By Benjamin Yount Illinois Statehouse News

SPRINGFIELD  –  Even as Republican candidates milled about the Illinois State Fair looking for support in what could tough incumbent-on-incumbent primaries, the message of the day was unity.

Illinois’ GOPmet for the party's annual rally at the Illinois State Fair Thursday. There was the usual talk of coming together for the 2012 elections. But there was also talk of inter-party scuffles under the new map. And Illinois GOP boss Pat Brady said the Tea Party will be a factor in 2012.

081811PatBrady1               :16              …meet with them often."

Democrats, who met yesterday, had bigger crowds. The Republican faithful say they expect their big turn-out to come next year, when the election is just around the corner.