Meet Fran
A lifelong resident of the 18th District, Fran Hurley has dedicated more than 30 years to public service. She served as State Representative for the 35th District from 2013 to 2023, holding leadership roles as Moderate Caucus Whip and chairwoman of the Police and Fire Committee.
In the House, Fran championed first responder wellness, domestic violence prevention, and expanded services for students with special needs — priorities she intends to build on in the Senate, alongside her record of supporting frontline workers and advocating for the community’s most vulnerable.
Fran was appointed to the Illinois Labor Relations Board and served on the House Labor Committee, working closely with unions to protect collective bargaining, strengthen worker safety, and expand mental health resources for frontline workers.
A longtime advocate for survivors of domestic violence, Fran serves on WINGS’ metro leadership council, supporting housing, education, and advocacy services for survivors. In the House, she expanded stalking laws to cover electronic threats, legally defined “coercive control” as a form of abuse, and enlisted salon professionals to help identify signs of abuse and connect victims to resources. Her leadership has created vital pathways for survivors to secure orders of protection against modern forms of harassment.
Fran is a graduate of Mother McAuley High School and Saint Xavier University, and president of Special Children’s Charities Chicago. She serves on the Cook County Commission on Women’s Issues, the 100 Club Board, and the Mt. Greenwood Business Association, and founded the 19th Ward Emerging Leaders Board. She is a proud mother, grandmother, and active community member.
