The Citizens for Higgins campaign filed a lawsuit on Jan. 28, 2026, in Henderson County against several Republican organizations and individuals, according to documents provided by attorney Thomas Devore. The case was dismissed with prejudice on Feb. 24, following the conclusion of the primary election.
The suit alleged that defendants acted together to send political mail supporting State Representative Hammond in violation of United States Postal Service standards. Court filings stated that between April 2025 and January 2026, Hammond transferred $32,780 to the House Republican Organization (HRO), which then advanced $50,000 to the Illinois Republican Party (ILGOP) on Jan. 16, 2026. According to the complaint, there was an agreement between HRO and ILGOP earmarking these funds for political mail sent on behalf of Hammond.
Despite these allegations suggesting an organized effort among party entities regarding campaign communications and finances, no hearing took place before dismissal of the case as indicated by records from Judici.com.
Edgar County Watchdogs reports on issues across Illinois according to its official website. The organization relies on support from small individual donations according to its official website and aims to foster accountability and transparency in local governance through document-based journalism according to its official website. Its members include editors John Kraft and Kirk Allen according to its official website, some of whom are affiliated with professional journalism organizations such as Investigative Reporters and Editors and the Society of Professional Journalists according to its official website.
The Citizens for Higgins campaign has been contacted for further comment regarding this matter. Edgar County Watchdogs said it will continue reporting as more information becomes available.
