Question of the day
Wednesday, Feb 13, 2013 - Posted by Rich Miller
* From a press release…
Sheila Simon Will Not Seek Re-Election As Lieutenant Governor
CHICAGO, IL- Lieutenant Governor Sheila Simon has announced that she will explore other opportunities to serve the people of Illinois and not run for reelection to the office of Lieutenant Governor.
“Serving as Lieutenant Governor has given me an opportunity to advocate on important issues that affect our state but it is time for me to do even more,” Simon said. “I want to serve the people of Illinois in a role where I can have an even greater impact.”
Sheila Simon has a long history of public service. Simon began her career working for Land of Lincoln legal assistance, helping working families who could not afford an attorney. As an Assistant States Attorney in Jackson County, Simon prosecuted domestic violence cases. Simon worked with a team at Southern Illinois University to open the University’s domestic violence clinic.
As Lieutenant Governor, Simon has expanded pro-bono services to domestic violence victims, increased access to higher education, and fought for the strongest government transparency legislation in 40 years. Simon informed the Governor of her decision in December.
“My career has been dedicated to advocating for the people of Illinois. I look forward to continuing that service,” said Lieutenant Governor Simon.
There’s no doubt that this was worked out with Gov. Pat Quinn in advance.
* The Question: Do you think Simon should run for attorney general if Lisa Madigan runs for governor, run for comptroller against Judy Baar Topinka, or run for treasurer in an open-seat contest? Make sure to explain your answer, please.
* Alternate Question: Who should Quinn pick as his running mate?
- shore - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:13 am:
wordslinger
- Kasich Walker, Jr. - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:17 am:
Do you think Simon should run for…………
Elected officials could always use a good runner, plus the step down would give her more time to develop banjo skills.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:18 am:
Simon should run for the Open Seat of Treasurer if Lisa Madigan stays. The name recognition, her downstate roots, and now having served as Lt. Governor, and not making any mistakes by her words or actions, will make her a formitable candidate in an Open Seat, which many times is taxing on the candidate becasue being down on the ballot, getting your name out is something Sheila already has going for her, and so far, bettter than others thinking about running for Treasurer… today …
If Lisa runs and AG is open… figure that its going to be a very crowded primary and Jim Durkin and his fellow GOP possible candidates will be able to, because of the higher visabiity the AG has than Treasurer, link Sheila to Quinn all day, and that will be difficult to shake as the brighter spotlight is focused on the AG than on the Treasurer. Less us not dismiss the Dems she will face in the Primary and they, too, linking her to Quinn in a high profile, higher scrutiny race for AG than Treasurer. If she won for AG, she will have earned that more … because all that baggage will be dragged out twice, Simon name nowithstanding.
Yes to Treasurer, 50/50 on AG, and far more risk with AG. With the scrutiny, and the press, and the spotlights on Sheila the LG, not Simon the candidte, you have to think Simon in a down ballot, is better than Sheila for AG.
- wndycty - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:19 am:
When is Durbin’s term up and has he made a decision to serve another term?
- Skeeter - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:20 am:
I think she should return home and run for State’s Attorney. I don’t think she’s got the experience to be AG nor does she seem to have the toughness. I just don’t see her being the primary attorney for a state. She needs to prove she can run an office, and then come back and run for AG.
Who should Quinn pick? Sorry, but does it matter? I see no path for him to be re-elected (or at least no path that does not include both Daley and Madigan keeping their current jobs and the GOP choosing Brady or Proft).
Am I the only one who suspects that Quinn will be working in D.C. in 2015? That he won’t run for re-election?
- Downstate - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:20 am:
Press release sounds like a resume to run for AG.
- All Things - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:23 am:
I am with Willy, Treasurer makes the most sense for her. With her education credentials maybe she could finally make Bright Start shine again.
AG could get messy, Comptroller is impossible to raise money for and Topinka would be very hard to beat.
- OneMan - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:24 am:
I think a run against Judy would be a bad idea, Treasurer might be a better bet.
As for a running mate for Quinn…
Squeezy
- Downstate - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:24 am:
Skeeter,
I think you are right. Quinn goes to Washington.
What about Sec. of Transportation? I remember his moving words in the Metro East on the High Speed Rail that would “take people from St. Louis to Chicago……..and they could travel the other way, as well.” That’s the type of insight that only Washington deserves.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:26 am:
Running Mate?
Danny Burke.
Why??????
Well, if you get the Daley family in the Primary, and the Madigan family in the Primary, the race needs a Burke!
To the question of who…
Maybe a strong Sangamon-Area Democrat, younger, executive experience, been around state government, married, and able to go out and be Quinn’s mouthpiece from State Fair, to Petitions through the holidays… a partner who can explain Quinn, without speaking to the voters in a way that they need a roadmap to follow.
- Fair Share - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:27 am:
Alternative Question
Who will accept Quinn’s offer to be his running mate?
- Leave a Light on George - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:27 am:
Yeah, pick Wordslinger. Would be a perfect match. Two guys who are very good at criticizing the work(opinions) of others and not much else. LOL
- Lil Squeezy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:29 am:
Quinn should ask Clayborne, Clayborne should decline. But he has money, he is African American and also a downstater.
Simon should run for the Carbondale Park District. No snark intended, I think it would be the perfect job for her.
- VanillaMan - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:30 am:
The Office is useless. Simon gained little being in it. She has about as much credibility running statewide after serving as Quinn’s number two, as she had before serving.
She has her name. In Illinois, as in other third world governments, that opens doors.
Quinn shouldn’t run for re-election. I won’t even curse anyone by suggesting they should be his running mate.
- Lil Squeezy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:32 am:
Clayborne should consider a run if its Quinn plus 2 power file Chicago pols in the primary.
- BleugrassBoy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:32 am:
Simon’s a fine down-in-the-trenches type. Maybe a good functional leader but not an inspiring figurehead type. I never expected her to enjoy the LtGov job.
Quinns Running Mate would need to be a politically ambitious with a political constituency to bring votes to that ticket.
Actually I cannot think of anyone who is naive enough to think standing by Quinn would help their future.
Wait! I’ve got it. There’s only one man shameless enough to jump at this chance.
ROLAND BURRIS!
- AlphaBettor - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:33 am:
Her last eight predecessors all ran for governor or senator (or both, in her father’s case).
- Just Observing - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:33 am:
She would get clobbered by Topinka. She could possibly win an open seat for Treasurer or SOS (if Jesse isn’t up and retiring).
Question… were the rules changed that the Gov. candidate now picks his or her own running mate… or do they still run separately in the primary and get paired in the general?
- Steve Bartin - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:36 am:
Alderman Ed Burke: because we don’t have enough Burkes on the public payroll.
- walkinfool - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:36 am:
O’Willy’s got it all right.
JBT is too tough. AG is a stretch. Treaurer will be open.
For light Gov, I’d beg for Bradley — if he’d take the role and the risk. Get a some real downstate legitimacy.
If not downstate, then some suburban appeal. That’s where most swing voters are. Id say Hutchinson, but she’s gonna win, IMHO. Kotowski is the best campaigner, bar none, but he provides little balance to Pat. Private sector person, for an added perspective?
- Mama - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:38 am:
1. Simon could run for attorney general if Lisa does not. Frankly, it does not appear that Simon has any interest in running for the other two offices. 2. Quinn should appoint another woman from southern Illinois - - at least a woman south of I80. Whoever runs need women voters to win! Even if he selects another woman, Quinn has no chance of being re-elected! Since Daley is interested in running for gov., he would be crazy to team up with Quinn! Plus the people south of Chicago are sick of the mess the Chicago politicians have made in Springfield.
- Rahm's Parking Meter - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:39 am:
Can we really surmise that maybe, this is a signal from certain party leaders and Lt. Governor Simon probably agrees, that the Governor should not run, for the sake of the party? Quinn can not win again, unless it is against someone as right wing as Bill Brady or Jim Oberweis.
Treasurer makes a lot more sense than anything else for Shelia.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:42 am:
===Alderman Ed Burke: because we don’t have enough Burkes on the public payroll.===
As an Alderman, he IS on the public payroll…
And he is having dinner with Jay Doherty, with Justice Anne Burke someplace where they don’t “want” to be seen, but were reported on …
- 47th Ward - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:43 am:
Quinn should pick either Hutchinson or Kelly, whichever one is not elected to Congress. If neither wins the 2nd CD special, then Kelly is probably the better pick.
I think Sheila has the best chance for the open seat for Treasurer, but may instead seek an appointment in Quinn’s cabinet or possibly a position in the Obama administration. I don’t like her chances in a Dem primary against what I expect will be crowded fields for any of the big races like AG, Comptroller or Treasurer.
Time is on her side and elected office is only one way she can serve the state. There are plenty of other ways and she can be effective in many different roles. I wish her the best.
- Dazed & Confused - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:45 am:
Ca we get the General Assembly to create a State Banjoist? I’m mean Jesse serves as State Librarian…
She lost her race for Carbondale mayor so she doesn’t want that again.
My guess is that she look around, finds no support or money, and gets a Quinn appointment, perhaps to the recently vacated ICCB post.
Sheila does not scare anyone out of a primary. Whether its Kwame Raoul, Anita Alvarez, or someone else, she will see a primary for AG.
- Skeeter - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:47 am:
Toi has a future in government even if she loses.
The one person who might benefit, or at least have nothing to lose, would be Debbie Halvorsen.
That would seem to make sense. Female, not from Chicago. For the position in question, does anything else matter?
- Endangered Moderate Species - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:47 am:
“unless it is against someone as right wing as Bill Brady”
Parking Meter- The GOP base continues to recede to the far right. The moderate candidates will not have an easy time, escaping the primary.
- Bill - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:48 am:
Jesse Jackson Jr. would be the perfect running mate for Quinn, if he is not otherwise engaged somwwhere.
- Cook County Dem - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:50 am:
Kwame Raoul as a Lt. Gov running-mate could definitely give Quinn a bump in the primary. Of course, Sen. Raoul would also be a perfect contender in his own right for AG, if Madigan doesn’t run for re-election.
- Kasich Walker, Jr. - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:52 am:
I really did laugh at the idea that the message being sent to Quinn by the speculated but yet to be announced resignation of Lt. Governor Simon is that Quinn should do what’s best for the party and not consider a campaign for re-election.
Who are the Dems that will be doing what is best for the Dem party by their own campaigning?
Who is the GOP candidate that would end Quinn’s career as Governor if Quinn gets the Dem nomination?
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 10:53 am:
Kwame Raoul v. Jim Durkin for AG …I would rellly like to see that matchup.
Both will have hard fought Primaries becasue the bottleneck to run for AG has been a decade old for both sides …
Quick, name the last 2 AG Nominees on the GOP side! Do not hit “the Google Key”
- the Patriot - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:00 am:
Resume for AG. She has held several public service jobs where she failed to distinguish herself or accomplish much of anything. You can go find 10,0000 attorneys in IL who have been practicing 5 years with the same resume.
I think she should run. Democrats won’t be able to attack her because of her name, and how dumb are you if she is incompetent and you let her sit a heartbeat away from running the state for 4 years. She may wiggle through the primary which would give the republicans the best chance to win. A republican AG that will go after Madigan, Madigan, and Quinn for their gross corruption and blatant violations of the constitution is about the only thing that will keep this state from all out collapse at this point.
- Skeeter - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:04 am:
I keep thinking that I should join the GOP to get away from some of the problems with the Illinois Dems.
Then I read “the Patriot’s” comments and realize that the GOP is just as insane (if not more) as the Dems.
What’s a moderate to do? Where did the calm and rational people go?
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:09 am:
===Democrats won’t be able to attack her because of her name, and how dumb are you if she is incompetent and you let her sit a heartbeat away from running the state for 4 years. She may wiggle through the primary which would give the republicans the best chance to win.===
I doubt, given the idea Sheila is going to face many primary opponents for AG, that she will get out of a Dem AG Primary, a 50/50 proposition at best. Sheila has yet to come out against Quinn or even for Quinn as his biggest advocate. Attorney General has a brighter spotlight, and you need more cash, both are negatives for a Simon for AG campaign, given all above.
- cassandra - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:11 am:
For a running mate, somebody young, technically savvy with some dreative ideas, please. A minority would be good, but mainly, brains and creativity. They are out there. Our 19th century Tammany Hall-style state government needs them badly. Not sure they’d want to be linked to Quinn in people’s minds, though, Quinn being, in a sense, the anti-future.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:11 am:
===Where did the calm and rational people go?===
Vacation(?)
We are around, its just that the Dopes trying to hijack the ILGOP are a bit louder right now, ruining the Republican chances … with voters like you.
- cassandra - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:15 am:
Oops, I meant creative. Although I will say, many if not most of our Illinois pols do seem to dread creativity.
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:15 am:
“Am I the only one who suspects that Quinn will be working in D.C. in 2015?”
Sadly, I agree. He should be unemployed.
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:19 am:
==Madigan, and Quinn for their gross corruption and blatant violations of the constitution ==
You want to provide some proof for that ourtageous claim? Or are you satisfied with that drive-by comment with absolutely no merit?
- Demoralized - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:20 am:
That was me above . . .
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:22 am:
===That was me above . . .===
Whew! Be careful, - Anonymous - will think you are conspiring against - Anonymous -. Thank goodness you cleared all that up before - Anonymous - claims the default “name” is a conspiracy.
- Orzo - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:27 am:
Julie Hamos would be an excellent Lt.Gov candidate. She’s the most knowledgable policy wonk in the current administration, particularly on health care and finance issues. She worked with Rich Daley, Speaker Madigan, and Quinn, so she would be an asset to whomever wins the primary.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:30 am:
===so she would be an asset to whomever wins the primary.===
The Guv/LG run as a team now, even in the Primary
- John Bambenek - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:33 am:
Is Scott Lee Cohen busy? He might be the only one willing to run with Quinn and he has a proven track record of slicing through the opposition.
- Skeeter - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:40 am:
Let me know when they get back, Oswego.
We should hold a meeting then or something.
- geronimo - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:40 am:
-where did the calm and rational people go?-
Won’t find them in politics.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:43 am:
===Let me know when they get back, Oswego.
We should hold a meeting then or something.===
Will do. Hopefully they will bring back the Reagan Rule of 80% too.
I heard the weather is spectacular…
- Boone Logan Square - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:46 am:
The best result for this site is if Simon runs for governor.
If I am Quinn, I ask Melissa Bean if she has any interest in joining the ticket.
- Union hater - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:54 am:
Scott Walker… Who could push him to the left on dealing with retired state workers.
- Kasich Walker, Jr. - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:55 am:
Well, that’s it.
Quinn doesn’t stand a chance without Sheila Simon.
The Dems are lucky that those thinking of what’s best for the party will soon join the campaign. Surely there will be some fresh ideas generated by this new group so the GOP can’t start with the “same old, same old” bit.
- Mr. Grassroots - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:57 am:
If it’s snark you are looking for, I will say Bill Daley. He can get warmed up for 2018. After all, he has nowhere to go. If Lisa doesn’t run, polls show he is not a gimmie against Quinn. Lisa will likely wipe them both even if the Speaker doesn’t step saide since she has made her own way in Illinois.
Seriously, a couple of 19th Ward folks like Tom Dart or Bill Cunningham. Both are highly qualified to be governor in that event and Bill especially has a keen knowledge of state government. Tends toward the social conservative side, but that doesn’t make him a bad candidiate.
- titan - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:09 pm:
If Gov. Quinn were to head to DC, a spot in the Veteran’s Administration would be a good fit. He’s always had great interest in veterans and he might do well there.
- WizzardOfOzzie - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:11 pm:
For sure either Hutchinson or Kelly.
- Quiet Sage - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:11 pm:
She’d be a superb Attorney General. Very progressive, honest, and intelligent.
- try this - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:13 pm:
Madigan and enyart. Simon for congress
- Both Sides Now - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:19 pm:
Looks like the perfect opportunity to do away with the LTG office and save the state some money. If Quinn runs he doesn’t have to step on Simon’s toes by proposing such a measure and it’s irrelevant to all other potential gubernatorial contenders.
By the way, whatever happened to the “merge the Comptroller and Treasurer” idea which everyone thought was logical, including the candidates. Here we are a couple of years later and still no action. Color me “not surprised!”
- one of the 35 - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:22 pm:
I respected Simon’s father, but she is not him. The people of Carbondale would not even elect her as Mayor. I think that tells us something.
- OneMan - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:40 pm:
Ok the two on the ticket thing does bring up some interesting questions…
Will the role of the Lt side of a ticket be to attack the other folks, would a Dem run as Quinn’s mate against Lisa if they were expected to attack her?
- Meanderthal - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:44 pm:
Sheila Simon had the good fortune to be born with two really wonderful parents. Jeanne Simon was a true pioneer among independent women in the tough sport of politics. But like most political offspring who enter the arena, daughter Sheila has been overpromoted to her present position. This 10 foot pole treatment of Quinn is a little amusing but the work of just another hack looking for the next gig.
- Just Observing - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:45 pm:
QUESTION: After the Scott Lee Cohen debacle, were the rules changed that the Gov. candidate now picks his or her own running mate… or do they still run separately in the primary and get paired in the general?
- Archiesmom - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:46 pm:
I remember hearing talk only four or five months ago that Toi Hutchinson was a possible candidate to primary Quinn. If she loses this election, why would she saddle herself with Quinn as her running mate and probably lose again?
- Newsclown - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:48 pm:
Simon should go all or nothing for AG. It’s the best fit.
Quinn needs a latino running mate if he wants to stand a chance.
Simon made the only possible move: she only helps Quinn, Quinn only damages her.
- Cuban Pilot - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:54 pm:
If she runs for statewide office, it should be for Treasurer especially if Dan leaves. I don’t think Simon has campaigning ability to beat a Dart or a Rauol in a primary for AG. Further even if she won a tough primary, the GOP will have a good candidate in either Durkin or Dillard. In fact, the best GOP candidate next cyle will probably be the AG candidate.
Further, if jbt stays, it would be hard for her to win Comptroler. However, an open Treasurer seat would be her best path. I believe she has the ability to be treasurer. Plus, her primary would be easier, in that, beating a Frerichs would be easier than a Dart. Further, I have a gut feeling that Adam a. Might instead run for Treasurer instead. Actually, that is my dream match-up.
- Ha Ha - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 12:59 pm:
Isn’t Joe Walsh looking for a job.
- BleugrassBoy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:00 pm:
A couple of posters think Quinn should head to Washington either because he chooses not to run or because he’s been defeated.
As also noted, Vets Affairs would be a good place for him to work.
But not lead.
Quinn is probably a good man whose heart is in the right place on many (not all) issues. But as a leader he is completely incompetent.
He’s our State’s Jimmy Carter.
- Mr. Grassroots - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:05 pm:
Yeah, Joe Walsh. Hadn’t thought of him. I heard he is looking for another lucrative government subsidy. He got the last one for two years. This one is for four years.
- Union Guy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:07 pm:
Did anyone notice where she made her announcement? She did it at the UNITE-HERE boycotted Hyatt Regency. Not a smart move going into a Democratic Primary. The labor vote in a close primary could make all of the difference.
- Jack - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:09 pm:
Scott Walker should be Quinn’s running mate.
- girllawyer - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:14 pm:
Responding to Skeeter, Sheila is far more qualified to be Attorney General than Lisa was the first time she ran, at least in terms of relevant experience. Also, she can’t run for State’s Attorney in 2014. State’s Attorneys are elected in presidential election years.
- Irishpirate - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:22 pm:
Sheila Simon should run for AG. The mention of Anita Alvarez above was nutz. Is Alvarez going to run on a platform of combating the state’s problem with necrophilia. If you don’t understand the reference look up her recent 60 Minutes interview.
As for Lt Governor either Scott Lee Cohen or Richard RJ Vanecko.
Flip a coin.
- Burning Down da House - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:31 pm:
Bozo the Clown would perfectly compliment Pat Quinn.
Meanwhile, Sheila ought to go home and get a real job, and leave us alone.
- Skeeter - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:36 pm:
girllawyer,
Do you really think the Madigan example is relevant?
Without regard to the job she’s done, do you honestly think she would have had any chance in the first place if she had not had the Madigan last name AND if her father was still not in control?
“Simon” is not “Madigan.”
- Skeeter - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:37 pm:
Girlawyer,
Since she can’t run for SA, maybe she should run for mayor or something to get some real experience.
Oh wait. That won’t work either.
- frustrated GOP - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:38 pm:
Hey, doesn’t George Ryan now need to be employed as part of his parole? He’s done the job and I don’t recall anything in his trial that dealt with his time as Lt Gov. So from that point he has a spotless record in that office. Perhaps that would work out.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:46 pm:
===Without regard to the job she’s done, do you honestly think she would have had any chance in the first place if she had not had the Madigan last name AND if her father was still not in control?===
Ask … Bruce Farley that …
- hisgirlfriday - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:55 pm:
Dart for ag? Didn’t his office lose an indiana murderer recently? Right after two guys escaped his downtown jail?
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:55 pm:
=Won’t find them in politics.=
Especially with “rational” stalkers like Willy around.
- Skeeter - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:57 pm:
Dart let the Indiana guy go.
The other two escaped from the U.S. Marshals.
Dart’s bigger problem is the Sun Times story detailing how many hacks he’s hired.
Not great for an allegedly “clean government” guy.
- 47th Ward - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 1:59 pm:
===Right after two guys escaped his downtown jail===
That was a federal jail, not Dart’s. But yeah, the Indiana guy being let go was a classic screw-up that he’ll have to answer for.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:04 pm:
===Especially with “rational” stalkers like Willy around.===
Did ya ever answer that Oberweis question? lol
Rational people answer direct question, irrational ones complain about the questioner, and ignore …. well the question.
(Looks to make sure ‘Oswego Willy’ is in the name area so ’someone’ doesn’t put on a tin foil hat, thinking its a conspiracy against them!)
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:07 pm:
===Dart’s bigger problem is the Sun Times story detailing how many hacks he’s hired.
Not great for an allegedly “clean government” guy. ===
I agree. You know someone will go through all the hires during the Dart years, and you may find family, politcal temp hires, even big raises in pay… you may find that, but this was not a good start for Dart if Dart wants the focus away from the payroll.
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:14 pm:
See what I mean. And I’m not even a “public figure.”
I have no clue as to who this person is, and who either seems to believe that I must have wronged him/her in a previous life as a cat…or something, or has simply decided to pick me as a target now that Jason and others are out of the picture.
Just seething with hatred, Willy, that has to be doled out on someone?
- Cassiopeia - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:15 pm:
Quinn will be 66 when his term ends. He should retire and save himself and his few remaining friends the agony of going down in flames.
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:17 pm:
3…2…1…Willy weaves an argument that the last post indicates that Anonymous does in fact believe there is a conspiracy against him/her.
Are you one of those “spokespeople” that politicians like to hire to claim their ex-spouses are crazy? There’s a market for seething hatred against people you don’t know.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:18 pm:
Nah, I enjoy the mocking when simple questions just get turned on the questioner …like …
===or something, or has simply decided to pick me as a target now that Jason and others are out of the picture.
Just seething with hatred, Willy, that has to be doled out on someone?===
Again, you make it about me … and missing … no response to my direct question. It’s comical!
To the post,
OneMan makes a great point, will the #2 be the attack dog for the “Guv” they are teamed with?
We have yet to see how the political pairings, in the Priamry will be used in going after Party members …Even for POTUS, the moninating process does not have the #2 attacking the POTUS candidates.
That will be interesting to watch evolve.
- Mittuns - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:21 pm:
Clayborne or Sheila Stocks-Smith for Lt. Gov.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:22 pm:
===
3…2…1…Willy weaves an argument that the last post indicates that Anonymous does in fact believe there is a conspiracy against him/her.
Are you one of those “spokespeople” that politicians like to hire to claim their ex-spouses are crazy? There’s a market for seething hatred against people you don’t know.===
Always personal, never answering.
Go back and see why, you made a point on a post, I asked you where ya stood, and you kept going personal on me, how I see things, and never just answering the question, then I left the long post that … well, you didn’t like … again never answering…
Look, read how it started, and how many times you made it about me, and not about asnsering a simple question.
The conspiracies are your own making … like you asking, if I was pretending to be you???
You did that! … lol
I mock, because it is there….lol
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:24 pm:
Did ya notice… you were the opne starting here …lol
I have got to stop drinking coffee when - Anonymous - decides to paly the victim!
To the post,
Clayborne would be a great choice, but what is the interest there, and does Clayborne go with Lisa, which seems an easier choice?
- Arthur Andersen - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:37 pm:
Watch out Willy, they’re everywhere lol.
To the post, I have to agree that the Treasurer spot makes the most sense. I don’t see her raising the $$ or surviving the primary for the other spots.
The alternate question: Papa Squeezy will want a running mate who is a downstater, low key, non-threatening to PQ, pro-gun perhaps, and with a proven turnout record.
Behold: Quinn/Forby 2014!
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:42 pm:
===Watch out Willy, they’re everywhere lol.===
- Anonymous - calls me out, then plays the victim? Sometimes I just can’t believe what comes from some people’s reality
At leat when I prepare for the coffee up the nose with you - AA -, I know its going to be funny and smart!
To the post,
What would the pool of candidates that would consider being the #2 for Quinn. No sanrk, not mocking, but where does that pool form?
- Pot calling kettle - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:52 pm:
I’m trying to imagine who would agree to run with Quinn. (The two positions are now linked.) If you are an ambitious Dem, this would be a very risky move. If you are not ambitious, why would Quinn want you? The downside of associating with Quinn will remain big unless he makes some kind of amazing turnaround. Likewise, how would Quinn end up in DC? Since he seems to cling to his gadfly ways, he would be a liability to whoever took him to a DC job.
With respect to Sheila, I think Treasurer would be the most likely path to success. AG would have too much competition and her public resume seems thin for a prospective AG. She might be able to turn that around, but Treasurer seems like the easier route.
- Dirty Red - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:53 pm:
Art Turner (ret.) once asked me at a campaign stop in 2010, “Do you think Pat Quinn is going to let ANYBODY be lieutenant governor?”
- Skeeter - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 2:53 pm:
“What would the pool of candidates that would consider being the #2 for Quinn. No sanrk, not mocking, but where does that pool form?”
In all seriousness, two time losers with no other political future.
That’s why Debbie Halvorsen would be the top of the list. There’s no career risk. Why not take it and hope something strange happens?
How about Dan Seals? Phil Hare?
- Precinct Captain - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 3:01 pm:
@wndycty
Durbin’s term ends in January 2015, so next year is the election for his seat.
Does Simon have the cachet with people to win a statewide race? I’m not a believer in this idea of you lost once so you can’t run/win again, but she’s never had to campaign on a statewide level with her own name and she did lose a downstate mayoral race. Did she learn from that? If she runs what will she say to combat the baggage of working under Quinn? How would a potential response potentially corrupt a working relationship with the governor’s office if Quinn is reelected? If Madigan runs, I think Simon should probably run for AG, but I haven’t heard any potential Chicago names for that, so who knows what she’d be up against. Sen. Frerichs sent people on his email list today a letter about publicly kicking off explorations for a statewide bid. He’s been mentioned for treasurer, so if Simon runs for that is there a downstate split that all but guarantees a Chicago candidate, say Robin Kelly if she doesn’t win the 2nd CD race.
Who should Quinn pick as a running mate? Gary Forby. Okay, levity aside, he’s got to pick a downstate person with credibility, maybe someone who isn’t a politico right now, such as businessman who can help Quinn shape a cogent financial/budgetary message.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 3:04 pm:
- Skeeter -,
I agree, this might be the way station for the politically frozen, looking for lightning to strike again and be the LG as Quinn manuvers through 2 elections. If you were on the outside looking in, being the LG candidate with Quinn at least gets you talked about…
- Colossus - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 3:06 pm:
Mittuns: Clayborne or Sheila Stocks-Smith for Lt. Gov.
How in the world do you see SSS as a possibility for lite gov? Please tell me that’s snark.
- just asking - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 3:23 pm:
How about an outsider with a demonstrated ability to win. Scott Cohen
- Just The Way It Is One - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 3:25 pm:
The Q: AG. Alternate Q: Too soon to suggest although this really is a significant loss for Gov. Quinn–a reputable Downstate Woman, particularly from Southern Illinois was almost a perfect match for him. If he could lure either U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos or Tammy Duckworth to the ticket that’d sure help, but don’t count on it, particularly given that the latter declined to be his running mate in 2010…State Sens. Bill Haine or as some have noted, Gary Forby, might buttress what’s left of the So. Il. Dem. base who may support Quinn, but again, it’s just too early to tell.
- So. ILL - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 3:31 pm:
What is this nonsensical, egotistical need for a pol to say “I’m running for something, I just don’t know what yet.” What kind of focused leadership is that going to bring to whichever office she chooses to grace with her presence? Laugh all you want at my naive nature, but there is something that turns my stomach about how self important someone must be to put that out there. Doesn’t matter I guess…this is Illinois after all.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 3:39 pm:
- So. ILL -,
I hear ya, but I think Sheila and Quinn wanted to get out in fornt of this early enough to make it about Sheila, and Sheila was not going to be his running mate,
“It is about Sheila and not about Quinn.”
(Can actually be seen by some as a a favor to Quinn by making it about what Sheila’s wants and not about Quinn’s troubles).
There is no heat on Quinn dumping Sheila, or Sheila leaving because of Quinn.
This also gives Quinn a chance to look for a LG running mate, and not have it be “bad form” as Sheila’s future was not out in the open and Sheila is STILL the sitting LG for Quinn.
Nice move by both. Good Politics.
- Arthur Andersen - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 3:44 pm:
Quinn/Stocks-Smith 2014
The Squeezy/Sleepy Dream Team!
- Kasich Walker, Jr. - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 3:56 pm:
If Sheila was willing to move out of state, she could probably arrange to take lessons with Tony Trischka. The guy has always been an innovator and was Bela Fleck’s teacher before Bela’s career took off.
- Don't Worry, Be Happy - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 3:58 pm:
I think the question is less about who Quinn should pick, and much more about what credible candidate would accept? It would pretty much doom their political future, so it has be someone completely off the radar with no future to begin with. Given the state of things in Springfield I can’t see any legislators jumping on the ticket. No female leaders will do it if Madigan gets in the race. Quinn likes to dip into his past, but who’s left? Claude Walker??
- SO IL M - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 4:09 pm:
Simon would not make it in a strong state wide race. Something Local or possibly Regional where she can get by on just being a Simon is her best bet.
For Quinn he will need someone downstate to get him thru a Primary, if that is possible. Someone like retiring DuQoin Mayor Rednour. Rep Bradley is his man now, but would Bradley want to put his neck on the line by running with Quinn? I would bet not.
- Responsa - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 4:18 pm:
3/4ths of the state thinks Quinn is a dufus–a decent dufus, but a meandering incompetent dufus none the less. He can’t work with the legislature and he’s apparently lost his union support. There has been no end/solution/improvement to the state’s financial woes on his watch. On what possible basis would he run again? Where will the money to run a contested campaign even come from?
I think he’ll see the future and even before the primary he will accept a fab Washington job opportunity to begin at the end of his first term in order to avoid the humiliation. I think this “suggestion” will be made to him and strongly pushed on him from various corners. I do not believe Quinn will be a candidate for re-election.
- Kasich Walker, Jr. - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 5:14 pm:
Quinn respects the process and the ideal of an independent legislature.
Too bad so many seem to long for the leadership style of his predecessors.
Sheila Simon will do well with whatever she does.
- Raising Kane - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 5:22 pm:
Kasich,
“well” as in win? Unlikely. Well as in lose gracefully as she did in Carbondale….maybe.
- Kasich Walker, Jr. - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 5:27 pm:
“I want to serve the people of Illinois in a role where I can have an even greater impact.”
There are plenty of ways to have a greater impact on the lives of Illinoisans than being Lt. Gov. without running for an elective office. She could even open a bakery.
- Six Degrees of Separation - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 6:03 pm:
I don’t think Debbie Halvorson. Quinn dissed her pretty well when she tried to “apply” for the job of IDOT Secretary.
- hisgirlfriday - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 6:43 pm:
Thanks to those who clarified the Dart prisoner dilemma I mentioned earlier.
I have to say I don’t understand the animosity that Sheila Simon engenders among some people other than people have issues with her favoring her father so much looks-wise. Like a few other folks have pointed out, she’s way more qualified to be AG at this point than Lisa ran when she was just State Sen. Lisa Madigan.
Putting political considerations aside, of the candidates folks have mentioned so far for AG, I can’t really think of anyone I’d want rather than her to lead the AG’s office and continue the work that Lisa Madigan’s office has done.
I also just like the idea of the Dems finding SOMEONE from Downstate to run on the statewide slate whether Sheila is running for treasurer or AG or Senate.
As for lite guv… Bring back Edwin Eisendrath. He already ran to be Quinn’s running mate once.
- thunder - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 9:05 pm:
I think she is angry actually at Gov Quinn for closing state in her hometown county and one in her hometown. Not to mention closing a state facility in nearby Tamms, county of Alexander, the poorest county in the state. Who would want to be his side kick and him screw over Southern Illinois as he has done. Thats my opinion!! I sure wouldn’t vote for her for anything for her not standing up against him for closing so many state facilities in Southern IL. Not to mention several from her own county!
- Michelle Flaherty - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 9:32 pm:
Roland Burris.
- Mama - Wednesday, Feb 13, 13 @ 11:03 pm:
Position #2D should be a female pit bull.
- the Patriot - Thursday, Feb 14, 13 @ 8:22 am:
–she’s way more qualified to be AG at this point than Lisa ran–
OK, comparing two people who could’n't get elected dog catcher based on their qualifications but for their fathers is just awesome. If you look at her resume and what she has actually done, she has never been in charge of anything. Giving her a state wide office seat…well that is par for the democrat party.
I think Mike Madigan knows this state is a mess and won’t put Lisa through it. He needs a rubber stamp in the mansion to protect some of his members. Simon runs for Gov, lisa stays put? Could that really happen?
- Skeeter - Thursday, Feb 14, 13 @ 8:37 am:
Pat, Illinois elects Democrats because the GOP has too many people like you. Does the Speaker send you a thank you note every year? He should.
- Oswego Willy - Thursday, Feb 14, 13 @ 8:39 am:
===OK, comparing two people who could’n’t get elected dog catcher based on their qualifications but for their fathers is just awesome. If you look at her resume and what she has actually done, she has never been in charge of anything. Giving her a state wide office seat…well that is par for the democrat party.===
I am guessing that is snark, right???
While you may make a case against Sheila Simon, and her public service is not the same as Lisa Madigan, but Lisa was not a back-bench senator, has run tough races for AG the first two times, relatively speaking, and the GOP would NOT even field a credible AG Nominee, not because MJM is who he is, it was the FACT Lisa is unbeatable becasue of Lisa, and GOP possible candidates knew they couldn’t beat Lisa!
This is when my party looks like a bunch of dopes, thinkig its all MJM and Lisa gets NO credit, and yet, talk to those who could run against Lisa, and they say … LISA …Lisa is not beatable in “whatever” …
And all that “Fire Madigan” garbage, when it comes to it, the Dems used it against the GOP to beat us.
Get over this “Unqualified except for her Dad MJM” dopiness. Its like the Dems infiltrate the brains of my Party in a Jedi Mind Trick so think the silliest things, so the Dems steamroll us.
Lisa is qualified, on her own, on her own merits, she worked up the ladder, and has been so good so far, she can’t even get a credible GOP challenger.
That is the fact.