Day 2 of RNC wraps up as Trump’s running mate JD Vance prepares to headline Wednesday

MILWAUKEE — It’s often been said that Illinois is two states: Chicago and downstate. In fact, some Republicans have even floated the idea of a break-up.

But, there’s no doubt the political differences between the two regions, even among Republicans, have hurt the party’s win-loss record.

Illinois Republicans rallied again Wednesday morning and were greeted by a sight to behold: A giant block of cheese carved in Donald Trump’s likeness.

A light-hearted moment after a night of speeches that preached unity from some of the former president’s primary campaign rivals.

There were a few cracks in the unity message on display on the convention floor, including an ongoing feud between Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz, who engineered the ouster of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

Gaetz heckled McCarthy during an interview. That’s when Illinois Republican central committeeman Richard Porter stepped in, telling Gaetz to “shut up” and then used a few choice swear words.

On Wednesday morning, Porter told WGN News’ Ben Bradley he doesn’t regret it.

“He certainly doesn’t represent the very best. He’s a very bright man, but doesn’t have great judgement. I think the people in his district can do better than that. I mean honestly, he’s just not the best member. I mean, I’ll still take him over most Democrats,” Porter said.

Illinois’ incoming Republican party chair Kathy Salvi, from Chicago’s northern suburbs, vowed to resuscitate the state party, which has lost congressional seats and doesn’t hold a single statewide office.

“We are the party of hope and optimism and a better Illinois and a better future for America and our children,” Salvi said to a crowd.

Salvi vowed to treat people with political differences with kindness while still sticking to party principles. But those principplaes have been remade under Donald Trump, which is why many longtime moderates skipped this convention.

Up next: Trump’s running mate JD Vance will introduce himself to a national audience Wednesday night as he addresses the Republican National Convention.

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