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In the Illinois gubernatorial race, incumbent Gov. J.B. Pritzker
has picked up endorsements from the Chicago Tribune, former
President Barack Obama, and Secretary of State Jesse White,
among others.
Republican Darren Bailey has been endorsed by former Democratic
Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and the Illinois Federation for
Right to Life, among others.
Kent Redfield, a professor with the University of Illinois
Springfield, said endorsements serve a purpose.
"They are more for reinforcing a narrative on that kind of
Democrat or conservative," Redfield told The Center Square.
"They are lending the person's credibility, like with [former
President Donald Trump] or Obama. Endorsements can also be more
personal if we see someone support someone to replace them in
office."
While the endorsements carry weight, they are not the only thing
that matters, Redfield said.
"When you are running in an election, and you have 46
endorsements, that is not necessarily going to do anything for
the vote," Redfield said. "It is going to show the public that
you are a serious candidate."
Redfield said an endorsement is always for the public, but for
the candidate's party.
"You may use endorsements in terms of helping yourself get the
nomination during the primary because it shows you have the
party backing or have broad race support," he said.
Early voting has already begun in Illinois. The general election
will be held on Nov. 8th.
Andrew Hensel has years of experience as a
reporter and pre-game host for the Joliet Slammers, and as a
producer for the Windy City Bulls. A graduate of Iowa Wesleyan
University and Illinois Media School, Andrew lives in the south
suburbs of Chicago.
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