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* ABC 7’s Charles Thomas interviewed Rep. Ken Dunkin yesterday about missing last week’s crucial session day.
Thomas reported that other Black Caucus members he talked with yesterday said they were angry at Dunkin for staying in New York rather than coming back to the Statehouse and doing his job. Nonetheless, Thomas led his story with this line: “Illinois Democrats are worried that state Rep. Ken Dunkin’s independence could be contagious, especially among African-American lawmakers.”
Thomas also quoted Chicago consultant and Dunkin ally Maze Jackson as saying “When one guy breaks off the plantation, it’s gotta make a lot of people in Springfield nervous, real nervous.”
Dunkin, for his part, told Thomas that he was looking for ways to find common ground with Gov. Rauner. “If this governor wants to work with me, I’m working with him,” Dunkin said. And the governor told Thomas that he and Dunkin “share a passion around economic empowerment, especially in the black community.”
“Today is the time that we have to take charge of our own destiny here,” Dunkin told Thomas about black legislators.
* By the way, Rep. Dunkin did not take listener questions when he appeared on WVON Radio earlier this week, but after he left the air some folks called in to vent their displeasure with the Democrat for working with Rauner.
Yes, Speaker Madigan is unpopular in that district (as he is pretty much everywhere), but Rauner scored less than 20 percent of the vote in Dunkin’s district during last year’s general election, and he is not a popular guy in Chicago and likely not with black, Democratic primary voters, either - hence the attempt to make this about Dunkin’s rejection of “plantation politics.”
posted by Rich Miller
Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:33 am
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It goes without saying but the reference to the “plantation” is despicable.
Comment by slow down Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:38 am
Dunkin might be the first “confirmed” Raunerite.
Madigan or AFSCME, anyone actually, goes after Dunkin in a Primary situation, IllinoisGO swoops in, shores up Dunkin.
IllinoisGO was created for this type of situation.
The building of Raunerite Caucuses is starting to show itself.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:40 am
Another day, another new spin strategy from the Dunkin camp.
Just go on vacation again already and get out of the news.
Comment by hisgirlfriday Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:43 am
I think AFSCME had a collective heart attack. Good!!
Comment by SonofSuperAbe2014 Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:48 am
Madigan better contain this defection before it spreads. I would bet he is already on it.
Comment by cb Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:49 am
Anybody ask him the size of the check promised by Rauner yet?
Comment by Wensicia Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:49 am
This brings to mind the Big Bang Theory episode where Sheldon hired Raj.
Raj (Dunkin): I look forward to working with you.
Sheldon (Rauner): FOR me.
Comment by ChelseaBlue Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:51 am
Oh give me a break. Maze Jackson is on the board of the Rauner Family YMCA. Dunkin is starting the descent into Rauner’s camp. Just admit your allegiances instead of using these offensive excuses. And shame on the media for playing along with these and Rauner’s spins.
Comment by TD Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:52 am
So I did a little research, and maybe I’m overthinking this, but remember when Rauner made that $1 million dollar donation?
Looking at where he gave that donation:
54th Street and Wentworth Avenue.and Dunkin’s district could be some shenanigans going on?
It is Illinois.
Comment by Person 8 Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:52 am
I think Dunkin is all about the money.
Comment by Mama Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:52 am
OW…you might be right in that Dunk is now a “Raunerite” and the IllinoisGO will spend $$ to protect him, but what happens to Dunkin and other “Raunerites”, when Rauner and his money leaves politics (probably sooner than later)?
He and his money are not in this for the long run, he will be gone and then what does Dunk do?
Comment by Are Ya Kiddin' Me? Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:53 am
Well said, OW.
An otherwise balanced report by Charles Thomas discredited by presenting Maze Jackson as some sort of independent observer from the black community. Dunkin and Maze are connected at the hip.
Comment by Tommy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:53 am
In his eagerness to “be his own man” he just tells others how to manipulate him. Reminds me of Decius, speaking of Caesar: “When I tell him he hates flatterers, He says he does, being then most flattered.”
Comment by Anonymous Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:53 am
The divide and conquer strategy apparently found a crack.
If I was MJM, I’d find a party loyalist to be a sacrificial lamb and run against Durkin just so I could drain off some of the IllinoisGO money and attention while also concentrating on the current GOP seats that are winnable by the Democrats.
Comment by RNUG Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:54 am
===Anybody ask him the size of the check promised by Rauner yet?===
Once you sign on as a Raunerite, under the new system, every 6 months or so an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) is made in the Raunerite name, either by one of two Shell Corporations (Citizens for Rauner or IllinoisGO) and upon confirmation of the electronic funds being received, you get notice when and when to pick up your voting keys to you seat in the General Assembly.
There’s a manual, t-shirt, motivation tapes, 2 coffee mugs, and either a golf towel or a playing deck of cards, all with the Raunerite corporate logo.
It’s a sweet deal, actually…
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:55 am
Dunkin says that he doesn’t answer to Madigan, instead he has taken a stand that has him answering to Rauner. Dunkin’s claim to fame is “putting children first.” I wonder how he’s going to uphold that reputation if he backs the Gov’s cuts to human services. At the end of the day, he may regret his decision(s).
Comment by Former Hoosier Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:55 am
Dunkin … not Durkin
Comment by RNUG Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:55 am
Rauner’s “passion” around economic empowerment, especially in the black community.
Got any proof there, Bruce? Anything?
Comment by LizPhairTax Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:00 am
Instead of owning the defeat of the override, the Speaker chose to blame his own failure on Dunkin. Not Scott Drury. Not Jack Franks. Not on any of the Republican representatives with a state employee constituency.
Doing so was a
mistake within a failed strategy to manufacture this into a critical issue and bring his fight with the Gov to a head. You lost, it’s time to move on and do the business of the State and its citizenry.
Comment by Lincoln Lad Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:00 am
@slowdown My first thought was exactly the same as yours regarding the “plantation” comment. That is beyond ridiculous. Dunkin is upset about the criticism he’s received and is blowing off some steam. If the black caucus wants to ally themselves with Rauner their own constituents will suffer in the long run. Once this sorts itself out I think they are smart enough to continue to stay with the party who has generally always had an ear to their needs. The recent comment made by Sen Kirk, in which he later explained was just a joke, pretty much is an example of what many GOP members think of the black community. Yeah go ahead and ally yourself with Rauner, good luck with that.
Comment by The Dude Abides Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:00 am
It’ll be interesting to see how much money ILGO throws in to keep Dunkin afloat in ‘16. Methinks the Speaker isn’t going to be too inclined to support him if the current course continues.
Comment by Tournaround Agenda Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:00 am
- RNUG -,
The money pit is bottomless.
Rauner wants MJM and Cullerton to spend millions, not A million, millions in the Democratic Primaries.
IllinoisGO, according to their own release has $20 million pledged to them alone.
Madigan and Cullerton will be drained…
… like Ruhterford, and Brady… and Dillard…
Then Rauner drops $4-5 million just to show off, with $19+ million still hanging out in “Citizens for”
The statehouse Democrats that want to chase Rauner’s cash to keep up, the race is over, Rauner won.
This is just one prong of “Fire Madigan, 2.0″
It’s real. It’s happening. Dunkin could very well be the first “Raunerite”
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:01 am
Dino (Democrat in name only)
Comment by Foster brooks Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:02 am
“Dunkin ally Maze Jackson”
Maze Jackson seems to support RTW. He seems to believe that it’s okay to blackmail people into supporting lower paying jobs just to have a job, instead of working toward economic improvement that doesn’t lower wages and benefits.
http://chicagodefender.com/2015/05/22/right-to-work-zones-and-unions-in-the-black-community/
**And the governor told Thomas that he and Dunkin “share a passion around economic empowerment, especially in the black community.”**
Here is a study showing what is already apparent. African-Americans do much better in unions than without them. Pay discrimination is reduced by unionization. Rauner’s wanting to bust unions will help African-Americans in Unicornia, the magic land of trickle down economics.
http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2015/9/7/unionization-found-to-reduce-pay-discrimination.html
Comment by Grandson of Man Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:02 am
=== Madigan better contain this defection before it spreads. I would bet he is already on it. ===
It’s not hard to pick off a few folks with a little glitter of gold, but do you really believe that there will be enough sell-outs to pass the massive human service cuts and anti-union provisions pushed by Rauner.
P.S. While you revel in the tweak of Madigan, there is still the more solid Dem supermajority in the Senate.
Comment by Norseman Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:03 am
Dunk may have bolted for his reasons, me, I look at declining Union membership,a state that can’t tax its way out of its fiscal mess, and I ask myself what are the guys that I have been voting for been doing wrong? Is it me? Do I need to wake up and smell the coffee? I know good and well Rauner can’t fix this mess, but somebody out there ought to be able too. Do I need medical cannabis?………..
Comment by Blue dog dem Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:05 am
Too bad Mr Tansparent Gov doesn’t make his appt schedule public. Wondering how many times Dunkin has been having tea with the Gov…..
It’s a no-brainer. Follow the money.
Comment by cdog Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:06 am
I’m sure no black people were affected by the CCAP cuts…
Comment by Anonymous Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:06 am
It’s all about political survival.
I remember when Blago was elected and local - and very prominent - Sangamon County Republicans started donating to Blago’s campaign fund. Some of them even attended public events with him and did business with his administration. Why? Because - and I’m sorry for being cynical - too much in politics is about self and not service. Those local GOP “leaders” got crapped on a lot over the years, and now I’ve seen a few of them at local GOP events and fundraisers. It’s no coincidence. I’m not gonna hammer Ken Dunkin if he’s looking out for himself. A lot of people in this business do.
Everyone wants to rip Governor Rauner. Fine. But he’s the Governor now and he’s trying to get as many wins as possible. Look at what happens in Missouri with the opposite setup: a Democratic Governor (Jay Nixon) is constantly at odds with the House and Senate Republicans (who control the Missouri State House). Governor Nixon gets wins when he can - even if they’re not as bloody or as hard fought as Governor Rauner’s wins in Illinois. But if you read the P-D and the KC Star, some of the inside battles are just as fierce and often as ideological.
SB 1229 was Rauner’s win. It gives him breathing room. At worst, it’s a pyrrhic win. At best, it’s a defining win in relation to his agenda.
Comment by Team Sleep Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:07 am
The Republicans in heavy union districts - those are the ones that will be getting the heat and political cash and ads can’t overcome voter anger and betrayal. Those guys voted Rauner’s wish list not their district.
Comment by take that Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:07 am
==“Illinois Democrats are worried that state Rep. Ken Dunkin’s independence could be contagious, especially among African-American lawmakers.”==
Laughable. An afterthought line to boost audience interest in the story.
As Thomas knows and reported, Dunkin’s move, if anything, solidified black caucus opposition to him and his passive support for Rauner’s agenda.
Some friendly advice to IllinoisGo and other supporters of Rauner’s Turnaround — You couldn’t gamble on a worse ally or symbol than Ken Dunkin.
Comment by walker Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:10 am
@LizPhairTax - I had a similar thought. Person 8 mentioned the big deposit during the elction, it would be interesting to know if there was a resulting increase in economic “empowerment” or it was just for show.
I am not sure the IlGo money is as finite as some think,, they along with the Governor may in fact be in this for the long haul. So many Rauner predictions have proven false, not in what he was actually about but whether he would win etc. I think he is here to stay and, given the egos at play, will fight MJM to the bitter end.
From a political perspective, it is hard to blame any member of the Black Caucus for attempting to make the most of their political hand. From a governance standpoint I don’t like it, but I understand the politics. It is also impossible to take the moral high ground and attack them, or anyone for that matter, for taking Rauner money. This is the sad state of politics. It also makes the ILGOP sound ridiculous when they talk about unions and MJM buying Democratic member allegiance.
Comment by JS Mill Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:11 am
I absolutely cannot believe that Jackson made such an obvious racial reference. How incredibly offensive.
Comment by Just Me Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:12 am
Since AFSCME and Rauner have agreed to extend the contract indefinitely I hope commenters will quit asserting that the Governor wants a lockout. They are negotiating and eventually will come to an agreement.
Comment by anon. Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:12 am
Ken is Ken and clearly enjoys a spotllight. Once this stom passes Rauner will emerge weaker, not stronger. As real leadership requires action, not obstruction.
Rauner can “buy all the steppers” he can afford, but in the end, the black community is the base of the Democrat Party and will come home. Ken is just easy to rent.
Comment by Track312 Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:13 am
“Everyone wants to rip Governor Rauner.”
It’s that Rauner’s ripping others, and people are defending themselves and returning blows.
“When one guy breaks off the plantation”
It’s ironic that Jackson says this, given that RTW has deeply racist roots. “Plantation” also represents economic conditions pre-unionization.
Comment by Grandson of Man Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:15 am
Team Sleep, money = “political survival!”
Comment by Norseman Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:16 am
- JS Mill -,
With respect,
IllinoisGO has just under $9 million in the bank.
That’s IN the bank.
https://www.elections.il.gov/campaigndisclosure/D2Quarterly.aspx?id=582249
They’re serious.
Perspective?
What did MJM and Cullerton, together, spend in 2014 the whole cycle? How much does IllinoisGO have on hand?
How much is in hand at “Citizens for Rauner”?
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:16 am
== The money pit is bottomless. ==
I realize that. That’s why I said sacrificial lamb. I wasn’t suggesting a lot of D money be dumped in, just enough to be a nuisance and distract the GOP.
Comment by RNUG Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:18 am
So which was it — Dunkin made a conscious decision to escape Ol’ Massa Mike’s plantation, or it was just a misunderstanding about his vacation plans?
Those are two very different stories. Might want to just pick one and stick with it.
No matter. There’s $9 million on the table from IllinoisGO, that progressive Democratic grassroots organization bankrolled by that nice Houston couple, Zell, Lefkowsky, Mansueto and Hulsizer.
Not a lot of grassroots, with only five contributors total, but still plenty of green. And who knows how much in dark money.
Comment by Wordslinger Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:19 am
This is the first time that the Speaker has been in an actual bind.
We all know he supports a bunch of nitwits, as long as they cast the proper vote for the Speaker and the rules.
Is he going to tolerate this?
Comment by Gooner Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:19 am
The other part of that equation is: money = political alliances >= money.
Comment by Norseman Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:22 am
Rep. Dunkin…better the devil you know than the devil you don’t. Hitchin’ your wagon to the Gov. could make for a very bumpy ride. And, most importantly, will it help your constituents?
Comment by Former Hoosier Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:22 am
Who knows, come January 2017, we may see Republicans seated, Democrats seated, and a new caucus of 4 or 5, the Raunerites, sitting in a row, voting with the Raunerite H&SGOP, having a Caucus Chair, press releases, a “5th and 6th Top”…
Rauner is at nearly $30 million to make Rod Blagojevich’s dream real… “Who” knows how people might fall?
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:24 am
Finally, Rauner managed to reach way up and grab the lowest piece of hanging fruit in the HDEM caucus. Now I can only hope and pray that Team Rauner listens closely to his sage advice and models its future legislative strategy on Ken “Century Club” Dunkin.
Doneken just put a low ceiling on his political career. I hope he enjoys his moment in the spotlight. I think it’s almost over.
Have fun with your new floor leader Mr. Goldberg.
Comment by 47th Ward Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:30 am
Mama - **I think Dunkin is all about the money.
What do you think Madigan and Cullerton are about?
Comment by TBone Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:30 am
@OW- Agreed, I believe they have all the money they feel like having, when they feel like having it. That is why I said don’t think there money trough is finite, it is more like infinite as a matter of fact.
These guys are not playing games, they have the money and money over time can build the organization. If MJM and Cullerton don’t find a big money sugar daddy soon they are in real trouble, it is just a matter of time.
Comment by JS Mill Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:31 am
One thing you just don’t see much of here….The Speaker has some sour history with this member. Maze might be the one saying it out loud, but this member feels seriously wronged by this Speaker. To have that much defiance, something happened. Rauner has been involved in activities on the South side for a long time, long predating his run for Governor. He established strong relationships there years ago.
You see all the innuendo here about what this Rep ran “toward”. Is it so hard to see what isn’t innuendo about what he’s walking away from. There won’t be a mass exodus. But I’m willing to believe there will be more than one.
Comment by A guy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:32 am
===Rauner has been involved in activities on the South side for a long time, long predating his run for Governor. He established strong relationships there years ago.===
If you’re talking about the Rauner YMCA, for example, Gov. Rauner is unfunding programs that were running there.
- A Guy -, at some point, it’s about being governor and those actions mattering as opposed to “years” and “millions” as a crutch when dismantling social services today.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:37 am
Norseman - yes, that’s part of my point. Rep. Dunkin may fear a primary challenge, and he may need help. I don’t know. My interactions with him extend no further than intersection of Monroe and Spring Streets.
Gooner - I agree. That’s actually both a humorous and succinct way to put it.
Comment by Team Sleep Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:37 am
If Person8 at 9:52 AM is right, wow.
Comment by Robert the Bruce Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:38 am
Gooner, this isn’t the first time that Ken has been in the Soeaker’s doghouse. Let’s just take a trip in the way back machine and visit right after the impeachment. When Ken gave the greatest Ken quote of all time. (After the Speaker refused to name any members to the committees that Ken and Jay were chairing)
“Why has he not promoted Ken Dunkin, who is such the tourism authority in this chamber, who has promoted tourism throughout the centuries and the decades in the history of the state of Illinois? Why? Why, Mr. Speaker?” asked Dunkin.
Comment by Juice Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:38 am
…Shrapnel rained down from the skies today as 83% of the population ran for shelter while the wealthy 1%’ers battled with the unions’ 16%’ers to see who can buy the most political clout at the expense of the 83%. Both sides claimed the moral high ground and derided the duplicitous measures of the other side even though both used the same exact tactics…
Comment by nixit71 Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:39 am
Dunkin to Rauner: show me the money. Rauner to Dunkin: done. Shame on Dunkin for joining Republicans who put their own financial and personal interests above state workers and the services they provide. Dunkin can try to spin it to make hims ld look like an independent, but now he is in Rauner’s pocket. And, let’s be honest, Rauner has tried to pit minorities against unions. Dunkin let his constituents be used. Hope it was worth it.
Comment by Anon Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:40 am
A guy @ 10:32am
Great point about there being some history. If i recall correctly, the Speaker ran a candidate against Dunkin in 2010 and Dunkin won. He wont waist his time doing that again especially since the disclosures show Dunkin holding over $250k.
Comment by TBone Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:41 am
- JS Mill -,
Yep. My point was, even right now, today, Rauner through his IllinoisGO Shell Corporation and the $20 million invested in continued acquisition of the ILGOP GA, there isn’t much for raising needed, except to discourage Dems.
“We raised $100,000!” - Dem operative.
“Rauner just dropped $250,000 to pile on”
The table is set. The Unions, all unions, and Democrats might learn how Rutherford, Brady, and Dillard felt, but in two elections instead of just one.
With respect.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:42 am
Dunkin was a source of ridicule in the House for continually trying to make side deals with Gov. Blagojevich, even if only for free plane rides. He and we will survive this little fling.
Comment by walker Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:42 am
Rauner’s plan to win the war against the Democrats’ stronghold is starting to sound EXACTLY like Reagan’s plan that “won” the Cold War. Why did the Societ Union crumble?!?!
Comment by forwhatitsworth Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:42 am
I have a dream that one day Illinois’ labor laws will mirror the great state of Mississippi.
Comment by God said to Abraham Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:51 am
Dunkin strikes me as a man without a home.
Comment by Stones Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:53 am
== The Unions, all unions, and Democrats might learn how Rutherford, Brady, and Dillard felt, but in two elections instead of just one.==
Maybe, but how much will “Saving Private Dunkin” cost to produce?
Comment by God said to Abraham Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:56 am
“chicken little” talk
Comment by Anonymous Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:56 am
– Why did the Soviet Union crumble?!?!–
Because Ken Dunkin flipped?
Or, it might have had something to do with people got sick of waiting hours in the snow every day for a crust of black bread, some Redwood Bark brand TP and a bottle of Old Ivan skull popper? Some other minor developments, as well.
But probably mostly Dunkin.
Comment by Wordslinger Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:56 am
== - Former Hoosier - Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 9:55 am:
Dunkin says that he doesn’t answer to Madigan, instead he has taken a stand that has him answering to Rauner. ==
Purely from the perspective of game theory, Dunkin doesn’t have to answer to Rauner for Rauner to benefit, he only needs to NOT answer to Madigan.
Increases uncertainty for each vote for Madigan, especially if Dunkin’s defections have the appearance of randomness. This causes all sorts of problems for the math in iterated games.
Again, this is just from a math/game theory perspective, not how the actual relationships/politics will play out.
Comment by Anderson Villy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 10:58 am
Rev Meeks and Pastor Corey Brooks both moved to the Rauner-side prior to the election. Why is it so surprising that Dunkin would open a door to the Gov after the Speaker blamed him personally for his own failure on 1229? Dunkin wouldn’t be the first black leader to act independently; and if this continues on the track it’s on, I doubt that he’ll be the last.
Comment by Lincoln Lad Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:00 am
Ken Dunkin’s reputation among his House colleague’s is reflected in his repeated winning of the Century Club trophy.
Comment by nona Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:01 am
==Why did the Soviet Union crumble?==
I think that US arms spending and the Soviets willingness to use its resources on the arm race - and not its people - led to the bread lines, etc.
That said, I’m sure Rauner’s gigantic cash advantage will crumble the Dems and unions given how strong Illinois’ legislative map is, the strong Dem campaign teams and the inability of the Repubs to keep their incumbents happy enough to prevent mass retirements. The Rauner money will get spent, but if it’s spent on bad candidates and even worse consultants then it will be more of a party that a political operation.
Comment by God said to Abraham Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:03 am
===Again, this is just from a math/game theory perspective, not how the actual relationships/politics will play out.===
Yeah, I don’t think you have a clue about Caucus Politics, or how cold it is being isolated in a Caucus.
In a dorm room, man, this is pure gold.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:03 am
===Purely from the perspective of game theory, Dunkin doesn’t have to answer to Rauner for Rauner to benefit, he only needs to NOT answer to Madigan.===
That will help…
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:05 am
@Person8 9:52 =remember when Rauner made a $1 million dollar donation?=
I seem to remember part of it was described as an “investment” into a savings and loan. It might have some sort of strings attached.
Comment by DuPage Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:07 am
Dunkin’s slogan for the ‘16 primary campaign: “Last to stand with Blago, first to join Rauner”
Comment by Tommy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:08 am
==
- nona - Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:01 am:
Ken Dunkin’s reputation among his House colleague’s is reflected in his repeated winning of the Century Club trophy.==
And the fact that not a single one has come out to defend him. They’re angry, man. He’s making this all about the arbitration bill, but that wasn’t the member focus for the day.
Comment by ugh Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:08 am
Meeks, Brooks, now Dunkin.
Comment by jt Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:09 am
Dunkin is Jesse White’s guy, and Jesse White’s problem.
Comment by Juvenal Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:11 am
I’ve been hearing rumblings for quite some time that the Black Caucus is willing to cut a deal that would allow right-to-work zones. They are never going to happen in Chicago and the inner suburbs that they represent. And the unions outside that area - especially the building trades - aren’t known for their diversity in membership or, particularly, in leadership. And ILGO offers substantial financial support for those who are willing to give up union PAC money. 47 plus 21 gets you to 68 so you only need to round up a few ambitious Dems who want to buck the Speaker.
Comment by Nobody Nobody Sent Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:16 am
Ugh @ 11:01…
Exactly. And I’m sure his House colleagues love being referred to as on a plantation. I’m sure that is going over really well. He’s the former Legislative Black Caucus chair for a reason.
Comment by sideline watcher Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:19 am
Juvenal is right.
Unfortunately, as a rule, Sec. White supported some absolutely terrible people.
Comment by Gooner Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:27 am
== In a dorm room, man, this is pure gold. ==
I agree with you.
Genuine question (from a lurker who values your insight), how does this all play out in the real world?
Comment by Anderson Villy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:34 am
@nobody nobody sent. You do realize that not all of the members of the black caucus are from the Chicago area, right? No way the members outside Chicago are going to go against organized labor like that. Not that all members from the Chicago area would either, but still.
Comment by Juice Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:36 am
===…how does this all play out in the real world?===
Rauner will try with IllinoisGO to add Dunkin and maybe 3-4 more former Democrats and make them Raunerites.
Rauner will try to get 3-4 more GOP members in the House thru General Election wins.
If Rauner gets 55 Raunerite members to 63 Democrats, Rauner can wedge and try to cobble 60 easier and try to peel 4 votes at a time from Madigan.
This was never about governing, it’s “Fire Madigan 2.0″, and it will take up to the new map, one Rauner hope to sign if not control, to get Rod’s dream.
The Senate? Whole different animal, more liberal, less Raunerite-ripe…
But if Rauner gets the House in disarray, Dunkin begins that.
That’s for your kind words, hope this gives you an idea on my thoughts…
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:44 am
Translation - i hope rauner dumps money here to save my job next election….
Comment by Ghost Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:58 am
Why is it we only applaud Republican’s for “reaching across the aisle”? Wasn’t this a form of bipartisanship, that everyone says they want?
Comment by Downstate Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:59 am
Dunkin is offering to cooperate with anyone to help the state. I wish more D’s and R’s sounded like him, Franks and Drury right now, even if I may question their sincerity.
Comment by Anonymous Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:01 pm
== Oswego Willy ==
Appreciate it. Is Dunkin (and from the campaign, Booker) his model? Or does he have another play to get to 3-4 Democrats?
Comment by Anderson Villy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:10 pm
Anonymous @ 12:01
I concur. The guy says he asked AFSCME what they were proposing in the contract which, by the way , is something he should do to protect his constituents. AFSCME refused to tell him. He subsequently asked the Governor’s office and apparently what he was told was dissatisfying. So now the unions are mad because he wouldn’t agree to allow them to scam taxpayers…..AGAIN. And, some how the Madigan lackey’s assert that means he’s “bought” by the governor. Unreal
Comment by TBone Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:11 pm
I’d like to hear about any concrete accomplishment by Dunkin. Anything.
Comment by tired state worker Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:12 pm
tired state worker @12:12pm
Visit ilga.gov
Comment by TBone Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:13 pm
==I’d like to hear about any concrete accomplishment by Dunkin. Anything.===
I know it’s not what you’re looking for, but he prevented an override last week. That was concrete to many. Legislation is like golf; every shot makes “someone” happy.
Comment by A guy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:16 pm
“Why is it so surprising that Dunkin would open a door to the Gov after the Speaker blamed him personally for his own failure on 1229?”– I believe, Lincoln Lad, time will show that the door was opened by Dunkin for his own benefit before the 1229 vote.
Comment by Anon Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:21 pm
“Today is the time that we have to take charge of our own destiny here,” Dunkin repeated to the reporter after Governor Rauner whispered it to him through an earpiece.
==- jt - Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 11:09 am:==
Three’s a crowd. It is also three more than Bruce Rauner ever hired as a private equity executive.
Comment by Precinct Captain Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:21 pm
- Anderson Villy -,
Rauner will pick his spots and wedge issues, like trying to engage the Black Caucus at different levels, conservative downstate members looking for cover, even suburban moderate members of the HDems.
Rauner only needs 3. Dunkin in “1″
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:24 pm
“The guy says he asked AFSCME what they were proposing in the contract which, by the way , is something he should do to protect his constituents. AFSCME refused to tell him. He subsequently asked the Governor’s office and apparently what he was told was dissatisfying.” I don’t know why AFSCME would reveal to anybody what was in their negotiation plan. Isn’t that a breach of the confidential negotiation process? And Rauner’s people released confidential information, sin’t that a breach of the process?
Comment by NewWestSuburbanGOP'er Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:33 pm
Couldn’t a ULP be filed against the Governor?
Comment by NewWestSuburbanGOP'er Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:34 pm
When the thing you’re most known for politically is abandoning your district and leaving the state to not do your job you’re pretty exposed on your flank.
And as far as Rauner’s popularity among black voters, this was a campaign narrative in 2014 that wasn’t really borne out by facts. Yes, Rauner spent money and tried campaigning there and I give him credit for it. But there are 8 Chicago wards that are 80%+ African American and Rauner didn’t get 4% in any of those wards.
Comment by The Captain Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:35 pm
NewWestSuburbanGOP’er @12:33
You don’t know why AFSCME would agree to tell a legislator what they’re negotiating? I can think of a few reasons.
Comment by TBone Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:37 pm
==He’s the former Legislative Black Caucus chair for a reason.==
Yes, former for a reason, but not the one you insinuate, which shows your lack of familiarity with the caucus.
Black Dems have every right to be sick and tired of the bread lines and being vulnerable on that front is the Machine’s own fault.
Dunkin and the other defectors mentioned are certainly no heroes, considering the nature of their new alliance.
But no matter how harmful and irrational and self-serving Dunkin’s actions were, his underlying accusations ring true. It’s long past time for Democrats to address that situation.
Billions or no billions, there is no good reason Democrats in IL should be vulnerable on race issues to the likes of Bruce “couldn’t find any African-Americans in Chicago” Rauner.
Comment by crazybleedingheart Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:38 pm
=but he prevented an override last week.=
Not where I thought that would go, but an interesting perspective and not untrue.
Comment by JS Mill Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:39 pm
=I wish more D’s and R’s sounded like him=
1) He is not trying to “help”
2) More than sound like it, I wish they were actually working together to actually help the state.
Comment by JS Mill Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:40 pm
===You don’t know why AFSCME would agree to tell a legislator what they’re negotiating? I can think of a few reasons.===
Ok, example?
Thanks.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:42 pm
Actually, Gov. Rauner’s frequent consultations with Rep. Dunkin probably explains a lot.
Comment by Wordslinger Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 12:52 pm
I’m hesitant to call him a defector or a “Raunerite” based upon this one vote. I’m quite sure he’ll go to Springfield and vote to override the childcare veto a several of the Governor’s other veto.
Sure Dunkin’s comments may be a bit hyperbolic; however, considering his voting record, the characterizations of the representative on this blog are rather extreme. Everyone take a chill pill and get off Madigan’s lap.
Comment by TBone Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:00 pm
And let’s be very real…my analogy to the plantation is something that I have heard often when the Senate refers to the Hose.
Comment by #mazesaid Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:01 pm
I was with some of Dunkin’s constituents this morning and they aren’t exactly feeling the warm fuzzies for Dunkin right now. Money is nice and all, but they do not always equate into votes (oberweiss). You would think the Brooks & Meeks buy off and the repercussions hitting their communities (notably the child care losses)would be a red flag. Gosh I wish people paid more attn to what is going on. However, based on the folks I talked to this morning,they do know what is going on with respect to Dunkin in his district and they don’t like it.
Comment by burbanite Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:02 pm
===Sure Dunkin’s comments may be a bit hyperbolic; however, considering his voting record, the characterizations of the representative on this blog are rather extreme.===
That Dunkin is a 3-time winner of the Century Award?
Nah, that’s just true.
When Dunkin cashes an IllinoisGO check, then we’ll all know.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:02 pm
Madigan is beginning to reap what he sowed.
Someone who deliberately crafts a remorseless reputation and spends decades shrewdly taking advantage of nearly any situation in which he has the upper hand, teaches others to do the same when they have an advantage on him.
The asking price for a 71st vote or anything else he desires Democratic unaninimity on will be very costly.
Comment by Anonymous Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:02 pm
Oh and last time I looked Dunkin has over 200g in his warchest already.
Comment by burbanite Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:03 pm
From his federal accommodations, Rod Blagojevich is smiling.
Comment by Anonymous Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:04 pm
Anonymous at 1:04 was mw
Comment by My New Handle Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:06 pm
“===You don’t know why AFSCME would agree to tell a legislator what they’re negotiating? I can think of a few reasons.===
Ok, example?
Thanks.”
Maybe if AFSCME is asking you to override a veto of a bill to hijack the negotiating process from elected officials?
Comment by Robert the 1st Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:11 pm
===Maybe if AFSCME is asking you to override a veto of a bill to hijack the negotiating process from elected officials? ===
Agreed. However, two things. First, they have shared some info on the negotiations. I’ve published quite a few updates.
Second, Dunkin voted “Yes” the first time around, told them he would be a “Yes” on the override and then didn’t show up.
Comment by Rich Miller Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:15 pm
Smith, Dunkin, etc. Amazing how Jesse White gets a free pass while his proteges stumble and bumble their way around. Once you get past Jesse’s façade, there’s a lot of ugly which he never has to answer for.
Comment by Original Rambler Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:20 pm
Rep Dunkin has not moved one inch from his position that he had informed the House leadership he would not be at the session. So the question really is how hard did Speaker Madigan work to get Rep Dunkin to the vote and given Scott Drury’s position that he too informed the leadership he was not supporting the AFSCME bill one has to wonder if Dunkin’s presence was really necessary? The votes were not there, Jack Franks or no Jack Franks.
The Speaker publicly said he had the votes to pass the bill and given Scott Drury’s position, which he was explicit on during his WTTW interview, that he never told the Speaker otherwise one has to wonder whether or not Speaker Madigan is covering up for his own failure here.
Rep Dunkin is being painted as irresponsible in this discussion. But was he? His position is that the Democrats did not have the votes needed and his vote or lack there of made no difference at all.
All of the conclusions being drawn about Ken Dunkin’s comment that he is willing to work with the Governor over economic empowerment issues in the Black community in Chicago are being blown out of proportion. Rep Dunkin has made many critical comments about the Governor’s cuts to social programs and he hasn’t retracted any of those as yet from what I can tell.
Comment by Rod Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:39 pm
- Rod -,
… Then there was that Chicago Tonight thingy…
Dunkin is a victim of himself. Dunkin deserves all he gets.
When Dunkin cashes his first IllinoisGO check, then we’ll know…
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 1:43 pm
Why won’t employers and politicians like Rauner who say they want to uplift the African-American community invest in the community WITHOUT enacting RTW? Why are they unwilling to pay higher wages and benefits? Isn’t that another form of exploitation, telling communities with high unemployment rates that they can only be helped if wages and benefits are pushed down?
Per an exit poll, Rauner got only 7% of the African-American vote.
http://www.nbcnews.com/politics/elections/2014/IL/governor/exitpoll
Now with the cuts to social services and constant attacks on union rights, why should that number change much?
Comment by Grandson of Man Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 2:07 pm
Rod, if the social programs were so important, surely he would have been there last week to be the 71st vote on childcare…
Comment by Tournaround Agenda Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 2:28 pm
My New Handle: thanks for dropping out of the “Anonymous” ranks
Comment by walker Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 3:16 pm
===Per an exit poll, Rauner got only 7% of the African-American vote.===
It was never the percentages that worried Rauner and his Crew. It was the raw ballot totals and spreads.
Example?
93 Quinn
7 Rauner
7% Rauner
139 Quinn
11 Rauner
7% Rauner
Difference? A 128 raw vote spread is better than an 86 vote spread to make up elsewhere.
That was the goal; low turnout, hope… hope for a higher percentage, but keep the ballot margins low.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 3:27 pm
Good luck with that whole comparing Mike Madigan to a slave owner thing, Ken Dunkin.
Let us know how that turns out for you.
Comment by Juvenal Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 3:30 pm
Tournaround Agenda his position on the childcare bill was the same as for the vote on the AFSCME bill. The votes were not there and his vote would not have changed a thing. I believe he was a co-sponsor of that bill and he would have voted for the override if he was present. Specifically he is arguing that he is being asked to wear the jacket for Speaker Madigan’s failure to get the needed votes before calling the bills. Whether one agrees with that position or not, that is what Dunkin has been saying.
Comment by Rod Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 3:45 pm
70 votes were there on the childcare bill. Had Dunkin been there for that override, it would have made a difference.
Comment by Tournaround Agenda Friday, Sep 11, 15 @ 4:05 pm