SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) — Jim Edgar, Illinois’ 38th governor, died Sunday at the age of 79. His death followed complications related to treatment for pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis he made public earlier this year.
Edgar served as governor from 1991 to 1999, capping a two-decade career in elected office. Though he left public office more than 25 years ago, he remained active in Illinois politics, notably leading a bipartisan leadership program — the Edgar Fellows — aimed at developing the next generation of public servants.
In the final months of his life, Edgar continued to make public appearances, including at the 2025 Edgar Fellows gathering in Urbana. Despite his health struggles, he remained engaged in policy and mentoring efforts until shortly before his passing.
Originally from rural Oklahoma, Edgar was raised in Charleston, Illinois. He graduated from Eastern Illinois University, where he was elected student body president.
After college, Edgar worked for Republican legislators before winning a seat in the Illinois House in 1976 at age 30. His trajectory continued upward when Gov. Jim Thompson appointed him legislative liaison and later secretary of state in 1981. He served in that role for a decade before becoming governor.
As governor, Edgar became known for moderate Republican leadership and bipartisan cooperation — qualities that became increasingly rare in later decades. He supported pro-choice policies and prioritized fiscal responsibility, including the creation of a 50-year pension funding plan known as the “Edgar ramp.” Though the plan has received criticism over the years, it remains central to Illinois’ pension system today.
In recent years, Edgar became increasingly vocal about the direction of the national Republican Party. He distanced himself from hard-right politics and supported cross-party collaboration. In 2024, he appeared alongside other Republicans to support then-Vice President Kamala Harris during her presidential campaign.
His bipartisan reputation earned him respect from Democrats, including current Governor JB Pritzker, who announced flags across Illinois would be lowered to half-staff in Edgar’s honor.
Edgar’s legacy includes contributions to public safety, education, and infrastructure. He played a key role in tightening DUI laws, implementing mandatory car insurance, and reforming corporate registration laws. He also advocated for literacy and access to libraries, a passion that culminated in the funding and dedication of the Illinois State Library.
In May, state officials gathered in Springfield to honor Edgar by naming a reading room after him at the library he helped create. Edgar’s death comes just months after the passing of his gubernatorial successor, George Ryan.
