For Immediate Release April 19, 2012

Contact: Mike Richards 217-390-1740

New Poll Shows David Gill with Significant Lead in IL 13 Race

Democrat Gill beats two prominent Republicans for Congress and outperforms generic trial heat

A new survey conducted by national polling firm Victoria Research & Consulting shows that Democrat David Gill has a substantial lead over two likely Republicans in the new 13th Congressional District of Illinois. Gills campaign commissioned the poll to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the Democratic nominee and develop its strategy for the general election campaign in this open seat race. The poll was conducted April 11-13 among 400 registered, likely 2012 general election voters. Our poll shows the race is wide open, said pollster Donna Victoria. In fact, David Gill already holds a significant lead over two prominent Republican candidates. Whats clear from our numbers is that Dr. Gill has a significant base of support no matter which candidate the Republicans ultimately put forth. Victorias clients have included numerous Democratic Members of Congress, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and EMILYs List. The Victoria Research survey shows Democrat David Gill beating Republican Jerry Clarke handily 40% to 33%. Against Republican Rodney Davis, David Gill has a double-digit lead of 41% to 31%. %. In both matchups, Gill outperforms the generic trial heat for Congress, which is +3 in favor of a Democrat (38% to 35% for a Republican). This new poll proves that David Gill is well-positioned to move into the general election as a strong nominee for the Democratic Party, said Gills campaign manager Michael Richards. While the Republican Party bosses are arguing over who to replace Tim Johnson with, were moving forward with our message of cleaning up Congress and standing up to Wall Street. Were ready to add a new seat to the Democratic column. The polling shows David has a good base in the old 15th CD portion of the district and he starts strong in the rest of the new 13th CD, Richards continued. Davids populist positions and grassroots message are in line with the concerns of the middle-class voters of this new district. They want someone new who wont be bought and paid for by big corporations. They want someone who will have the courage to stand up and be honest on tough issues. Thats David Gill. David Gill has been battle-tested, Richards concluded. Our new poll proves he can withstand strong criticism and attacks and still appeal to undecided voters. The recent Republican line that this district favors their eventual appointed candidate is pure fantasy. They know the same thing we do. The Republicans are in deep trouble in the new 13th District. David Gill is an emergency room doctor in Bloomington, IL. He has never been elected to public office. Dr. Gill will be certified as the Democratic nominee on April 20, 2012 by the Illinois State Board of Elections. #END#