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Heated Rift Within Democratic Party Over Abortion Policy

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the state treasurer's office has little to do with abortion policy, a heated political rift within the Democratic Party is unfolding. Paul Mangieri, a 47-year-old downstate prosecutor, is the official Democratic Party pick for the seat, but newcomer Alexi Giannoulias, a 29-year-old banking executive, has joined the race, making it clear he supports abortion rights. The contest is pitting influential Illinois Democratic Party Chairman Michael Madigan and his party establishment against the political celebrity of U.S. Sen. Barack Obama and others.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Democratic Party's rift over abortion policy is evident in the candidacy of Paul Mangieri and Alexi Giannoulias, with Mangieri opposing abortion and Giannoulias supporting abortion rights.
  • Giannoulias has raked in nearly $2 million, almost six times more than Mangieri, with a significant portion of funds coming from his banking family and Chicago nightclubs.
  • Mangieri has received $110,000 from funds controlled directly by Democratic Party Chairman Michael Madigan, highlighting the party establishment's support for his candidacy.
  • Mangieri, a downstate prosecutor and married father of 12, is seen as a necessary addition to the party ticket to bring geographic and political diversity.
  • Giannoulias, a single, childless banking executive, has the backing of Obama and other prominent Democrats, and is using his celebrity endorsement in ad campaigns.

Statistics:

  • Mangieri has raised nearly $270,000 for his campaign, compared to Giannoulias' nearly $1.8 million.
  • Giannoulias has received 95% of his funds from his banking family and Chicago nightclubs, with the remaining 5% coming from other sources.
  • Mangieri has received $110,000 directly from Michael Madigan-controlled funds.

Sources:

  • Jacques Billeaud, Associated Press Writer, "Third-Party Candidate TiVo's Run in Arizona House Race" (no date)
  • U.S. News & World Report, "Obama Endorses Alexi Giannoulias for Illinois Treasurer" (March 18, 2006)
  • Daily Herald, "Windy City Politicians Scramble for State Office Seats" (March 19, 2006)
  • Daily Herald, "Banking Exec Supports Abortion Rights" (March 20, 2006)
  • Illinois State Government's website, "Election Information"

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