Governors Day At Illinois State Fair, Trump Leads As Discussion Topic

CHICAGO (CBS) -- With less than 90 days before the presidential election, GOP Leaders trotted around Wednesday at the Illinois State Fair for Governors Day.

Governors Day at the state fair really is a day filled with politics and Republicans. This year a major topic in everyone's conversation was Trump, CBS 2's Derrick Blakley reports.

One of those leaders was Gov. Rauner, who arrived to the fair on his Harley motorcycle. Gov. Rauner made three appearances at the fair including a breakfast with county chairmen, speaking before reporters and addressing the state fair crowd.

When asked if he believes we need Donald Trump in the White House, Gov. Rauner replied, "What we need is Illinois strong and vibrant."

Not once did Gov. Rauner mention Trump's name.

On the contrary, Sen, Mark Kirk actively opposed Trump, to the dismay of one Trump backer in the state fair crowd.

"Independence, I would say, the Republican Party has to be a big tent," Sen. Kirk said.

Kirk touted his maverick streak, supporting gun control and abortion rights.

All the while, Party Chair Tim Schneider tried to hold the party together.

"I just know the Illinois Republican party is standing by our candidates up and down the ticket," said Illinois GOP Chairman, Tim Schneider. "Including Donald Trump, absolutely."

Peoria Congressman Darin Lahood endorsed Trump, but still has him on probation.

"Listen, my endorsement isn't irrevocable," Lahood said. "As a Republican, when I see Issues I don't believe in, I'm going to standup and speak out on those issues."

Lake County Chair, Mark Shaw supports Trump and finds the differing views of the Republican Party to show there is free speech in the party.

Trump aside, Republicans united in their battle against House Speaker Mike Madigan, to try to break the Democrats veto-proof majority.

Democrats are going to see a ground game in key house races that they have never seen before, Gov. Rauner said.