. These committees help decide how laws are made and debated. He held a very important leadership position for 18 years. He served as the Deputy Majority Leader. This role meant he helped guide the Democratic Party's plans in the House.

Making a Difference with Laws

Representative Turner worked hard to improve life for people in Illinois. He strongly supported laws that promote fair housing. This means making sure everyone has a chance to find a good home. He helped create a special fund. This fund uses about $18 million each year. It helps buy and fix up homes. The goal is to make affordable housing available for families with lower incomes across the state.

He also supported laws that help keep families safe. He worked to make sure that people who cause harm to others are held responsible. His efforts aimed to protect people and make communities safer.

Personal Life

Representative Turner lives in the neighborhood of North Lawndale, Chicago. This is in Chicago, Illinois. He was born and grew up in North Lawndale. He lives very close to his childhood home. He is married to Rosalyn, and they have two sons.

See Also

• Art Turner (his son, also a politician)