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Cross won’t run for attorney general

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois House Republican Leader Tom Cross of Oswego won’t run for attorney general, saying Democrat Lisa Madigan’s re-election plans have changed the “dynamic” of the race.

Cross’ decision to stick to his job as the top GOP member of the state House likely puts to rest a race to succeed him that at one point included at least four suburban lawmakers. Madigan had been considering a run for Illinois governor.

“I remain committed to the Illinois House Republican Caucus to provide leadership and information regarding the tough issues we face in this state while continuing to raise money and recruit candidates for the upcoming election,” Cross said in a statement late Wednesday.

“When the attorney general was considering a career change, many people approached me to consider running for that position,” Cross said. “Obviously, that dynamic has changed. I will remain committed to serving as the leader of the House Republican caucus.”

The 2014 election will remain a big one for Cross as he tries to help Republicans close a large gap in the House, with the GOP having just 47 of its 118 members.

Possible one-time suburban candidates for his job included state Reps. Jim Durkin of Western Springs, Tim Schmitz of Batavia, Dennis Reboletti of Elmhurst, Ed Sullivan of Mundelein and a few downstate lawmakers.

One had gone as far as printing campaign literature in a bid to lead the House Republicans.

Cross began his House career in 1993 and has led the caucus since 2002.

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