Rutherford Defends Room Sharing, Denies Allegations In Campaign Visit

Illinois Treasurer and gubernatorial candidate Dan Rutherford visited East Central Illinois Wednesday, continuing to deny allegations in a lawsuit, and defending the practice of sharing rooms with an assistant.

Rutherford was in Champaign and Monticello, handing out yard and window signs to backers. 

He addressed the recent allegations of sexual harassment and political corruption, again calling both absolutely false, and pointing the finger at opposing candidate Bruce Rauner.  Rauner has denied any involvement.

Rutherford also responded to an article in the Chicago Tribune that raised questions about his judgment based on his practice of sharing hotel rooms with an assistant. 

Rutherford described it as common among campaign staffers to share rooms and called it a way to save money.

"That’s what we do on our campaign that’s how we’re able to have the financial resources to be competitive, unlike the two other senators (GOP gubernatorial candidates Sen. Bill Brady and Sen. Kirk Dillard.)"  The NHL does it the NFL does it.  A number of people texted and emailed that their company does it.  I make no excuses about it, that’s a frugal opportunity to be efficient."

Rutherford added that sharing rooms happened only on the campaign trail, never on official business as treasurer where the state picked up the tab.