Video Gaming Magnate Rick Heidner Enters Illinois Governor Race
Video Gaming Mogul Rick Heidner Joins Republican Race for Illinois Governor
Rick Heidner, a wealthy real estate investor and prominent figure in the video gaming industry from Barrington Hills, has officially declared his candidacy in the Republican primary for Illinois governor. His entry adds a significant contender to the already crowded GOP field ahead of the March 2026 primary elections.
Heidner’s Business Success and Political Ambitions
At 64, Heidner is the founder of Gold Rush Gaming, the third-largest operator of video gambling terminals across Illinois. His gaming machines are widely installed in numerous bars, restaurants, and convenience stores throughout the state. Beyond gaming, Heidner and his wife Alisa manage an extensive portfolio that includes over 280 commercial properties in 12 states, along with ownership of the Ricky Rockets gas station chain and Prairie State Energy, a fuel supply company.
Heidner’s running mate is set to be Christina Neitzke-Troike, the mayor of Homer Glen, according to circulating petitions. To kickstart his campaign, Heidner has contributed $1 million of his own money, signaling his serious intent to compete against established GOP figures such as former state senator Darren Bailey, policy expert Ted Dabrowski, and DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick.
Cross-Party Contributions Highlight Heidner’s Political History
Although he is running as a Republican, Heidner’s history of political donations spans both parties. Over the past two decades, he and his businesses have donated nearly $1.5 million to various candidates. These contributions include notable Democrats like Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, former Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx, and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, as well as influential state legislative leaders including Don Harmon and Michael Madigan. He has also supported former Chicago mayors Rahm Emanuel and Richard M. Daley.
Campaign Positioning as a Business-Minded Outsider
Despite his previously bipartisan political involvement, Heidner’s supporters portray him as a fresh alternative, emphasizing his corporate experience and problem-solving skills. Campaign manager Brett Corrigan, formerly affiliated with Darren Bailey, suggests Heidner offers Republican voters a new choice, especially for those disenchanted with traditional politicians. Corrigan believes Heidner’s business background and negotiation skills may appeal to voters frustrated with the state’s longstanding financial and political challenges.
Past Challenges and Legal Matters
Heidner’s career has seen scrutiny as well. In 2019, his name appeared in federal court documents linked to a corruption inquiry; however, prosecutors clarified he was not a target of the investigation. His company was involved in a halted project to develop a racetrack and casino in Tinley Park, which fell through after the state canceled the land sale.
In 2022, the IRS placed a $5 million lien on Heidner and his wife, but a spokesperson confirmed the issue was resolved through a payment agreement with tax authorities. With Governor J.B. Pritzker anticipated to seek a third term and no significant Democratic challengers emerging, the Republican primary is becoming a crucial contest to watch. It remains to be seen whether a wealthy newcomer like Heidner can influence the direction of the GOP in Illinois.
