Staffer of Speaker Welch tests positive for COVID-19 Apr 14, 2021 | coronavirus, Legislature, Top Stories A staff member of House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, has tested positive for COVID-19.To access this content, you must purchase 1 Year Health News Illinois Subscription or 1 Year Group Subscription - Up to 5 Users, or log in if you are a member.