Published on: October 22, 2025, 12:11h.
Updated on: October 22, 2025, 12:17h.
- Illinois entrepreneur Rick Heidner announces gubernatorial candidacy.
- Heidner, a supporter of both political parties, will run as a Republican.
- Incumbent Governor JB Pritzker is the leading candidate for 2026.
Rick Heidner, a high-profile business figure in Illinois, known for his significant involvement in the state’s video gaming terminals (VGT) market, is aiming to succeed one of the state’s wealthiest individuals as its governor.
Illinois is one of only 13 states that do not impose term limits on governors. Current Governor JB Pritzker (D), whose fortune originates from his family’s Hyatt Hotels ownership, is seeking a third consecutive term in 2026.
Pritzker, whose net worth is approximately $4 billion, will keep a close watch on the Republican Primary as candidates, including Rick Heidner, emerge. Heidner, aged 65, oversees Gold Rush Gaming, a leading player in the industry.
Since its inception in 2012, Gold Rush Gaming has established over 700 VGT sites across Illinois, providing thousands of slot-like gaming machines. These terminals can be found in various venues, including liquor stores, restaurants, gas stations, and fraternal organizations.
Recently, Heidner launched a political action committee to advance his gubernatorial aspirations, as detailed in his Illinois State Board of Elections filing.
Business Ventures of the Gaming Tycoon
As the third-largest VGT operator in Illinois, Heidner’s Gold Rush is part of a landscape that currently features 8,758 VGT venues hosting a total of 49,552 machines, with Accel Entertainment leading the market with 2,775 locations.
In addition to Gold Rush, Heidner manages more than 280 commercial properties across the United States and owns Prairie State Energy and Ricky Rockets Fuel Centers.
Heidner is making significant investments in his future political endeavors. His campaign, “Rick for Illinois”, was initiated with a $1 million personal contribution, and he identifies as a “real estate developer – entrepreneur.”
Heidner has yet to respond to numerous requests for statements from the media.
Historically, Heidner has contributed to various political campaigns across party lines, supporting candidates such as Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Democratic leaders Don Harmon and Toni Preckwinkle.
He also provided backing for Republican Richard Irvin’s unsuccessful run for governor in 2022; Irvin previously served as mayor of Aurora from 2017 until May 2025.
Challenges for the GOP in Illinois
Pritzker is anticipated to face no serious challengers within the Democratic ranks. The 2026 Illinois Republican Primary will also feature candidates Darren Bailey, a former state senator, and DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick alongside Heidner.
The eventual GOP nominee will have formidable challenges against the incumbent. Over the past two decades, Republicans have held the governorship for merely four years (Bruce Rauner, from January 2015 to January 2019).
Illinois has not supported a Republican presidential nominee since 1988, indicating a long-standing trend in the state.