Brady hits Dillard over union backing
State Sen. Bill Brady criticized state Sen. Kirk Dillard's union backing in the governor's race Tuesday, saying Dillard should “come clean about what kind of deal he cut” with Illinois' largest state workers union.
Dillard, a Hinsdale Republican, denied making any promises to union supporters, who added $400,000 to his campaign coffers Tuesday.
Dillard picked up the endorsement of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees last week, support that could help bolster his campaign but also is controversial among some conservatives that decry government unions.
“I think it's imperative that Kirk Dillard come clean about what kind of deal he cut with the AFSCME leaders on taxes and other issues,” Brady, a Bloomington Republican, said at a Springfield news conference.
Dillard said he has a long-term record of working with AFSCME and pointed to an event later in the day when Brady running mate Maria Rodriguez, former Long Grove mayor, was scheduled to go to a meet-and-greet co-hosted by the union.
“I have made no promises to any group that has supported me,” Dillard said.
Tuesday afternoon, Dillard reported getting $100,000 in campaign cash from AFSCME, as well as $150,000 from each of the two major state teacher unions that have endorsed him.
The race for the Republican nomination will likely stay heated through next Tuesday's primary.
Brady, Dillard, Winnetka businessman Bruce Rauner and Illinois Treasurer Dan Rutherford of Chenoa are set to meet at their final debate Thursday night.