Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner sent two clear signals when he dumped $50 million into his campaign fund: The 2018 race for Illinois governor will be a rough one, and the contest starts now.
What's still unknown is which Democrats will try to unseat the multimillionaire former businessman.
According to potential candidates and aides, those considering a bid include U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos, businessman Chris Kennedy, state Sen. Andy Manar and billionaire investor J.B. Pritzker.
Kennedy could make an announcement next month. The others haven't set a timeline.
The Democratic Governors Association said Rauner is more focused on getting re-elected than passing a budget.
The Illinois GOP says 2018 will present a clear choice between reformers like Rauner and those who want to raise taxes and protect political insiders.
