Illinois Campaign for Political Reform’s Event Update

Dear ICPR Friends:   We’re happy to report a terrific turnout and an outstanding program at ICPR’s June 12th luncheon, “Illinois Leaders Discuss their Top Reform Priorities,” held at the Union League Club in Chicago.   While there were (of course) areas of difference of opinion on best approaches for reforming Illinois politics and government, we learned there is some common ground among Democrats and Republicans. Senate President John Cullerton, Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno and House Minority Leader Jim Durkin agreed on the need for greater disclosure about the sources of campaign contributions  – especially in light of “dark money” flowing into states from Super PACs. And they called for tighter restrictions on communications between these supposedly independent “issues” groups and candidate campaign staffs. The leaders also agreed that Illinois has far too many units of local government– and that it’s extremely difficult to consolidate them given how deeply entrenched they are. In addition to driving up taxes by duplicating functions, the profusion of government bodies makes it difficult for voters to track candidates and issues. Here’s a look at some of the leaders’ other comments when asked by moderator Susan Garrett to list their personal reform priorities:   Rep. Durkin: Eliminate lame duck legislative sessions, which Durkin said create an environment ripe for controversial deals because retiring — or “retired” — legislators no longer feel accountable to their constituents. Durkin said both parties bear responsibility for this situation, which would require a constitutional amendment to repair. “Both sides have blood on their hands when it comes to lame duck sessions,” Durkin said. “This is not the best way to govern.” Restrict or eliminate “member initiatives” or what he called “pork-barrel spending,” because direct grants to groups in the home district “get people in trouble.” He cited as an example the recent bribery and extortion conviction of Rep. Derrick Smith in connection with a grant solicited by a not-for-profit organization in his district. Sen. Radogno: Leader Radogno was emphatic about her top priority: taking redistricting out of the hands of legislators and giving it to a citizen commission, as proposed by an independent reform group seeking to put the question to voters in November. She called it the “single most important” reform for Illinois, as more competitive races would make lawmakers more responsive to voter concerns. While initially skeptical, Radogno said she had come to believe that term limits, while “a blunt instrument,” may be necessary to ensure that legislators don’t acquire too much power over time and that fresh ideas are introduced into policymaking. But she issued a caveat: the limits need to give lawmakers enough time in office to acquire a good working knowledge of state government to guide their decision-making. Sen. Cullerton: Senate President Cullerton cited the need for disclosure about sources of “dark money” flowing into campaigns from not-for-profit entities such as “American Crossroads,” the Super PAC organized by GOP strategist Karl Rove. American Crossroads raises money from anonymous donors to fund allegedly “independent” spending to educate voters about certain issues, but does not have to disclose the identity of those donors. Cullerton also said restrictions aimed at preventing coordination between Super PACs and candidate campaigns are too vague. In response to a question about what advice they would offer young people considering careers in public service, the leaders expressed hope they would not be deterred by negative views of the General Assembly.   “For all the negatives you hear, we have the opportunity to have an impact on day-to-day lives,” said Durkin.   Added Cullerton: “Public service is one of the best things you can do.”   Radogno, a former social worker, noted “you don’t have to be a lawyer to be in public service.”  ICPR would like to thank everyone who supported this event and helped make it a success! To view our full picture gallery visit our website. ***