Rauner Endorses State Sen. Darin LaHood for Congress

PEORIA, Ill. (AP) — Gov. Bruce Rauner kicked off Darin LaHood's congressional campaign by endorsing the Peoria Republican for the open 18th District seat.

The first-term GOP governor said Wednesday that LaHood favors "limited government, low taxes, individual liberties (and) personal responsibility."

LaHood wants to replace Rep. Aaron Schock, a Peoria Republican who resigned in March after reports questioning office expenses and campaign spending.

LaHood has served in the Illinois Senate since 2011 and previously was a state and federal prosecutor. He is the son of former Congressman and Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

Facing LaHood in the July 7 primary are Donald Rients of Benson and Michael Flynn of Quincy. Democrats Robert Mellon of Quincy and Adam Lopez of Springfield are also in the race.

The special general election is scheduled for Sept. 10.

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