The next debate for Illinois nominees for governor is this Wednesday in Chicago. But two candidates are being left out this time around.

CHICAGO (AP) — Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner on Thursday accused rival J.B. Pritzker of plotting a massive income tax hike on the people of Illinois, a claim the Democrat dismissed as another lie from a governor who's "been lying for three-and-a-half years."

As of Monday, there are 50 days until Election Day. And in the race for Illinois governor, debate season is finally getting underway.

Republicans held their annual rally at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield Wednesday with a message of party unity.  Bruce Rauner still holds the top office in state government. But as he pushes for re-election, he’s trying to appease conservatives who feel betrayed and whose support he needs to win a second term. 

Downstate Senator Sam McCann filed petition signatures on Monday to get on the fall ballot. Back in April he announced a run for governor for the newly created Conservative Party.