Republican State Rep. Jim Gregory, seeking his fourth term, lost to challenger Scott Barger in a surprising upset during Tuesday's primary election.
Barger secured 5,648 votes compared to Gregory's 4,649, according to unofficial results.
With no Democratic candidate on the ballot in the 80th state House district, Barger's victory in November is virtually assured.
Alice Corle, a registered Republican from Bellwood, voted for Barger, expressing a desire for change after years of supporting Gregory
Gregory faced criticism for supporting Democrat Mark Rozzi's bid for speaker of the House, a move seen as divisive among Republicans
Barger, a retired pastor and former radio host, accused Gregory of halting Republican efforts on voter ID legislation by supporting Rozzi.