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Rauner Won’t Comment on Controversial Kirk Statement

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner is refusing to comment on a controversial statement made by his fellow Republican, U.S. Senator Mark Kirk.  

Last week, Kirk said President Obama was “acting as the drug dealer in chief” when asked about a recent cash payment to Iran contingent on the release of American prisoners.  Kirk and other Republicans have criticized it as a ransom payment.  

Today, Rauner said “No comment” when asked about Kirk’s characterization of Obama.

“I heard something about that. I won’t comment on that. I will say that the senator has been a strong advocate, I think a good advocate for trying to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear power.”

Kirk is up for re-election this November against Democratic Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth.  A Duckworth campaign spokesman says Kirk’s comments are offensive, and he should apologize.