With less than a year before the 2010 primary election, Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias announced earlier in the month that he will form an exploratory committee for election to the U.S. Senate. According to an official press release, he is filing the necessary paperwork with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) to form the committee, which will allow him to raise money for a possible Senate run in Illinois.
The Senate seat was held previously by Giannoulias' political mentor, Barack Obama, who stepped down after winning the U.S. Presidency last November.
"More than ever, we need a Senator who can deliver on the change that President Obama has promised our nation," said Giannoulias, noting that he has received a tremendous response from Illinois residents encouraging him to pursue the Senate seat.
Giannoulias, the state's chief investment officer, says restoring the public's trust and confidence in government, reviving the economy and getting Illinoisans back to work would serve as his top priorities.
"Working families in Illinois and throughout the nation are facing serious financial challenges during this economic downturn," Giannoulias said. "They are hungry for new leadership and solutions."
Giannoulias was elected Illinois State Treasurer in 2006 as an independent Democrat. He has been committed to wisely investing the state's money and to promoting a progressive, reform-based agenda that focuses on innovative initiatives and policies. Coming from the private sector, he sought to implement new safeguards to make government more accountable, curb ethical abuses and eliminate even the perception of any wrongdoing.
“It's only because of your support and encouragement that I'm exploring a possible Senate run. As Illinois State Treasurer, I could not have accomplished so much or come so far in such a short time without your help. I appreciate everything you've done for me and will need you now more than ever,” Giannoulias stated. “During the next several weeks, I will lay out my priorities and continue to reach out to people throughout the state and country who want to make a difference, who are tired of the politics of the past, and who are looking for answers to the enormous challenges we face together …It's going to take all of us to carry out the change President Obama has promised our nation. Let's work together to ensure that happens so we can create a better America for our children and grandchildren.”
