Progress Illinois

That's what House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-OH) reportedly had to say about Jim Oberweis at a recent meeting with Illinois GOP fundraisers.

Capitol Fax's Rich Miller reported this morning that he was told that Boehner "said at a recent event that he wants Oberweis out of the race." Then, posting anonymously in Miller's comments section, his source offered up some more details:

I was Rich’s source at the Boehner event. Boehner stated there was no way to win the district with Oberweis, and that he wanted him out: “unlikable, a terrible candidate.” This was said in the presence of at least 30 Illinois fundraisers. He even stated to a questioner at the event that “we can quote him”, and that he would help get Oberweis out of the race. I believe there is no way Oberweis can win, and if he does not get out, the GOP will lose the seat for a decade. Anyone who gives him 2 cents is just wasting cash. Mr. Oberweis, you can stop calling us. We are not going to provide any further assistance.

Saying that Oberweis is a terrible candidate is one thing. You'd be hard pressed to find anyone in the national GOP who thinks otherwise. Saying that you'll help get him out of the race, on the other hand -- now that's news.

Miller called Boehner's office for comment, but there's no indication he's heard anything back yet. I'll be very curious to hear what they ultimately say in response.

(Hat tip: Archpundit)