Rutherford calling sudden news conference at 10:30 to discuss 'bad behavior' by opponent

Updated

Reporting with Dave McKinney

Illinois Treasurer Dan Rutherford who is running for Governor, is calling a news conference today to address allegations made against him, according to a source.

There is nothing involving him dropping out of the race, a campaign spokeswoman told the Sun-Times.

The spokeswoman said the press conference in response to “bad behavior” related to another candidates in the primary race.

The spokeswoman said both campaign staff and Treasurer office staff will be on hand at the news conference.

Rutherford is in a four-way primary race for governor. He is preparing to launch a TV ad campaign that begins next week.

Bruce Rauner, a Winnetka venture capitalist is the perceived front-runner in the race, having raised millions of dollars — including several million from his own personal fortune. Rauner has blanketed the airwaves since late last year. He so far had been the only candidate up on TV.

Unlike state Sens. Kirk Dillard and Bill Brady, Rutherford, has consistently raised money since he launched his campaign last summer and is viewed as being the biggest threat to Rauner steamrolling over his competitors by spending millions of dollars.

Rauner has raised more than $8 million since he first announced his candidacy, including putting in $3 million from his own personal fortune.