Three-Way Race Takes Shape In Wellington

Independent candidate enters race

DES PLANES, WELLINGTON--The race for the Senate in Wellington just got more complicated.

Businessman Bill Kintelli of Des Planes announced Monday he will make an independent run for the Senate, putting a kink in the plans of both the Nationalist and Conservative parties.

Already in the race are incumbent Paul Leitcher (NAT) and Rep. Sally Haverstein (CNS), who are having a rematch of the 2008 election, in which Leitcher, the former National Assembly Minority Leader, narrowly fended off Haverstein.

Kintelli's entrance into the race complicates things a bit for both sides, as he will likely siphon votes from both candidates in what is expected to be a close race. Kintelli's deep roots in the state, as well as his vast personal fortune, mean he could be very influential in the election.

"I'm running as an Independent because I believe both parties have misled our country and are taking us in the wrong direction," Kintelli said at his announcement at his winery in Des Planes.

Neither the Leitcher or Haverstein campaigns commented on Kintelli's announcement. But an official within the Wellington Nationalist Party acknowledged, privately, that Kintelli could play a major role in the outcome of the race.

"He's got the name recognition, to an extent, and certainly has the money. I think he could be a major player," the official, who did not want to be named, told GNN News.

Wellington's primary is set for August 16.