Gov. Bruce Rauner cut the check this week, according to state campaign finance records. | Getty Illinois Gov. Rauner drops $50 million into 2018 reelection bid

Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner of Illinois is dumping $50 million into his 2018 race for reelection, an infusion of cash that’s an indication he’s prepared to spend big bucks to win a second term.

The investment could be designed to scare off a prospective bid by Democratic venture capitalist J.B. Pritzker, a billionaire who is seen as a potential opponent. Rauner, who chaired a private equity firm prior to being elected in 2014, is very wealthy in his own right.


Rauner cut the check this week, according to state campaign finance records.

While the race is still far off, the fireworks are already beginning. The Illinois Republican Party has already begun tying Pritzker to disgraced former Democratic Gov. Rod Blagojevich.