The Associated Press asked candidates how they would explain to voters why they are running for Illinois governor if they had to sum it up in a 140-character Tweet. Here are the responses:

REPUBLICANS:

State Sen. Bill Brady

"Brady's experience and leadership will mean lower taxes, less government, more jobs, more opportunity and better representation #ForAllOfIllinois."

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State Sen. Kirk Dillard

"I love Illinois. We need an accountable and ethical gov't. I'll ensure our kids & families get great education, jobs & a good quality of life"

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Businessman Bruce Rauner

"We need to create a booming economy, lower taxes and spending, dramatically improve education and enact term limits on career politicians"

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State Treasurer Dan Rutherford

"No. 1 priority is creating and keeping jobs in Illinois-putting people to work makes our families and Illinois stronger"

DEMOCRATS:

Gov. Pat Quinn

Declined to participate.

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Anti-violence activist Tio Hardiman

"I'm running for Governor to bring an immediate end to Machine Politics in Illinois and to help bring integrity back to state politics."

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