After struggling to find a job, Alexander Pope Field offered Dougherty the opportunity to study law in his office. Dougherty was admitted to the bar in 1831. The next year, he was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives for a two-year term. Dougherty was re-elected two years later, although he had to resign before the term was complete. However, he returned in 1836 for another term. Dougherty was elected again in 1840, then was elected to the Illinois Senate in 1842. He served in the upper house for six years. He advocated for free schools, financial reform, and canal funding.[2]
Dougherty returned to the house in 1856 for another two years. Although in an area largely sympathetic to the Democratic Party, Dougherty joined the Republican Party prior to the start of the Civil War. Dougherty helped to raise volunteers for the Union from Southern Illinois. In 1864, Dougherty was named a presidential elector after his efforts canvassing the state. He was nominated as Lieutenant Governor of Illinois in 1868 on a ticket with John M. Palmer and was elected. He again served as presidential elector in 1872. He ran for circuit court judge and was elected in 1877, serving until his death.[2]
Dougherty married Katherine James on March 5, 1829. They had ten children, although three died in infancy. Eldest son William La Fayette served as a United States Marshal. Alexander N. worked as a lawyer, George M. worked for the Illinois Central Railroad, and John J. served in the United States Army. Dougherty died on September 7, 1879.[2]
^Condon, Dr. Sidney Smith (2016) [1871]. Dexter, Darrel (ed.). Pioneer Sketches of Union County, Illinois (2nd ed.). Anna, Illinois: Promoting Appreciation of Structural Treasures of Union County (P.A.S.T.). pp. 61–63.
