Porter: "Enthusiasm Gap" Benefits Illinois Republicans
Republican National Committeeman for Illinois, Richard Porter, speaks at Republican Day at the Illinois State Fair in 2021. (Photo: Capitol News Illinois)
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In a state where Republicans have struggled in recent years, the Illinois GOP contingent at the Republican National Convention Monday was more optimistic than in nearly any instance in recent years.
Speaking with The Illinoize in Milwaukee Monday, Richard Porter, the outgoing RNC National Committeeman says there’s an “enthusiasm gap” playing out in Illinois and across the country.
“It’s gonna be a situation where Trump voters are gonna be excited and so motivated to go to the polls and who’s going to be excited to vote for Joe Biden if he’s still on the ballot? He shouldn’t be on the ballot,” Porter said. “I think a lot of people who might otherwise vote for Joe Biden will decide to stay home. I think that’s really going to make a difference in a lot of districts.”
Porter, who was an open supporter of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in the presidential primary but has openly come out in support for former President Donald Trump, says he believes, while there are portions of the state Trump hurts the GOP, unity will help the party more.
“Once we’re a unified team, we’re not that far behind,” he said. “You know, we’re dealing with gerrymandered [districts], but Illinois is actually slightly center-right.”
Porter’s term on the RNC ends this week and he recent retired from a long legal career in Chicago. Many GOP insiders believe Porter, 64, is considering a run for governor in 2026. It’s a rumor he isn’t denying.
“I’ve always been interested in government. I love people. I love being involved. I’m a big believer in freedom. Illinois is focused on the wrong problems,” Porter said. “I’m also a pragmatist. I want to be able to run and win. I don’t really just want to put a sign on the wall and say ‘I did it’ someday. I want to see the opportunity, see how things are set up, so we’ll see. I do think that taking on the challenge of making Illinois a fabulous state again would really be a remarkable challenge and exciting to do.”
Porter also mentioned an interest in serving in a Trump administration if the GOP nominee wins in November.
Porter will appear on our podcast later this week. You can subscribe on YouTube or on Apple, Spotify, or Amazon.