31 year old Peoria, Illinois Congressman Aaron Schock recently spoke out yesterday against his own potential Republican rivals for the 2014 bid for governor. While not mentioning an adamant run for governor, Schock did seem to be testing the waters.
During a speech at the Civic Federation, Schock made the point that the state of Illinois has been a solid blue, one party state for too long. He went on to tout his own accomplishments and outsider mentality. Schock credits his youth and his appeal to Democratic-leaning constituents as the main reason he would be a stronger candidate than other potential Republicans.
State Senators Bill Brady and Kirk Dillard were the main targets of Schock's remarks, stating that they've "proven nothing more than they can lose an election." Schock remains a strong, viable candidate going forward in a Republican party that seems to be losing its strength among women, independents, and the youth.
Many see Schock as an attractive candidate that has the ability to reinvigorate many Republicans in the state. The long tenure of Democrats in Chicago and Springfield has led a one party dominance that has hurt the state in many aspects. It was announced earlier today that Illinois now has the worst credit rating in the entire nation due to its billion dollar deficits.
Schock still has six months to formally announce his candidacy for governor. Any potential campaign will definitely by a tough test for Schock. The Democratic stronghold on the state might crack soon, but it will take a revived opposition to do so.
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