9 p.m.

Early projections from the DuPage County Election Commission show voters favoring the 11 years of experience of state Sen. Christine Radogno, R-41st District, of Lemont, over Democratic newcomer Audrey Manley, of Lockport, for Illinois’ 41st District state senator.

As of 8:45 p.m. Tuesday11/4, unofficial election results showed 5,658 votes, or 59.27 percent, for Radogno and 3,907 votes, or 40.73 percent, for Manley.

“I’m really thankful to the voters for giving me opportunity to serve again,” Radogno said. “I will continue to focus on the biggest issue facing the state, which is the financial crisis that is affecting every area.”

Having served in the Illinois Senate since 1997, Radogno said this year’s race was somewhat low-key compared to the other political races of which she has been a part.

In her first political campaign, Manley, a retired teacher, said her inspiration to run came from the poor job she felt current elected officials were doing.

Manley refers to Radogno’s failed attempt to run for state treasurer and potential interest in running for governor in 2010 as showing a lack of dedication to being a senator. Manley said she will not run again if she loses.

“I don’t think our legislation has been working on teamwork,” Manley said. “Every organization should have a mission statement, and I don’t think our senate and legislators have thought much about their mission.”