Illinois governor's race is still wait and see

Why it matters: While pundits are expecting a nationwide red wave, Illinois is firmly blue, as is incumbent Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

The intrigue: We asked GOP pundits and consultants in October which names they're keeping tabs on, so let's start out 2022 with a refresher:

Who's out: Rep. Rodney Davis has announced he is not running for governor to instead focus on reelection to congress.

• Rep. Mary Miller announced she will be running against him in the newly drawn 15th district. She has President Trump's endorsement, much to the chagrin of Davis, who co-chaired Trump's Illinois campaign in 2020.

Who's on the fence: We are still waiting to see what's next for Rep. Adam Kinzinger.

• He has hinted he'll run again, but not whether it will be for senate, governor or President in 2024.

Who's waiting: Ken Griffin. The Illinois billionaire has said he will fund a candidate to oppose incumbent Pritzker.

• Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin has been rumored to be his choice, but his staff previously said he wasn't interested.
• No Republican woman has jumped in the race, but names like Jeanne Ives and Erika Harold have been mentioned.

Who's already in: Illinois State Senator Darren Bailey and former State SenatorPaul Schimpf, businessman Gary Rabine and tech entrepreneur Jesse Sullivan are already campaigning.

Reminder: Candidates will have more time to campaign this year after the primary was pushed back to June. The filing deadline is March 14.