CHICAGO – Candidate petition circulation for presidential delegates begins October 5th in Illinois, but those that want to run as delegates for President Trump's re-election will have to jump through a couple of party hoops more than just gathering petition signatures.
The Illinois Republican Party sent out a notice earlier this month to state central committee members informing the SCC members to notify the IL GOP's Executive Director Anthony Sorros or State Party Co-Chairman Mark Shaw, who represents the 10th Congressional District, of anyone interested in running as delegates for President Trump.
That means not only do candidates have to gather petition signatures, they need to be approved by their congressional district's member on the State Central Committee as well as IL GOP officials. The IL GOP note referred to candidates as "applicants" to the process.
"The sooner you submit the names of applicants, the more consideration they will receive. To submit an applicant, please send their names and address. Any additional notes you provide are greatly appreciated!" the message said.
Typically, the IL GOP endorsed slates for delegate candidates are elected GOP officials or easily-recognizable names – especially for an incumbent presidential candidate. Delegates cast votes at their party's national convention to determine the party's presidential candidates.
