Welch led the district's efforts to establish the nationally recognized Proviso Math and Science Academy.

The district covered his legal expenses, but questions were raised about whether the firm was targeting Welch for actions taken in his personal capacity, with Board member Theresa Kelly filing a complaint with the regional superintendent of schools about the matter.

[10] The other woman, Beyonca Johnson, said Welch sexually harassed her after their breakup and told her "she could kiss her job goodbye."

[10] While running for state representative in 2006, Welch was criticized for several campaign donations he received from district contractors he helped hire.

[12] Welch first ran for the Illinois House of Representatives in district 7 in 2006, challenging incumbent Democrat Karen Yarbrough.

[12] In 2012, Welch again sought the Democratic nomination for the legislative seat, and he narrowly defeated three other candidates including his former girlfriend in the primary and ran unopposed in the general election.

In 2016, Welch sought a third term in the House, defeated Democratic primary challenger Chris Harris, and was unopposed in the general election.

Welch said that the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs eliminating nationwide protection for abortion was a major factor in House Democrats' electoral success.

[20] According to the Chicago Tribune, Welch has "received mostly good reviews" from his caucus as speaker for "diversity in assigning tasks to and bringing in more people in bill negotiations.

Two days later, he announced Robyn Gabel would be Majority Leader, replacing Greg Harris, who retired.

[4] Raines-Welch wife spent a decade working as a municipal attorney in several south suburban communities.