Democrats selected retired Maj. Gen. Bill Enyart today  to be their new nominee for Congress in Illinois’ 12th district.

“Maj. Gen. Bill Enyart has devoted his entire life to Southern Illinois values of service, hard work and integrity,” Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman Steve Israel (N.Y.) said. “As the new Democratic nominee, he brings the experience and deep commitment to family, community and the Southern Illinois way of life.”

Democrats were forced to find a new candidate after their nominee dropped out of the race after the primary, citing health reasons. Local party officials, including retiring Rep. Jerry Costello, solicited applications for a replacement nominee.

After interviewing potential candidates today, local Democrats settled on Enyart as their nominee this November. He faces GOP nominee Jason Plummer, a businessman who served as his party’s nominee for lieutenant governor in 2010.

The Southern Illinois district will most likely feature a competitive contest in November. Roll Call rates this race as Leans Democratic.