* Subscribers know more. Tribune…
Downstate state Sen. Sam McCann is expected to file paperwork on Monday to run as the Conservative Party’s candidate for governor, creating an obstacle to Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner’s re-election bid if McCann can stay on the ballot.
McCann, a Republican of Plainview in central Illinois, is a supporter of organized labor and often has been at odds with Rauner. He survived a primary re-election challenge backed by the governor two years ago. Now, McCann’s spokesman said he will file his petitions with the State Board of Elections to run for governor ahead of Monday’s 5 p.m. deadline.
His bid could capitalize on fissures within the state’s Republican Party that were on display in March, when Rauner defeated GOP primary challenger state Rep. Jeanne Ives of Wheaton by only 3 percentage points. Ives’ bid was motivated by anger from social conservatives over Rauner’s signature on laws expanding abortion, immigrant and transgender rights.
McCann could combine backing from social conservatives as well as supporters of President Donald Trump, in addition to union members who the governor has angered through his so-far-unsuccessful efforts to weaken organized labor.
*** UPDATE 1 *** Minimum is 25,000…
*** UPDATE 2 *** I told subscribers about this petition number earlier today…
Sam McCann, the Conservative Party candidate for governor of Illinois, will deliver more than 60,000 nominating petition signatures this afternoon to the Illinois State Board of Elections. Seeking a spot on the November ballot, McCann and running mate Aaron Merreighn collected more than twice the requirement of 25,000 signatures from across the state.
“I’ve been inspired by the enthusiasm that we’ve seen from voters as we’ve gathered petitions,” said McCann. “I’ve had a chance to talk to folks from all over Illinois, and they are crying out for a change from Governor Rauner’s failed leadership. I am the candidate who can deliver that change, and I am excited to formally enter the race.”
McCann has served in the Illinois Senate since 2010 and is running against Governor Bruce Rauner and Democratic nominee J.B. Pritzker to halt Illinois’ departure from law and order, economic liberty, and traditional conservative policies.
The General Election is on November 6, 2018.
*** UPDATE 3 *** That’s a lot of signatures…
