Four candidates for governor to attend annual GOP dinner

[February 05, 2014]  The Logan County Republican Party has announced that all four Republican candidates for governor will attend the annual Lincoln Day Dinner on Feb. 19. The event will be at the Lincoln Elks Club in Lincoln, beginning at 6 p.m., and will conclude by 8 p.m.

Tickets are $50 each. Admission will include a steak dinner from Guzzardo's.

"We are thrilled to have Bill Brady, Bruce Rauner, Kirk Dillard and Dan Rutherford as our guests at the dinner," said Dave Bender, chairman of the Logan County GOP. "All four bring their own unique qualifications and experience to this campaign. Any of these four accomplished professionals is capable of defeating Pat Quinn and leading our state back to prosperity."

Bender indicated that all four of the candidates have spent time visiting Logan County.

"They know who we are, where we are and the needs we have as a community," said Bender. "The people of the state of Illinois have experienced devastating consequences as a result of Rod Blagojevich's criminal conduct as governor. His former running mate, Pat Quinn, has had six years to right the ship. He has failed to do so. Our state needs strong leadership now more than ever."

All four candidates will be making a return trip to the dinner.

"With Logan County delivering 10,000 votes on March 18, the four of them know this is an important county and could very well be the one to put them over the top as the GOP nominee as governor," said Bender.

The primary election in 2010 was won by Bill Brady, who defeated Kirk Dillard by a mere 191 votes.

Bender predicts that the Republican primary vote for governor will produce between 700,000 and 800,000 votes.

"The race is close, and I believe the first candidate to 225,000-250,000 votes could very well be the winner and our official nominee," Bender said. "That makes Logan County very relevant."

Bender is urging all interested voters to come out and personally visit with the candidates.

"Many people may not have their minds made up on who to vote for. Personal contact could impact their decision — and this one is important," he said.

Other GOP candidates will be also attending the annual event — including statewide and local candidates.

For tickets, contact Bender at 217-871-2525 or [e-mail]. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

[Text from file received from Dave Bender]