LaHood, Darin, 1968-

Darin McKay LaHood (born July 5, 1968) is an American politician. A member of the Republican Party, he has served as the U.S. Representative for Illinois' 18th congressional district since 2015.

Born in Peoria, Illinois, he graduated from Spalding High School there before earning a B.A. at Loras College. After graduation, LaHood spent four years working on the staff of California Congressman Jerry Lewis before going to law school, earning a J.D. from John Marshall Law School. After earning his J.D., LaHood worked as a prosecutor in Cook County, Illinois and Tazewell County, Illinois, and was a United States prosecuting attorney for the District of Nevada. He was also an adjunct professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. From 2006 up until his election to the House of Representatives, he practiced with the Peoria law firm of Miller, Hall & Triggs. Between 2011 and 2015, LaHood served in the Illinois State Senate.

LaHood was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in September 2015, replacing Aaron Schock, who had resigned. LaHood's father, Ray, had represented the district from 1995 to 2009. In Congress, LaHood has fought to increase transparency and promote ethical behavior. He looks to build a strong, pro-growth economy, while fighting to reduce a record deficit that threatens the future of our children and grandchildren. His record throughout his public service has resonated a strong, conservative record, promoting economic development and fiscal responsibility. LaHood currently serves on the House Ways and Means Committee after being selected by his colleagues in January of 2018. In March of 2021, he was appointed by House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy to serve on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. LaHood also serves on the House Democracy Partnership. He currently co-chairs the US-China working group, the U.S.-Brazil Caucus, the Digital Trade Caucus, the U.S.-Lebanon Friendship Caucus, the Congressional Bus Caucus, and the Congressional Soccer Caucus.