Rauner Boasts Of Democratic, Independent Supporters
CHICAGO (CBS) -- A day after unifying Republican support behind his campaign for governor, venture capitalist Bruce Rauner surrounded himself with people from outside the GOP, including his wife, in an effort to win over Democratic and Independent voters.
WBBM Newsradio Political Editor Craig Dellimore reports Rauner boasted a list of nearly two dozen Democrats and Independents who have thrown their support behind his bid to defeat incumbent Gov. Pat Quinn in November.
Among those surrounding Rauner at the announcement were his wife, Diana, and attorney Newton Minow, who ran the FCC under former President John F. Kennedy.
"President Kennedy once said 'Sometimes party loyalty asks too much.' I think this is one of those times. I'm a strong Democrat, but I'm taking a leave of absence from my party, because Illinois is in desperate shape," Minow said.
Rauner agreed.
"Our problems are big. They're not going to get solved quickly or easily. It's going to take a bipartisan effort," Rauner said.
Also among those supporting Rauner was former state Sen. James Meeks, who once contemplated running for governor himself.