CHICAGO – An indicted Chicago Democrat who won his seat back despite having been expelled from the Illinois House over bribery allegations said Thursday he’s determined to work closely again with legislative colleagues, including those who turned against him.

Derrick Smith, who refused calls from Democratic Party leaders to take his name off the ballot and was easily elected Tuesday, said he believes he can repair ties and work “hand in hand” again with his colleagues, even while fighting federal bribery charges.

“Individuals, members of the party, tried to defeat me,” Smith said. “But that’s all over, that’s in the past. Today I stand before you as a new man.”