John Tillman Defends Himself From Quinn Campaign’s ‘Racist’ Charge [AUDIO]

The campaign for governor in Illinois has been expected to be one of the roughest, toughest, most expensive races in the country this year. And so far it hasn't disappointed.

However, the mud-slinging hit a frequent guest with "Riley & Scot" last week, as Illinois Policy Institute CEO John Tillman was labeled a racist by the Quinn campaign for comment about the minimum wage from 2011.

Quinn for Illinois spokesman Izabela Miltko issued the statement after publicizing a video in which Tillman comments about how the minimum wage impacts job creation and job opportunities for the poor, disadvantaged, and minorities:

“Bruce Rauner owes the people of Illinois an apology. He should immediately renounce these ugly, racist remarks and disassociate himself from the Illinois Policy Institute and its CEO, John Tillman.”

You can hear the original comments in the interview below. We had John Tillman back on the show Friday to respond to those allegations by the Governor's campaign. He told us:

I think it's an act of desperation and I also think it's an outrage to take the issue that has plagued America for so long, racism -- which is outrageous when it occurs and should be eliminated -- and I think it's a ridiculous step for the Governor to use that false charge for his personal political gain. And in particular when he has such a bad record on employment not just for minorities...but for everybody.

Here's the full interview with John Tillman of the Illinois Policy Institute: