While presidential candidates seemed as prevalent as funnel cakes at the Iowa State Fair, none stopped by Illinois' Fair.
A Democratic Party leader says Hillary Clinton was *invited* to its political events in Springfield. Instead, Clinton had surrogates speak on her behalf, including Attorney General Lisa Madigan.
"Hillary Clinton is a leader, she is a fighter, she is a friend and having grown up in Park Ridge, Illinois, she is one of us."
There were no other presentations for other candidates. But at a fair rally, Champaign County Democrat Eva Jehle says she backs Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders.
"simply because he's a populist, he's a straight talker."
The crowded field of GOP presidential contenders also avoided Illinois' State Fair. And during their speeches, Illinois' Republican politicians made little mention of the race that'll top next year's ballot.
With the state budget impasse, there's plenty for both parties to focus on in Illinois right now.