Judge Wesley A. Gozia of Salem has announced his intention to seek election as a Republican to the Fourth Judicial Circuit in 2026. The vacancy was created by the retirement of Judge Douglas Jarman.
Gozia was appointed unanimously by the Supreme Court of Illinois in March after being nominated by Justice David Overstreet of Mt. Vernon. He says since his appointment his appreciation for the work of a jurist has only grown.
“My mother, Dr. Penny Gozia, taught me early on the tremendous responsibility it is to serve the public, and how to do it the best you can,” Gozia said. “I think of that lesson every day I take the bench. I want the individuals that I serve in my courtroom to feel that they were heard and received their fair day in court.”
Judge Gozia also announced the formation of his committee which will be co-chaired by former Breese Police Chief Bob Fix and Centralia attorney Jennifer Price.
The primary election will be held on March 17th. Petitions will be available starting August 5th. Filing is scheduled for October 27th through November 3rd.
The Fourth Circuit includes nine counties. In addition to Marion, the circuit includes Christian, Clay, Clinton, Effingham, Fayette, Jasper, Montgomery and Shelby.
