SPRINGFIELD — State Republicans on Thursday appeared emboldened by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s protracted, President Donald Trump-approved battle to net Texas five additional GOP seats and vowed Illinois has a chance to flip red on the heels of Trump supporters, despite a glaring lack of statewide candidates and little financial support.

Redistricting was a large focus at an annual gathering of the state party’s central committee and the Republican County Chair’s Association in Springfield, which kicked off Republican Day with a pre-taped message from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott that dubbed his push “fair” and “necessary” setting the tone for the day.

“I will continue to call special session after special session, until we get these maps passed,” Abbott said to cheers.

Texas Republican Party Ch

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