State Rep. Jeanne Ives (R-Wheaton) is taking another step toward challenging Gov. Bruce Rauner in the Republican primary for governor.

In a letter sent to supporters over the weekend, Ives announced she is circulating petitions for the March primary, and that she’s selected former state Rep. Rich Morthland as a lieutenant governor running mate.

“There is little trust between most Illinoisans and their government at many levels—and for good reasons,” the letter states. “Top political leaders have lied to the people about who they are and what they are going to do—and they continue to make promises we cannot keep.”

Ives is a former Wheaton City Council member, a West Point graduate and former Army officer.

Candidates need at least 5,000 signatures by early December.

Financially, she’ll have to compete against Rauner’s campaign war chest, which is already up to $60 million.

Ives will appear on “Chicago Tonight” on Tuesday. 

Follow Brandis Friedman on Twitter @BrandisFriedman

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