McConnaughay For Lieutenant Gov? No Way

Karen McConnaughay put to rest once and for all rumors that she has ambitions of being Illinois' next--or future--lieutenant governor.

In an interview with Patch at 318 Coffeehouse on Friday, McConnaughay said she wholeheartedly supports Kirk Dillard, should he seek formally seek the Republican nomination as he did in 2010.

"Kirk Dillard is my colleague, he's my friend and he has the experience, not only in the state legislature but as chief of staff under (former Gov. Jim) Edgar," McConnaughay said. "He understands how government works and really holds the skill sets necessary to get Illinois back on track."

But while McConnaughay notes that the GOP needs to do a better job connecting with "soccer moms" and swing voters, she has no intention of being part of Dillard's--or anyone else's--ticket.

"What does the lieutenant governor do, really?" she asked rhetorically. "I asked the people of my district to elect me to Springfield and represent them. I want to live up to that commitment."

When asked if she would seek the state's no. 2 spot, she said flat out, "No."

McConnaughay is, of course, the former Kane County Board chairman who now represents the 33rd Senate District.

Dillard hasn't announced a run for governor in 2014, but the 24th District state senator from Hinsdale has said publicly that he's in the hunt.

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