Hillary Clinton to head private fundraiser for Gov. Quinn

(Updated)

Former U.S. Secretary of State and possible presidential contender Hillary Clinton arrives in Chicago on Wednesday to give Gov. Pat Quinn a fund-raising assist. While First Lady Michelle Obama is to hold a Tuesday rally for Quinn, Hillary Clinton will help Quinn with fundraising, Early & Often has learned.

Clinton will also speak at the Economic Club of Chicago.

Clinton is just the latest in a string of politically powerful Democrats to swing through Chicago to back Quinn as he nears the Nov. 4 reelection deadline in what’s expected to be a dead-heat battle until the end with Republican Bruce Rauner. President Obama headlined a fund-raiser for Quinn last week. While Democrats nationally are pouring money into the race, they no doubt need to keep pace with Rauner, who has put $3 million of his own money into his efforts the last couple of weeks alone.

Of course, should Clinton launch a presidential bid, it’s politically beneficial to her to have Illinois remain a blue state.

Illinois is just one stop in Clinton’s jam-packed schedule before midterm elections, which largely focus on targeted Senate candidates in at least six states.