North Cook News

Former Vice President Mike Pence shared kind words about attorney and potential 2022 Illinois gubernatorial candidate Richard Porter in a March letter shared on Facebook. 

Porter is Illinois Committeeman for the Republican National Committee and has toyed with the idea of running for governor, but recently said he won't have a final decision in that matter until summertime. 

"During my time as vice president and as governor of Indiana, it was inspiring for me to see Richard stand strong for freedom, opportunity and limited government for the good people of the State of Illinois," Pence wrote. "Richard Porter has been a champion of the Republican values at the heart of our party and has made a real difference all across the Land of Lincoln."

Politico listed Porter alongside former Senate Minority Leader Bill Brady, state Sen. Jason Barickman and U.S. Congressman Adam Kinzinger as potential contenders for the governor's seat, but none of those have announced an official candidacy. 

"To Richard [...] thank you for your work, and thank you for your energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to carry conservatism forward for a stronger, more prosperous Illinois and America," Pence said. 

Porter is senior partner at Kirkland and Ellis. He has served on finance committees for multiple Republican presidential candidates, Illinois gubernatorial candidates and Senate/House candidates. He was general counsel for Gov. Rauner's transition and contributes to key state legal issues. 

The potential gubernatorial candidate was recently vocal about the Democrat COVID-19 relief bill; according to Prairie State Wire on March 10. Porter was against the bill, calling its sizable cash infusion "a hole that [Illinois] will never be able to get out of."