Cruse defeats Cason in 20th Judicial circuit race

With nearly all precincts reporting in St. Clair County and in East St. Louis, Associate Judge Zina Cruse has defeated Associate Judge Laninya Cason by a margin of 55-45 percent in a battle for a 20th Judicial Circuit seat.

Cruse will fill the vacancy created by the upcoming retirement of Circuit Judge Milton Wharton.

In St. Clair County, with 195 of 205 precincts reporting, Cruse, Democrat, topped Cason, Republican, 47,826 to 41,488.

In East St. Louis with all precincts reporting, Cruse edged Cason 2,529 votes to 708.