McGorray has an associate’s degree in biology and another in liberal studies, from Olney Central College, and another such degree in fire science from Richland Community College.

He served two years in the Army.

He is married and has two daughters, a stepson and seven grandchildren.

Keating, who said he has been an activist and community organizer for most of his life, has voted in Democratic primaries but considers himself a liberal independent.

In the wake of George Floyd’s death in police custody in Minneapolis, Keating said, he was among five people who created an organization called Education and Action Together, or EAT. He said the group has been active in Springfield as well as small towns in central Illinois.

His Facebook picture shows him wearing a mask bearing the words "Abolish ICE." He said the work of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement should be handled by other agencies.

"I don’t agree with deporting non-criminal aliens," he said.

He also said he thinks the 96th needs a progressive, and he doesn’t think Scherer fits that bill, as she has opposed legalization of marijuana and abortion rights.

Keating said he supports gun rights, and would keep the ramp to the $15 minimum wage in place. He is also for the graduated income tax amendment.