McLean County Times

The McLean County Republicans have issued the following press release:

An evening of celebration by the McLean County Republican Party took place on Friday, April 29 at the Double Tree Conference Center in Bloomington. The evening held multiple purposes. While it was a major fundraiser, it also was an opportunity for McLean County voters to hear from multiple candidates. A key part of the evening was the presentation of 3rd Annual Everyday Hero Award to Barb Whiteman, founder of Living Well United which is a non-profit serving senior citizens in Leroy, IL.  Ms. Whiteman received a trophy and a $500 grant to support her good work in Leroy.  The award was presented by Judge Carla Barnes.

The audience had the opportunity to hear from a variety of statewide candidates who hope to serve. The attendees heard from Tom Demmer, Candidate for State Treasurer; Steve Kim, Candidate for Attorney General; Shannon Teresi, Candidate for State Comptroller and John Milhiser, Candidate for Secretary of State. Dan Brady, who is also running for Secretary of State was represented by his wife Teri Brady. 

Four gubernatorial races were represented as first Carolyn Schofield spoke for Paul Schimpf. She is running as Schimpf’s running mate for Lt. Governor. Darren Bailey was represented by his wife, Cindy Bailey. Gary Rabine was represented by Rob Winchester from his campaign. The evening closed with hearing from Jesse Sullivan who spoke of his goals and vision for serving as governor if elected.

Many other candidates and elected officials were present. Candidates for the state senate: Sally Turner, District 44 and Desi Anderson, District 46. For the State House races there several candidates present. For the 105th District: Kyle Ham, Mike Kirkton, Dennis Tipsword and Donald Reints. For District 87 Dr. Bill Hauter and Joe Alexander. For the 81st Dan Caulkins and for the 106th Tom Bennet was both present.

For County wide races Kathy Michael, County Clerk and Matt Land, Count Sheriff both attended. 

Among the county board candidates attending were: District2- Bill Friedrich and Jim Soeldner; District 3 George Wendt, District 4 Steve Harsh; District 5 John McIntyre; District 7 Geoffrey Tompkins; District 8 Vicki Schultz & Gary Stevens and District 10 Chuck Erickson.

Two candidates for 11th Circuit Court Judge; Carla Barnes and Don Knapp were present.

Several elected officials not up for reelection this year were present: Bloomington Mayor Mwilambwe, Bloomington City Council members Sheila Montney and Donna Boelen. County Sheriff Jon Sandage and Bloomington Election Commissioner John Walther.

A large group of ISU College Republicans were also present led by their president, Eduardo Monk.

This event kicked of the final weeks leading up to the primary election. The primary is a key to the success of a democratic republic.  It should be encouraging that Republican voters have good choices before them for 2022.