Illinois Video Gambling Tycoon Enters Race for GOP Governor Nomination
A prominent figure in Illinois’s video gambling industry, Rick Heidner has announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for governor. The owner of Gold Rush Gaming, the state’s third-largest video gaming terminal operator, Heidner’s entry adds complexity to an already crowded GOP primary.
GOP Primary Landscape
Heidner enters the race alongside notable candidates, including:
- Darren Bailey, former state senator and 2022 GOP gubernatorial nominee
- Ted Dabrowski, founder of the conservative think tank Wirepoints
- James Mendrick, two-term sheriff of DuPage County
His campaign committee was formed just weeks before the signature filing deadline for the March primary. Candidates need a minimum of 5,000 valid signatures to appear on the ballot.
Campaign Details
Heidner has named Homer Glen Mayor Christina Neitzke-Troike as his running mate. He recently made headlines with a significant donation of $1 million to his campaign, as recorded by the State Board of Elections.
Business Achievements
At 65, Heidner has been an influential presence in Illinois’s business and political arenas for decades. He founded Gold Rush Gaming with his wife, Alisa, in 2012. The company operates nearly 800 video gaming terminals across bars, restaurants, and gas stations in Illinois.
In addition to his gaming business, he oversees over 280 properties nationally through his real estate firm. He owns the Ricky Rockets Fuel Center gas station chain and the fuel supplier Prairie State Energy.
Political Contributions
Heidner is known for his bipartisan financial support to various political candidates. His contributions have spanned across party lines, supporting notable Democratic figures such as:
- Brandon Johnson, Mayor of Chicago
- Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Board President
He has also helped fund Republican candidates, including Aurora’s Mayor Richard Irvin during his gubernatorial campaign in 2022.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite his successes, Heidner has faced scrutiny and controversy. He previously encountered issues related to alleged mob ties associated with business partners and was mentioned in a federal corruption probe, although he was not a target. Additionally, he and his wife were issued a $5 million federal tax lien in 2023, which their spokesman stated would be resolved through an IRS payment plan.
Future Prospects
As the primary race intensifies, Heidner’s significant personal wealth positions him as a formidable contender against both Bailey and Dabrowski, who are also vying for the GOP nomination.
With less than a year until the primary, the Republican Party is seeking new leadership to challenge incumbent Democratic Governor JB Pritzker, who is seeking his third term. This election cycle is poised to be contentious as candidates differentiate themselves in a landscape with various established political figures.
