By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

Governor Bruce Rauner visited Pontiac Monday to honor two public safety officers who aided in the creation of two house bills, but not without talking about his newly announced bid for re-election.

Rauner announced that morning that he was throwing his hat in the ring to retain the title of governor and commented about how important every community is in the state.

“We are one state. We are a great state. I work for everyone in every one in every county and every community. Small town and midsize communities are the backbone of America. We need more economic opportunity. We need more businesses coming here. We need to keep the tax burden reasonable and we need to invest in our schools. That’s why I’m so proud. I fought for and got historic education funding that helps communities like Pontiac. It’s more money for smaller communities, rural communities, farming communities – because I’m all for our smaller communities. Great schools, great education and more economic opportunity here. All of Illinois needs to prosper, not just one county or one city – everywhere. I’m working for every citizen, everybody in the State of Illinois in every community,” Rauner said.

Rauner joins seven other people vying for the position during the 2018 primary.