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The 2018 race for Illinois governor could be the most expensive in U.S. history. With nine months until election day, the five leading candidates have raised more than $136 million, already exceeding any other contest before in Illinois. Democrat J.B. Pritzker has spent over $34 million of his $49 million campaign chest in an attempt to win the Democratic nomination. And a once sleepy Republican race has seen shifting alliances in recent weeks, after billionaire Dick Uihlein gave $2.5 million to Gov. Bruce Rauner's challenger, Illinois House Rep. Jeanne Ives, who opposes abortion and rights for gay and transgender people.To track this money circus, ProPublica Illinois has created a graphic that will update with the latest fundraising information.

Chicago Alderman Is First Democrat To Announce Candidacy For Governor

chicago47.org

A Chicago alderman says he’s running for Illinois governor.

Ameya Pawar announced his candidacy Tuesday.

The Democrat says he’s running for governor because he wants to tackle income inequality.

I think it’s time to talk about a progressive vision,” Pawar said. “And stop talking about the status quo or busting unions or reducing benefits or declaring bankruptcy. I just think that’s a race to the bottom.”

Pawar says he’ll advocate for universal daycare in his campaign.

He wrote on his Twitter Tuesday morning:

“With the blessing of my wife and best friend, I’m in. I’m running for Governor.”

Pawar is the first Democrat to say he’s running for governor, but several other Democrats have said they also plan to challenge Republican incumbent Governor Bruce Rauner.

  • Tony Arnold and Jessie Schlacks contributed to this report.
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