Erica Harriss.GLEN CARBON — Republican State Sen. Erica Harriss thanked residents of the 56th District and her supporters in a statement after losing to Democrat Marsie Geldert-Murphey in the Nov. 3, 2026, election.

“I am incredibly grateful to the people of the 56th District for the opportunity to serve the communities I’ve called home my entire life,” Harriss said.

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Harriss, of Glen Carbon, also thanked those who supported her.

“To my family, friends, and amazing volunteers, thank you from the bottom of my heart,” she said. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and the difference we’ve made for the Metro East.”

Harriss said she looks forward to continuing to serve in new ways but did not specify her plans.

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“I look forward to finding new ways to serve and make a difference,” she said.

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