25 News: Bloomington native Kinzinger hints political future does not include statewide office

U.S. Representative Adam Kinzinger, who started his political career in Bloomington-Normal, is indicating he will not run for Illinois governor or U.S. Senator, and instead is focusing on a nationwide struggle that he says is the “fight of our lives.”

Kinzinger is among the most vocal critics of former President Donald Trump, and he’s one of two Republicans on a select committee investigating the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol that he said was one of the worst days in American history.

Kinzinger released a video about his intentions on his Country First website a day before the first anniversary of the deadly riot that failed to overturn the results of the 2020 Presidential election.

He said the battle he’s waging will take years.

“That’s why I’m transitioning from serving just one corner of Illinois into fighting this new nationwide mission full-time,” Kinzinger said.

Late last year, Kinzinger opted not to run for Congress again instead of facing the prospect of strong primary opposition from candidates supporting Trump.

“On this anniversary of January 6, let’s confront the anger, fear, and hopelessness that brought that dark day about,” Kinzinger said.

“Our leaders prey on tribalism and extremism by stoking it,” Kinzinger also said.

Kinzinger grew up in Bloomington, attended Illinois State University, and is a former member of the McLean County Board. He now lives in Channahon, representing 14 counties in parts of northern and central Illinois.

The original article and video coverage can be found on the 25 News website here.