State Treasurer Dan Rutherford has been researching his chances at winning a gubernatorial bid, but hasn't made an official announcement about a possible campaign. (WJBC Archive Photo)

By Todd Wineburner

PONTIAC - A major fundraiser for the Livingston County Republicans is scheduled for Presidents’ Day.

Organizers of Livingston County’s annual Lincoln-Reagan Dinner are calling it a “Draft Dan Dinner.” State Treasurer and Livingston County native Dan Rutherford is considering a run for the governor’s mansion, but he hasn’t officially thrown his hat in the ring. Rutherford is scheduled to address the group Monday night.

Livingston County Republican Chair John McGlasson said his group isn’t going to wait for an official announcement to endorse their favorite candidate.

"We certainly aren't going to make any secrecy about the fact that it certainly would be an honor to Livingston County to have a favorite son as governor of Illinois," said McGlasson.

The event is set for Presidents’ Day starting at 6 p.m. Livingston County Republican Committee members still have tickets for sale.

Other speakers at the event include Republicans state Sen. Jason Barickman and state Rep. Josh Harms, U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger and Chicago radio personality Dan Proft.

Todd Wineburner can be reached at todd.wineburner@cumulus.com.