Competition for Bob Kjellander's spot on the Republican National Committee for Illinois is becoming tighter.

Pat Brady, 47, of St. Charles said he believes the Republican Party is eager for someone new to serve as liaison between the state and national party.

Kjellander, of Springfield, has announced he will not seek another term as Illinois' party representative.

Retiring U.S. Rep. Ray LaHood of Peoria earlier announced his intent to pursue the position.

Brady, a former Bloomington resident, said he offers an alternative to better known candidates for the post.

"'I've been involved in Republican politics my entire life and I think a lot of people are eager to see a fresh face in this position," he said.

Though he has never held elected office, Brady is not a stranger to the process. In 1996 he ran an unsuccessful campaign for McLean County State's Attorney against then-incumbent Charles Reynard. He is a cousin of state Rep. Dan Brady, R-Bloomington, and is being supported in his bid by state Rep. Jim Durkin, R-Westchester, who ran an unsuccessful bid for U.S. Senate.

Brady's career in law saw him work as a federal prosecutor in California and in the Cook County state's attorney's office. Brady currently is a consultant.

Brady said that if Illinois Republicans face a reduction to their seats in Congress, the road ahead will be difficult.

"It's been a bad run for Republicans in the state," Brady said. "I think that we need to reenergize the base. We need to look at trying to have more grassroots efforts, more Internet efforts, and reenergize the party."

Brady said he will drum up support for himself by meeting with members of the Illinois Republican Party who will be deciding who fills the position and meeting with the Republican leadership in Springfield.

The Illinois Republican Party will elect its new national committeeman at its convention in Decatur in June.