Web Extra: House Speaker John Boehner

"Illinois Crucial for Republicans to Keep Control of Congress"

John BoehnerRelations between House Speaker John Boehner and former speaker Nancy Pelosi have never been warm. Speaking to the Illinois delegation this morning, Boehner indicated that the battle was back on.

“Nancy Pelosi said the path back to [Democratic] power in the House begins with five congressional districts in Illinois," he said. "I urge all of you from Illinois to continue to work with your members [to elect Republicans in those races.] It’s the only thing that’ll keep Nancy Pelosi from getting this job back.”

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Boehner also relayed the story of an enthusiastic 20-something that helped him win his first campaign for Congress 22 years ago.

"A young student from Miami of Ohio named Paul Ryan helped put up yard signs in Trenton, Ohio for my campaign," said Boehner. "I've known Paul Ryan a long time. Paul Ryan knows more about the economic battles we're facing than anyone."

Paul Ryan, who has engendered lots of enthusiasm throughout all parts of the Republican party, gives the primetime convention address this evening.

Boehner (pronounced BAY-ner) also joked about the confusion his name caused when he was a young congressman.

"People thought it was Bonner, even Boner," he said to laughs. "Hey, at least it isn't Weiner."

After a quick exit, one of Boehner's House members, Peoria Congressman Aaron Schock, took the podium. Schock continued a theme that has been pervasive throughout the week in Tampa: that there is one man standing in the way of Republican dominance in Illinois.

"I can't think of a better way to change the environment in Springfield," he said, "then to retire Mike Madigan."

Madigan is a punching bag, rallying point, even product pitchman for the Republican party this week (a new website, www.firemadigan.com) sells everything from hats to doggie t-shirts).

It will take a pickup of six seats in the House this election to put Madigan to the minority. The party has targeted several seats; and publicly, Republican officials say they can get it done, but privately, they don't hold out a lot of hope. The recent map, redrawn by Democrats, has made it dually hard to win certain districts.

The real focus is on 2014, which is why so many potential gubernatorial candidates have surfaced so early and are heavily making the rounds at events this week. As one top Republican official told me, it starts at the top of the ticket. Republicans can't make advances in Illinois unless their candidate for governor inspires people to get out the vote.

Tune in to Chicago Tonight at 10:00 pm as we talk to one of those potential candidates, the aforementioned Aaron Schock. He is rumored to be strongly considering a run, although some Republican officials say they don't think he's ready.  See you tonight on the air!

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