Governor Pat QuinnCHICAGO (AP) – President Barack Obama is expected to be in Chicago next week to support Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn’s re-election bid.

White House officials said Friday Obama will fly to Chicago on Wednesday night. He’s expected to attend a fundraiser and an official event on Thursday before returning to Washington.

Quinn, who’s seeking his second full term, is in a tight contest with Republican businessman and first-time candidate Bruce Rauner.

The Chicago Democrat on Friday called Obama, a former state and U.S. Senator from Illinois, “a good friend of mine.”

“I really need his help now,” Quinn said folliwing a separate campaign event. “I’m grateful he’s coming our way.”

Quinn’s campaign did not release details of the Thursday stop. The White House said more information will be released in the next few days.

 

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