Walesa an iconic figure of Poland's rise from communism but today Lech Walesa is hoping to give Adam Andrzejewski a lift in the race for governor. he two men joined together for an event at the Union League Club of Chicago.
Why is Walesa doing this?
"I have good political nose," told ABC7 through an interpreter.
Walesa says his endorsement is about more than merely sharing Polish heritage. He believes the Hinsdale businessman would bring a new honest approach to Illinois government.
"Because he has no baggage. He is open. He can put things in order. Clean house," said Walesa.
The former Polish president is well aware of the stain of corruption in Illinois politics. He joked, tongue-in-cheek, that he won't need to visit his chosen candidate in prison.
"He doesn't depend on anyone and this is his greatness," said Walesa.
"We're gonna defend the taxpayers of Illinois. We're gonna bring good governance to Springfield. This is a new era of governance that we can work on together," said Andrzejewski.
But Andrzejewski has his work cut out for him.
It's a tough six-way race containing more familiar names in Illinois politics for the Republican nomination.
Andrzejewski doesn't seem to mind the underdog status and neither does Lech Walesa.
"Nobody gave us a chance to win over the communists. Nobody. And we proved them wrong," said Walesa.
