Democrats try to stand out in attorney general primary

CHICAGO (AP) - Early voting is just weeks away and the Democratic candidates vying for a shot to replace Attorney General Lisa Madigan are raising millions of dollars, crisscrossing Illinois and touting endorsements.

The eight Democrats are trying to stand out from the crowded field, despite similar views on most issues and nearly identical promises to fight President Donald Trump's agenda.

The open race features a former governor, state legislators, a police reform leader, a mayor and former federal prosecutors.

Of the candidates, former Gov. Pat Quinn has the most statewide name recognition, but state Sen. Kwame Raoul leads in fundraising and Democratic establishment backing.

On the Republican side, Urbana attorney Erika Harold, a former Miss America, has establishment backing over a lesser-known county board member.

The primary is March 20.