Jim Thompson was new to politics when he launched his first campaign for governor in 1975. For those in the Chicago area, his was a familiar name. He was the U.S. Attorney who fought against public corruption, sending former Governor Otto Kerner to jail, along with scores of other public officials. As far as Thompson was concerned, it gave him the credentials to run for governor for a large and diverse state.
Interview Links
Excerpt 01 (Video)
Introducing Jim Thompson to the Illinois Public
Excerpt 02 (Video)
More background on Jim Thompson
Excerpt 03 (Video)
Thompson’s accomplishments in the U.S. Attorney’s office
Excerpt 04 (Video)
Jim Thompson asks voters to give him more help in Springfield – vote Republican
Excerpt 05 (Video)
Thompson recalls when students were graded for character, and promises to set a good example
Excerpt 06 (Video)
Dave O’Neal, integrity and a pledge to declare every cent of campaign donations
Excerpt 07 (Video)
Thompson hears about the burden of health care bills. “Stories like yours shouldn’t happen.”
Excerpt 08 (Video)
Thompson went after corruption as U.S. Attorney
Excerpt 09 (Video)
On-the-street voters declare they’ll vote for Thompson
Excerpt 10 (Video)
Democrats and liberals for Thompson
Excerpt 11 (Video)
“Never be afraid to do what’s right.”
Excerpt 12 (Video)
“The primaries are over, but the battle has just begun.”
Excerpt 13 (Video)
No more half-truths and double-talk. “Trust the people with the truth.”
Excerpt 14 (Video)
“Jailing dishonest officials just isn’t as important as electing honest ones."
Excerpt 15 (Video)
What Illinois needs is tough, honest leaders with compassion for the needy and the taxpayers
Excerpt 16 (Video)
Governor Thompson's administration put to song Gilbert & Sullivan's "Ruler of the Queen's Navee"