Murphy campaign backed by Senate GOP leader

SPRINGFIELD - Senate Republican leader Christine Radogno endorsed Sen. Matt Murphy in the crowded race for lieutenant governor Wednesday, saying it will be her only endorsement for a statewide office.

Radogno, a Republican from Lemont who heads the political minority in the state Senate, said Murphy, a Palatine Republican, is the "only candidate in lieutenant governor race that has a proven track record on the issues the people of this state care about."

Radogno did not endorse Murphy's unofficial running mate for governor, former Illinois Republican Party Chairman Andy McKenna. Radogno said the seven-person Republican race for governor has more than one suitable candidate, including McKenna.

She said her endorsement of Murphy was a personal one and not on behalf of Republicans in the Illinois Senate.

"I am speaking on behalf of myself, but I do know Matt has widespread support within our caucus," she said.

Murphy said he believes he's quickly becoming the consensus candidate among Republican officials with the support of Radogno and Tom Cross, the House Republican leader.

"You know the voters are going to openly decide who wins this thing," Murphy said. "I feel good about where I am. I feel honored to have the support I've gotten from my colleagues and others."

The Republican field for lieutenant governor also includes Carbondale Mayor Brad Cole, former Madison County Republican Party Chairman Jason Plummer, Springfield attorney Don Tracy, Hamilton pastor Randy A. White Sr. and Orland Park's Dennis Cook, president of the Orland Park High School District 230 board.

The Illinois primary election is Feb. 2.