Jim Ryan endorses Dillard
State. Sen. Kirk Dillard won another major endorsement for Republican candidate for governor, this time from former Illinois Attorney General Jim Ryan.
Ryan's nod comes on the heels of major backing from unions including the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Illinois Federation of teachers and the Illinois Education Association.
"I am supporting Senator Kirk Dillard because I know him personally and worked closely with him," Ryan said in a statement. "When I was attorney general, Kirk Dillard was the chief sponsor of my "Safe to Learn" act ensuring children's school safety.
"Kirk Dillard has been one of the finest and most honorable people I have known. Few people in politics earn the respect that Senator Dillard has over his distinguished career."
Dillard, a Hinsdale Republican, hopes the major endorsements boost his campaign leading into the March 18 primary.
Winning the unions support has proved controversial, as opponent Winnetka businessman Bruce Rauner has spent months campaigning against "government union bosses." Dillard also has state Sen. Bill Brady and state Treasurer Dan Rutherford to contend with.