Rutherford running mate says he doesn’t know details of allegations
As unspecified allegations from an unnamed employee dog Illinois Treasurer Dan Rutherford’s campaign for governor, his running mate says he’s been kept away from the details of the ongoing drama because he’s not part of the Republican’s government office.
“I didn’t know about it until right before the press conference,” said Northbrook attorney Steve Kim.
Rutherford announced at a news conference Friday that he was being accused of some kind of wrongdoing, but few details have been available since. His accuser’s attorney, Christine Svenson, hasn’t returned requests for comment.
Kim says he can’t shed any light on the accusations. Rutherford has launched an internal investigation in his office and said he can’t talk about the details while it’s ongoing.
Kim, who isn’t associated with that office, says he therefore isn’t involved.
“That’s the right way to do things,” Kim said. “I’m not part of the treasurer’s office.”
Rutherford has tried to tie the accusations to Winnetka businessman and fellow candidate Bruce Rauner, saying Svenson was paid $3,500 by Rauner’s campaign in March. Rauner denies he had anything to do with it.
Kim called the Rutherford allegations a “hiccup.” He and Rutherford are touring the state separately to talk to Republican voters.
“I think our base is more energized than ever before,” Kim said.
Rutherford and Rauner also face state Sens. Kirk Dillard of Hinsdale and Bill Brady of Bloomington in the race for the GOP nomination for governor.