MATTOON - State Sen. Dale Righter of Mattoon said family issues trumped greater political aspirations as he considered seeking Frank Watson's job as the head of Illinois Senate Republicans.

"Not true," Righter said in regard to whether he is still in the running to succeed Watson as senate minority leader.

Watson, of Greenville, suffered a stroke in October and last week announced he would not attempt a third term as the state senator in charge of the GOP caucus.

Righter, 42, said he believes he is qualified to take over for Watson; however, Righter also said his duties as a father would prevent him from devoting his full attention to leading Senate Republicans.

"I've got a good feel for the work," he said, citing his 11 years in the General Assembly, including six years as state senator. He also touted his nearly four years as co-chairman of the Republican Senate Campaign Committee, which raises funds and recruits political candidates.

"For me, it's an issue of my children," Righter said. "It's just not the right time for me personally."

His sons, ages 12 and 14, both are students at Mattoon Middle School.

Righter endorsed state Sen. Christine Radogno of Lemont to assume leadership of the Senate GOP. Radogno, the deputy Republican leader, is also the co-chairwoman of the Republican Senate Campaign Committee.

The state Senate reconvenes today.

"She's experienced both on the policy side and the political side, and she is the best able to do the statewide work that is required of a caucus leader," Righter said.

Watson, 63, has served in the General Assembly for almost three decades. He became the top Senate Republican five years ago.

He had a stroke Oct. 17 during a campaign stop in Southern Illinois and announced his decision to forgo another term as Senate minority leader on Nov. 4. He will remain in the Senate.

"I've enjoyed very much serving (while) Senator Watson has been the leader; he has been a forthright, bold and direct leader," Righter said.

He said Watson has been especially vocal about fiscal issues.

"I'm sure I'm joined by many of my colleagues that we're sorry to see him leave as our leader," Righter said.

nwest@jg-tc.com|238-6860.