Longtime Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan is facing stronger opposition to his re-election campaign than he has in years. He’s seeking his 46th year in office to represent Chicago’s southwest side.
Speaker Madigan proudly announced the endorsement of Cook County Commissioner Jesus Chuy Garcia - who lost his campaign for Chicago mayor last year.
But Garcia won in a lot of Latino areas in that race - and Madigan’s district has a large Latino population.
Garcia says he’s endorsing Madigan for one big reason.
"The Speaker of the House has been standing up to the governor (Rauner)," Garcia said.
Madigan’s main opponent this primary is Jason Gonzales - who says the Speaker is fearful of him.
Garcia points out Gonzales has taken political donations from people who also supported Rauner.
Two other people are also running - but they’re not actively campaigning.