Effingham, IL-(Effingham Radio)- 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 L. Jarman.
“I have served as Circuit Judge since March 2025 by unanimous vote of the Supreme Court of Illinois, having been nominated by Justice David Overstreet. In that time my appreciation for the work of a jurist has only grown. I pledge to continue to serve the Fourth Judicial Circuit humbly, honestly and without prejudice.”
“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. I think of that lesson every day I take the bench. I want the individuals that I serve in my courtroom to feel they were heard and received a fair day in court.”
Judge Gozia also announced the formation of his committee, naming former Chief of Police Bob Fix of Breese and attorney Jennifer Price of Centralia as his committee co-chairs.
Jennifer Price, with Wham & Wham of Centralia, will be one of Gozia’s co-chairs. “I have worked with Judge Gozia when he was a practicing attorney. I am impressed by his dedication to the law, his research ability and his professional and courteous manner. I know he will continue to be a great judge,” stated Price.
Chief Bob Fix is the retired Chief of Police for the city of Breese, with over 40 years of law enforcement experience. He also served on the Clinton County Board for 18 years, including 6 as Chairman of the Board. “I have known Wes since he was a child,” stated Fix. “I have watched him
grow from a promising young man to the respectable, hard-working lawyer and judge he is today. I am very proud of him professionally but also as a great husband and father.”
Prior to being appointed Judge, Gozia practiced law for over 14 years at Gozia Law Firm, LLC in Carlyle and Salem. Gozia is active in youth sports, coaching varied sports that his kids are active in. Gozia resides with his wife, René, and their two children in Salem. The family attends Grace Methodist Church of Salem, where Wesley serves as Trustee.
The primary election will be held on March 17, 2026. Petitions will be available early in August 2025.
The Fourth Circuit includes nine counties – Christian, Clay, Clinton, Effingham, Fayette, Jasper, Marion, Montgomery and Shelby.
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