Illinois: New Poll as Primary Nears

The Global Strategy Group conducted a new poll for venture capitalist J.B. Pritzker (2/9-13; 802 IL likely Democratic primary voters), who has already invested $56 million into his gubernatorial campaign.  According to their results, Mr. Pritzker holds a 37-23-21% lead over businessman Chris Kennedy, son of former Attorney General and US Senator Robert F. Kennedy, pictures of whom he is featuring in his media ads, and state Sen. Daniel Biss (D-Chicago). 
 
Despite Mr. Pritzker’s heavy spending and enduring regular attacks from Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner, who is also putting millions into electronic advertising in the early going, the Democratic race is tightening as the candidates move into the final four weeks before the early primary.  The election is scheduled for March 20th. 
 
Though Mr. Rauner is the incumbent, his poor favorability ratings coupled with Illinois’ normal Democratic voting patterns, make this state a key conversion opportunity for a party that holds every major statewide office with the exception of Governor.
 
--Jim Ellis