The Candidate: Kirk W. Dillard
The Race: Republican Party Candidate for Illinois State Senate in the 24th District
The Competition: A. Ghani
The Buzz: Dillard first served as director of legislative affairs for former Governor James Thompson and went on to become a judge on the Court of Claims. Dillard then worked as chief of staff to former Governor Jim Edgar before being elected to the Senate in 1995. Dillard was the chief sponsor of the Illinois Internet Portal Act which provides transparency in government spending.
Dillard faced an unsuccessful run in the 2010 primary for the Republican nomination for governor of Illinois. Dillard was badgered through the entire campaign after appearing in a campaign ad for President Barack Obama, drawing criticism from his Republican Party colleagues. He later contradicted his statement by stating the President was a socialist.
