Ilya Sheyman and John Tree shared the endorsement of the Wheeling Township Democrats Wednesday in the March 20 primary to become the Democratic challenger to Rep. Robert Dold (R-Kenilworth) in the Nov. 6 general election.

Sheyman, a community organizer from Waukegan and Long Grove business owner Tree got the nod over Deerfield management consultant Brad Schneider, Mundelein attorney Vivek Bavda and Hainesville mathematician Aloys Rutagwbira.

Though a shared endorsement is unusual, Wheeling Democrats President Rob Nesvacil expressed confidence in both candidates. “Both Tree and Sheyman have demonstrated a tireless will to fight for the middle class and a stronger American future,” he said.

There was no shared endorsement for the 9^th Congressional District primary as Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Evanston) got the unanimous nod over Simon Ribeiro of Evanston.

“We need more Americans like Jan Schakowsky in Congress so she can continue to fight for middle class values against the entrenched elites in the out-of-touch Republican Party," Nesvacil said.

The Wheeling Democrats also expressed their preference for West Deerfield Supervisor Julie Morrison over Lake Bluff business consultant Milton Sumption in the race to succeed retiring state Sen. Susan Garrett (D-Lake Forest).

This endorsement was one in a growing list for Tree and Sheyman. Schneider has also received backing from a number of organizations and individuals both in the 10^th District and across the country.

“I'm proud to have the endorsement of the Wheeling Township Democrats, who join the growing list of supporters including the Libertyville Democrats, AFSCME Council 31, the Lake County Federation of Teachers and so many others,” Sheyman said.

Sheyman also has the backing of Rep. Danny Davis (D-Chicago), Cook County Commissioner Larry Sufferdin and former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean.

Tree, who earned the endorsement of former Rep. Joe Sestak (D-PA) today, considers the Wheeling nod a sign the campaign he began in November is gaining momentum.

“I appreciate the support from the Wheeling Township Democrats,” Tree said. “These are very tough times for all of us, and I believe that we are all in this together. The Republicans believe it’s every man for himself.”

Schneider, who already has the backing of the Maine Township Democrats, gained the support of Local 134 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers today. He too is pleased with the people who support his campaign including House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer (D-MD).

“We are grateful for so many local and grassroots supporters,” Schneider said. “Our diverse network of Democratic leaders and grassroots network of supporters will give us the energy and resources we need to get Congress focused on helping middle class families.”

Former Rep. Mellissa Bean (D-Barrington), state Sen. Jeff Schoenberg (D-Evanston) and Garrett are in Schneider’s camp along with Hoyer.

The New Trier Township Democratic Organization will endorse candidates Sunday while the Northfield Township Democrats will do the same Feb. 4.