Meanwhile, Quinn's Republican challenger Bill Brady is upset at a new TV ad that criticizes his voting record on issues relating to women.
Incumbent Pat Quinn gets a promise of campaign cash and continued help from a source outside the state. While Senator Bill Brady tries to resurrect an old controversy surrounding Quinn as the governor takes a shot a former Democrat and now independent challenger. It was a busy day in the Illinois governor's race.
The governor and his running mate Sheila Simon celebrated an endorsement by the state's largest teachers union Wednesday, the 133,000 member Illinois Education Association.
"I really believe in the IEA, its members, their commitment to learning," said Quinn.
"I think you can assume there will be a six-figure investment in supporting this campaign," said IEA President Ken Swanson.
Later, Republican candidate Bill Brady appeared with DuPage County State's Attorney Joe Birkett, demanding the governor sign a bill to post photos and other information about ex-convicts released early from state prisons.
"The governor has released the names of these individuals but he's failed to post their pertinent information," said Brady.
"A recent photograph, as every police officer knows whose working a case, a recent photograph is critical," said Birkett.
Meanwhile, more prospective voters are watching the new television ad sponsored by the Democratic Governor's Association. It uses photos of young girls as it criticizes Brady's voting record on issues the ad implies are important to women.
"There's a stark difference between Governor Quinn and State Senator Brady on issues that are of importance to women," said Simon.
"This is a distraction from the real issues," said Brady. "Women care most about a job. Pat Quinn's tax increase hurts women as much as it hurts men."
In Springfield, a challenge to nominating petitions filed by independent candidate Scott Lee Cohen has been withdrawn.
Cohen, who quit as the Democratic lieutenant governor nominee in the wake of abuse charges and admitted steroid use, will appear on the November gubernatorial ballot. Pat Quinn says he is not concerned that Cohen might affect his chances.
"I think he has a character that leaves a lot to be desired. And I think the people of Illinois know that," said the governor.
Cohen says, that after the challenge to his nominating petitions was dropped, his campaign experienced a noticeable increase in volunteer support. The pawnbroker-turned-politician says he will hit the road next week on a statewide listening tour.
