Illinois GOP Cancels Meeting on Chairman's Ouster

CHICAGO — The Illinois Republican Party central committee has canceled Saturday's scheduled meeting in which it was to consider firing party chairman Pat Brady.

Some committeemen wanted to oust Brady, largely because he publicly supported gay marriage when a bill was before the state Legislature earlier this year.

Republican state Sen. Jim Oberweis of North Aurora said Saturday that members wanted more time and wanted to be sure Brady, who is out of town, could attend.

It was unclear if the committee had enough votes to fire Brady.

Several prominent Republicans, including U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk and state House Republican Leader Tom Cross, had recently weighed in on the issue, saying it would be a mistake. They also say if the party is going to grow it needs to be more inclusive.