Both Republicans and Democrats are deploying top leaders to Illinois as the state’s gubernatorial race heats up.
President Obama will travel to Chicago on Sunday to rally for Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn at Chicago State University. Mr. Obama will also that day headline a fundraiser for the Democratic National Committee, the Chicago Sun-Times reported.
Vice President Biden will attend an early-vote rally in the north Vernon Hills suburb for Mr. Quinn, Rep. Brad Schneider and Sen. Dick Durbin, who are all seeking re-election. Early voting starts in Illinois on Monday.
Mr. Biden will also attend a fundraising dinner for Colorado Democratic Sen. Mark Udall at the home of David Axelrod, a former White House senior adviser.
But Republicans are also rushing in, with 2016 presidential hopefuls leading a rush to Chicago, known as a hub for GOP cash.
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie will swing through the city on Friday to stump with GOP gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner and raise money for House candidates.
Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, an ophthalmologist, is set to speak on Obamacare at the American Academy of Ophthalmology conference at McCormick Place on Monday.
And Wednesday, Sen. Ted Cruz will be the main draw at a fundraiser to benefit the 43rd Ward Republican organization, and will attend a series of other meetings with Republicans in the area.
• Kellan Howell can be reached at khowell@washingtontimes.com.
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