Dear John,

We thought you may be interested to receive this CONSERVATIVE NEWS ALERT from Illinois Review.
 

By Illinois Review

The Illinois Republican Party (ILGOP) is grappling with a pivotal controversy that has emerged just as its State Convention approaches this weekend. The focus is on Vince Kolber, whose eligibility to serve as an RNC national committeeman is under scrutiny. According to the strict bylaws of the ILGOP, a candidate must have participated in the last three Republican primaries in Illinois. However, it appears that Kolber has not met this crucial criterion.

Investigation into Kolber’s voting history reveals that he failed to vote in the 2020 Illinois Republican primary and instead voted in the Wisconsin Republican primary, rendering him potentially ineligible for the nomination. This situation has sparked concerns among party members as they prepare for the Illinois State Republican Convention set for May 24-25 at the Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville, IL.

This incident with Kolber underscores the broader challenges and tensions within the ILGOP, highlighted by recent interactions at party meetings. At a State Central Committee meeting, Kolber, noted for his financial contributions to the party, made controversial remarks that sparked significant backlash from grassroots activists. His comments emphasized a perceived disconnect between party leadership and the grassroots base, further complicating his current predicament.

Kolber’s dual registration in Illinois and Wisconsin also raises legal and ethical questions, echoing past controversies where other prominent figures faced criticism for similar issues. The case of Kolber not only tests the ILGOP’s adherence to its own rules but also reflects the ongoing struggle within the party to align its leadership with the values and expectations of its base.