A suburban accountant and retired downstate Marine say their lack of political experience is actually an asset in the races to unseat two Democrats who are among Illinois' longest serving statewide officeholders.

The Republicans hope to tap into an anti-incumbent mood as they challenge Secretary of State Jesse White and Attorney General Lisa Madigan.

Accountant Michael Webster hopes to convince voters that not being a "career politician" is good for a business-minded secretary of state office.

Paul Schimpf is a U.S. Naval Academy graduate challenging Madigan and says he's not beholden to special interests.

The candidates detailed their views to The Associated Press in candidate questionnaires and interviews. The emerging themes in the down-ballot races echo Illinois' competitive governor's race, where Republican Bruce Rauner is challenging Gov. Pat Quinn.