DISQUS

Anon · 3 years ago

Rich you are playing with fire here. We've been out in the field all day, 48 hours till the Big Day and some people are not in the best state of mind, you are a brave man doing this.

fed up dem · 3 years ago

I see from a thread over on Illinoize that Cong. Jan Schakowsky's check-kiting husband, Bob Creamer, was sprung from the federal pen yesterday. If I had to guess where Creamer would be spending the next three days I would have to guess that he would go to the one place where the money is and wouldn't be too concerned about associating with Creamer. Of course I am referring to the Rod Blagojevich campaign.

If Gov. Sleazy is as dumb as he is egotistical, he has forgotten how Creamer received over $400,000 from the Blagojevich 2002 campaign and accomplish absolutely nothing in return (Creamer and Schakowsky couldn't even stop the Democratic Party of Evanston from overwhelmingly endorsing Paul Vallas at an endorsement session held two blocks from their home).

Levois · 3 years ago

If I can make a prediction, I'm starting to believe that the governor's race is going to be too close to call. The Democrats will take the other offices except treasurer I think Gianoulias will cause Barack Obama to think long and hard about who he endorses next time. Especially if Barack really wants to be president.

Other than that I'm going to leave the legislature and other races to other people who know what they are talking about OK.

Roomie · 3 years ago

This election is simple to me.

Say what you want about the Governor, but he has provided health care to more people, raised the minimum wage, and helped lead us through a national recession. I read today that Illinois is leading the midwest in job growth. Im sticking with Blago.

Topinka would repeal All Kids, repeal the minimum wage hike, and raise taxes while lessening state services. She is a mean spirited, loose cannon (just look at her negative commercials). Not too mention that she is more tightly connected with Cellni, Kjellender, and the FBI club that Blago.

To me its easy. 4 more years of Blago.

Roomie · 3 years ago

BTW, I predict a dem sweep. I think Whitney will get around 7-8 percent.

Alexi will smoke Radogno.

Hare and Bean are shoe ins. The closest race will be Duckworth, but I think she will pull it out.

Dont see too much changing in the house or senate.

Buck Flagojevich · 3 years ago

The Sunday Sun-Times has a big front page story regarding Obama and Rezko's real estate deal. The headline is an apology of sorts. In the story Obama gives the Sun-Times answers for a series of questions they gave him to answer. There seems to be a "bit" of Blagospeak in his answers.

Obama may be smarter than Rod, but Rod has the title for best BS'er. Obama needs to polish up on his rear end covering answers.

Buck Flagojevich · 3 years ago

Roomie,

The Peraica-Toddler race has Cook Co. upside down this cycle. I think it is going to throw the race to JBT. The residents of Cook County are honked off with having Toddler in the race. He inspires NO ONE and will be a big drain on the Dem ticket in Cook. The Repubs (and Dems) will be out voting to keep him out of office. JBT gets numerous unexpected votes in Cook and it hurts Rod.

Cornfed · 3 years ago

Roomie-

You are right! We have said enough about Blago, so lets stick to the issues...
1) All Kids -The program that allows parents to sign their kids up for free healthcare -IF they can find a medical professional to take them.
2) Increased minimum wage -The cost of which has been passed on to Illinois Consumers because business owners are still reeling from 4yrs of raised fees and taxes.
3) The national recession -its the national unemployment rate that is at 5yr low. (Negative tone not intended, but sincerely where did you read that IL is leading the midwest in jobs?)

I would go into the great programs offered through State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka's office, but I read somewhere that using state programs for political gain was against state law.

Squideshi · 3 years ago

Listen to this radio interview with Tom Abram, Green candidate for 103rd State Representative. A bunch of Democrat operatives call in to harass Tom, but it just blows up in their faces. Check out the reaction of the host and subsequent callers into the show! Tom's opponent, incumbent Democrat Naomi Jacobson, has had $200,000 pumped into her campaign in the last four months! At one point, Jacobson's Campaign Manager even calls into the show!

(618) Democrat · 3 years ago

Blgojevich by 12%...Giannoulias by 14%... The Democrats pick up 35 U.S. House seats and 6 U.S Senate seats.

bbishere2 · 3 years ago

I can't believe the gov would have the "kahunas" to state that Topinka's budget plan would leave us with a big deficit... Gee Rod, after you more than tripled Ryan's deficit - just what do you think you just did???

shocked · 3 years ago

Never before today have I ever witnesssed carloads of democrats coming into Kendall county to canvas. Maybe the Cubs could win the World Series.........

Citizen A · 3 years ago

Rezko is $50,000,000.00 in debt. Blago's campaign was $50,000,000.00 to the good. Seems like a real pal could help a brother out. Come on Rod, give Antoin some of it back, man, the guy's hurting. Have you no humanity, no brotherly love? What? No loyalty? Tony who? Rod, you've got to be kidding.

Wumpus · 3 years ago

At least the Dem volunteers in the N, NW, W suburbs are ignorant of the area and are putting Bean signs in Roskam v Duckies district.

desperate · 3 years ago

JBT will do much better than anybody thinks. Everybody I talk to wants the crook and his cronies out. Roomie thinks he knows it all but he/she is in for a rude awakening come Tuesday!

Cassandra · 3 years ago

I really don't think JBT would close down Allkids. She raised legitimate concerns about how to pay for the expansion from Kidcare but since there really is a ton of discretionary money sloshing around in state coffers, it seems highly unlikely that she would find it necessary to cut
Allkids when there are so many other ways to cut state expenditures. Eliminating the corruption tax we pay on state contracts for example.

It is, however, amazing to me how Republicans can't seem to learn that cutting entitlements simply doesn't win votes. And Allkids is an entitlement now. There are all kinds of ways of cutting the cost of state government without jeopardizing the health care allotment. It was really stupid of JBT's campaign to allow any reference to Allkids at all by the candidate, other than the usual accolades. She should have
proclaimed that she could manage state finances far better than Blago (absolutely true) with an eye to expanding universal health insurance. In an era where the government is spending $3 billion dollars a year in Iraq, going for a trillion invasion to date, threatening to cut any internal entitlements to US citizens is fatally stupid.

Way Northsider · 3 years ago

Dem sweep in statewide races. Also Bean will win. At least one of Seals or Duckworth.

Citizen A · 3 years ago

Republican sweep in statewide races. Also Topinka will WIN. Paraica and Roskam winners. Clean Sweep !

Lovie's Leather · 3 years ago

If Seals wins, I vote for Hillary in '08!!!

Metro-east survivor · 3 years ago

Four more years of Blago? He'll be lucky if he doesn't get 12 to 20!

Don't waste your vote on Blags, unless you like voting for felons.

Citizen A · 3 years ago

Tha's Mr. Inmate to you, Bubba !!!

Buck Flagojevich · 3 years ago

Cassandra,

There really is no AllKids except for in name only. With the restrictions for enrolling and no medical providers willing to take on any AllKids patients, the program will wither away like the "Book of the Month" the video game ban and the hiring freeze initiatives.

Burbs · 3 years ago

To Cassandra:

Please expand on why you, me or anyone else in this state is ENTITLED to anything? I'm not entitled to anything unless I work for it. My mere existance does not mean I deserve anything off the backs of my neighbors. Keep in mind, someone has to pay for it.

Universal health care like all kids sounds great. It won't work. It is socialism.

As you said, cutting entitlements does not win votes. I'm sad to say that all Blago's empty promises will win many uneducated votes.

(See great public school system here in Illinois)

Now who's going to pay?

Fellow Dawg · 3 years ago

Go ahead and spin, spin, spin. It really don't matter cuz Rod, Alexi, and much of the rest of the gang's gonna WIN!

Arthur Andersen · 3 years ago

Cassandra, please list, by agency and/or fund, at least three credible sources of the "ton of discretionary money sloshing around in state coffers." Many of us are all ears. Credible source does not include the corruption tax, at least for now. Looking forward to your response.

Jacques Strappe · 3 years ago

Wow. Green Party candidate Rich Whitney was a socialist until 1993.

http://www.dailyherald.com/special/election/ani...

Little Egypt · 3 years ago

Roomie, GoverNOT Hairdo has not provided healthcare to more people. He has provided the OPPORTUNITY for healthcare to more people. Finding a doctor to take those people is a totally different issue.

I'm not predicting anything for Tuesday. But I sure am hopeful that people will choose to not vote for GoverNOT Hairdo who is absolutely, without a doubt, going to be indicted, tried, found guilty, and sentenced within the next 4 years. And any of you who have wishful thinking or blind allegiance to your party really make yourselves look pretty stupid when you say this is the governor with ethics. Elvis wouldn't recognize ethics if it walked up to him and kissed him. His ethics comes in the form of $1,500 checks for his kids, money from Rezko (indicted), money from Levine (plead guilty), and various other Public Officials A-K. Come on folks, for the love of everything that is good, do NOT vote for Elvis on Tuesday. What kind of message are we going to send him if he gets back in? That it's OK to come up with a few "good" programs in exchange for cavorting with crooks and eventually becoming one himself?

Fellow Dawg · 3 years ago

So, it's OK for GW to sell the "opportunity" pitch. But, you use the same term to beat GROD over the back. Geez...

Lovie's Leather · 3 years ago

Little E, when did we start agreeing so much? Didn't I used to despise you? And aren't/were you a democrat or liberal? And if not, why did we not agree?!!!

Lovie's Leather · 3 years ago

Whitney being/has been a socialist is no suprise. The funniest part of that article was that he used to be referred to as "Comrade Whitney." It almost inspires a name change on my part... but the Bears are doing too good for that....

Little Egypt · 3 years ago

Lovie, I don't have an answer to your questions. However, I posted here tonight because for the next 3 days Mr. and Mrs. Little E will be in the company of our oldest son who is home for 2 weeks from Baghdad (you know where the stupid people all go according to John Kerry). We have little time to spend and we voted early this week so as we are driving home on Tuesday, we will have our radio on listening to election results. We've done our part to keep this current governor from getting back into office. Now we are praying that the majority of others will do the same.

DRB · 3 years ago

Saw an interesting commercial tonight for Blago. He said we are going to "expand small business and raise the minimum wage." Those seem diametrically opposed.

I think a good case can be made that the minimum wage is really a worthless concept. I don't even think there should be a minimum wage.

I work in financial services. I see peoples credit reports and income docs every day. Want to know how many I've seen in the past two years making minimum wage? I can tell you the exact number. NONE

notquitehip · 3 years ago

The green party is the socialist party with only a name change. A group of them decided to use a name that was more palatable to the American public. It seems to have worked on 6-8% of Illinoisians that might vote for Whitney.

Mr. Luxury Yacht · 3 years ago

Burbs,

You walk on sidewalks paid for by your neighbors. You didn't build them but your taxes go to maintain them. You drive on streets paid for by your neighbors. You didn't build them but your taxes go to maintain them. Sensing a pattern here? Most of our kids go to schools paid for by your neighbors. We are protected by a military paid for by your neighbors. We can drink potable water because of government regulations paid for by your neighbors. We can know what's in the food we buy because of government regulations enforced by agencies paid for by your neighbors. We get advances in medicine from government-funded labs paid for by your neighbors.

I am so out of my mind sick and tired of ignorant selfish Republicans. What you deserve from your neighbors is what they deserve from you. We exist within a social contract unless you live in a shack in the woods and shoot your own food. Taxes are the price we pay for a civil society and yes, we're all in this together. Maybe you're too selfish and self-centered to admit it but that doesn't change it. Obama is right, that old black lady on a porch in Mississippi is my grandmother, too.

The question isn't whether government, it's what kind of government is the most effective. It's not whether we owe things to each other it's whether there are more cost-efficient ways to achieve it.

Grow the F up.

Anon · 3 years ago

Rich Whitney is for universal healthcare and
Governor Blagojevich has recently stated that it will be a goal for his next term. Whitney slammed the Governor on stem cell funding, but both agree to oppose parental notification. Whitney all of a sudden doesn't sound like as much of the alternative as he once did.

Commie · 3 years ago

I know that Comrade Whitney can't win, but at least Rod is on board with my views. Health care for all, raising minimum wage. Socialism can prevail, not with Whitney, but with Blago.

Anon · 3 years ago

Mr. Luxury Yacht:

Heard Obama say the exact same thing in your first paragraph when talking about Social Security. Something like, "It's not your money, it's our money." Same line about the streets as well.

Do those who keep their end of the "social contract" always get their due from their neighbors?

The person that upholds their duty rarely gets credit for it. Instead, more is expected to make up the difference. Shouldn't be a partisan issue.

Squideshi · 3 years ago

I think it's funny that the Topinka campaign has to go 14 years into the past to dig up something on Whitney. Here's the facts:

1. We're talking about 14 years ago.
2. Rich Whitney is no longer a Socialist.
3. Rich Whitney does not support Socialism.
4. Rich Whitney has never hidden his PRIOR poltiical affiliation, openly admitting it whenever asked.

People change. Yes, Rich Whitney was an idealist; but these days he's more of a realist.

Robbie · 3 years ago

yacht - amen brother, thanks for keeping me from having to type that rant...

drb - i am glad that your suburb is nice and rich, but where i am lots of people earn minimum wage, including friends and family. just because your specific situation doesnt show a benefit doesnt mean there isnt one...

Anonymust · 3 years ago

Squideshi,

Everything else has been an issue in this campaign. The mud slinging has been going on for 8 months.

Rich Whitney is a serious candidate. Why should he get a pass on something he didn't disclose to the voters?

From the RRStar endorsement:

When he wrapped things up in his visit to the Editorial Board last month, he said he hoped people would learn more about him so that they could “vote their convictions, instead of their fears.”

Commie · 3 years ago

Squid, Whitney is a realist? How realisitic is it that he expects Illinoisians to vote for him when he wants to raise their taxes? Get a grip...really.

As a socialist, I'm on board with Whitney, but he won't win. My vote is going to Blago.

ANONYMOUS · 3 years ago

Whitney may have similar ideas to Blagojevich, but let's get real. Who has a better chance at getting them passed? Blagojevich of course.

He got All-Kids passed, why not universal healthcare? Or raising the minimum wage? Blagojevich won't raise taxes and Quinn continues to fight the "big box."

The government should handle these things and Whitney has no chance of getting them passed.

Blagojevich will continue to fight for these Socialist principles and he will advance them.

Roomie · 3 years ago

Whitney is the only candidate for conceal and carry. Topinka has been slamming Whitney all week saying that she is the protest candidate - not him.

Topinka is the nutty, George Ryan candidate. Not a protest.

This may sound cliche, but Blago has government working for the people. By providing better health care to families, kids, and veterans people are acutally able to rely on the state for help. All without raising taxes.

Topinka called raising the minimum wage and All Kids a give away. Hey Judy, tell that to the families and people that those programs have had a legitimate impact on their lives. They all dont have your state paid for benefits.

ANON · 3 years ago

All-Kids is a give away since anyone is eligible for it right now. People who make more than enough to afford their own healthcare are relying on low-to middle income earners to pay their way. Since when is that fair?

Also, it isn't fair to promise people something and then have it fizzle. There are a lot of Pediatricians that won't accept All-Kids because of reimbursement issues.

I agree that in theory, it is a good idea, but it is not a solid program and you can't experiment on the people who need the help the most.

Roomie · 3 years ago

My main point was that I can see why Republicans would be intrigues with Whitney. He is the only candidate to support conceal and carry. If you are a First Amendment person, Whitney is your guy.

All Kids is not a giveaway. There are premuims attached to the program depending on the family income.

Yes, there are SOME doctors that do not accept All Kids, but there are only a few. The Repubs make it sound like no doctor accepts All Kids. that is just propoganda to scare you away from a good program. Much like how Bush scares us every day.

ANON · 3 years ago

Whitney shares most of Blagojevich's ideas, sans taxes and guns. Hard choices for some, but he is principled.

In regards to All-Kids, it is poorly funded and there are a good number of Doctors that won't take it. That is not a scare tactic or propaganda- it is a flaw of the program. The program also needs an income cap to be fair.

How can you expect physicians that are watching the unpaid bills from the state pile up to welcome All-Kids with open arms? If they provide the service, they deserve to get reimbursed. It has nothing to with not wanting to care for kids. The state is not meeting its obligation and maybe Blagojevich got in a little too deep with All-Kids when the payback system was floundering.

Whitney proposes universal healthcare. Blagojevich wants universal healthcare. Maybe there is something to be said for it.

Deck Marker, Potluck & Rol · 3 years ago

Adrenaline and boredom. A few big ones too close to call and many no contests.

Peraica is the big winner.

Depending on the Whitney voters, the race for Gov will either be close or not.

Gregor · 3 years ago

The small businesses Blago will grow are sign painting companies; his name isn't quite on every tree, rock, and stray dog yet.

I want the contract for scraping his name OFF everything, I can retire to an island from the income.

Disgusted · 3 years ago

Not only is All Kids not funded, it does not have the federal government's OK to slide the KidCare recipients into All Kids, which the governor has done. Kidcare takes matching funds from the feds and it must be approved before any changes are made.

Add that to his thumbing his nose at the feds by encouraging people to break federal law by ordering drugs from outside this country AND to his assurances to "undocumented workers" that he will note turn them into the INS (HFS form #3863S)
if they seek state services. The feds are already investigating him on various issues and he's just adding fuel to the fire. But still he gets endorsements. What a pathetic state we are all in.

By the way, Roomie, are you Bill's roommate?

DOWNSTATE · 3 years ago

And now we find out that Whitney is a Socialist and was head of the Socialist party.

DOWNSTATE · 3 years ago

You know on second thought Comrade Whitney and Blago are a lot alike.Blago with his socialized health care and destroying private operated businesses.

Wumpus · 3 years ago

Aren't most of the allkids signups already on another program for healthcare?

LilE, enjoy the time w/your son.. May he come home healthy and safe. Perhaps he will have a job opportunity as a congressional candidate in 08. Lil Lil E in 08!

Whitney is a serious candidate, but he is not part of the two party system, therefor, he gots no media love. Any candidate who can get on te ballot in this state (especially for gov) is serious.

As long as no greenies have access to the jobs, they will have a hard tim ebeing serious in IL, especially C(r)ook county.

Little Egypt · 3 years ago

Mr. Luxury Yacht - When you wrote your post, I suspect you were suffering from a Kool-aid hangover. I hope you feel better this morning. Your rantings are quite humorous. In my neighborhood, we are all sick and tired of 4 years of empty promises of changing the way government works in this State. My neighborhood is disgusted with a governor who rode into office on a white horse announcing "no more business as usual" only to find that he will far exceed employees/aquaintances/wheeler-dealers associated with him that will soon be indicted. Blago claims this state has a balanced budget but yet ignores the debt. His budget guru, John Filan keeps feeding Blago that line that the budget is balanced, the budget is balanced. Well in my opinion, you don't have a balanced budget until your income at least equals your output PLUS your debt is paid. Until that debt to our pension system and medical providers is paid, guess what? WE ARE NOT NEAR HAVING A BALANCED BUDGET. This state is in much worse financial condition that it ever was with any other prior governor. Our debt is higher than ever before (oh wait, but we do have a balanced budget), we have a pretent governor who comes up with all kinds of programs the state cannot begin to afford, put them into place before having the funding, and rides around the state on that white horse campaigning about how many programs he has begun. Unfortunately for the next governor, it will be 4 years of cleaning up Elvis' mess.

LotLines · 3 years ago

Whew, the Sun Times thing was close. Fortunately no one asked what bank was used for all our house,lot,fence buys/swaps/trades.

The other good news is no one has asked anyone to return the ampaign cash we got from Rezko-Levine bag man Mike Winter...That's a lot of dough.

Way Northsider · 3 years ago

For those worried about Blagos budget not being balanced, I hope you are also concerned about the Federal budget. Are you going to be consistent and not vote Republican for Congressional candidates? Budget balancing is a serious issue - it is clear Republicans can't balance budgets. Ryan couldn't, Bush and Bush haven't, Clinton did.

JakeCP · 3 years ago

4 more yars of Blago means four more years of tax increases. Plus when I get older I am going to have to pay for everything that we can't pay for right now. it is a crying shame to see people so passionate for Rod Blagojevich when he hasn't done a cotton picking thig for the people. Oh by the way when people say that he knows what's good for the people and everything is that why he raises minmium wage just to teach people that minimum is good and that if you would like to earn more than you are going to have to do more. Is that why when a respected Black Democratic Congressman died by the name of Lu Palmer Rod Blagojevich wouldn't come to the funeral or send his regards? Yet Judy Baar Topinka came and said some very nice words. Oh and one more thing the funeral was held at OPERATION PUSH which is Democratic country over there. Anyway back to Blago and money is that why he has not found a sufficient way to fund the public school systems? It really is a crying shame to see people want to go vote for a crook who is in there for the power not the people.

annie · 3 years ago

A real nice guy,Bob Flider has let the Madigan machine turn him into a person who the Herald & Review and many 101 voters are ashamed of for those horrible he has run to get elected twice.
One has to wonder how both Cain and Able I mean Flider could set on Wayne Kent(decatur minister show on wsoy) program and speak about their moral values and being good church folks. Their ads have been as low as you can go. No wonder Illinois is the pit of political ads this year.
Maybe t time to many the candidate introdue each ad saying that the candidate approves of calling his /her opponent all these horrible things.
Wonder why voters are turned off/////////////

Squideshi · 3 years ago

Let me correct a few inaccuracies posted here:

1. Rich Whitney is NOT currently a Socialist.
2. Rich Whitney does NOT support conceal and carry--he supports OPEN carry, and he's willing to make an exception for Chicago and Cook County.
3. Rich Whitney was never the head of any Socialist party.
4. Under Whitney's plan, 60% of Illinois taxpayers would pay the same or LESS than what they are paying right now.

Like I said, it's pretty sad that the Topinka campaign has to go back 14 years to try to find something that they think they can use against Whitney. She must be incredibly desperate.

Bill · 3 years ago

The budget that the legislature passed was balanced as required by the Constitution. Under Blagojevich more money was put into those pension funds than under Ryan or Edgar. Medicaid payments were speeded up so that now they are paid in half of the time that it took under Ryan.Illinois led, not only the midwest, but the entire nation in job growth during the last 3 quarters.In April, no less an authority than Repub Pres. George W. Bush congratulated the Governor and Illinois on job growth. The k-12 foundation funding level was raised more under Blagojevich than under Ryan or Edgar . All of this was accomplished without raising income or sales taxes. Those are the facts. While you rod haters are on the blog spreading lies about the governor we will be in the streets today spreading the truth about Rod Blagojevich who is making Illinois work for the people.
The state, led by Ryan and Topinka and Jim Ryan was in such a mess when the governor took over that it took most of his first term to clean up that mess. He still managed to champion a raise in the minimum wage, introduce universal pre-school, improve access to health care to children, seniors, and veterans, and not raise your taxes. He needs four more years to finish what he has started.
Lie about his record, make fun of him and his family and foster lies about his integrity. The voters will not be fooled. We are strong and united and will send a strong message to the reactionary, elitist, so called power brokers that we, the people, control this state now. We will overwhelmingly re-elect the peoples choice, Governor Rod Blagojevich.

Little Egypt · 3 years ago

Well Bill, I suppose you can be proud of the fact that Medicaid payments were speeded up so that now they are paid in half of the time that it took under Ryan. Why don't you go talk to doctors, dentists, psychologists, nursing home administrators, clinics, and hospitals? I think they would prefer that they be PAID IN FULL on a monthly basis. Also Bill, I'm not really sure about that word "overwhelmingly".

Way Northsider - I have put my money where my mouth is. I did not vote for Blago not only because of the state's debt but because he first and foremost is a LIAR. I also did not vote for my incumbent congressman. I would never again vote for George Bush and he better hope my boy does not come home in a pine box or I will make Cynthia Sheehan look like a choir girl. I try my very best not to be hypocritical. Too bad our politicians didn't put forth the same effort.

But Elvis did NOT get my vote. I'm going to be one of those on the sidelines saying "I told you so" to all of you who put this crook back into office.

Oxymoron · 3 years ago

Mr. Luxury Yacht:

"I am so out of my mind sick and tired of ignorant selfish Republicans." "Obama is right, that old black lady on a porch in Mississippi is my grandmother, too." "Grow the F up."

If black grandma is your grandma too, isn't Burbs also your neighbor, R or D? Does black grandma deserve better treatment then Burbs? Your posting seems to contradict your altruistic assertions. Your (Obama's)philosophy means grandma = burbs = you or I. Your agressive tone betrays your logic. Partisan or not, your post is the one post this morning that made me sad.

Hopefull · 3 years ago

No matter who wins can we pleae get rid of the three bozos at IDOT, Sto-Mar-Dou(moe,curly,larry)these guys are the worst employees in the history of any government and they are wrecking this place whoever wins please send help quick

Oxymoron · 3 years ago

Mr. L Yacht,
B-t-w, I'm R, decidedly ignorant and selfish at times like a lot of my D family and friends. Emotions shouldn't rule the vote. Facts and truth should. Who in this race represents and will uphold truth better?

DOWNSTATE · 3 years ago

Sorry Squid but Comrade Whitney is busted.

Bill · 3 years ago

Little e,
The legislature passed a law making it legal to postpone those reimbursements until the next fiscal year. The providers are aware of the law, the procedures and the amount of time it takes to get reimbursed. They have they option of not taking medicare patients. Some do opt not to, but most are more than willing to wait because they make millions from medicaid patients. I don't think we will have to have a tag day for any providers anytime soon. I gotta go.. the office is filling up with volunteers for Rod and Todd. Enjoy the next few weeks.
A hunka hunka burnin' love to all of you Elvis fans out there. Don't forget to vote!

jbeave · 3 years ago

you people make me sick with... whitney, whitney, whitney and then say he's not going to win so my vote goes to blago... I have had more people say that then are just for blago! if we all stop thinking this we can have a third party stepping up in this state... vote for your first choice... not who you think is going to win..

Susan · 3 years ago

I don't understand how Whitney's positions from over a decade ago have any relevance on the current campaign. If any of you would read his policy papers or go observe a speaking event you would realize that he doesn't fall in line with the socialist party anymore. People grow up, people change. I'm not the person I was 14 years ago, are you?

This is obviously an orchestrated attack in the last days of the campaign to bring down Whitney's support. I think it's hilarious that the only negative thing they can pin on him is from 14 years ago.

tough guy · 3 years ago

Democratic sweep statewide (nothing close)
LaHood wins big
Shimkus wins but closer than most thought
Demuzio beats Richey 62-38
Flider holds on against Cain 52-48
Poe holds on agtainst Cahnman 54-46
End of story till 2008!!!

Tessa · 3 years ago

As far as a balanced budger goes for Blago, the way they do it now is cut the budgets of each agency when they need money. Across the board, 2%. Not enough, cut some more. Doesn't matter if it hurts, say, a state center where people live, 2% of the budget is cut. Period. End of story. Try to serve people that way. It makes no sense, but that's the way Rod is balancing the budget of our state. And yes, that is the truth. He's cut 2%, he's cut 4% before. No way to run state services. Balanced budget my behind.

The man needs to go.

Little E - give a big hug to Little Little E and enjoy your time during that leave!

Tedbaxter · 3 years ago

The conviction and prison time of a spouse of a Congresswoman in Chicago gets almost no media. Welcome to the outside world, Bob.

Frat Boy · 3 years ago

I think the Governor has done a fine job. He has raised minimum wage for the working class. His opponent JBT calls raising the minimum wage a HANDOUT. You have got to be kidding me. Helping working families feed hungry children a handout? Give me a break! JBT is joke. A candidate who takes our troops for granted and will raise our taxes. I say thank you Governor Blagojevich. 4 more Years!

Pat Hickey · 3 years ago

Hell, at least Rich Whitney belonged to the Socialist Party and didn't merely play ball with them to advance his political career. He belonged and he quit. He joined Green.

There are members of my Democatic Party and even some loopy Republicans - the smarter than God - limosine liberals - who play ball with radical Leftists and even Commies to weave a mantel of Progressive for their tiny shoulders; those are real gutless wonders.

Way Northsider · 3 years ago

Little Egypt - thanks for responding to my comments. My hopes and fears are with your son and everyone's son or daughter who are in harms way. May they come home safe in mind and body. I am sure you are enjoying your time together now on a beautiful fall Sunday.

Lovie's Leather · 3 years ago

Honestly, Frat Boy, you are the first frat boy I have heard that like the governor.... After the governor gets indicted, goes to trial, is found guilty and is sentenced. I am going to be the guy outside the court house, when they give 10 years, I am gonna shout, "10 years isn't enough... 4 more years! 4 more years! 4 more years!"

Anon · 3 years ago

Frat Boy-

You are greatly mistaken when you imply that the Governor has taken care of Veterans. He has blatantly igonored and skirted Veteran's Preference Hiring Laws to give jobs to 50 yr. old "interns" with significant job experience because they have been contributors. His own Inspector General made a point of this.

It's great to say you support the troops- but you have to back it up with something. Even the VFW is weary about Veteran's Care.

Topinka's son serves in the military. He has been to Afghanistan. I doubt she takes anything for granted when it comes to the military. She is one of many millions of family members that makes the sacrifice. Don't smear her for this- it is out of line.

Anonymous · 3 years ago

I see Blago holding on by his fingertips. I'm thinking it's gonna be a 5% or less win. Hope to the gods that the voting equipment all works flawlessly and we have an answer sometime on Tues night.

A lot of big guns have come out and endorsed Stroger. Don't think Peraica's numbers are any larger than Claypool's were. It'll be close 'cause I see Peraica getting Claypool's voters and the normal GOP Cook vote. It all depends on who turns out to vote and why.

In my own CD, the clown beats the clown. In other words 2 more years of MiniLip.

Duckworth via Roskam is going to be razor thin whoever wins. Never thought I'd see that district get competitive.

Illinois Tollway Employee · 3 years ago

“ The McPartlin Factor ”

The Illinois Tollway’s Acting Executive Director - Brian J. McPartlin is a true vulgarian and most vile individual I have ever had the displeasure to work for, let alone meet.
He walks around our office constantly thumping his chest reminding himself and everyone else within earshot who he is. His agenda is strictly self-promotion.
Most, if not all employees avoid Mr. McPartlin like the plague. Woes to the person who ends up in his sights. He prides himself on abusing employees and lopping heads for sport.
The question herein lies, how does an individual with such despicable qualities elevate themselves to positions of authority?
The answer is Irresponsible Politics of our illustrious Governor Blagojevich. The Illinois Tollway and the State of Illinois would be better served by removing this fraud.

Guy Fawkes · 3 years ago

If it’s okay, I have a nickname for Bill.

From this day forward Bill’s nickname and all reference to Bill will be “Bill the Shill”.

Bill’s quote of the year: “We need four more years to finish what we have started. The fun has just begun.”

Yes, the fun as you put it, has truly begun!

Fellow Dawg · 3 years ago

What's wrong with being a shill for something that's right and valid? Heck yeah! No shame in that!

Arthur Andersen · 3 years ago

Hey Bill- "Under Blagojevich more money was put into those pension funds than under Ryan or Edgar."

Nice try.

Since most folks know the real facts, I'll just recite the Reader's Digest version.

Blago borrowed FY 04 and sent the funds the tab.

He funded FY 05 only as part of the overtime budget deal.

Filan, er, Blago, then hacked $2 billion, or almost half, out of the pension contributions in FY 06 and FY 07.

In terms of real GRF cash, Blago & Co. contributed less to the pensions than Uncle George.

Friday's Tribune carried a front-page headline-
"Illinois' Pension Nightmare" which discussed the ballooning unfunded liability and how it really hasn't changed much under the Reform & Renewal crew.

BTW, let's watch for that background to go on up on EBay when they need the cash to pay lawyers.

Little Egypt · 3 years ago

Bill, you are correct. The legislature voted to delay those payments. It was a DEMOCRATIC legislature that voted to do that. Nuff said.

Little Egypt · 3 years ago

Thank you to all of you wishing our son well. Our youngest is very much involved in politics and our oldest is military - both public servants but when they got to the fork in the road, they took it! We are extremely proud of both as they are model citizens. We have some lively talks around the table. I'm really glad we will be out of state on election day. Until the dust settles though and long after, please, please continue to support our troops and pray that they return home with mind, body, and spirit intact.

Jasper · 3 years ago

Bill,

If you are so strong and united, why won't the Chairman of your party and the Democratic Attorney General endorse Elvis's re-election?

As his man Elvis once sang, "Just Pretend."

Angie · 3 years ago

Whitney was a socialist up until as recently as 1993? Oh, now that's really interesting! And I love that reference to a "unique" brand of socialism in the link that was provided to the Whitney/socialism piece by one of the posters here. Socialism is merely the stage before communism, which should scare the living daylights out of everyone who plans to vote for this guy, unless you're into that ideology, of course.

A "unique" brand of socialism, huh? Let me guess! The well-meaning do-gooders have such big hearts that they keep thinking that if only this stuff was done the (cough) right way, minus the gulags, crimes, terror, repression, censorship, tanks facing down students at Tianneman Square, and so forth, then it the world would be a big happy utopia.

Will you crazy hippies wake up already?

http://www.hawaii.edu/powerkills

Your hearts are in the right place, but your heads aren't paying enough attention.

No Whitney.

DOWNSTATE · 3 years ago

Does anyone know what paper or website carried this piece agout Whitney being a Socialist.Why hasn't this been put out before?

Jasper · 3 years ago

The Daily Herald put the Whitney story on line late last night.

http://www.dailyherald.com/special/election/ani...

Angie (to Susan) · 3 years ago

Re: Susan's question, "I don’t understand how Whitney’s positions from over a decade ago have any relevance on the current campaign."

Perhaps because many suspect that his switch might merely be a stealth (realist) strategy, since he thinks it will get him more votes than just the odd assortment of deluded, idealist hippies who would proudly vote for him if he was still called "Comrade" Whitney. Just a guess.

If the guy had been a socialist in his wild-and-crazy 20's and then changed course over time, or something, then we might understand.

Citizen A · 3 years ago

Well I for one "understand" and I forgive him. Now I'm going to still vote for Topinka. Weirdo Whitney was never a consideration. And our corrupt governor has only a little while longer to be suffered. Then Fitzgerald can have him and his cronies.

'Lainer · 3 years ago

If there's just one thing I would like to tell everyone before they vote, it's that Blago's claim of expanding health care for kids is a lie and a sham. My daughter had to go on Medicaid after I lost a good-paying job two years ago. It took forever to find her a doctor (because THEY AREN'T GETTING PAID), and in the end we had to go to a low-income clinic. That's better than nothing, I suppose, but if anything, the way Medicaid has been mismanaged has limited health care options rather than expanded them. I can't help it, I just want to scream every time someone trumpets this alleged "accomplishment." Will JBT do any better? I don't know. But I don't think she can do any worse.

Citizen A · 3 years ago

Would you vote for George Ryan today ? No ? Then why in the world would you vote for Blagojevich ? Makes no sense.

GOPGal · 3 years ago

Jasper - FYI: Mike Madigan and Emil Jones are Co-Chairman of Blagojevich's campaign committee.

Curt · 3 years ago

How about this for a question of the day "What are you looking forward to after the election is over?"

'Lainer · 3 years ago

And to "Little Egypt": good luck and prayers to your son, that he enjoys his time at home and comes home safely for good some day.

Huckleberry · 3 years ago

Roomie -

If you're going to camapaign on the blog, at least do it honestly. Jbt would not repeal All Kids, as the Blagojevich camapign whose lines you are regurgitating claims. She has said that repeatedly. What she would do is impose an income cap of $100,000, and require state residency and U.S. citizenship. Not unreasonable.

Also, the Governor certainly has "government working for the people," it's ust not the people who really need the help. For example, when the state expands Medicaid to individuals who are supported by the highest of incomes, it pushes the backlog of bills and the payment cycle higher. When that happens, fewer medical providers will take new Medicaid patients. And when that happens, the folks in the lowest of income brackets - the neediest - are those who go without any preventative health care.

Those who the Governor has Illinois government working for fall largely into the category of the Levine's and the Rezko's - individuals who are politically connected.

Lovie's Leather · 3 years ago

Bears lost!!! What the heck?! Bears were a 16 point favorite! I hope the same thing happens to our governor...

observer · 3 years ago

come on guys tell the truth the payment cycle is more current than when ryan was in period and levine was brought to us by edgar i guess we should just assume your are all a bunch of crooks and give no one a chance like we got for 20 years, you lost and will loose again and you have no clue what you will do in 4 yr against lisa madi or whoever runs, your goose is done cooked. if you think blago names is hard to spell you all better start learning how to spell alex Gs name while you are at it. And while we are on the subject only one individual from this admin has been charged with anything and we will give you him he is a looser like you all. Merry Christmas

Bill · 3 years ago

AA
As you well know, the five state pension funds that were funded at 43% of liabilities under Ryan are now funded at over 60%. It is not good enough but it is a real improvement over the prior 27 years when republicans repeatedly underfunded pensions to fund state gov't..
We are on the right track but need the next four years to put this state on a strong financial footing. We are changing business as usual and making the state work for the people instead of the other way around.
Innovative programs and creative financing techniques may not be the way the repubs did things the past but times are different now. Let's continue to change business as usual and rock the springfield world. Let's re-elect Governor Rod Blagojevich.
What a beautiful day for politics!

Bill · 3 years ago

...and don't forget, the Governor has not and will not raise your taxes. Judy won't promise not to and Comrade Whitney has promised TO raise your taxes significantly. Put aside personalities and lies and unfounded allegations and vote for your best interests and the best interests of Illinois, Gov. Rod "Elvis" Blagojevich!!!
Send a message to the tax and spend republicans.
You ain't nothin' but a hound dog...
and now...to the phones!

Tessa · 3 years ago

Bill - Let's change business as usual and make the people in charge of the state follow some ethical guidelines like everyone else. That would be a nice start. He promised not to balance the budget on the backs of state employees. Blago promised me he'd do that and more 4 years ago and turned around, but he lied to me, and my son, who adored him at the time. No. More. Lies.

I can't respect someone who does that to me, to my face or to my son. Blago did just that. What he's done to the agency I work for and the people I serve is unjust. What he has done to drag down a position that should be highly ethical is unbelievable. He can't pass his own test.

Our Governor is shameless. I can't stand the thought of 4 more years of more of the same.

Budget Watcher · 3 years ago

Bill, You're wrong about the % of liabilities funded. It's now under 60% and dropping and it's only that high because of a $10 billion arbitage borrowing plan that the Bond Rating agencies severely frown upon.

Bill · 3 years ago

The fact that some state employees don't like their new bosses probably means that the appointees are doing a good job.
The governor had to make some hard choices when he took over and found out just how bad the state's finances had deteriorated under three decades of Repub governors. Yes, some long overdue cuts and efficiencies were needed and were made. However, the governor did negotiate the best state employee contract in the country with the employee union giving them generous raises larger than the cost of living increase with minimal increases in insurance costs. Yes, he has asked all state employees to do more with less...and will continue to do so as we work our way through our budget problems.
Under Blagojevich, the number of state employees has decreased by over 20 thousand. If the state's finances call for more efficiencies, the governor will courageously make them without regard for politics. Blagojevich has proven that he won't put state employees or anyone else's interests above the interests of all of the citizens of Illinois.

Bill · 3 years ago

BW, that arbitrage is not a pension obligation and should not be considered a liability against the funds. Besides, why would the agencies frown on that bond issue which has been very lucrative for the state. They should have done the whole $50 billion then when the market conditions were good.

anon · 3 years ago

How do you think the re-election of Blago affects Lisa Madigan's changes in 2010, when the Speaker and Emil need to send her a Democratic map in 2011?

anon · 3 years ago

Bill: Did you forget to take your medicine again?

Jasper · 3 years ago

Bill,

How did the state fall into such poor financial health while the Governor, Rezko, Levine, etc. cut deal after deal to boost their finances?

No one disputes that George Ryan left a mess, but the Governor hasn't been much better. Even Hynes has said so.

observer · 3 years ago

If you dont think Lisa M will win in 2010 you guys keep smoking what you have been and her chances will keep getting greater and greater

Lt. Guv · 3 years ago

Hey - knock off the "Red Scare" silliness. You don't like the ideology of Socialism or oppose specific policies - great! That's a fair reason to oppose someone or even draw attention to their views.

What's not fair is the Red-baiting. Most people who are socialists in the western world are democratic socialists - believing and participating in the democratic process. When they win an election, they take office. When they lose an election, they leave office peacefully, just like a Republican, a Democrat, a Christian Democrat, a Tory, a New Democrat or a Liberal.

They are not and in fact oppose the totalitarian state of Communism. Yet, some feel the need to run around and equate them to Communists and throw around the word "commrade.". It's name calling and it's childish.

Disagree over real ideology and policy - not names, strawmen, shadows in the night and fluoride under your bed.

Disagree with open carry, can't stomach SB 750? Don't vote for Whitney. Just knock off the Communist name-calling. That's as disingenous as Rod calling Judy "Ryan's Treasurer.". It's not accurate, and it's not fair. (And I'm a "D" - by way of full disclosure, one who will not be voting for Rod because he's a liar - despite those who earlier accused me of being a blind loyalist here). The more I've reflected on it the more I've concluded that someone who ignores the criminal activity of this administration is just as guilty as a Nixon voter in 1972.

Tessa · 3 years ago

Bill - The contract was negotiated, and the Gov. wasn't there. They fought it the entire way, I was there, were you? You must wear some rosy glasses. You make it sound like the contract was handed over on a silver platter. It took six long months, days away from our families.

Oh, and the cuts he made to state services? Wonderful cuts. That's why we have 20% or more overtime each pay period for direct care staff. And to make ends meet in Springfield they cut our budgets on the local level instead of at the top. Where we need it - to serve the people in need, they make cuts and don't provide staff, yet they provide lots of jobs to people who don't need them. DHS is top heavy, but they want to close centers and stop providing needed services to people who can't care for themselves. Yep, the Gov cares about people. What a bunch of whooey.

I'll do what I need to in order to make sure the people I work with are taken care of. You're doing what you need to to take care of a man who cares about his hair. That's a shame.

Arthur Andersen · 3 years ago

Bill, you are going to get me banned from here yet.

It's bad enough that Blagospeak is always a lie; but the lie always includes distortion of the other side, the opponent, Ryan, or whatever just to make your lie a little bigger and the mop-headed moron look a little better.

Here's three whoppers:

"As you well know, the five state pension funds that were funded at 43% of liabilities under Ryan are now funded at over 60%. It is not good enough but it is a real improvement over the prior 27 years when republicans repeatedly underfunded pensions to fund state gov’t.."

Bill, 3:50 pm.

THE TRUTH:

The pensions were never that low, about 48%, at 6/30/03. The GO/pension debt proceeds were released to the funds July 2nd, '03, causing an immediate improvement to about 57%. There has been slow improvement in 04 and 05, not because of Blago, but because of investment returns. The 06 returns have not been released as a group, but if they show improvement, it will be in spite of Blago, not because of him.

As far as past history, those nasty Repubs followed the L-A-W as it stood each and every year. Bad law, but at least they followed it.

2)"Under Blagojevich, the number of state employees has decreased by over 20 thousand."

Bill, 4:25 pm

THE TRUTH

No objective study has ever shown a drop in State headcount anywhere near 20,000 during Blago's sentence, er, term.

Thousands of State employees retired 12/31/02 under "George Ryan's ERI" rather than serve one day under this nimrod.

3)"that pension bond)arbitrage is not a pension obligation and should not be considered a liability against the funds."

THE TRUTH

Why not, Bill? The pension funds are paying back every red cent plus interest plus Big Bob Individual K/j's $809,000 "consulting fee" through contribution cuts over the life of the bonds.

Oh, and BTW, if the funds had followed budgetary genius John Filan's great advice and stuck the money in t-bills and hedge funds, at last count, they would have been $1.8 BILLION (with B as in Bill, Blago, and BS) worse of than by following their own investment plans.

Arbitrage that, Bill.

Remember, no matter how many times you lie, that doesn't make the lie the truth.

Bill · 3 years ago

AA,
No matter how you try to detract from his accomplishments the real truth is that the state and its citizens are better off right now than they were under Ryan or Edgar. The state's economy is improving, the pension funds are better funded than they ever were, spending for education has increased significantly, more children and seniors have access to health care, and so on. If you want to say that it is luck, or because of George Ryan's great leadership in giving his repub patronage employees a billion dollar pension sweetener, or lie to make the situation sound worse than it is go ahead. We, the people, know that the real leader for the last four years has been Gov. Blagojevich and no matter how you try to discredit him or insult Mr. Filan, they and the rest of the administration have done a fantastic job over the last four years and will continue to serve the people of our great state for at least four more.
Now, just relax, maybe pop in an Elvis CD, and enjoy your evening. This election season is almost over.

So Blue Democrat · 3 years ago

Roomie,

Obviously, you need to return to Political Science 101. Judy cannot "repeal the minimum wage" without the assistance of the Democratic controlled General Assembly.

Squideshi · 3 years ago

Bill wrote, "...the Governor has not and will not raise your taxes. Judy won’t promise not to and Comrade Whitney has promised TO raise your taxes significantly."

Here's another example of why the Blago people can't be trusted. Bill is being completely dishonest here. Bill knows that under Whitney's plan 60% of Illinois taxpayers, the MAJORITY, would pay the same or LESS than what they pay right now; but of course, Bill is a good footsoldier and keeps parroting the Blago line.

ChiCountryGuy · 3 years ago

Bill,

You need serious help. This goes beyond everyday blog insulting. Really, get some help. You're just like George Ryan; you're incompetent or you're lying.

The state's economy is improving? How so? Blago comes up with programs and they doesn't explain how to fund them. For instance, take a look at his "plan" today for universal health care. He has no idea how to fund it and then is barbie doll press person can't explain it.

He's had a DEM legislature his entire term and couldn't get anything done unless he broke the law. Members of his own party make him sign legal documents giving them his word.

At first your rambling was funny, cause we all thought you were being sarcastic. Now it's gotten to the point of moronic.

Jasper · 3 years ago

Bill,

Will you love Pat Quinn as much as Rod when he takes over?

Bill · 3 years ago

Squid, I have heard that 60% number before. A study by the Chicago Tribune( admittedly not my favorite publication)debunked that number particularly for low property tax areas in central and southern Illinois and in affluent areas like DuPage County. You also neglect to point out that other taxing bodies will be more than happy to adjust their levies to eat up any savings from the state rebate. Then you have higher income taxes AND after a year or two the same or greater property tax. We all know that taxes never go down. At least the governor has promised not to raise them anymore. The public showed their opinion of the old tax swap fossil when Dawn Clark Netsch proposed it in the eighties. She lost her race for governor by a margin almost bigger than Whitney's will be.

Budget Watcher · 3 years ago

Bill,

You're simply wrong on a number of statements. Medicaid payments are significantly further behind than at any time under Ryan. On this I'm absolutely certain. In addition, Illinois gets Medicaid subsidized by the federal government based upon the state's per capita income. For the first time in years, Illinois almost saw the federal match rate increase because Illinois' per capita income dropped relative to other states. That's certainly not a positive economic indicator.

Fellow Dawg · 3 years ago

If Bill's so wrong, why hasn't the JBT campaign done a better job getting that message out? All we have heard is whining and puling about Rezko and personal issues. Sorry Kids, you failed to effectively communicate these issues to the voters. That or you are exaggerating. Huh? Until I'm convinced, I'm siding with Bill. And times running out!

Bill · 3 years ago

ChiCountry,
Couldn't get anything done??????????????????
Raised minimum wage
AllKids
Pension Reform
Pre-school
reduced the size of state gov't
funded stem cell research
closed the doughnut hole for seniors
The list goes on and on.
So go ahead call me names and pick on Sheila and lie about Rod.
The voters will show you who the moron is.
You are a disgrace to your geographical area.

Bill · 3 years ago

BW,
The time lag for medicaid reimbursement has been shortened to under six months during the Blago administration. It was at one year or more under Ryan.
The state has led the midwest in the number of new jobs in the last three quarters and led the country in the second quarter. State revenue growth is increasing yearly with no increase in income or sales taxes.

Squideshi · 3 years ago

Hey Bill, let's see a link to that study, since you're so keen to discredit Ralph M. Martire of the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability, who, by the way, also happens to write for the Tribune.

Squideshi · 3 years ago

Bill, you also forgot that one other think that Blago "accomplished." He put into place a system where kids are prevented from getting the inpatient psychiatric healthcare that they need; and ironically, he called it the CARES Line. ROFL What a way to balance the budget on the backs of those who can't defend themselves!

Bill · 3 years ago

Squid,
I think Ralph writes for the Sun-Times, proud endorser of Rod Blagojevich and Todd Stroger... The peoples' paper.

So Blue Democrat · 3 years ago

My goal after the election is to encourage some members of the General Assembly to pass new laws that will prevent the Governor from using state agency dollars to promote himself. For example, a recent letter about IL Cares Rx from the Governor's Office was taken out of Aging's budget. It cost over $100,000 dollars that could go to services. If seniors needed such a letter, it should have been released by the state agency, and not the Governor. The Department on Aging's Senior HelpLine is now called the Governor's Senior HelpLine. He did not create it. This is happening thorughout state government.

Jasper · 3 years ago

Bill,

You and Blagojevich must have the same microchip implanted in your brains that spews all headlines and no substance.

You have to face the fact that your guy had a great chance to lead and screwed it up on his own- all because of greed.

For example, he can talk all day about an assault weapons ban but HE failed to get it passed. His party holds power and he had 3 years to get it done and he failed.

Jasper · 3 years ago

Bill,

You and Blagojevich must have the same microchip implanted in your brains that spews all headlines and no substance.

You have to face the fact that your guy had a great chance to lead and screwed it up on his own- all because of greed.

For example, he can talk all day about an assault weapons ban but HE failed to get it passed. His party holds power and he had 3 years to get it done and he failed.

Cassandra · 3 years ago

Earmarks are among the more dramatic examples of the pile of discretionary monies available to the governor and other state executives. Every spring tens of millions (more, even) are found to fund
legislators' pet projects, worthy and not so worthy, but hardly critical to the state's mission.

Every day we hear of the governor giving out a million here, a million there to enhance his re-election prospects.

All of these expenditures are discretionary. Most benefit special interest groups and small groups of Illinois citizens. And the money for them seems to be endlessly available.

As to the corruption tax we pay in Illinois, does anyone believe that the wannabee contractors who contribute tens of thousands to the guv's campaign chest don't add those costs to the price they charge the state of Illinois. They couldn't make a profit otherwise.

Angie · 3 years ago

Lt. Gov,

Touchy touchy touchy, aren't we?

In this high political season, all's fair in the free speech department, my friend, but glad to know that some of you want to actually get yourselves into power by getting elected rather than having yourselves a nice, bloody, Marxist revolution of some sort. I was kinda worried there for a moment.

Angie (post-script) · 3 years ago

I love it, the boo hoo hoo, they're not being "fair" line.

Where are you when us libertarian-leaning types are being called "Nazis" by some of these leftist radicals? It ain't always "fair." Learn how to fight and argue then.

Huckleberry · 3 years ago

Bill -

The payment cycle for Medicaid has been longer under this Governor than any of his predecessors.

You said it was over a year before. Cite the source of your figures please. Everyone else, don't hold your breath waiting - he can't do it.

So Blue Democrat · 3 years ago

Bill,

You sound nervous in your criticism of ChiCountry. Are you worried that some Democrats will decide that true reformist government is more important than blind allegiance to this corrupt Governor? I am a liberal Democrat. I should be very supportive of the Governor; however, he is destroying state government. He has installed incompetent managers who cannot even find their way to the bathroom. They cannot even tell us how many veterans have enrolled in the new veteran's program. He promised to reform state government. It is currently more corrupt than under Governor Ryan. He does not have the guts to increase taxes to pay for his new programs, so he will leave a major debt for future Governors to resolve.

Budget Watcher · 3 years ago

Bill,

You're just plain wrong on the Medicaid deficit. Check the Comptroller's link to the Finance Act Section 25 liabilities and compare.

(618) Democrat · 3 years ago

So Blue: Do you work for the State of Illinois?

So Blue Democrat · 3 years ago

(618) Democrat,

I am just a very interested political observer. I talk to many people throughout state government. I do have political ties with many Democrats. Are you asking me about whether I am a state employee as a threat? This just reinforces why you people need to be removed from power.

Lt. Guv · 3 years ago

Angie,

Touchy - no, not really.

Saddened, definately.

Arthur Andersen · 3 years ago

BW, Bill never lets the truth get in the way of more spin. Don't waste your time.

So Blue Democrat · 3 years ago

(618) Democrat,

Do you want to read more. How about DHS setting up Immigration Centers for access to public benefits when people thorughout the State of Illinois cannot even gain access to public benefits due to lack of training and staffing in local offices? Or DHS giving state money to churches in Chicago so the ministers will preach how wonderful the Governor is during Sunday services. Or how DCFS is not able to investigate child abuse allegations in a timely manner due to lack of workers. Or how staff at HFS are told to lie about budget estimates and program numbers. I can go on forever.

Your guy will go down(if not on election day, it will happen when he is indicted). We should have elected Vallas in the 2002 primary. We can only hope that Lisa will someday revamp the Democratic Pary in Illinois. We will need it if this Governor is re-elected. He is destroying it.

Little Egypt · 3 years ago

Bill, you were supposed to be out ringing doorbells today so what gives. Seems you've had a lot of time to post here. You are a one-man show for GoverNOT Hairdo but I suspect that even he would tell you to shut up. You're incoherent rantings are hurting his chances instead of helping. It's really time for you to just sit back and wait for the election results.

Rich, it's really me. I'm just on another computer.

JakeCP · 3 years ago

Bill when you mentioned that Topinka won't sign a no tax pledge let me explain why. Understand Topinka is being smart in case of a natural disaster like Katrina. Seriously Bill Republicans don't raise taxes thats the Democrats.

mongo · 3 years ago

the race of greatest interest but not mentioned here at all (this thread) is Mark Kirk against young and charismatic Dan Seals...I see upset next week!

Shocker.... · 3 years ago

Biggest shocker of the election....

Raymond Poe gets beat by Sam Cahnman. From Lt. Gov wannabee to forced retirement.

Poe has slacked off, not walked precincts, and taken the voters for granted. Talking to Springfield people, its clear his heart is not in it.

Cahnman, while a kook, has actually walked and come forth with populist ideals.

Poe is using Chuck Redpath's failed strategy...

Tessa · 3 years ago

So Blue - You are so right. Blago is destroying state government, he's destroying state agencies, destroying the credibility of agencies (and the good and honest people - there are many of them) that are supposed to be doing good things and helping the people of the state of Illinois.

Being on the inside truly bites sometimes because people who don't work for the state just don't get it. It's easy to tell us to quit. Not easy when you like what you do and you have people whose lives are dependent on you where you work at.

Roomie · 3 years ago

Did anyone hear Topinka's latest stupid comment?

In Bloomington today, she said that Blago spent more time in Wrigleyville than in Springfield. She said he should run for manager of the Cubs because they are both losers.

Good way to get more votes in Chicago! Idiot. The AP already has a story up on it.

Go Cubbies!

So Blue Democrat · 3 years ago

Tessa,

I know many in state government that are very dedicated. Hang in there!

Citizen A · 3 years ago

Oh my that is silly - We ALL know he spends more time at home than at the guv's office let alone Wiggly field. On the other hand she just may be trying to help him with thoughtful career advice. God knows they could use him and the Cardinals certainly don't need him. But I can't help mentioning on Blago's part "Wait Til Next Year" indictments, trials, sentencing, and prison terms for many in his admin. The Cubs will fare much better. Blago has already struck out!

(618) Democrat · 3 years ago

So Blue: LOL, Why would it be a threat to ask where a person works? You didn't answer the question. If you work for the State of Illinois and don't like it, quit.

Frat Boy · 3 years ago

Roomie
Your right. JBT is a terrible unthought out sound bite waiting to happen. Judy's clear lack of compassion for the CUBS is just another reason she shouldn't be Gov. A vote for JBT is a vote for a lose for the entire state of Illinois

Go ROD Go Cubbies.

So Blue Democrat · 3 years ago

(618) Democrat,

Why did you ask the question? Why does it matter? You just do not like the truth. You must have attended the Jay Hoffman School of Political Threats. I tell my friends in state government that the incompetency and corruption in state governmentwill past. The competent ones need to stay in state government. State government needs adults with experience. If the Governor is not defeated, he will be indicted.

So Blue Democrat · 3 years ago

(618) Democrat,

Speaking of answering questions. When is the Governor going to respond to the questions that the Chicago Tribune has posted in the newspaper twice?

Why has Lisa not endorsed the Governor?

Answer these questions.

Mr. Luxury Yacht · 3 years ago

Anon - Sunday, 12:51 am, Little Egypt and Oxymoron,

Absolutely nothing in my post is about the Governor's race (despite what you might think I did not vote for the current Governor, btw). It's about the larger issues of governing. Sorry if my tone betrays impatience, Oxy - yes I was tired from late night lit drops.

For me I'm looking forward to the Quinn Administration.

Truth · 3 years ago

Bill has been amusing from the beginning on this blog. But I don't ever remember seeing him print a blatant factual lie until today at 8:32am and 6:11pm.

Either you are terribly misinformed on Medicaid on you are lying through your teeth. You dropped down a notch, Billy. Your euphoria has overtaken you today.

Citizen A · 3 years ago

Mr. Luxury Yacht - Kudos to your viewpoint. I am a Republican, but I agree with your view of what gov't should be. Basically honest and in the public interest. With that in mind I am voting for Topinka. If Blago goes then your risktaking might pay off with Quinn - he may just prove to be good, I don't know. But between Blagojevich and Topinka I just can't see doubt - she has no blemishes on her record nor do her employees. Blago has investigations, indictments, guilty pleas all swirling around him with a very high probability that it will insnare him as well. Go with Topinka now and in four years give your all to Quinn.

Citizen A · 3 years ago

- anonymous again - Took early retirement, huh ?

Democrat for Peraica · 3 years ago

Look for the main draw on election day in Cook County to be the race for county board president, where Tony Peraica will defeat Todd Stroger. The people realize that it is time to end the excessive corruption in Cook County and that electing either of Peraica's opponents is contrary to the best interests of the taxpayers.

Democrat for Peraica · 3 years ago

Look for Peraica to win by about six points on election night. I am pleased that Tony is going to win, because I feel that the machine screwed the voters and Forest Claypool when they selected Toddler Stroger to be the Democratic nominee. Todd is NOT a reformer, and has no intention of reforming any aspect of the county government, and the voters know it.

Jasper · 3 years ago

As the pols go to the polls today,
Tammy Duckworth will be going home to the 8th to vote for Melissa Bean, Melissa Bean will go home to the 10th to vote for Dan Seals, and Seals will go home to the 9th to vote for Schakowsky.

Total bummer not to live in the district you are running in.

corvax · 3 years ago

what do you think of Rutherford mentioning Jesse White's age in his TV ad? i find myself resenting it, but i bet it gets him a few votes from fence-sitters.

Little Egypt · 3 years ago

Corvax, Rutherford will not get many votes from fence sitters because he mentioned Jesse is 72 years old and basically "out of gas". I am WAY younger than that and I wish I had half the physical energy and mental awareness Jesse White has. I should be so lucky to have Jesse's health when I get 72. Rutherford insulted a HUGE voter base and he will be slinking away Tuesday night licking his wounds. Serves him right.