Illinois comptroller concedes in governor's race

Hynes dismissed the strife of the primary campaign as “a spirited discussion about our future’’ and said he had called to congratulate Quinn.

“I’m supporting him because I believe that our shared values and his basic decency is what Illinois needs, especially compared to what’s being suggested or offered by the Republican Party at this time,’’ Hynes said.

Hynes had made statements and highlighted Quinn weaknesses during the campaign that Republicans are likely to seize upon in the general election.

Hynes trailed Quinn by a few thousand votes on election night Tuesday and initially opted not to bow out. As more ballots were counted, Quinn’s lead grew.

The spotlight remained on the Republicans, who also have been waiting for a primary winner to emerge in the governor’s race. State Senator Bill Brady led by just a few hundred votes over Senator Kirk Dillard, and the race could wind up going to a recount.