SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Concerts, rides, animals, foods, and politics are tradition at the Illinois State Fair, and there’s an even bigger turnout during an election year.
Days before Democrats descend on Chicago, the party is on in Springfield.
On Tuesday night, WGN caught up with Illinois State Comptroller Susana Mendoza, who was holding a fundraiser at the fair.
“For us, it’s Democrats Day this Wednesday, tomorrow, and we call come out and say hi to all the people who come out to celebrate our party out in that beautiful state fair, which every year gets better and better,” Mendoza said. “That’s what it’s all about: fellowship, fun, rally.”
Wednesday is Governor’s Day where Democrats rally at the fairgrounds. The big speaker this year is Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval.
“It’s always interesting when you have people who aren’t from Illinois, because I’m sure he’ll have some fun little quips or stories or jokes or challenges, perhaps even for the locals here, but I’m interested to see what he wants to talk about,” Mendoza said “This is an exciting time for Democrats, right?”
In an election year, state fair politics are more aggressive. Political signs – mostly in support of Republicans and a few Democrats – sit in yards around the fairgrounds. Support for former President Donald Trump is high, particularly downstate.
“What we need are not flags, but votes,” Mendoza said.
Republicans, meanwhile, will have their day on Thursday. The Republican Party is rebuilding, holding no statewide offices and trying to make their voice heard in the super minority in Springfield.
The forecast for Thursday calls for thunderstorms.
Republicans will meet for brunch on Thursday while Democrats gather Wednesday morning.