2018 brings governor's race, other big contests in Illinois

CHICAGO (AP) — The new year will be one of big decisions in Illinois, from whether voters give Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner a second term to whether tech giant Amazon chooses the state for its second headquarters and some 50,000 new jobs. Some high-profile court cases and a tribute to the nation's first black president also will move forward.

Here's a preview of what 2018 holds:

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ELECTIONS

All statewide offices will be on the ballot on Nov. 8, but no contest will be as fevered — or costly — as the governor's race.

Democratic candidates including billionaire J.B. Pritzker, wealthy businessman Chris Kennedy and state Sen.