Rick Heidner, a notable figure in the video gambling industry, has officially entered the race for the Illinois gubernatorial seat as a Republican candidate. Heidner, who has made his mark as a real estate developer and the co-owner of Gold Rush Gaming—Illinois’ third-largest video gaming terminal operator—filed his campaign paperwork just shy of the petition filing deadline for the March primary.
Heidner’s campaign takes off in a crowded Republican field that features former state Senator Darren Bailey, previous GOP gubernatorial nominee, and Ted Dabrowski, who led the conservative think tank Wirepoints. DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick also joins the race, with Heidner’s running mate being Christina Neitzke-Troike, the Mayor of Homer Glen. The Republican primary winner is likely to face Democratic Governor JB Pritzker, who is pushing for a third term.
Having established Gold Rush Gaming with his wife, Alisa, in 2012, Heidner’s company currently operates nearly 800 gaming machines throughout Illinois, positioned in various bars, restaurants, and gas stations. Alongside his gaming ventures, Heidner’s business acumen extends to managing over 280 properties nationwide and owning a gas station chain, Ricky Rockets Fuel Center.
Heidner has been deeply involved in Illinois political circles for decades, with a record of significant campaign contributions to candidates from both major parties. His financial backing has previously supported Democrats like Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, alongside his contributions to Republican candidates—including former Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin’s unsuccessful gubernatorial run in 2022.
Adding to the intricacy of this GOP primary, Heidner’s late entry into the race may shift the dynamics. Heidner’s primary campaign, buoyed by his wealth—having already contributed $1 million to his efforts—places him alongside candidates like Dabrowski, who has recently made waves in fundraising. Despite his past controversies, including a reported association with figures linked to organized crime, Heidner has maintained a presence in the political arena without being directly implicated in any wrongdoing.
His campaign chairman, Brett Corrigan, also has ties to Bailey’s previous campaign, indicating potential alliances within the party. As the Republican candidates vie for attention in what appears to be a competitive race, many observers note that Heidner’s outsider status may resonate with voters who are seeking alternative choices within the GOP.
As the race progresses, the stakes remain high, with a broader conversation around Republican representation in Illinois and the aspirations to regain the gubernatorial seat after over a decade of Democratic leadership. With Heidner’s entry, the Republican primary is poised to become even more dynamic and potentially pivotal for Illinois’ political landscape.