Republican candidates who gained ground inside the Illinois General Assembly two years ago, with financial help from Governor Bruce Rauner, are having it financial issues this year. Rauner and his top contributors poured over $40-million into legislative races back in 2016. The GOP picked up seats inside the House and in the Senate from that help. Rauner hoped to further gains in 2018, but he is struggling in his re-election bid against Democratic candidate JB Pritzker. Election experts from the University of Illinois in Springfield say that Rauner has given nearly $14-million in state races this year. Billionaire Pritzker has given $7.5-million for Democratic candidates. The GOP is on the offensive in southern Illinois, where Republican President Donald Trump remains popular. Democrats are defending seats in suburban Chicago, but making a play for some traditionally Republican posts. Election expert Kent Redfield of the University of Illinois announces that Rauner will not be giving as much money this time around. Pritzker will give only $7.5-million on candidates on the Democratic side.