CHICAGO (AP) — The Republican gubernatorial candidates are split on whether they’d support using state funds to establish President Barack Obama’s presidential library in Illinois.
House Speaker Michael Madigan has sponsored legislation setting aside $100 million in capital funding for construction of the library and museum. No official site has been chosen but several potential Chicago bidders have expressed interested in hosting it.
Sen. Kirk Dillard says using state funds for the library is low priority considering Illinois’ financial problems.
Treasurer Dan Rutherford says he’d be open to using capital funds. State Sen. Bill Brady says he’d like to see the library in Illinois. Both say their support isn’t an endorsement for Obama.
Businessman Bruce Rauner he doesn’t have a view on the issue.
The candidates spoke Thursday at WTTW. It was their last televised joint appearance before next week’s primary to determine their party’s candidate.
The winner is expected square off against Democratic incumbent Gov. Pat Quinn.
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