Hynes concedes Dem. governor primary race in Ill.
Deanna BellandiComptroller Dan Hynes has conceded in Illinois' Democratic primary race for governor, giving the party nomination to Gov. Pat Quinn, who already declared victory.
Spokesman Matt McGrath says Hynes called Quinn to concede on Thursday morning.
Hynes had refused to bow out of the race the day after Tuesday's primary, saying he was going to hold on until every vote was counted.
Hynes had trailed his rival for the Democratic nomination by a few thousand votes Tuesday, and Quinn's lead has grown as more ballots have been counted.
With the Democratic race decided, the spotlight remains on Republicans, who have also been waiting for a primary winner to emerge in the governor's race.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.
CHICAGO (AP) — Illinois voters are hoping for clarity two days after the nation's first primary election revealed no clear winner in the Democratic or Republican races for governor.
Tuesday's election was expected to launch heated campaigns in President Barack Obama's home state. Instead, it left both political parties squabbling over virtually tied races.
Democrat Dan Hynes is scheduled Thursday to discuss his bid against Gov. Pat Quinn, who is leading Hynes by only a few thousand votes.
Hynes wouldn't provide details ahead of the announcement. The state comptroller has refused to concede, though Quinn's lead grew Wednesday as more ballots were counted. Quinn has already declared victory.
The top two Republicans are separated by just a few hundred votes.