Caterpillar CEO Endorses Rauner for Governor

One of Illinois' top business leaders and one of the most vocal critics of the state's financial mess is endorsing Republican venture capitalist Bruce Rauner for governor.

Caterpillar Inc. CEO Douglas Oberhelman said Thursday that the failures of the state's elected leaders lead him to believe a political novice like Rauner is needed.

Oberhelman said in an interview that he's frustrated with what he calls "career politicians'' and the "deep hole'' they've created.

Rauner's only declared primary competition is state Treasurer Dan Rutherford. Rutherford said Thursday that he hopes voters will see his experience in office and in elections as an asset. 

Oberhelman has frequently complained about the inability of state leaders such as Gov. Pat Quinn, a Democrat, to deal with the pension crisis and other problems.