DeKALB | As the summer winds down, the Illinois gubernatorial race is heating up.

Democratic incumbent Rod Blagojevich is running for re-election. Republican candidate Judy Baar Topinka, currently the state treasurer, and Green Party candidate Rich Whitney, a civil rights attorney, also are vying for a chance.

Rod Blagojevich — Democrat

Blagojevich’s big goals include “Preschool for All,” making preschool available to all children no matter the family’s income, reinstating the assault weapons ban in Illinois and Veterans Care, which provides affordable health care to all veterans who need it.

“Blagojevich will mainly be running on his record, which includes the expansion of health care, job creation and an increased amount of money being put into education,” said Sheila Nix, the governor’s campaign spokesperson.

“TV ads, Internet ads, Web sites, mail — basically, we’ll do everything we can to reach the subgroups,” Nix said.

Judy Baar Topinka — Republican

“The treasurer’s campaign is centered on three E’s: education, economics and ethics,” said Topinka’s press secretary, John McGovern.

Topinka wants to give Illinois schools $8.2 billion to focus on reading, math and science, as well as employ more qualified teachers. A four-year budget rescue plan is also in the treasurer’s campaign, promising no new taxes.

“With a record of 12 years as state treasurer, Topinka believes it’s important to give Illinois voters an alternative plan,” McGovern said.

Rich Whitney — Green Party

“Whitney opposes expanding gambling and has a viable budget plan,” said his campaign manager Jennifer Rose. Also, in light of the energy crisis upon citizens, Whitney envisions a “New Deal” on sustainable energy by focusing more on energy-efficient and Earth-friendly technology.

“Whitney will begin to look toward those voters dissatisfied with the Democrats and Republicans for support, as well as college-age voters, many of whom are new voters and share Whitney’s focus on the future,” Rose said.

Caitlin Mullen is a City Reporter for the Northern Star.