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* Tribune…
Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Wednesday decried the appointment of Gov. Pat Quinn’s former campaign manager as head of the agency that oversees U.S. Cellular Field, saying the post should be filled with someone who has greater financial expertise.
Quinn, who appoints four of the seven Illinois Sports Facilities Authority board members, engineered the approval of 30-year-old Lou Bertuca as executive director of the agency this week.
On Wednesday, Emanuel said the post should be filled by someone with deep financial expertise and that Republican Gov.-elect Bruce Rauner should get to pick his own leader, in cooperation with the mayor, after he is sworn in Jan. 12. […]
Emanuel indicated he opposed the appointment of Bertuca, against whom the mayor’s three appointees voted, with Quinn’s members carrying the vote. It’s not the first time he and Quinn disagreed on the person in charge.
Two years ago, Kelly Kraft, whose contract expired last month, was picked 4-3 amid questions about whether she was unqualified. The former TV reporter and Quinn communications director became the first permanent agency chief in about 18 months and edged out Diana Ferguson, the mayor’s choice. Ferguson was chief financial officer at Sara Lee Corp. and Chicago Public Schools.
* Sun-Times…
The mayor’s comments were an instant replay of the arguments he made two years ago, when Quinn used a similar maneuver to install deputy state budget director and former TV reporter-turned-Quinn spokeswoman Kelly Kraft as Bertuca’s predecessor.
“I don’t think it should be played for politics. . . . God forbid something happened financially or in the fiscal management and stewardship. Chicago taxpayers are on the hook. This should not be just for anybody. It should be for people who . . . take the responsibilities seriously and have a good background and knowledge as it relates to this authority,” Emanuel said Wednesday.
“If you look at the appointments I’ve made [to the stadium authority board] and the quality of the individuals, they have . . . a financial background that I think is essential because they are the thin line protecting Chicago taxpayers. I do not think this should be used in any other way but with the seriousness attached to the responsibility.”
Emanuel stressed that he has “nothing against Lou” Bertuca. But he thinks “political respect” and etiquette alone demanded that the job be left vacant until a new governor takes over.
* This is just one reason why Gov. Quinn ought to tread very carefully during the replacement process for Comptroller Topinka. The Bertuca appointment clearly shows how desperate he is to protect his campaign people and it will now frame whatever he does on this JBT vacancy as well. While Quinn could wind up appointing a comptroller for four or two years (if there’s a special election), the governor could ruin that person’s future if he acts with imprudence and pettiness.
posted by Rich Miller
Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 9:58 am
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no one will remember in a few months
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:04 am
I can’t imagine Quinn acting out of imprudence or pettiness. It’s just not his style.
/snark off
Comment by Phenomynous Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:08 am
I hope Rs come around to a special in 16. It is fair that there’s an R in the seat for the vacancy, but it is rather undemocratic to have a full term as an appointment for an elected office.
Apropos of that, consider that there has never been an appointed member of the federal House of Representatives. Every single Member since the 18th century has been elected. That’s the spirit of democracy that ought to be a part of how we handle the tragic vacancy.
And for what it’s worth, I think Kimme is a good suggestion for the next month.
Comment by Dan Johnson Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:11 am
Ex-Chicago Comptroller Amer Ahmad Arrested In Pakistan, May Be Extradited To U.S.
because Rahm does such a good job selecting financial candidates…..
Comment by Just saying Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:13 am
I have confidence the governor does the right thing all the time
Comment by Michelle Flaherty Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:13 am
Not clear that there can be a special election. Article V, Section 2: “They [officers] shall be elected at the general election in 1978 and every four years thereafter.” Not may, like the provision for nomination of Gov and LiteGov that was changeable by statute. I think Quinn’s pick stays until 2019 unless impeached or voluntarily resigns.
Comment by Put the Fun in unfunded Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:24 am
JS, I was thinking the same thing. Emanuel can be a pretty funny guy.
I’m pretty sure the only qualification for the gig is to say “how high?” when Jerry says “jump.” See Bacardi at the Park.
Quinn’s the governor until the other guy is. Rauner will have a full four years to do his thing, too.
Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:25 am
…may the will of the people be the law of the land. *
*Except when inconvenient.
Comment by Anon Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:26 am
To me, Quinn isn’t so much the key to this potential Comptrollers controversy as much as the person he appoints is. Whomever that Quinn appointee is has the ability to create a constitutional crisis on January 12th by saying “I’m not leaving, the constitution says I remain in this post until a replacement is elected by the voters.”
And if you read the constitutionally literally (like the courts appear to be doing with the pension impairment clause right now,) it hard to argue the point.
If that Quinn appointee simply steps down on the 12th, crisis averted. But if he or she puts up a fight, then the Supreme Court decides who the Comptroller is, or the GA can step in with legislation.
Comment by Joe Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:26 am
Has there been any word of how Kraft performed in the role?
Comment by Name/Nickname/Anon Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:28 am
This decision by Quinn will tell you if he is ever running again. If it’s a political payback then he is finished. However if he were to swallow his pride and work with Rauner on a mural candidate it helps him in the future. It also helps to tone done the Bertuca appointment.
And it goes without saying that Nancy Kimme choice would be fantastic.
Comment by Legal eagle Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:29 am
===Not clear that there can be a special election===
There’s a provision in the constitution itself. Subscribe.
Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:33 am
The Blago/Quinn years have been a godsend for lawyers. It looks like another group will get a departing gift from the Gov.
Comment by Norseman Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:35 am
She performed well - Saving taxpayers $20M with a successful bond refinancing and recruiting new events to the Cell. Of course that never gets mentioned. Why would the Media let facts get in the way of good drama?
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:35 am
Illinois taxpayers are also on the hook for this thing…Mayor.
Comment by JS Mill Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:35 am
I voted for Quinn, but let’s be honest. The guy has a history of using appointments to reward friends.
I sure hope that that his final act in office is not appoint yet another friend.
Quinn needs to realize that the voters have spoken. They wanted Republicans as Governor and as Comptroller. Time to put aside personal preferences and allow Gov. Elect Rauner to make the choice.
That would be a nice way to go out.
Comment by Gooner Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:37 am
If there was ever any doubt that Quinn appoints unqualified political hacks over highly qualified political hires, this quashes it.
At some point you need people in government in key postions to get the job done. How government executes the work it does IS important.
I think understanding this fact, and living it, was one of JBTs greatest positives.
One of the reasons I’m hopeful about Rauner is that I believe he understands it as well.
We all define problems in terms of what our skills and ambitions are. For Quinn, all solutions are about patronage. For Blago, it was lining his pockets. For Rauner??????
Comment by Arizona Bob Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:37 am
After two jailed governors, the master politician felt it important to keep a short leash on what happened in the Mansion when Quinn arrived. The Party decided to keep power to itself. Sure Quinn got elected in 2010, but it wasn’t an impressive victory. He got no mandate.
So we see Quinn prevented from governing. Quinn flaked out when he was allowed to make a decision enough to not instill confidence from the Master. With the Master, politics is priority number one, not governing.
So no one should be surprised that as a lame duck, Quinn isn’t being respected. These appointments would have been challenged if the lame duck wasn’t Pat Quinn, but the combination of lame duck and Quinn turns it all up a notch.
I’m not really reading anyone asking us to consider the impact that Ryan and Blagojevich had on the balance of powers between the GA and governor. We should. Sweeping those two lemons out of our memories doesn’t change the fact that their legacies negatively impacted the Office they abused. Quinn didn’t restore a balance by not being either man. Quinn was on a short leash.
This is why I am not convinced that the new governor will be given the reigns in January. The GA has enjoyed not having to deal with the Mansion and won’t let Rauner get the keys, just because he got elected last month.
Furthermore, we got partisanship. Right there that should be an issue between the new governor and GA.I believe that anyone assuming that there are not just contentious budget and tax issues headed are way, need to recognize how the GA shut down their own governors twice, and have a natural political reason to continue doing it next year.
Appointments? Quinn’s problems will end in a month. Rauner is the one who will need to catch a few breaks next year to prove himself to the Master running Illinois. MJM and his veto - proof GA are in power. Screw the state constitution. Screw what is best. It’s all about power to the Master.
Comment by VanillaMan Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:40 am
The question really is about who quinn will appoint
He has authority and responsibility
I’m sure he will not abandon his responsibility
The laws are a check and balances and you can only change the laws through general Assembly
I would surely love to see the demo ratic. Controlled g.a. trying to figure out how to give republicans more power
Can’t wait to see that — don’t think so
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:41 am
Dan - I agree and that is the most fair and down-the-middle approach. It would be interesting to see how expensive and intense a normally non-statewide race in a Presidential year would be.
Comment by Team Sleep Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:44 am
Quinn: “I’ve got this thing and it’s (expletive) golden. I’m not just giving it up for (expletive) nothing.”
J/K
Comment by Just Observing Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:52 am
Typical reflex politics. There is a problem. Let’s fix it. Well, the problem shouldn’t exist, if someone, anyone, in the legislature, Governor’s office or Attorney General’s office had just thought, what if.
Comment by Apocalypse Now Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:54 am
I am thinking he names Brooke…
Comment by OneMan Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 10:57 am
Vallas gets the nod?
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:02 am
Any reason why he can’t name himself? Would make for great theater.
Comment by slow down Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:03 am
Perfect. You take care of the campaign staffers who managed a very ineffective campaign that lost nearly every county in the state. Yep, that’s the kind of accountability we need in Illinois. Disgusting.
Comment by NW Illinois Democrat Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:10 am
C’mon….the Comptroller appointment is bleepin’ golden, and everyone knows it.
Illinois is all about the patronage.
Quinn needs to do some tradin’ and dealin’ in order to set his people up for the next few years. That’s what Illinois is all about.
Comment by Leroy Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:11 am
In a very perfect world, Gov. Quinn would appoint Ms. Kimme, who would offer resignation the day Gov. Rauner is sworn in. We’re far from perfect here.
Since we’re parsing the beejeebies out of all of this, it would seem the appointment (if Mr. Quinn makes it) would exceed one term by a couple of weeks, thereby making the word for word examination of the Constitution providing that this goes beyond the one term provision. Obviously, I’m not a lawyer or constitutional expert, but since language is being taken so literally, that’s how I’m reading. It appears to me that the “end of the term” has some meaning.
I don’t think it would be wrongheaded for the legislature to agree to clean this matter up by legislating a special election to coincide with the normal cycle in two years. There is plenty of recognized precedent for that with respect to other offices.
If the ‘people’ matter, they spoke clearly enough on their preference. The lack of foresight on the part of the Constitutional Convention reframers should not create a political opportunity for whichever party did not win the seat.
The true question is this: Had Pat Quinn won this election, would anyone even be questioning the political opportunism that comes with a sad and tragic death? I opine, they would not. They would suggest that because he won, it’s his choice. He didn’t win. Someone else did.
I didn’t realize there could ever be a full term appointment until now. That, is fundamentally wrong in my eyes. An oversight. It needs to be legislated correctly. But in the meantime, a temporary appointment until the new Governor and then an 2 year appointment would be a smart choice that respects precedence in most of the political realm.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:12 am
Quinn should appoint himself. Then Sheila simon can be governor for a month.
Comment by Sportsfans Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:17 am
Where’s Roland Burris…oh, nevermind its already on his headstone.
Comment by Terrence Peterson Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:17 am
“the governor could ruin that person’s future if he acts with imprudence and pettiness” So wouldn’t that make Jim Oberweiss the perfect choice?
Comment by Skeptic Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:27 am
Vallas. as soon as the memorial service is done.
Comment by Amalia Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:27 am
It would be great if the Governor and Governor elect could actually agree on whom to appoint, so that there won’t be any need for a legal battle, but if that happens, expect a very, very cold winter.
Comment by Anon. Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:28 am
Illinois Constitution, Article V, Section 2. TERMS
“These elected officers of the Executive Branch shall hold office for FOUR YEARS beginning on the second Monday of January after the election and., except in the case of Lt. Gov.,until their successors are qualified. the shall be elected at the general election in 1978 and EVERY FOUR YEARS THEREAFTER. (Emphasis and abbreviations supplied).
IF Quinn were to be foolish enough to appoint someone now, would that person be an “elected officer”? This might allow the GA to hold a special election before 2018. Very interesting. Gotta love it as a lawyer.
Comment by Lawman Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:30 am
So Lou Bertuca told the Sun-Times, “I have management experience and management is what this position needs.” Hmmm, how did your campaign managing go in 2014? Again, no accountability on this train. Good riddance.
Comment by NW Illinois Democrat Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:35 am
Norseman,
Last I looked ole George Ryan is a convicted felon and needs to “Check the Box”. I’m sure lawyers were laughing all the way to the bank!
Comment by Del Clinkton Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:40 am
Forget all the speculation concerning the statutes and constitution but do the right thing. Have Rauner make his pick and in a last gesture of statesmanship Quinn nominates that same person to the remainder of the current term. Saves the turmoil in the office and the citizens a costly election. This office cannot run itself. A Comptroller is need to sign the checks. Payment requests would have started stacking up yesterday. Do the right thing..
Comment by Mouthy Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:41 am
For those mentioning Vallas –
The problem with Vallas is that he would have zero reason to take the position if it lasted only a month. Why would he bother?
Also, I doubt he would take the job expecting the appointment to last two or four years. If Quinn and the nominee tried it, there would be a court battle. There is no way that Vallas would come out of it looking good, whether he won or lost.
Finally, there is no way that Rauner would agree to Vallas. Vallas is a career politician and one that could potentially use the Comptroller’s position as a launching pad to another office.
Rauner would never give him that opportunity.
It is not going to be Vallas.
Comment by Gooner Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:41 am
Appoint Judy Barr Topinka autopen and go away.
Comment by alas Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:44 am
This question may sound silly, but I’m serious. Is it possible to name Frerichs to the Comptroller post and let him serve as Treasurer simultaneously? Then get the gears rolling to combine the offices.
Comment by Casual Observer Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:46 am
===This question may sound silly, but I’m serious.===
It’s a silly question.
Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:48 am
Thanks Rich. I promise to get back on my meds.
Comment by Casual Observer Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:52 am
lol
Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:53 am
I find criticism of the Governor about being imprudent a little hilarious. He politely declined to discuss the matter and said it was premature to talk about a successor the day that Judy passed.
The classy IL GOP and their new poster boy Bruce jumped the gun and started making demands that same day.
Pathetic.
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:57 am
It’s interesting that some feel like quinn should share power with his foe?????
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:00 pm
Quinn is mad at his own party and the republicians. Watch him appoint himself!!
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:01 pm
Anonymous @ 10:41 == He has authority and responsibility
I’m sure he will not abandon his responsibility==
I have every confidence that he won’t abandong his authority. Acting responsibly would be a first.
Comment by Anon. Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:02 pm
Let me stress - I think Rauner has acted like a jerk in all this. He couldn’t just take a breath?
Comment by Soccermom Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:05 pm
@lawman
SECTION 2. TERMS
These elected officers of the Executive Branch shall hold office for four years beginning on the second Monday of January after their election AND, except in the case of the Lieutenant Governor, UNTIL THEIR SUCCESSORS ARE QUALIFIED.
= = =
The length of term is four years AND until their successors are qualified.
I read this as four years PLUS whatever additional time is needed to qualify a successor.
In other words a term cannot expire unless and until there is a valid successor, even if it extends beyond four years.
===
A hypothetical to illustrate - if Sheila Simon had won in November but she had died instead of JBT, JBT would have remained in office after January 2015 and until her successor [was elected?] and qualified.
= = =
All of this illustrates a maxim that is likely millennia old:
“The King is Dead, Long Live the King!”
Whenever a person who lives larger than life passes on, us lesser men and women are reminded of the finite nature of our lives.
Comment by Bill White Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:07 pm
As a Democrat, I believe Quinn should take the high road and appoint Nancy for the short-term or even Tom Cross for the long-term. Frerichs and Cross can then work together as close as Topinka and Hynes did. Cross demonstrated great dignity conceding to Frerichs and deserves a shot to work together with him. Don’t waste the voters time with a special election. Also, I certainly hope that what ever the transition will be, the Topinka folks should be given the same respect and dignity that Judy gave to the former Hynes staffers back during the 2011 transition.
Comment by Just Saying ... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:08 pm
PS . . .
I do not much like the consequences of my hypothetical but it sure seems to reflect what the words actually say.
Comment by Bill White Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:14 pm
“- Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:00 pm:
It’s interesting that some feel like quinn should share power with his foe?????”
What’s appalling, not interesting, to me is how many people forget that we’re talking about public servants. People that are supposed to act in the best interests of the people who hired them, the taxpayers and citizens of Illinois. Does anyone think it’s in their best interests to have a petty squabble over who can appoint who and for how long. Christmas is in two weeks. People need their money.
Comment by Mouthy Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:17 pm
=== Amalia - Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 11:27 am:
Vallas. as soon as the memorial service is done.===
Gadzooks Ma’am. How many times do the voters have to say “no” before the realization occurs they don’t want him?
Might be time for a memorial service for Paul’s elective office seeking career.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:20 pm
===Soccermom - Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:05 pm:
Let me stress - I think Rauner has acted like a jerk in all this. He couldn’t just take a breath?===
C’mon Mom, his remarks about Judy were gracious and kind. He’s among the first the media horde went after for comment. He couldn’t say “nothing”. And what he did say wasn’t heavy. It was as close to ‘no comment’ as I think he could get.
And you would agree that “no comment” is his specialty, right? Cut him a break. All in all, he was pretty professional about this.
BTW….still smitten.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:25 pm
Guy, the memorial service joke is “funny?”
But then again, you say things like “gadzooks’” so I can see why you would think that.
Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:30 pm
This is just one of those highly paid gigs where you don’t actually do any work. I’m sure that Quinn has some other “consulting” gigs worked out for him as well.
That’s where the big payoff bucks are.
Case in point;Sean Murphy, former COO of CPS. I’d worked with the guy for awhile, and he was politically sharp but not exactly a management or technical Einstein. He got a “consulting” gig with CPS after he left at over $300K per year, for a guy with $80K professional talent. Good deal for him, bad deal for Chicago and the kids.
Similar deal for Michelle Obama after her hubby was elected Senator. She got a position as “diversity director” with a hospital system for over $300K per year without any bonafides for the job. After she left, this vital $300K job was discontinued at that rate because it simply wasn’t that valuable from an operational perspective.
That’s how Illinois elective politics works. The spoils even go to the politically connected losers, not just the victors.
Comment by Arizona Bob Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:31 pm
VMan, the “Master” couldn’t come up with the votes from his veto-proof majority to pass a minimum wage bump, just to add some reality to the discussion.
Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:32 pm
Just Sayin’:
A higher road would be to appoint Sheila Simon, who actually got the votes of 1.6 million Illinoisans for Comptroller.
Certainly no one could accuse Quinn of “political payback,” quite the opposite, but I don’t know if Quinn’s legs are long enough to stretch to such a high road.
As for appointing Cross, that certainly would be no favor to Durkin, Rauner or probably Cross himself.
Comment by Juvenal Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:38 pm
===A higher road would be to appoint Sheila Simon===
Only if the road is in a subway.
She lost, remember? The voters clearly rejected her.
Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:39 pm
Guy, Soccermom is obviously referring to Rauner’s remarks yesterday as to who Quinn should appoint comptroller, not his remarks on JBT passing.
Reading is fundamental.
Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:41 pm
“Roland Burris is on line 2,sir, says there’s still room on the marble for one more job title.”
“Perfect!”
Comment by Newsclown Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:47 pm
- A Guy -,
If you’re going to defend “your guy” at every single turn over every single criticism, at least know what you think you are defending.
It’s going to be a long 4 years for you it seems.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:49 pm
Well, someone on Quinn’s payroll is going to get a real nice pension bump.
Comment by Leroy Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:49 pm
I wonder if Quinn and Rauner can come up with a comptroller they can both agree on and avoid the legal wrangling…?
Hahahahahaha. It was a fun thought, wasn’t it?
Comment by Ducky LaMoore Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:53 pm
I am hoping Quinn will step up with some honor and class and appoint Kimee. This decision is his true legacy. What kind of person will he be; a man of the people doing what’s in their best interests and desires during the transition; or just another self serving hack thinking only of his friends.
Comment by Ghost Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:55 pm
VMan, the “Master” couldn’t come up with the votes from his veto-proof majority to pass a minimum wage bump, just to add some reality to the discussion.
LOL - you so silly. You think he couldn’t? He is going to use it as a torpedo to take down the incoming new governor a few notches - as a warm up to his next move on the budget.
Comment by VanillaMan Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:56 pm
Hey I heard William Kelly has volunteered to do it. Now there’s a guy always thinking of others…….
Comment by Leprechaun Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:07 pm
*kimme
Dang kb
Comment by Ghost Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:08 pm
== A higher road would be to appoint Sheila Simon, who actually got the votes of 1.6 million Illinoisans for Comptroller. ==
I have a better chance of being named…
Comment by OneMan Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:22 pm
=== Oswego Willy - Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:49 pm:
- A Guy -,
If you’re going to defend “your guy” at every single turn over every single criticism, at least know what you think you are defending.
It’s going to be a long 4 years for you it seems.===
Willy, slow down on the Red Bulls. Rauner was not over the top yesterday at all. I watched his comments on three different channels. No doubt your satellite is pointed somewhere else. Sooooo…what did he say that was so terribly offensive or insensitive? I’ll wait.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:22 pm
===Sooooo…what did he say that was so terribly offensive or insensitive? I’ll wait.===
My response…
===- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Dec 10, 14 @ 6:43 pm
I don’t know what to say, truthfully.
I’ll let Leader Durkin speak for me;
===“Judy Baar Topinka died this morning. The fact that people are already jockeying and talking about her succession, to me is disrespectful and a bit ghoulish,” Durkin said. ” The woman served for decades in the state. I think it would be better off reflecting on her contribution to the state of Illinois rather than … a convoluted selection process.”===
I’ll leave it there.===
Questions?
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:26 pm
====VanillaMan - Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 12:56 pm:
VMan, the “Master” couldn’t come up with the votes from his veto-proof majority to pass a minimum wage bump, just to add some reality to the discussion.
LOL - you so silly. You think he couldn’t? He is going to use it as a torpedo to take down the incoming new governor a few notches - as a warm up to his next move on the budget.====
And if the “master” truly couldn’t Sling, it’s only because a side deal with Rahm took precedence after deal one was null and void when Quinn lost. Shifting those Chicago Reps around takes some doing. He just threw the second wad of cheese towards Rahm. And they ran that way. Yep.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:28 pm
Not only does Quinn get to appoint someone, he has to appoint someone so the office can function. As for how long the appointee will serve, Quinn’s opinion does not count. The next Governor and the appointee will either fight it out or they won’t.
Comment by Bigtwich Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:31 pm
===Questions?===
Sure, answer the one that was posed to you. What did Rauner say that was so terribly offensive to you?
Leader Durkin isn’t in the equation of succession that rose throughout the day. What did Rauner say that was out of line? I’ve tried to Google all 3 papers today to see his quotes. I haven’t seen anything that gets my willy ears wonked.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:33 pm
Guy, what was your first language? Because you some difficulties communicating in English.
Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:39 pm
===I haven’t seen anything that gets my willy ears wonked.===
“When asked about succession, Governor-Elect Rauner deflected all talk on the subject. “Comptroller Topinka was a close ally and friend, and we all in her debt. I think commenting on any succession on the day of her death is disrespectful to her and her legacy, I’ll comment at the appropriate time, and hours after her death isnt that time”
That is how you answer questions with class and dignity Comptroller Topinka deserved yesterday.
Period.
Leader Durkin understands, you don’t.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:41 pm
@A guy:
I don’t think what he said was all that terrible. But I think the problem some have with what he said was that he was sticking his nose into a decision that isn’t his yet. As you’ve said time and again, Quinn is Governor until he ain’t. I’m not sure Rauner should have said squat about who he wanted appointed. Not his place, especially right now.
Comment by Demoralized Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:46 pm
Oneman -
You may in fact have a better chance of being named than Shiela Simon.
It is so politically unthinkable it actually is difficult to criticize.
I’m not sure I would agree with the statement that “voters rejected her.”
I think Simon actually did much better than polls suggested, but honestly the outcome of that race was more about voters’ fondness for Topinka than rejection of Simon.
Comment by Juvenal Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:07 pm
Demo
I see your point as far as it isn’t Rauners call. However I have to wonder why the two shouldn’t be expected to work it out like grown men. It really shouldn’t be that hard. The adult thing is to reach an agreement on an individual for both and make the appointment. Yes Quinn has the big chair for a month but why set up a court fight over something silly.
Of course there isn’t a snowballs chance in hades that Quinn will forgo an opportunity to jab a stick in Bruces eye.
Comment by Mason born Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:17 pm
A guy — If Rauner can’t figure out how to gracefully avoid an untimely question, you might take a look at Michelle Flaherty’s comment above…
Comment by Soccermom Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:24 pm
==However I have to wonder why the two shouldn’t be expected to work it out like grown men.==
I have no qualms with that opinion. It’s what I’d do. But then again I’m not a politician.
Comment by Demoralized Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:25 pm
I cant see what standing Rauner would have in court or what his beef would be to a governor making a legal appointment. The comptroller is a separate office; it doesn’t work for answer to a governor.
Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:28 pm
Demo, he was asked about this. Repeatedly. As the day wore on. I saw no fewer than 4 quotes from the other side before he uttered anything to do with this. It’s not unreasonable to believe he will need to make some choice in the near future. The other party believes with this and all other things that no one needs to be consulted but them. Because that’s truly how it’s been. I believe he (Rauner) was respectful throughout the day. Every clip I’ve seen of him shows him trying to stay away from this issue and pay his friend proper respect.
Someone needs to highlight something else I haven’t seen to prove otherwise. It was a tough day all around.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:31 pm
=== Wordslinger - Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:39 pm:
Guy, what was your first language? Because you some difficulties communicating in English.====
Slinger. My first language was “oerofypertgls”. Only a handful of natives speak it.
For you: “r8237bfpdbpkd dkufd; sduoey doiueoyhrh”
Translated: There you go Sling being gracious again. Thank you.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:33 pm
A guy — Sorry, but this is not the last tough day Rauner is going to face. When the media get in your face, you just keep saying “no.” You can add something like, “We will have a news conference on Friday to talk about this.” You can turn it on them and say, “Hey, I just lost a friend here. Please - let’s have some respect.”
But by mentioning the succession process, he opened the floodgates. This is on him.
Really — you need to get to a point where, no matter how many times they ask, you don’t answer. Otherwise, you head into Michelle Flaherty territory…
Comment by Soccermom Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:36 pm
Guy, you’re just making stuff up. As Rich posted yesterday, all four legislative leaders were in agreement on this issue.
And Rauner said Quinn should appoint a specific person.He was direct. He wasnt avoiding anything.
Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:38 pm
=== - Wordslinger - Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 1:39 pm:
Guy, what was your first language? Because you some difficulties communicating in English. ===
Wow. Pot meet kettle.
Comment by Birdseed Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:39 pm
===Really — you need to get to a point where, no matter how many times they ask, you don’t answer.===
You among others have been criticizing him for doing just this for months on end. lol.
Honestly Mom, I haven’t seen or heard this criticism anywhere else but here. And it’s not even prominent here.
I purposely commented on nothing else but the “I love Judy” blog yesterday. I wish it was the only one. Today, the reality of people needing to get paid and bills, etc. makes this more important to discuss. For what it’s worth, I think most of the people interviewed yesterday, even the ones who broached this issue, did so mostly respectfully.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:43 pm
Another reason not to put off asking these questions:
“Comptroller’s office spokesman Brad Hahn says the office is still processing checks to schools and state agencies that the Riverside Republican approved before her death. But he says operations can continue only for “several” days. A new comptroller must be named to approve future payments.”
Comment by Secret Square Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:49 pm
Aw geez. I wasn’t saying that Rauner should NEVER say anything - just that he should have waited a day. It really was too soon.
Gosh — I’m being ostracized in certain circles because I think it would be most appropriate to come up with a compromise that includes the new Governor, and you’re feeling scorched because I think Rauner was a day early in talking about this?
St. Teresa de Avila had something very pithy to say about situations like this one…
Comment by Soccermom Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:49 pm
Maybe someone should appoint Blago? Then we could get a break from the constant chirping about Illinois governors doing time when “they” start talking about an Illinos comptroller doing time.
Comment by Anon. Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:57 pm
===You among others have been criticizing him for doing just this for months on end. lol.===
If you, personally, can’t tell the difference between having to answer yesterday and …
“Judy Baar Topinka died this morning. The fact that people are already jockeying and talking about her succession, to me is disrespectful and a bit ghoulish,” Durkin said. ” The woman served for decades in the state. I think it would be better off reflecting on her contribution to the state of Illinois rather than … a convoluted selection process.”
…that being the absolute correct answer, yesterday, given the circumstances, I can’t help you understand tact, class, or respect.
You shut down discussion, yesterday, on the whole discussion and beung quoted on it…yesterday.
Leader Durkin got it 100% correct.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:02 pm
-=== Soccermom - Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:49 pm:===
Oh man. I’m not ostracizing you at all. Mild disagreement Mom.
I’m very devoted to St. Teresa….and then you go off and tell on me. To her. Surrender!
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:08 pm
Said Willy: “I can’t help you understand tact, class, or respect.”
No truer words were ever spoken. Look in the mirror and say this enough times that you realize how goofy you are for saying this.
If you don’t want your very genuine statements to be taken with a grain of salt, quit saying stupid things like this. No one appointed nor would they appoint you as the grand arbiter in this area. Me either.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:13 pm
Trashing Bertuca as campaign manager? Tell us great ones, what were his responsibilities on the campaign? Do you know what departments he was in charge of? Titles can be misleading Mensa members.
==- A guy… - Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 2:31 pm:==
Show us the timestamps “from the other side.”
==You among others have been criticizing him for doing just this for months on end.==
About budget details and line items. Something completely different the death of JBT. If you can’t tell the difference you might want to join the other members of Mensa on this thread.
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:13 pm
- A Guy -,
If u have to choose between your “idea” of decency, class, or tact, or stand with Leader Durkin and decency in this instance, I’ll stand with Leader Durkin. If you think being ghoulish is acceptable, again, that’s on you.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:18 pm
PC, you forgot the lol in the statement. Changes the context. Mountain out of a mole hill. Much ado. Not gonna make the cut at the Mensa meeting I’d bet. I don’t go to them, but I hold the door hoping for the smarts to rub off. Hard to imagine I held the door for you. But not impossible.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:18 pm
====”If you think being ghoulish is acceptable, again, that’s on you.”===
Now you’re just talking silly. Who was being “ghoulish?”
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:21 pm
===Now you’re just talking silly. Who was being “ghoulish?”===
Honestly,
Do. You. Read?
“The fact that people are already jockeying and talking about her succession, to me is disrespectful and a bit ghoulish,” - Leader Durkin.
It’s like you are clueless to following along.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:25 pm
Juvenal
Ok, let me offer my logic then…
Assuming that Quinn only makes the appointment for a month, she would have to step down as Lt. Governor so that doesn’t make any sense..
So your argument is to make the 2 to 4 year appointment for Shiela since she came in second…
So using that logic if Sheila says no (lets say she wants to spend more time playing Banjo) then using that same logic would the third place finisher be the logical choice (the Libertarian assuming there was one)?
But even taking that aside, why Sheila? Lt. Governor may be the weakest elected office in the state that has office space in Springfield (that includes legislators). It is basically sitting around awaiting a vacancy at governor.
Does she have some special skill that will be helpful in the office? Not in my opinion.
Does she have a great relationship with the Democrats in Springfield that might be helpful in the difficult financial days ahead? Not in my opinion…
As a reward for political loyalty? (snort)
Did she hold some office or position before Lt. Governor that might be an asset to the role? Sorry not seeing it.
It seems her only qualification for the job is that she lost the race for it. Using that same logic if Lisa Madigan decided she wants to move to Iowa the republican who lost to her should get the job..
Comment by OneMan Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:28 pm
I wouldn’t go so far as to say Bertuca frames the appointment, but it certainly does create a bit of a narrative potentially.
Another way to look at it is that nearly anyone Quinn appoints will appear statesman next to the Bertuca move.
It does give us some insight into how Quinn thinks though, what his priorities are, and how you reach a deal with him.
I don’t think Vallas is the answer. Secondly, I doubt he wants the job. He will be making some pretty good coin in the private sector.
Comment by Yellow Dog Democrat Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:33 pm
==It’s not unreasonable to believe he will need to make some choice in the near future.==
Of course it’s not. That wasn’t my point. I was only falling back to what you yourself have said. He’s the Governor until he ain’t.
==The other party believes with this and all other things that no one needs to be consulted but them.==
Umm, whether we think they should or not, nobody but them has to be consulted. They don’t need anybody’s permission to act.
Comment by Demoralized Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:36 pm
Pat Quinn is self serving!
Comment by Bipartisan Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:44 pm
Demo, I’ve been pretty supportive of the idea of Gov. Quinn being the Governor until he isn’t. When it comes to appointing a Constitutional Elective Officer for a full term (which I didn’t even know was possible until yesterday)I think there’s a difference greater than a board, commission or authority. Sorry for the difference in thought, but I think a Comptroller is a whole new level of Executive power. I think Governor Quinn would be exceeding authority by appointing someone in the stead of a deceased winning candidate who would serve more than a full term. It just sands down any level of reason in my head.
Comment by A guy... Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 3:56 pm
==I think Governor Quinn would be exceeding authority by appointing someone in the stead of a deceased winning candidate who would serve more than a full term.==
I have no opinion on the law because I’m not smart enough to figure out how long the person would serve. But I do know that he can’t not appoint somebody. That’s not an option. This is a horrible situation to be put in. And I think he probably understands the gravity of it.
Comment by Demoralized Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 4:21 pm
One guy — I am talking about actual ostracization IRL.
Comment by Soccermom Thursday, Dec 11, 14 @ 4:24 pm