GOP hopeful campaigns in Peoria before next Tuesday’s primary

PEORIA (Heart of Illinois ABC) - A candidate seeking the Republican nomination for Illinois governor in next Tuesday’s primary believes momentum is on his side, touting a Peoria lawmaker’s endorsement.

Political newcomer Jesse Sullivan, attending a “Save Illinois Rally” in Peoria, is one of several Republicans hoping to unseat Democratic incumbent Gov. JB Pritzker in November’s general election.

Peoria State Rep. Ryan Spain is backing Sullivan, switching from Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin’s camp.

Sullivan calls himself an anti-politician and job creator.

“Who’s willing to step inside, doesn’t owe anybody anything, to really save Illinois, and so we’ve gathered together with people all around the state, and we’re feeling great momentum and a surge right now. So I feel great,” said Sullivan.

He’s one of eight children growing up on a farm in Petersburg Illinois, but Sullivan’s website also mentions he earned degrees from Oxford and Stanford.

The latest Chicago Sun-Times-WBEZ poll shows State Sen. Darren Bailey with 32% preference, 17% for Irvin, and Sullivan in third with 11%.

Sullivan was a featured speaker Tuesday night at Obed & Isaac’s on Northeast Madison Street. Tazewell County Clerk John Ackerman, former Peoria Mayoral candidate and City Councilman Jim Montelongo were among the hosts for the event.

Copyright 2022 Heart of Illinois ABC. All rights reserved.