Ives Files 'Maximum Number Of Signatures' To Challenge Rauner

WHEATON, IL — Wheaton Rep. Jeanne Ives has officially filed for Governor of Illinois in the hopes of unseating incumbent Bruce Rauner. According to a statement, Ives gathered closed to 13,000 signatures throughout 62 counties to submit her bid, far exceeding the 5,000 signature minimum required to run for governor.

In the statement, Ives expressed gratitude to residents who helped her circulate petitions, which were collected in just under four weeks. "They worked very hard to turn these petitions around in an unusually short time-frame," Ives said.

"Illinois has so much going for it," she added. "We are primarily held back by a corrupt and mismanaged government."

Ives closed her statement with a rallying cry to voters:

"From Lake County to Effingham County, voters are looking for an honest option in the Republican primary, and a real challenge to the political class in the government. I am prepared and resolved to stand with the families and businesses of this state through thick and thin."

Ives, who refers to herself as a "true conservative." has served as a representative in Illinois's 42nd District since 2012. She graduated from West Point Academy in 1987 before serving in the U.S. Army. She lives in Wheaton with her husband and their five children.

>>AP Photo/Seth Perlman