We Are Illinois: ILGOP

Bobby Schilling leads Phil Hare in new poll

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:14:23 GMT

By a landslide, the most-requested poll I receive emails on is Illinois’s 17th Congressional District. Long a Democratic stronghold of former Congressman Lane Evans, CD 17 is one of the…well…squirreliest-drawn districts in the nation. It meanders around the western edge of the Land of Lincoln, occasionally jutting out like an amoeba getting ready to divide. The largest population in this district can be found in the Quad Cities (Rock Island/Moline), Quincy, and bits of Springfield and Decatur. The Quad Cities is decidedly blue collar, conservative and Democratic.

Democrat Phil Hare, Lane Evan’s former CoS, has held this seat since 2006, but has run into a bit of trouble as of late. A rather unfortunate quote regarding the U.S. Constitution started the ball rolling downhill for Hare, but few thought he’d be pushed hard by Republican pizzeria-owner Bobby Schilling. To complicate matters for Hare, the district has a Green Party candidate, Roger Davis.

Let’s see the poll results:
Illinois CD 17

Date of Poll: September 8, 2010
Participants: 1,250
Margin of Error: ±2.77%

CHOICE FOR CONGRESS
(D) Phil Hare 38.41%
(R) Bobby Schilling 41.15%
(G) Roger Davis 3.85%
Uncertain 16.60%

There appears to be a reason so many had urged polling in Illinois 17. The fact that the very conservative Schilling is in a statistical tie with Hare is once again an indication of change–especially among Independent voters. It’s impossible from this poll to measure where the Green Party’s Roger Davis is pulling his nearly 4% — but that slice of the pie may have a huge impact on the final outcome in November

Source: WeAskAmerica.com 9/8/2010

Brady Accepts Fraternal Order of Police Endorsement

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 17:03:57 GMT

Pointing to his strong support for public safety, the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police today endorsed Bill Brady for Illinois Governor.

“Throughout his political career, Bill Brady has worked to earn the respect of the law enforcement community,” said FOP president Ted Street. “He understands that our peace officers are the frontline of defense in both criminal defense and homeland security.”

Brady said he is committed to running professional law enforcement agencies and supporting laws to effectively fight crime in the state.

“I can’t think of a greater and more humbling honor than to receive the formal support of those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our lives,” he said. “As the military protects us from threats overseas, those of you in uniform here get up each day and risk your lives to protect our safety at home.”

Brady said he believes the first mission of government is to protect people.

“I recognize that law enforcement is at the intersection of confronting new and evolving challenges of domestic terrorism, street violence, and the growth of emerging drug trade such as meth,” he said. “I am committed to ensuring that you have the best information and intelligence available in real time to do your job. And the best training, resources and equipment to do your job as well.”

Brady committed to relying on the advice and judgment of professionals in the law enforcement community – including the FOP – when making public safety decisions.

He pointed to the secret early release program of Governor Quinn’s administration as one of many examples of the need for new law enforcement leadership in Illinois.

Brady has also received endorsements from major business organizations.

Bill Brady (R-Bloomington) is a small business owner who has represented his community as state Senator since 2002. He is running for governor to bring a clean break to Illinois and build a job-growing environment.

State GOP Pledges Reforms, Respect for Fall Campaign

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:17:56 GMT

The Illinois Republican Party pledged its slate of candidates will work to reform Illinois state government, restore the state’s sinking economy and return respect and integrity to Springfield in November.

“It’s critical that voters know there is hope for our state, and that as bad as it’s been under the Blagojevich and Quinn Administrations, we must not lose heart,” said Illinois Republican Chairman Pat Brady.

“This campaign is about what Republicans will do to erase our deficits, get our state’s economy moving and put people back to work,” Chairman Brady continued. “Voters have a real choice this fall: more of the same Democratic control or real, honest reforms that Republicans will fight for if given the opportunity.”

The Illinois GOP also released an inspiring video entitled “We Are Illinois.” The stirring montage of images highlights the state’s beauty, its people and the Republican promise to make the American dream a reality for Illinois residents. The video can be viewed at ILGOPTV.com.

“But, things must change,” the video intones. “We need a government where public officials serve the common interest, not the special interests.” It also stresses the need to stop runaway spending and towering debt while pledging that Republicans will “never give up,” in an effort to reclaim our greatness.

“This is a clear message that we’ll be telling all Fall,” said Chairman Brady. “Republicans are deeply committed to making Illinois a great state once again, but we cannot do it without electing Mark Kirk to the U.S. Senate, Bill Brady as the next Governor and our congressional and statewide candidates to office.”

The Illinois GOP launched a major voter identification and get-out-the-vote campaign during the summer called Illinois Victory. Offices and phone banks are busy across the state in what’s been one of the most successful statewide GOP organizations in the country. Voters can learn more at IllinoisVictory.org.

IL GOP Chairman Statement on Corrections Director Resignation

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 20:21:40 GMT

Illinois Republican Party Chairman Pat Brady released the following statement about the resignation of Illinois Department of Corrections Director Michael Randle:

“Pat Quinn has no trouble firing his campaign PR firm, dumps his Inspector General on the same day of an ethics report on his chief of staff, but when it comes to his Prisons Chief responsible for letting criminals back out on the streets early, he sees no need to take action. Instead, he waits for Michael Randle to leave. Another example of failed leadership.”

Where Do Giannoulias and Reid Disagree?

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 07:36:55 GMT

"Giannoulias said Tuesday he won't support ideas he disagrees with 'whether it's President Obama's, whether it's Harry Reid's, whether it's Dick Durbin's.'"- Associated Press, 8/31/10

“The Illinois Democrat's campaign told the Huffington Post that the objective is to provide a philosophical counterweight to the sway that conservative Democratic members often have over legislation.” – Huffington Post, 8/13/10

Q: Do Giannoulias and Reid Disagree on the Stimulus?
A: Nope, Giannoulias rubber-stamped it.

Q: Do Giannoulias and Reid Disagree on the Health Care Bill?
A: Nope, Giannoulias rubber-stamped it.

Q: Do Giannoulias and Reid Disagree on New Financial Regulations?
A. Nope, Giannoulias rubber-stamped it.

Q: Do Giannoulias and Reid Disagree on Cap and Trade?
A: Nope, Giannoulias rubber-stamped it

Q: Do Giannoulias and Reid Disagree on the Teacher Union Bailout?
A: Nope, Giannoulias rubber-stamped it.

Q: Do Giannoulias and Reid Disagree on Adding to the Debt?
A: Nope, Giannoulias rubber-stamped it.

Who do you believe: “Rubber-Stamp Giannoulias” who pledged to be a counterweight to fiscally conservative Democrats in the Senate or “Chicago Media Giannoulias” who claims to be an independent?

IL GOP Chairman to Mike Madigan: 'Are You Kidding Me?'

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 07:32:51 GMT

Illinois Republican Party Chairman Pat Brady today blasted Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan for the Speaker’s revisionist history. Madigan told supporters in Decatur Tuesday that the Democrats have produced a long list of achievements over the past year.

“Are you kidding me?” asked Chairman Brady in response to Madigan’s version of events. “Mike Madigan has co-chaired our $13 billion dollar deficit along with Pat Quinn, presided over the second-worst credit rating in the country and continues to pass legislation that benefits himself or his family members.”

Madigan boasted of pension reforms and a new capital construction plan, among other things. “It’s the first capital bill he’s been able to muster in nine years,” Chairman Brady observed. “And, everyone knows the pension reforms are far from adequate.”

Chairman Brady also criticized Madigan for passing ethics reform legislation that ended up increasing Madigan’s power by lifting restrictions on legislative leaders for donations they make to fellow legislators. “He can spin a great story, but the voters can tell the difference between Madigan’s myth and the stark reality of Illinois’ dismal situation.”

Chairman Brady argued the only way to truly fix the state’s budget and economic woes is to break the Democratic stranglehold on Springfield. “They’ve been in power long enough,” Chairman Brady argued. “It’s long past time for a change.”

GOP playing name game with Madigan

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 19:17:35 GMT

By John Kass - Chicago Tribune Columnist

It sounds unbelievable, but Illinois Republicans are actually proposing to change the name of Illinois to something a tad more realistic.

They want to call it "Madiganville," in honor of House Speaker Michael Madigan, the Chicago Democratic boss who runs the state legislature.

"Why don't we just change the name of our state from Illinois to 'Madiganville'?" suggested state Republican Party Chairman Pat Brady the other day. "It's obvious we're all here to serve the Madigans."

Brady was reacting to a Sun-Times report that Madigan and his daughter Lisa, the Illinois attorney general, helped push legislation regulating high-interest rates charged in "payday loans."

The legislation, signed by Madigan's compliant Gov. Jell-O, also known as Pat Quinn, reportedly benefited lobbyist Jordan Matyas, who recently married Madigan's other daughter, Tiffany. Isn't it nice to see Illinois government working for the Madigan family?

Hence Madiganville.

"Mike uses his position to benefit his law practice, he gets his daughter elected to statewide office and now he helps out his new son-in-law," Brady opined. "Can the argument for change this November be any stronger? Time for a clean break."

Perhaps. Republicans historically deserve their share of blame, but the fact is that Madigan has been a boss so long, with so much power, that he bears much of the responsibility for the state's $13 billion budget deficit.

For all his power, Madigan flies under the media radar. Many voters probably don't fully realize that if they vote for a Democrat as their state representative, they're voting to keep Madigan in total control of the House.

That said, lamely calling the state Madiganville would be a horrendous mistake.

Madiganville sounds like a sleepy little hamlet with a few drunks strumming their six strings on front-porch swings, anticipating a cold, snowy winter on our state roads. Any day now, a guy with a stuffed parrot on his head might even write a song.

Wastin' away again in Madiganville

Waitin' for the state highways to run out of salt

Some people claim that there's just Blago to blame

But I know ... it's our own damn fault.

Anybody who took French in eighth grade — before the state blew so much money on juicy political pensions that we have trouble paying for French teachers — would know that the "ville" in "Madiganville" is a horrific misnomer.

What Republicans can't seem to get through their heads is that Illinois isn't a little village. And before we surpassed California in the race to bankruptcy, we were a big state with plenty of money and businesses to provide needed jobs.

But now, with our state's economy an arid wasteland, and with our politicians most likely planning to hit us with a big tax increase immediately after the November elections when we can't do anything about it, what we need is a true name for Illinois:

Madiganistan.

Yes, Madiganistan. It reflects power and ruthlessness, which is how Madigan runs the legislature.

It also reflects a land of hardscrabble existence, which is what we're facing if we continue to spend billions we don't have, while borrowing billions more that we have no hope of repaying. Businesses don't hold news conferences to announce they're leaving and taking the jobs with them. They just go. And six months later they're opening up in Indiana or Iowa.

While Madiganistan is my favorite, there are other possible names. In Latin, the state would be called "Orbis Terrarum Madigan" (or Planet Madigan).

Madigascar doesn't work. But what about Madigania?

Madigania has the advantage of incorporating the sound "gain," and the Madigans have "gained" power and treasure through politics.

Madigania sounds so 18th century. You can picture all the Madigans in uniforms with gold braid, the speaker with massive tasseled epaulets, peeling apples and setting the slices before him — as is his way for lunch — with his House Democrats quaking in their boots.

Unfortunately, I never really studied foreign languages. Those two years of French at Clark Junior High in Oak Lawn were actually spent studying our French teacher, the exquisite Mademoiselle LaBash. So I can't remember a dang thing.

And my German is worse. All I can remember how to say is "Our cousin Julie is an only child" and "strawberries with whipped cream."

So we called around to various Chicago foreign consulates, reached out to my assistant Wings' Italian-speaking friend Fredo (aka Steve) and even interviewed a Polish-speaking soccer dad.

The question: How would you refer to "The Land of Madigan" in the native tongue? The possibilities are endless.

In German, you could say, "Das Land der Madigan," or perhaps more playfully refer to "Volksmadigan." Our Spanish-speaking friends might wish to call our sovereign land "Tierra Soberana de Madigan."

In French, why not "Etat Appartenant a Madigan" (state belonging to the Madigans)?

Italian? "La Nazione Madiganese." Or the Italians might call us "Terra dei Conflitti Interesse" (Land of Conflicts of Interest), in honor of Madigan making a fortune as a tax reduction lawyer for Republican-leaning real estate investors while the people get taxed and taxed and start thinking of tasty ways to serve themselves dog food when they retire.

The Swedes would call us "Stormakt Madigan" (Powerful Region of Madigan), while the noble Poles might say "Ksiestwo Madigana," translating to a land ruled by a Duke Madigan.

But I still think that Madiganistan is the best.

So sing it with me, my fellow Chumbolones:

Wastin' away again in Madiganistan,

Waitin' for the state highways to run out of salt,

Some people say that there's just Blago to blame

But I know … it's our own damn fault.

Did Giannoulias Dodge the Draft in Greece?

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 10:35:12 GMT

From BigGovernment.com

From 1998 to 1999, Alexi Giannoulias played professional basketball in Panionios B.C. Greece. That part we already knew.

Alexi Panionios B.C.

But one thing we still don’t know is how an American with Greek citizenship was able to live in Greece without being drafted into the Greek military.

Under Greek law, all citizens must serve in the military once they turn 18. Much like in Israel, Greek citizens will perform a period of military service after high school.

Alexi Giannoulias was a college graduate when he came to Greece – an age meeting the requirement for military service. So how did he get around the requirement?

With many Americans holding dual Greek citizenship travelling to Greece, U.S. Embassy, Athens details the Greek government’s requirements for military service on its website.

According to the Embassy, Giannoulias could either have been considered a Permanent Resident of Abroad or a Draft Evader. If he was the former:

Permanent Residents of Abroad (MONIMOI KATOIKOI EXOTERIKOU):

Persons who were born or established residence abroad before January 1st of the year of their 10th birthday. Permanent residents of abroad may remain in Greece, without incurring any military obligations for a cumulative period of SIX MONTHS within the same calendar year, only if they are registered as “permanent residents of abroad” (monimos katoikos exoterikou) with the appropriate recruiting office, and are in possession of a certificate confirming their status (pistopoiitiko monimou katoikou exoterikou) issued by the Greek consulate having jurisdiction over their foreign residence. The above certificate is valid for six months from the date of issuance.

If he was a draft evader:

Special arrangements for persons classified as DRAFT EVADERS

Detailed information concerning settlement of military obligations for draft evaders can be obtained from the nearest Greek Diplomatic or Consular authority or the appropriate recruiting authority in Greece.

As of 7/04 the Greek law for military obligations provides that draft evaders may travel and stay in Greece for a maximum of thirty days (in total or partially) within the same calendar year.

The American Embassy in Athens strongly suggests that persons classified as draft evaders, should first check with the nearest Greek Consulate or appropriate recruiting authority in Greece before traveling to Greece.

And before 7/04, that 30 day allowance didn’t even exist.

Alexi Giannoulias has concentrated much of his campaign on attacking Mark Kirk’s military record. Ironically, Mark Kirk actually volunteered to serve in the military. If Alexi Giannoulias found a way to evade his own obligations, that should be national news.

WATCH: GOP Day at the DuQuoin State Fair

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 08:55:01 GMT

From WSIL-TV

With the state of Illinois in a fiscal mess, and a former Democratic governor recently convicted of a felony, analysts say November's election is the Republicans' to lose.

Bill Brady: 'Businesses do not want to invest in a state that can't stay within its means'

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 07:43:53 GMT

From the Daily Illini

Candidates for the Republican party spoke to local crowds Tuesday to gather support for the upcoming Nov. 2 election.

Bill Brady, the Republican nominee for governor, spoke at HL Precision Machining Inc., 1302 Parkland Ct. in Champaign. Norman Davis, candidate for state representative of the 103rd district, spoke at the University College Republicans kick-off meeting at the Illini Union, 1401 West Green St. in Urbana.

Brady said it is important to balance the state’s budget, citing Illinois as having the worst bond rating of any state in the union.

“Businesses do not want to invest in a state that can’t stay within its means,” he said. “As governor, I will authorize an audit so we know every dollar spent and where it is going.”

Teaming up with Brady, Davis said the two have devised a plan to create a “forensic audit” system if he is elected.

The system will be geared toward tracking exactly where money is going.

“We have to go in there and find every instance of waste, fraud and duplication,” Davis said.

When asked what he would do to crack down on corruption at the University, Brady promised reform.

“Corruption is not just at the University level,” Brady said. “As governor I will hire real professionals at all levels of government.”

Among the issues he discussed, Brady also highlighted workman’s compensation as in need of reform.

“We need to turn workman’s compensation into a win-win,” he said.

“It needs to protect workers while at the same time remaining affordable. Champaign Mayor Jerry Schweighart said he was glad Brady addressed that issue,” he added.

“I’m glad he mentioned that because from what I hear, (workman’s compensation cost) is one of the big reasons businesses leave the state,” Schweighart said

Davis said worker’s compensation costs twice in Illinois what it does in states such as Iowa, Indiana and Wisconsin.

Susan Solomon, Urbana resident, encouraged students to have an open mind.

“I’m hoping students will listen to the issues and not just their friends,” Solomon said.

“Making the state solvent is an important issue that will help the University and, in turn, help the students themselves,” she added.

Similar issues were addressed at the College Republicans meeting.

Adam Kinzinger, Republican candidate for the 11th congressional district, spoke after Davis about the importance of young voters. He said he sees a disparity in the college-aged generation and the legislature. Kinzinger also said the college generation should represent itself.

“Ultimately, we understand that the America we’re growing up in is not coming out of Washington, D.C.,” Kinzinger said.

Some students at the meeting said they can see a Republican victory in the coming election.

“Obviously, because of the financial state of Illinois, I think everybody is getting fed up and that’s going to get the ball rolling the other way, so to speak,” said Jared Kempel, freshman in Business.

Alexi Giannoulias: Job-Killing Rubber Stamp

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 07:25:19 GMT

"Giannoulias said Tuesday he won't support ideas he disagrees with 'whether it's President Obama's, whether it's Harry Reid's, whether it's Dick Durbin's.'"- Associated Press, 8/31/10

Where exactly would rubber-stamp Alexi Giannoulias disagree with President Obama, Harry Reid and Dick Durbin?

Giannoulias Rubber-Stamped the Stimulus

• The stimulus wasted $787 billion and failed to create jobs in Illinois.

• 11 House Democrats opposed the stimulus

• Alexi Giannoulias rubber-stamped it

Giannoulias Rubber-Stamped the Health Care Bill

• The trillion-dollar health care bill imposed 10 new federal taxes, drove up health care costs for Illinois employers and cut over $500 billion from Medicare.

• 34 House Democrats opposed the health care bill

• Alexi Giannoulias rubber-stamped it

Giannoulias Rubber-Stamped New Financial Regulations

• Congress recently passed a financial regulation bill that diverted repaid TARP funds from debt reduction, hurt small businesses and failed to rein in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

• 19 Democrats in the House and 1 Democrat in the Senate opposed the financial regulation bill

• Alexi Giannoulias rubber-stamped it

Giannoulias Continues to Rubber-Stamp Cap and Trade

• Cap and trade would destroy jobs in Illinois’ agriculture, manufacturing and coal industries – which is why any Illinois statewide candidate should oppose it.

• Support in the U.S. Senate has collapsed for cap and trade

• Yet Alexi Giannoulias continues to rubber-stamp it

Giannoulias Rubber-Stamped the Teacher Union Bailout

• Congress recently bailed out the teachers union’s by adding to the deficit, violating paygo rules and cutting food stamps.

• 16 House Democrats opposed the teacher bailout

• Alexi Giannoulias rubber-stamped it

Giannoulias Rubber-Stamped Adding to the Debt

• Congress recently added to the debt by extending unemployment benefits without any offset.

• 10 Democrats in the House and 1 Democrat in the Senate opposed adding to the debt

• Alexi Giannoulias rubber-stamped it

IL GOP Completes Top 10 List to 'Dismiss Quinn'

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 07:23:47 GMT

The Illinois Republican Party concluded its Top 10 list of reasons to “dismiss Pat Quinn” as Governor. The Number One reason: “Because 10.3% unemployment and a $13 billion deficit have taken too much of a toll on Illinois families and businesses.”

“Honestly, we had trouble keeping the list to just ten,” said Illinois Republican Party Chairman Pat Brady. “From giving criminals early release from prison to forcing the settlement of a construction strike after getting a hefty campaign donation, there are so many reasons Quinn should be dismissed.”

Other reasons include Quinn once having described convicted ex-governor Rod Blagojevich as a person of integrity and Quinn’s firing of his Inspector General who was investigating ethics allegations against his chief of staff. Quinn’s signing of a watered-down ethics bill is another reason.

“It’s an ongoing pattern with Pat Quinn,” continued Chairman Brady. “If it’s not questionable judgment, it’s a lack of leadership or inept management style. Pat Quinn has demonstrated time and again that it’s time for a change.”

The “Dismiss Quinn” site contains additional stories, videos and links to news coverage providing countless examples of Quinn’s failure to lead during this critical time. Among the archive footage is video of the late Chicago Mayor Harold Washington explaining why he fired Quinn as his Revenue Director. “He was dismissed, he should have been dismissed,” said Washington.

Questions for the Madigan Family (and the Democrats)

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:24:03 GMT

1. Did lobbyist/son-in-law Jordan Matyas ever discuss his involvement with the legislation with either Mike or Lisa?
2. If not, why not?
3. How did Mike Madigan not know that Matyas’ client stood to benefit from the legislation?
4. How did Lisa Madigan not know that Matyas was working with her staff to draft the bill?
5. How can Lisa Madigan claim to be the state’s watchdog and not be aware of her future brother-in-law’s involvement?
6. When did they learn of Matyas’ involvement?
7. Does either Mike or Lisa believe there was a conflict of interest?
8. What controls or procedure can be used to prevent this kind of thing from happening in the future?

The Uniforms They Wear: Kirk and Giannoulias

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:07:35 GMT

By Daniel Halper - Weekly Standard

Today, Wesley Clark is campaigning for Alexi Giannoulias. Interestingly, though, it is Giannoulias’s opponent in the Illinois Senate race, Republican congressman Mark Kirk, who goes back a long way with the former Army general, Clark.

Kirk has been a naval intelligence officer for over twenty years. A Kirk ally points out that more than a decade ago, Clark met Lieutenant Commander Kirk.

The Navy even gave Kirk a commendation medal for his efforts in operation Allied Force.
What was Alexi doing back then? He was wearing a Greek basketball uniform when he played for Panionios B.C.

Why Would Giannoulias Stand with Wesley Clark?

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:36:06 GMT

Alexi Giannoulias appeared with former General Wesley Clark at a press conference downtown where Clark attacked a fellow veteran who served in Operation Allied Force.

Over the years, Gen. Clark has made a series of inappropriate and bizarre statements – and has a history of attacking veterans’ service records for political gain. Given Giannoulias’ recent pledge to create a Senate Progressive Caucus and his reference to Afghanistan as a “war we didn’t need,” it’s no wonder he would stand with someone like Wesley Clark.

1. Does Alexi Giannoulias agree with Wesley Clark’s anti-Semitic statement that “New York money people” are advocating attacking Iran?

“Huffington quoted Clark as saying that the idea of bombing Iran before exhausting diplomatic avenues was ‘outrageous.’ According to Huffington, she then asked Clark what made him so sure that the United States is headed in the direction of attacking Iran, and he replied: ‘You just have to read what’s in the Israeli press. The Jewish community is divided, but there is so much pressure being channeled from the New York money people to the office seekers.’ The phrase ‘New York money people’ struck unpleasant chords with many pro-Israel activists. They interpreted it as referring to the Jewish community, which is known for its significant financial donations to political candidates.” (Nathan Guttman, “Top Dem Wesley Clark Says ‘N.Y. Money People’ Pushing War With Iran,” The Forward, 1/12/07)

2. Does Alexi Giannoulias oppose the death penalty for Osama bin Laden like General Clark does?

MSNBC’s Chris Matthews: “[D]o you think Osama bin Laden … should be tried here at the U.S. or in the Hague … ?” Clark: “I would like to see him tried in the Hague …” Matthews: “Well, 3,000 Americans were killed here. Do you believe he should be held exempt from capital punishment, because if you send him to Hague he will be. They don’t have capital punishment at the Hague.” Clark: “I think that’s a separate issue. …” Matthews: “No, it’s a key issue, because the sentencing limitation, they do not execute people at the Hague.” Clark: “I think that you can adequately punish Osama bin Laden, and you’ve got to look beyond simple retribution against an individual. …” Matthews: “But doesn’t life in Holland beat life in a cave?” Clark: “Not in a Dutch prison. Chris, they’re under water, they’re damp, they’re cold, they’re really miserable.” (MSNBC’s “Hardball,” 12/8/03)

3. Does Alexi Giannoulias believe there is any contradiction between his rhetoric against federal lobbyists and General Clark’s lobbyist past?

“Wesley Clark … made nearly $500,000 as a lobbyist for an Arkansas database company after he left the Pentagon.” (Jeanne Cummings, “Clark Earned About $500,000 As Lobbyist For Arkansas Firm,” The Wall Street Journal, 1/19/04)

4. Does Alexi Giannoulias agree with President Obama that General Clark inappropriately attacked Senator John McCain’s distinguished service record for political gain?

Gen. Clark: “Well, I Don’t Think Riding In A Fighter Plane And Getting Shot Down Is A Qualification To Be President.” CBS’ Bob Schieffer: “Well, General, could I just interrupt you. I have to say, Barack Obama has not had any of those experiences either nor has he ridden in a fighter plane and gotten shot down.” Gen. Clark: “Well, I don’t think riding in a fighter plane and getting shot down is a qualification to be President.” (CBS’ “Face The Nation,” 6/29/08)

Obama Campaign: “As he's said many times before, Senator Obama honors and respects Senator McCain's service, and, of course, he rejects yesterday's statement by General Clark.” (Scott Martelle, “Barack Obama Slaps Down Wesley Clark – Gently,” Los Angeles Times “Top Of The Ticket” Blog, latimesblogs.latimes.com, 6/30/08)

5. Is it a coincidence that General Clark attacks veterans who are Republicans but praises veterans who are Democrats?

“This Congress has the fewest number of veterans of any Congress in recent history,” Clark said in a statement. “If there were more veterans of principled leadership and good conscience like Jon in Washington, I have no doubt this nation will have turned a corner to a brighter future.” (New York: General Clark Backing Iraq War Veteran Powers, Roll Call, November 19, 2007)

“At a time when the number of veterans in Congress is at its lowest point since World War II, we need to come together to put more common sense leaders like Tommy in Congress to help get this country back on track.” (http://securingamerica.com/node/3272)

"One man volunteered to serve his country, he volunteered to go to Vietnam, and he volunteered a third time to command a swift boat in one of the most dangerous activities in the war. The other man scrambled and used his family's influence to get out of hearing a shot fired in anger. That's the comparison.” (CNN’s “Inside Politics,” 8/17/04)

6. Does Alexi Giannoulias believe in time travel like Wesley Clark does?

“I still believe in e=mc², but I can't believe that in all of human history, we'll never ever be able to go beyond the speed of light to reach where we want to go. … I happen to believe that mankind can do it. … I've argued with physicists about it, I've argued with best friends about it. I just have to believe it. It's my only faith-based initiative.” (Brian McWilliams, “Clark Campaigns At Light Speed,” wired.com, 9/30/03)

Bill Brady announces comprehensive job creation plan

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:20:53 GMT

Illinois is in an economic crisis and Bill Brady is the only candidate in the race for Governor with a comprehensive job creation plan to put Illinoisans back to work and make a clean break from past practices that have resulted in the loss of 442,600 jobs in the past decade.1 In spite of an unemployment rate greater than 10 percent that exceeds the U.S. rate, Illinois’ current chief executive officer continues to threaten job creators with higher taxes and more government regulation.

IL GOP Chairman suggests changing Illinois to 'Madiganville'

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 10:39:48 GMT

Illinois Republican Party Chairman Pat Brady issued the following statement today regarding the Chicago Sun-Times report that House Speaker Mike Madigan and Attorney General Lisa Madigan supported or were involved in drafting legislation affecting “payday loans.” The bill, signed by Governor Quinn, ended up benefitting lobbyist Jordan Matyas, who recently married Mike Madigan’s daughter:

“Why don’t we just change the name of our state from Illinois to ‘Madiganville?’ It’s obvious we’re all here to serve the Madigans. Mike uses his position to benefit his law practice, he gets his daughter elected to statewide office and now he helps out his new son-in-law.

“Can the argument for change this November be any stronger? Time for a clean break.”

State payday loan fight a Madigan family affair

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 08:14:12 GMT

By Tim Novak & Dave McKinney - Chicago Sun-Times

The effort to crack down on "payday loans" in Illinois claimed a big victory in the Legislature last spring: passage of a state law setting new caps on the high interest rates lenders charge and also expanding the state's tracking system to help ensure that consumers don't end up borrowing more than they can repay.

• Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan -- who has been battling payday lenders for more than a decade -- had her staff help draft the measure.

• Her father, House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago), the Illinois Democratic Party chairman, gave his blessing and voted for the bill, which was enacted with overwhelming legislative support and signed into law by Gov. Quinn.

• And lobbyist Jordan Matyas -- who has since married the speaker's daughter Tiffany Madigan -- helped the attorney general's staff write the legislation, which could make millions of dollars for his client, Veritec Solutions, the Jacksonville, Fla., company that the state of Illinois has been using for the past five years to track payday loans.

Now, Veritec will also track other unsecured consumer loans for the state.

Since 2006, Veritec has billed lenders more than $840,000 to track 1.5 million payday loans for Illinois regulators -- 55 cents for each loan it enters into the database for the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

Under the new law, set to take effect March 21, the company expects its business under its state contract to soar, growing by as much as 900 percent, bringing it millions of dollars in new business, according to Veritec's chief executive officer, Thomas Reinheimer.

Payday loans allow people to borrow enough, in a pinch, to make it to their next payday, or as long as the next few months. No collateral is needed, but the interest rates are high -- as much as 1,000 percent a year. Many borrowers get overextended, taking out one loan to repay another.

As a result, state officials have repeatedly passed laws to lower the interest rates that can be charged on short-term loans. But payday lenders have gotten around those measures by lengthening the terms of the loans, so they could continue to charge higher interest rates and not have to report the loans to Veritec.

Borrowers suffered, according to a broad range of consumer groups.

And so did Veritec, which wasn't making as much money off the state tracking program as it expected.

So Veritec hired Matyas in 2008 -- he had worked for Speaker Madigan and helped draft the original payday-loan-tracking law in 2005 -- "to assist our firm with addressing a 'loophole' in the Illinois Payday Loan Reform Act that negatively impacted both the effectiveness of the consumer protections . . . and our revenue," Reinheimer says in an e-mail.

This spring, Matyas began working with his future sister-in-law's staff from the attorney general's office, other state officials, consumer groups and lenders on the new legislation, which:

• Creates two new kinds of short-term consumer loans.

• Sets new caps on interest rates -- for instance, 99 percent on any loans for longer than five months of $4,000 or less.

• Requires these short-term consumer lenders to report all their loans to Veritec so state officials can make sure consumers don't borrow more than 25 percent of their gross monthly income. This provision is why Reinheimer expects his company's business to boom: More loans will have to be reported, so his company will make more money.

Matyas' role in drafting the leg-islation is detailed in dozens of e-mails the Chicago Sun-Times obtained from Lisa Madigan's office under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.

Matyas exchanged several e-mails with Brent Adams, secretary of the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, the state agency that regulates payday loans, as well as with top lawyers in the attorney general's office.

Lisa Madigan says she was unaware of her brother-in-law's role, according to a spokeswoman. "The attorney general didn't know that Jordan worked for Veritec, and she did not know that her office was in contact with him about the payday loan bill," Robyn Ziegler said.

Michael Madigan "doesn't recall talking to Jordan about this bill," says Steve Brown, the speaker's spokesman, adding, "Jordan wasn't his son-in-law" yet when the speaker voted for the bill.

Matyas married Madigan's daughter, who is a lawyer, on July 3, about two weeks after the governor signed the bill into law.

Says Matyas: "I have never discussed with either the speaker or the attorney general my intent to represent clients who have existing or future plans to hold state contracts. . . . I will continue to represent my clients before various government bodies. As has been my practice, I will strive to avoid any conflicts of interest or even the appearance of a conflict."

Nothing in state law requires officeholders to disclose personal or family relationships with lobbyists. The disclosure form lawmakers now have to fill out asks only about any "close economic association" with lobbyists.

Still, Illinois Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno (R-Lemont), who voted for the new payday loan reforms, is critical of the Madigans and Matyas.

"It totally stinks," says Radogno. "It's bad enough with the attorney general and the speaker, and now you have the brother-in-law/son-in-law? It makes it all 10 times worse because you have more of the Madigan family directing business in the state of Illinois."

Giannoulias Policies Don't Play in Peoria

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 07:51:20 GMT

According to the Associated Press, former Caterpillar CEO Jim Owens will endorse Congressman Mark Kirk for U.S. Senate in Peoria today following a major Kirk speech to CAT employees.

Caterpillar is one of the largest employers in Illinois and one of the state’s leading job creators. Mark Kirk has a record of fighting for lower taxes, increased exports and free markets – policies that benefit job creators like Caterpillar. Alexi Giannoulias, on the other hand, promotes policies that just don’t play in Peoria.

Giannoulias Policies Drive Up Costs

Giannoulias supported the health care bill that will cost Caterpillar an additional $100 million in costs. “The Peoria-based company said these provisions would increase its insurance costs by at least 20 percent, or more than $100 million, just in the first year of the health-care overhaul program.” (Dow Jones, 3/19/10)

Giannoulias Policies Raise Taxes

Giannoulias supports higher taxes on Illinois exporters like Caterpillar. Alexi Giannoulias supported the recent $26 billion teacher bailout despite the $10 billion tax increase on Illinois employers like Caterpillar. “The bill includes nearly $10 billion in new taxes on U.S. multinational corporations that do business abroad.” (Washington Post, 8/11/10)

Giannoulias Policies Put Jobs At Risk

Giannoulias wants to start a trade war with Illinois’ two largest export markets – Canada and Mexico. “Renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement and other trade pacts,” says Giannoulias on his website. With Canada and Mexico receiving 36% of Illinois exports, starting a trade war with Canada and Mexico could put 100,000 Illinois jobs at risk, including those at Caterpillar.

With policies that drive up costs, raise taxes and put jobs at risk, it’s no wonder Alexi Giannoulias doesn’t play in Peoria.

WATCH: Who's in Pat Quinn's 'Family Tree'?

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:47:52 GMT

Video showing many of the links between Pat Quinn, Rod Blagojevich and Tony Rezko. For example, Quinn last year appointed Jack Lavin to be Chief Operating Officer of Illinois. Lavin earlier served as Chief Financial Officer for Rezko Enterprises and has long standing ties to both Quinn and Blagojevich.

The Most Fiscally Irresponsible Government in U.S. History

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 11:02:34 GMT

By Mort Zuckerman for U.S. News and World Report

There is an instinctive conclusion among the American public that President Obama's stimulus package has failed to create a sustained recovery. Unemployment has increased, not declined; consumers have retrenched; housing starts have crashed along with mortgage applications; and there is a fear that a double-dip recession may very well be in the pipeline. The public perception, reflected in Pew Research/National Journal polls, is that the measures to combat the Great Recession have mostly helped large banks and financial institutions, and that's a view common to Republicans (75 percent) and Democrats (73 percent). Only one third of either political leaning thinks government policies have done a great deal or a fair amount for the poor.
Click here to find out more!

There is another instinctive conclusion among the American people. It is that the national deficit, and the debts we have accumulated, are of critical political importance. On the national debt, the money the government has spent without the tax revenues to pay for it has produced mind-numbing numbers so large as to be disconnected from reality. Zeros from here to infinity. The sums are hard to describe; it is hard to describe an elephant, but you know one when you see one. The public knows that, shuffle the numbers as you may, the level of debt is unsustainable.

Who could be surprised since millions of voters have discovered that for themselves? As one realizes the morning after the night before, there is an unavoidable penalty for excess. It is unnerving to wake up and learn that you have a mortgage on your home that exceeds the value of the property. Or, and too often both, you have a credit card line that you cannot repay and the issuer has you on the rack for ever bigger compound interest on the debt. The lesson has been well and truly learned that debt catches up with you. Millions understand that they are just going to have to find a way to live within their means—and then still eke out some savings to pay down debt. And there are well over 14 million Americans without a paying job, so the level of discontent is very high. Just how are they going to regain control of their lives?

In a usnews.com post on July 26, Jodie Allen of the Pew Research Center reported that in recent weeks more academic and market economists have been urging the government to defer budget cuts and tax increases and instead provide additional stimulus to a still-fragile economy, some by continuing the Bush tax cuts. But among the public there has been a suggestive shift of opinion the other way, reflecting worries about debt. "Deficit and government spending" has jumped from 10th or 11th place as a priority for the federal government to one that is second only to job creation and economic growth. The drift of opinion is manifest in other recent polls. For instance, a CBS poll conducted July 9-12 assessed the most important problem facing the country as the economy and jobs (38 percent), with concern about the budget deficit and national debt way down at 5 percent. Yet CNN (July 16-21) has 47 percent preoccupied first with the economy, and 13 percent with the federal deficit. In a recent Time magazine poll, two thirds of the respondents say they oppose a second government stimulus program and more than half say the country would have been better off without the first one.

People see the stimulus, fashioned and passed by Congress in such a hurry, as a metaphor for wasted money. They are highly critical about the lack of discipline among our political leaders. The question that naturally arises is how to forestall a long-term economic decline.

The Fed has lowered rates dramatically to keep the economy ticking and maybe continue the painfully slow recovery, but at the receiving end there is no feeling of relief at all. People know that the stimulus is about to stop stimulating. They know that money is petering out. They know that states are preparing to cut $200 billion to balance their budgets. They realize that the Great Recession has wiped out huge amounts of wealth and that, unlike other recessions, this will not be followed by the kind of economic boom when people who had sat on their money during the lean years unleash pent-up demand for all sorts of goods and services.

There is no sign of that happening this time around. Households and businesses have kept their hands in their pockets. And so while many think that the only way to revive the economy and to inject more money into it is through governmental spending, the general feeling is that we can't afford that right now. The government will be writing more IOUs on top of those we already can't afford. Why plan a second stimulus if the first stimulus couldn't prevent high unemployment?

Of course, the question remains whether public sentiment coincides with sound economics. The challenge we face as a country is how to get growing vigorously again while achieving fiscal sustainability. We are learning from the Europeans what happens when the risks that came with excessive debt become realities. There seems to be an emerging consensus that if there is to be any additional stimulus, it must be explicitly linked to credible fiscal restraint down the road. This would include a commitment to binding legislation that would change the algebra so that both programs and budget procedures get us on a benign trajectory.

There are two warning signs of a budget crisis: rising debt and the loss of confidence that the government will deal with it. This administration is on the verge of fulfilling both conditions. In fairness, there is no majority coalition in Congress for deficit reduction today. It is also true that the growth of public debt has been driven by a dramatic diminution of tax receipts due to the recession, the extra spending to avoid sinking into a self-perpetuating depression, and all those billions we invested to save the financial sectors from their sins. Voters see the politicians most vociferous about reining in the federal budget as those who are out of power and want to use it against the majority party. Too many politicians claim they are all for balanced budgets—but only by reducing the other party's priorities. Republicans want to reduce social spending. Democrats want to reduce military spending. It is Washington as usual.

Amid the clamor and counterpromises, the historic record is worth keeping in mind. We paid for World War II through growth. The national debt, as a percentage of gross domestic product, fell sharply through the postwar presidencies of Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson (despite the Vietnam War) and continued edging down through most of Nixon's, rising a little with Ford's. We marked time in the stagflation of the Carter years, and then the debt percentage increased dramatically during the Reagan-Bush presidencies. It shot up again to the present dangerous levels under George W. Bush and Obama. The only good years were Clinton's.

An old saying that can apply to the deficit is called the "rule of holes" and goes as follows: "When you're in one, stop digging." But Washington politics remains the barrier. Government programs seem to live on forever. The budget becomes a perpetual-motion machine for higher spending. New programs for new needs get piled on top of old programs for old needs.

Then there are the retirees. Their numbers and their health costs will keep on rising. There were 35 million Americans over 65 in 2000 and the number of retirees is expected to double by 2030. The impending retirement of millions of baby boomers, with their claims on federal retirement programs, comes at a time when both parties seem to be willing to worsen tomorrow's problems to win more of today's votes. The result is that the federal budget is drifting into a future of huge deficits or unprecedented tax increases, or both.

Federal spending is moving toward a higher plateau—from roughly 18 percent of the GDP to almost 25 percent by 2030. We don't know how we are going to pay for this. We don't know how the economy would fare with much higher taxes. We have seen the clouds gathering for years but haven't invested in an umbrella by adjusting federal retirement programs or taking other steps to reduce entitlements. One response would have been to begin gradually phasing in eligibility ages and tying benefits more to income. No doubt we have to think about raising the eligibility age for Social Security and Medicare, perhaps by one month for each two-month increase in average life expectancy. We will have to think of ways to reduce the cost-of-living increases on Social Security benefits for wealthy seniors by slowly increasing their Medicare premiums and leaving everybody else's untouched. We may have to allow the Bush tax cuts to expire, certainly for households earning more than $250,000 (and more for the super-rich) given the concentration of wealth in the top 1 percent of the population. It is entirely appropriate that they begin to make a greater contribution to our longer-term fiscal health.

The United States simply seems to lack a system that can fund the government that the people say they want. We are good at crises, but we do not seem to be good at tackling chronic problems. If we wait until a crisis happens, it will be too late. It is simply not possible to close the gap entirely with the tax increases on the rich that Democratic liberals so desperately believe in. Nor can we close the gap with spending cuts, as the Republicans would like. The liberals will have to concede that benefits and spending ought to be reduced. Conservatives will have to concede the need for higher taxes.

Hope may lie in a new bipartisan panel headed by Erskine Bowles and Alan Simpson, two unique, wise, and centrist political leaders whose characters raise some degree of confidence that they might be able to come forth with productive programs. As former President Clinton said of them, they "are free enough to disregard the polls but smart enough to take them into account."

But let's not forget, current budgetary trends are capable of destroying the country. As Bowles pointed out, according to a Washington Post report, we can't just grow our way out of this. We can't just tax our way out of this. We have to do what governors do—cut spending or increase revenues in some combination that will begin to pull us back from the cliff.

Obama must know that if he doesn't address this, he will be the president who drove us toward a debt crisis. And so too must Congress, for both have now participated in the most fiscally irresponsible government in American history.

AUDIO: Sun-Times Columnist Blasts Giannoulias on Bright Start

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:59:31 GMT

From WLS Radio

Chicago Sun-Times Financial Columnist Terry Savage blasts Democrat Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias on losses in the Illinois Bright Start Program under his tenure.

WATCH: Giannoulias Mocked on Death Tax Position

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:26:58 GMT

From Fox Chicago News

Democrat Alexi Giannoulias is mocked on his position on the federal death tax by Republican Congressman Mark Kirk.

Hard to believe coincidence in inspector's firing

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:24:42 GMT

Bloomington Pantagraph Editorial

Illinoisans can be forgiven for being suspicious when they learn that Gov. Pat Quinn fired his inspector general on the same day Quinn received a report about an investigation of the governor’s chief of staff. After all, Illinoisans have been through this before.

Former Gov. George Ryan, now serving a federal prison sentence for political corruption, was convicted, in part, for his misuse of the inspector general’s office at secretary of state.

The indictment against Ryan alleged that employees were terminated and the inspector general’s office was reorganized to protect employees who had been involved in political fundraising and campaign activity on behalf of Citizens for Ryan.

One of those terminated employees testified at Ryan’s trial that he had been told to back off of an investigation of a fatal accident in which the truck driver allegedly received his license through bribery. According to the testimony, an employee in the inspector general’s office told him, “We don’t want to do anything to embarrass George Ryan.”

Now Quinn has replaced Executive Inspector General James Wright after Wright told Quinn he was investigating a possible violation of ethics rules by Quinn’s then chief of staff, Jerry Stermer.

Stermer, who from all indications has been a dedicated public servant, resigned Sunday saying, “The people of Illinois must have full confidence in the leadership of their state, and I will not be a distraction in achieving that goal.”

What Stermer is accused of doing — answering a few campaign related e-mails on state government equipment — is small potatoes compared to what went on in Ryan’s office. In fact, it was Stermer himself who brought the misdeeds to the attention of the ethics office.

We are less bothered by what Stermer did than we are about the possibility that Quinn ousted the inspector general in an attempt to avoid controversy.

As things turned out, the controversy is even bigger now.

Quinn claims the termination of Wright had nothing to do with an investigation of Stermer or anyone else. It was something he planned to do all along. It just took awhile for Quinn to find a replacement for the appointee of former Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

Quinn seems to be taking his time finding replacements for a lot of Blagojevich’s appointees. He couldn’t have had worse timing than this in getting around to making one of the replacements.

Quinn owes voters a better explanation than mere coincidence for why he changed inspector general’s just when Wright was presenting a report that Quinn’s top aide has engaged in "prohibited political activity.”

Quinn's 'Family Tree' Shows Strong Ties to Blagojevich

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:50:39 GMT

Illinois Republican Party Chairman Pat Brady challenged Pat Quinn’s claim to be running an “honest government” and his promises to “clean it up” in the wake of convicted ex-governor Rod Blagojevich. Brady pointed out that Quinn has retained more than two thirds of top officials appointed by Blagojevich and has countless other connections with insiders going back three decades.

“Pat Quinn once called Rod Blagojevich a person of integrity,” said Chairman Brady. “But look at his record. He has not made a clean break with the past. But, if you know some of Quinn’s history, that’s hardly a surprise.”

Quinn left state government in 1980 amid accusations that he was a “ghost pay roller” under then Governor Dan Walker, who himself was later convicted. Quinn has since maintained close ties to numerous questionable insiders, hiring and promoting many of them.

Of more than 200 top officials running state agencies and major boards, the vast majority owe their jobs to Blagojevich, state records show. Chairman Brady emphasized that he does not believe Blagojevich holdovers are all corrupt or incapable, and is accusing no one of wrongdoing, but he stressed the need for new thinking in state government.

“It is critical for new governors to bring in new blood and new ideas,” Chairman Brady said. “It was doubly important in this case. Rod Blagojevich ran a corrupt operation and he drove this state into a spiral of debt. But Pat Quinn doesn’t want to make a real change. He needs to be stripped of the ‘reformer’ title he’s tried to wear for three decades. If anything he’s a former reformer.”

Chairman Brady pointed to several other actions by Quinn demonstrating ethical lapses or questionable judgment.

• Failing to support the recommendations of his own reform commission
• Hiring the wives of two legislators
• Vetoing McPier reform legislation after receiving a large union campaign contribution
• Refusing to remove trustees from scandal-tainted U of I board, as recommended a reform commission
• Quietly signing a video poker bill to allow criminals into gambling, against the recommendation of the Gaming Commission
• Using state resources for campaigning

Chairman Brady also released a “family tree” and video (see links below) showing many of the links between Quinn, Blagojevich and Tony Rezko. For example, Quinn last year appointed Jack Lavin to be Chief Operating Officer of Illinois. Lavin earlier served as Chief Financial Officer for Rezko Enterprises and has long standing ties to both Quinn and Blagojevich.

Quinn also dragged his feet on removing insider and close friend John Filan from his administration. Filan was indicted on fraud charges related to campaign donations and served as chairman of the Illinois Finance Authority under Blagojevich and Quinn.

Allegations surrounding the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board were closely entangled in the case against Blagojevich, Rezko and others. As a state senator in 2007, Republican candidate for Governor Bill Brady helped form of an official reform panel to clean up the board. While some recommendations were adopted, Quinn has not removed its key officials.

Senator Brady first started raising questions about the board's operation in 2006, before any indictments were made public. Last May, he called for Quinn to remove officials from the board, including ex-officio board member David Carvalho. He was supported in his call by other lawmakers. State Senator Susan Garrett (D) has said Carvalho acknowledged being recommended by Rezko.

“Pat Quinn once said we’re going to fumigate state government from top to bottom,” continued Chairman Brady. “Well, since he hasn’t done it, we’ll do it for him. It’s time we fumigate the Quinn Administration.”

Statement from Steve Kim on Quinn's firing of Inspector General

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 09:04:53 GMT

The following is a statement from Steve Kim, Republican Nominee for Illinois Attorney General, regarding the recent firing of Executive Inspector General James Wright and the subsequent exit of Governor Quinn’s Chief of Staff, Jeremy Stermer.

“Attorney General Lisa Madigan should be held accountable in her response, or apparent non-response, to Executive Inspector General James Wright’s recommendation to file a complaint against Governor Quinn’s Chief of Staff, Jeremy Stermer, before the State Executive Ethics Commission. If Lisa Madigan has not take action on Wright’s recommendation then she should explain why she did not.”

“The firing of Wright on the same day that Quinn was briefed about an ethics probe into his chief of staff's actions is clearly no coincidence. Both Governor Quinn and Lisa Madigan need to explain to the public exactly who knew what and when.”

“Additionally, in light of former Governor Rod Blagojevich’s recent guilty verdict and the numerous ethics violations at the state government level, as the state’s top law enforcement official, Lisa Madigan needs to explain to Illinois voters what she has accomplished in her two terms as Attorney General to root out corrupt government officials.”

WATCH: Bill Brady for Governor Campaign Ad: Better Illinois

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 06:51:42 GMT

Brady for Illinois is proud to share the first television ad of our fall campaign against political insider Pat Quinn and his tax and spend, big government allies.

The ad shows voters what supporters like you already know – Bill Brady is the only candidate in this race committed to solving our state’s fiscal crisis without raising taxes, and to enacting a pro-growth agenda that creates real jobs for families across Illinois.

Quinn Crosses Ethics Line Once too Often

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:42:32 GMT

Illinois Republican Party Chairman Pat Brady said the firing of Governor Pat Quinn’s chief ethics investigator is the latest in a series of actions that show Quinn has repeatedly crossed the line of ethical behavior in office.

“We have a governor who has picked right up where Rod Blagojevich left off,” said Chairman Brady. “He has shown time and time again that he cannot separate politics from government, and the public is finally seeing the true Pat Quinn.”

Quinn fired Executive Inspector General James Wright on the same day he was told that Wright had determined Chief of Staff Jeremy Stermer improperly sent political emails from his government account. “Unfortunately, it’s not the only example of Quinn’s questionable behavior,” Chairman Brady continued.

This summer, Quinn tried to rewrite a McCormick Place bill after getting a $75,000 contribution from the Teamsters. Later, he directed his Transportation Secretary to pressure the road builders to settle a construction strike after getting $500,000 from two unions that stood to gain from the quick settlement. Last year, Quinn tried to squeeze as much as $15,000 in contributions out of individuals wanting to meet with Quinn for government business.

“He also flies around on state planes for what are effectively campaign appearances,” Chairman Brady said. “I think the people of Illinois realize Quinn is masquerading as a reformer and a populist while operating right out of Rod Blagojevich’s playbook.”

The Illinois Republican Party is compiling the numerous reasons that Quinn should be “dismissed” as governor. Go to DismissQuinn.com.

AUDIO: Quinn, Stermer and Wright: Unfortunate Timing or Retaliation?

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 08:13:26 GMT

From WBEZ Radio Chicago - Produced by Sam Hudzik

The fallout continues this afternoon from the resignation of a top aide to Illinois Governor Pat Quinn. Jerry Stermer stepped down Sunday. This happened after the Chicago Sun-Times obtained a copy of a report that criticized Stermer for using his government email address to send some campaign-related messages.

That report was written by the office of the executive inspector general – who, it turns out – was fired right around the same time the report on Stermer was finished. Illinois Republicans are trying to make some hay out of that timing.

WBEZ’s host Melba Lara asked reporter Sam Hudzik why Stermer would get in so much trouble for these emails, which were sent during Quinn’s tough Democratic primary against Comptroller Dan Hynes. They also talked about how Tom Quinn - the governor's brother - is involved in the story, whether Quinn was retaliating against the inspector general, and how Republicans are reacting to the news.

Quinn Chief of Staff's Resignation and the Inspector General Firing

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 08:04:26 GMT

From WBEZ Radio Chicago - Produced by Sam Hudzik

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn's top staff member has resigned following an ethics probe. Chief of Staff Jerry Stermer offered his resignation to Quinn Sunday, and the governor accepted it.

Stermer resigned after the Chicago Sun-Times got its hands on a copy of a report from the executive inspector general. That report found that Stermer inappropriately sent three campaign-related emails from his government email account. In a statement, Stermer says he inadvertently sent the messages from his government address, and points out that after recognizing the mistake, he personally brought it to the inspector general's attention.

Quinn's office says he saw the final report on August 13th - the same day his inspector general, James Wright, was told he was being replaced. The governor's office denies there was any connection between the two events, noting that Wright's term had long since expired.

In a statement, Wright says, "If there is more to my firing than the expiration of my term, it is for you, the press, to investigate."

Illinois Republican Party Chair Pat Brady was more direct, writing, "Perception is often reality. In Governor Quinn's case, the perception right now is pretty ugly."

Ogle County GOP Annual Governor Lowden Dinner

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 14:36:11 GMT

09/11/2010

The Governor Lowden Dinner is scheduled for September 11th, 2010.

Cocktails at 6:00 P.M.

Dinner at 6:45 P.M.

Tickets $40.00 each or (2) for $ 75.00

Table Sponsors:

Lowden table $ 400.00

Sinnissippi Table $ 375.00

Pullman Table $ $350.00

Each Table Seats (8)

Clinton County GOP in Trenton, IL Parade

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 07:14:43 GMT

09/11/2010

Line-up 5:00pm -- All invited party has a float

hoffmann313@charter.net

Naperville Township Republican Organization Fall Victory Brunch

Sat, 29 May 2010 01:50:00 GMT

09/12/2010

Champaign County GOP Fall Festival

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 09:36:50 GMT

09/12/2010

Cong. Aaron Schock Event with Laura Bush

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 15:57:45 GMT

09/13/2010