Chicago Republicans

To: Interested Parties

Fr: Andy McKenna, Illinois Republican Chairman

Re: Illinois Republican Party Convention Preview

Date: June 5, 2008


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This week the Illinois Republican Party will host its 2008 Convention in Decatur. This year's convention promises to be one of lively debate, learning from the past, and focusing on bringing change for Illinois.

Decatur is the ideal location to host this year’s convention, as it was the location where Abraham Lincoln launched his candidacy for President of the United States in 1860. It was at this convention in Decatur where Republican principles were on display and Lincoln went on to save our nation.

Lincoln expressed values. He had ideas that weren't always popular and he challenged people to think about the kind of government they wanted. It is time for change in Illinois and it is time to challenge people in Illinois once again with the question of what kind of government they want.

I want to thank the State Central Committeemen, the County Chairmen, and the Convention Committees for working with party staff to ensure that this year's convention is one that is fair and open.

I am also pleased to announce that this is the first time in recent history that all 102 counties have sent delegates to a state convention.

Illinois is facing a tumultuous time within its government. We have a failure of leadership in Springfield which has led to gridlock, our governor is the most investigated in Illinois history, and financially Illinois is nearing bankruptcy.

The time for Republicans to stand up for change in Illinois is now and I am ready to lead that change.

A state party's convention is about the future. Where does that party see itself going within the next four years, what does that party stand for?

This year's convention will be no different in terms of discussing the issues facing our party.

Below is a glimpse of what will be taking place at this year’s convention:




* A full hearing and vote on Senate Bill 600

* A roll-call vote on the recommendations from the National Committeeman/Committeewoman Committee

* A presentation from the McCain campaign and unification of our party behind our next President, John McCain

* Establishing our party's Pledge to the people of Illinois:
a. Tax and Spending Reform
b. Ethical Reforms
c. Greater transparency in government
d. More accountability of our elected officials, including Recall

Again, I thank you for your continued support and look forward to seeing you in Decatur this weekend.