Ives' campaign gets $500,000 from former Rauner supporter
Republican candidate for governor Jeanne Ives' campaign received $500,000 from GOP businessman Richard Uihlein, a windfall more than the entire amount she raised in the final quarter of 2017.
In funding the Wheaton state representative, Uihlein is shifting his support from incumbent Gov. Bruce Rauner. The CEO of Uline, a shipping materials company, gave Rauner $2.6 million previously.
Ives' campaign reported taking in $438,579 in the last quarter and having $404,028 at the end of 2017. The contribution was made Jan. 24.
It's a shot in the arm for Ives, who has trailed in contributions compared to investment banker Rauner, who has self-funded a chunk of his re-election effort. The Rauner campaign reported about $55.6 million funds available at the close of 2017.
"We are very thankful to all of our donors who believe in this campaign and are stepping up to help challenge Gov. Rauner," said Ives. She said Rauner had deceived conservatives by "implementing a far left social agenda."