Jim Watson

Who is Jim Watson?

Jim Watson was a Republican member of the Illinois House of Representatives, representing the 97th district from 2001 through 2012. Watson’s background includes teaching at both the high school and college level and 10 years of business experience.

Jim is a current Marine Corps reservist with the 3rd Civil Affairs Group in Camp Pendleton, CA, and is a veteran of the first Gulf War.

In the General Assembly, Representative Watson has been a strong advocate for veterans’ rights, serving as the Republican Spokesman for the Veterans Affairs Committee. His other committee assignments include Financial Institutions, Elementary & Secondary Education, Telecommunications, Public Utilities, Gaming, and State Government Administration.

In addition to veterans’ issues, Watson continues to focus on education issues, fiscal responsibility, and growing Illinois’ job market during his time in the General Assembly. Watson is a father of three and resides in Jacksonville.