The bidding is starting early for Illinois Republicans interested in campaigning for Governor. The issue of who will run was a main topic of conversation during the GOP’s national convention in Tampa.
So many Republicans are considering it that at one point during the convention, Pat Brady, Chair of the Illinois GOP, joked about it.
“I do want to thank those of you in the room that aren't running for governor,” Brady cracked.
So far no Democrats are jumping in to challenge Governor Pat Quinn. There is a widespread assumption Quinn will try to hold onto the job when his term is up in 2014.
But Quinn's low approval ratings and his battle with public employee unions might make him a target for a challenger in the Democratic primary.
One name often mentioned is Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle, who dismissed the idea.
“My response to this is always the same, which means I can’t understand the speculation. Which is that I like sleeping in my own bed and I’m going to run for reelection. I don’t know how I could be plainer,” Preckwinkle said.
Attorney General Lisa Madigan has also been mentioned as a possible candidate, but she too does not want to talk about it.
“You know what? I am here at the Democratic Convention focused on one race and that’s the race for the White House,” Madigan said.
As for Quinn, he said there will be time for state politics later. He said he is currently worried about policy and about making sure President Obama retains the White House.
Thanks to Illinois Public Radio
