[Comments are now closed. Go here for a fresh thread. Thanks.]
*** UPDATE 1 - 12:09 am *** I warned subscribers a couple of weeks ago that this was a distinct possibility, and I spent most of Sunday evening working the phones after I heard Jones had been making calls. I was just about finished writing the Capitol Fax when I noticed that the Trib had it posted…
Powerful Illinois Senate President Emil Jones Jr. is expected to announce Monday that he soon will retire, sources close to him said Sunday night, which will leave Gov. Rod Blagojevich without one of his closest allies. […]
His decision, not officially confirmed, likely opens a free-for-all to succeed him. Possible candidates to succeed Jones, a Chicago Democrat, as president include Sens. James Clayborne of Belleville, Jeff Schoenberg of Evanston; John Cullerton, Rickey Hendon and Donne Trotter of Chicago; and Terry Link of Waukegan, who doubles as Lake County Democratic chairman.
Jones’ name is on the Nov. 4 ballot with no opposition. He could remain on the ballot and throw the choice of his successor in the Senate district to local party leaders. […]
The loss of Jones at the helm will be a setback for Blagojevich, who counted on his ally to deliver support in the Senate for numerous controversial proposals. Jones’ support gave the Democratic governor a counterweight to House Speaker Michael Madigan, with whom Blagojevich has feuded.
There are others on the possible list, of course, but those are most of the bigger names.
Electing a Senate President requires 30 votes in the Senate, not just a majority of the Democratic caucus. As I told subscribers this morning, that’s the real key. Take a look at this 1981 story for how crazy things can get. And 1979 was worse.
As Larry notes…
The Governor is probably delusionally trying to come up with a Banana Republic type scenario. Of course, some people actually liked Jim Thompson.
Find out what he’s talking about by clicking here or here. But keep in mind that the current Senate rules require a constitutional majority to elect a Senate President.
And as the Tribune points out, the loss of Jones is a huge issue for Gov. Blagojevich. His whole strategy will have to change.
*** UPDATE 2 - 1:43 am *** From the Sun-Times…
Senate President Emil Jones is expected to announce his retirement plans today, stripping Gov. Blagojevich of his most vocal and reliable ally as the governor contemplates a third term. […]
A spokesman for Blagojevich said he did not know anything about Jones’ intentions.
I talked to a Blagojevich insider last night who was taken completely by surprise. Interesting, eh?
* Also…
One source indicated that Jones is likely to serve through the end of this year’s session, scheduled to end in November. Other close allies insist Jones, 72, remains healthy.
Both of those statements are true, as far as I can tell.
* Meanwhile, the Tribune took a recent look at how the governor has “re-emerged” in the past few weeks…
One top Blagojevich counselor acknowledged that “issues during the spring”—a euphemism for Rezko’s corruption trial—”necessitated him not always being out there” in the public eye.
“At the end of the day, he’s going to take heat no matter what,” said the Blagojevich adviser, who asked that his name not be used because he was not authorized to speak about strategy. “There was a consensus that it was time for him to get out there.” […]
Like the Golden Gloves boxer he once was, Blagojevich had to climb back into the ring and flail sometimes wildly to put the focus back on his agenda.
“I think the governor, with all the problems going on out there, maybe is happiest when he’s in the ring throwing those punches,” said state Rep. Robert Molaro (D-Chicago). “I think he sat back and tried other ways, he’s getting other advice, and then he says, ‘I’m only happy when I’m fighting.’ ” […]
“If the speaker thinks this kid is going away, that he’s maybe losing the fight, then the speaker is sadly mistaken,” Molaro said. “I think Rod Blagojevich is going to fight to the bitter end.”
Molaro has a point, but Emil Jones’ retirement is gonna have a huge impact on this comeback.
For instance, instead of putting together a capital plan now, Madigan might want to wait until Jones is gone.
*** UPDATE 3 - 9:14 am *** This was filed last night, at about the same time as the Tribune’s piece, but I didn’t see it…
“Emil called me tonight and said that he has been thinking about it for two years and has decided to retire. He said he will announce it at a news conference Monday,” Sen. Jacobs said. […]
Sen. Jones called each member of the Senate Democratic caucus to inform them of his impending announcement, Mike Jacobs said. He added Sen. Jones told him he plans to serve out the remainder of his term, which ends in January.
The AP is only quoting the Tribune and Sun-Times at the moment. Maybe they could get off their behinds and call Jacobs and some other members, and mention the Small Newspaper story while they’re at it.
*** UPDATE 4 - 9:56 am *** The AP finally got ahold of somebody…
Senator Rickey Hendon tells The Associated Press that Jones has told him he’ll step down after November’s legislative veto session.
Hendon says Jones isn’t retiring because of health problems. He says Jones has spent more than 30 years in the Illinois Legislature, is about to turn 73 and is ready to move on.
Hendon is 1 of Jones’ top deputies. The Chicago Democrat says he’s interested replacing Jones as Senate president.
*** UPDATE 5 - 9:59 am *** Chicago Public Radio makes two important points…
There is also talk about the timing of Jones’ announcement. It comes just eleven days before state election officials finalize the ballot for the fall election. That leaves the potential for party leaders to swap Jones off the ballot and replace him with a hand-picked candidate. That has fueled talk that Jones may make a move to have his son succeed him in office—a maneuver that has been a favorite of Illinois politicians. […]
Jones’ announcement will come as his political mentee Illinois Senator Barack Obama prepares to accept the Democratic presidential nomination next week. Jones and Obama grew extremely close during Obama’s time in the state senate. Any distasteful Chicago-style political dealings connected with Jones’ retirement could become a problem for Obama who has long sought to keep his distance from the city’s reputation for political corruption and slight-of-hand.
I wrote about Jones wanting to install his son, Emil III, a couple of weeks ago. The Obama thing is important as well. This helps create a tiny bit of distance, particularly if something breaks between now and election day.
*** UPDATE 6 - 10:33 am *** Mentioned above, but worth noting …
Jones has been the governor’s biggest supporter [on the capital bill]. He’s expected to stick around through the end of this session — in January. But make no mistake, word of his retirement makes him a political lameduck and the power struggles to replace him have already begun.
The next Senate president is likely to want to put his (or her) stamp of approval on project spending rather than rubberstamp Jones’ vision.
And that’s why the construction spending spree is a little bit deader today than it was yesterday.
[Comments are now closed. Go here for a fresh thread. Thanks.]
- Hanging Chad - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 12:29 am:
With the Great Obstructionist set to leave, perhaps someone in Springfield can kick start the government. I didn’t see a cause for leaving, so I hope that his health is not the issue.
Regardless, this is a good thing in the end.
- Chicago Cynic - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 12:31 am:
Wow. It’s long past time for Emil to step aside. But what is really frightening is that as bad as Emil has been, the notion of a President Hendon or President Trotter are both orders of magnitude worse.
In the end, I assume that Clayborne is going to emerge as a compromise winning candidate which would be an improvement from the status quo. But Lord help us if it’s the other two.
- Way Northsider - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 12:31 am:
Is thelist of likely successors the Trib identified accurate? What is the process for deciding on who gets it? Please help us understand the ins and outs and what to look out for. Thanks!
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 12:42 am:
===Is thelist of likely successors the Trib identified accurate? ===
Subscribe.
- Chicago Cynic - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 12:51 am:
“===Is thelist of likely successors the Trib identified accurate? ===
Subscribe.”
Very funny for 1 am Rich! (I do, btw).
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 12:51 am:
It’s on the way. Just e-mailed it.
If you don’t get it, send me an email soon.
- Chicago Cynic - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 12:57 am:
I just read your great analysis which came across my email right after I posted the comment. In this era of leadership consistency, you raise a great historical point - the winner is by no means obvious. I’m intrigued with the Harmon idea because he’d be such a thoughtful and productive contrast to the current leadership. But I guess I find it hard to believe that he could emerge victorious.
If you had to guess today, who do you think will win? Personally, my money’s on Clayborne.
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 1:05 am:
===If you had to guess today, who do you think will win? ===
I’ve been going back and forth on this for weeks. Not sure. No predictions yet. I was able to do the math and predict with certainty that Jones would be elected Minority Leader in 1993, but this ain’t nearly as easy.
Notice the last sentence I wrote about Clayborne. Enuff said… and that goes for everyone, by the way.
*** Don’t get yourself banned over this stuff. ***
- archpundit - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 1:10 am:
I imagine the Governor is boning up on 1981. It’s delusional, but so is he.
- Chicago Cynic - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 1:10 am:
Sorry, not to be dense, but what stuff?
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 1:21 am:
Nevermind. Move along.
- Chicago Cynic - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 1:23 am:
Moving along to bed. I look forward to very loud chatter on this one for the next few months. Thank God it came along or we would have had nothing else interesting to talk about in politics and governing in this State!
Pingback Politics: Emil Jones retiring as Illinois Senate President | Peoria Pundit - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 3:02 am:
[…] Rich Miller, who warned his subscribers long ago this was coming, has the details. This is a huge blow to Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich. […]
- Evita Halvorson - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 4:06 am:
It won’t be easy, you’ll think it strange
When I try to explain how I feel
That I still need your love after all that I’ve done
You won’t believe me
All you will see is a girl you once knew
Although she’s dressed up to the nines
At sixes and sevens with you
I had to let it happen, I had to change
Couldn’t stay all my life down at heel
Looking out of the window, staying out of the sun
So I chose freedom
Running around, trying everything new
But nothing impressed me at all
I never expected it to
[Chorus:]
Don’t cry for me Democratic Illinois Senate
The truth is I never left you
All through my wild days
My mad existence
I kept my promise
Don’t keep your distance
And as for fortune, and as for fame
I never invited them in
Though it seemed to the world they were all I desired
They are illusions
They are not the solutions they promised to be
The answer was here all the time
I love you and hope you love me
Don’t cry for me Democratic Illinois Senate
The truth is I never left you
All through my wild days
My mad existence
I kept my promise
Don’t keep your distance
Have I said too much?
There’s nothing more I can think of to say to you.
But all you have to do is look at me to know
That every word is true
- Bi-Partisan - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 6:42 am:
I think Harmon will be the next Senate President. He can appeal to the Chicago and Suburban votes in the caucus. It won’t be a quick or easy process, but Don will win it.
- ChiCountryGuy - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 6:54 am:
No mention of Sen. Jimmy DeLeo as a sucessor?
- 2ConfusedCrew - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 7:08 am:
Pretty sure the Blagoofers have been out of the loops with The President for weeks —ever since the fake vote to kill the payraise.
Now that the raise will get another vote tomorrow and the Senate will need to dump on their insurance pals too. The par-tay is over. “The thrill is gone,” as Howlin’ Wolf once proclaimed.
Bet Blagoof will announce he feels good?
Wonder if Granberg will need to wait a little more until The President is done with DNR?
Wonder if The President is clearly the decks to be Obama’s running mate?
So many questions so little time. TTFN
- ChiCountryGuy - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 7:14 am:
I think the next big question is who Jones picks to replace him. Thoughts?
- Ken in Aurora - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 7:20 am:
(Wishing fervently for a Downstate Dem to get the presidency…)
- decatur voter - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 7:27 am:
Does that mean Rich we have a chance of a recall cobstitutional admendment question getting voted on by the Senate post Jones?
Or do we dare to say “impeachment”?
- phocion - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 7:32 am:
Adding my two cents (tin foil hat has been put away, too)…Harmon would actually be the brilliant choice. For the reasons stated by Rich and others, to be sure. But I also suspect a big calculus in Jones’ decision has to do with the Obama campaign.
This “retirement” is remiscent of Obama’s pastor retiring just as Obama was set to catch fire. This was before the damaging Rev. Wright tapes came out (although Obama was certain it would come out). Having his controversial minister leaving the church gave Obama some wriggle room when questions arose.
Similarly, Jones’s antics were coming to the fore - especially since Jones is going to the convention. National media would have been all over Obama’s mentor, and the story would have turned to some of Jones’s excesses, which in turn would be used to tarnish Obama.
Now, we’re all used to Jones here in Illinois. But I don’t know how well Emil would play in the rest of the country where people are still trying to get their arms around who Obama is. Back to Harmon…he’s an early Obama backer who delivered Oak Park huge in the 2004 U.S. Senate primary. Harmon would soothe some anxiety that Americans might feel if their only glimpse of Obama’s launching pad was Jones.
I hope this analysis doesn’t hurt Harmon’s chances to get 30 votes for the job. Senator Harmon is a fundamentally decent human being who would help restore dignity to the public’s perception of Springfield. Democrats and Republicans in the Senate should recognize that Harmon not only would have a much more consensus driven style, he would also help to more constructively set the stage to have an Illinoisan in the White House. God Bless America.
- DumberThanULook - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 7:53 am:
Since it hasn’t been said:
I wish President Jones well in his retirement and congratulate him on a long and successful career.
- Long time listener, first time caller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:00 am:
I like Cullerton for the job, but am not married to it. Have to vhime in and agree it is way past time for “the Warrior” to leave the stage and let the state see some progress.
- Gregor - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:01 am:
Well, I can imagine a certain state university repainting an office in preparation for a new occupant real soon…
- OneMan - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:09 am:
So does Emil use his money to help those who will support the person he wants to replace him?
- anon - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:09 am:
Jones has to retire…He didn’t get his raise… In order to get food stamps he can’t have a full time job.
- Ghost - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:18 am:
I just cant see trodder or hendon realistically pulling in eough support.
I wonder if Jones is retiring gracefully to avoid ay more taint from Blago, and to free himself up for a possible position in the Obama Gov. I just can’t picture Jones sitting at home collecting figurines, he has somthing in mind about where he is headed next and I don’t think its a full on retirement.
The of course coudl drastically reshape governance in IL; depending on the new Senate president it may be possible to put forth spending to fix those giant holes the Gov craved out of his enemies budgets.
- Anon - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:18 am:
I like people who are dreamers! Harmon won’t be the Senate President this go around; nice dreaming. Try some years fom now. I think the senator that wasn’t mentioned in the paper we need to keep our eye on Sen Jimmy DeLeo. DeLeo and Hendon have plenty of senority in the senate once Jones retires. Anyone who gets the job has to go pass them and their allies.
- Chanahan Man - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:27 am:
This is bad news for Linda Holmes D-Aurora, Emil taking the money and running.
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:34 am:
=== Sen Jimmy DeLeo===
He’s not running.
- Cassandra - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:40 am:
Don Harmon can’t seem to get the ethics bill implemented. Yes, I know it is still on the guv’s desk, but getting it past the guv is part of the job. It’s all in the implementation, as we’ve seen with our Blago.
No matter how healthy, a 73 year old has to know that life does not go on forever. Maybe Jones just wants to do something else. The state legislature hasn’t been terribly productive over the last several years, to put it mildly, and most of his relatives that want one already have high-paying lifetime state jobs so going to work probably is getting kind of tedious. Plus
Obama, if elected, will likely find an interesting retirement job for him should he wish.
- Captain Flume - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:45 am:
So if Sen. Jones indeed will retire before the next session begins, his lame duck tenure could be a tremendous headache for lots of people, including the Governor and including the Speaker.
- Reformer - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:47 am:
A President Hendon would exacerbate the Springfield gridlock. Let’s hope the Senate chooses someone who will alleviate it. I suspect Clayborne, Cullerton or Harmon would all improve the atmosphere in the Capitol.
- Fire Ron Guenther - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:50 am:
Emil is the perfect candidate to become President of Chicago State University. He’ll finally get that pay raise he wants!
- Wacker Drive - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 8:55 am:
Anyone ever consider the Feds might be getting real close to the big fish?
- Wumpus - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:07 am:
I have heard a rumor that Emil is stepping down so he can be placed on the ticket w/his student, Obama. They will get around the residency by a., claiming Obama is from Hawaii or Emil will move to Gary/Merrilville area.
Just a little fun
- Ghost - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:07 am:
Wacker, nah the Feds still need to try Kelly, cut a deal with him, mine him for info, follow up on getting secondary witnesses or documents for whatever kelly provides (not to mention working on whatever Rezko feeds them) If by close you mean an indictment in the next 4 years, then yes they are close.
- Joe in the Know - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:15 am:
My prediction is that Emil will find himself in a cushy Blago appointed position that will double his pension.
- Captain America - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:17 am:
I’m sure Jones is a great guy personally, and undoubtedly he has had a long successful career as noted by “Dumber Than I Look”, but I say unequivocally Good Riddance!
The Godfather is and has been the primary enabler of Governor Pinnochio’s bad behavior the last two sessions, not to mention an impediment to reform intiatives. I think it’s great that Jones decided to leave on his own terms instead of eventually being pushed out by his caucus.
It will a tremendous opportunity to end the impasse in Springfield or at least to temper some of its worst consequences.
The only names that I have seen mentioned, who I consider terrible choices, would be Senator Hendon and Senator DeLeo. Nothing against either man personally, but Hendon appears to be a showboat,not a workhorse, as well as ethically-challenged. Anyone who reads John Kass’s column in the Tribune would understand my reservations about Senator “Hey,How Ya Doin” Deleo.
It’s time for chenge in Washington and Springfield too. Our long State nightmare may soon be over,as a result of Senator Jones’ retirement and Governor A’s eventual departure from office in 2010 or 2011.
We’ll really be able to begin a new chapter in Illinois politics when Speaker Machiavlelli retires too. (Some of you may may have missed a late post of mine Friday morning in which I noted that I definitely respected Speaker Madigan, despite my criticism of him for his role in the current Springfield stalemate. I observed that referring to him as Speaker Machiavelli was really a left-handed compliment -i.e., pertaining to his legislative and political prowess.)
But we need a new Governor, and a new Speaker. as well as a new Senate President, to to get to new chapter in Illinois politics, after twelve years of corruption at the higherst levels in Illinois government.
May the best person win for all these offices, whoever he or she may be!
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:18 am:
===that will double his pension.===
Highly doubtful, considering Jones’ current salary as Senate President. He’d have to be making way, way over $200K for that, and there aren’t that many state jobs with that sort of salary, except university president.
Facts before cynicism, please.
- He Gone.... - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:18 am:
I am hearing that Emil’s son is the front runner to succeed him as State Senator. Ald. Brookins has the weighted vote to choose who is the next Senator and given there history (Elder Brookins and Emil), it is going to be interesting to see what Emil gives up to get his son in….
- Ted - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:18 am:
Frank Watson has a good relationship with James Clayborne and Sen Bill Haine. Haine is a very likeable guy and would not be suprised if he emerged as the compromise candidate. If GOP votes are needed, Haine could close the deal. I have no idea what his fellow Dems think of him. By the way Wacker, you posit an interesting theory about Emil’s rationale for getting out now.
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:19 am:
===I am hearing that Emil’s son is the front runner to succeed him as State Senator. ===
Somebody reported that this morning, and two weeks ago. lol
- Anonymous45 - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:21 am:
Cassandra:
Please elaborate why it is Harmon’s fault that the Gov hasn’t signed the ethics bill…why aren’t you casting aspersions on the House sponsor Fritchey as well?
Please stick to your day job…
- chigirl - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:23 am:
If everyone is looking for a compromise how about Silverstein? He seems to handle Executive Committee well without being to close to anyone.
- Ghost - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:27 am:
== Somebody reported that this morning, and two weeks ago. lol ===
subscribe to find out who…..
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:28 am:
===If everyone is looking for a compromise how about Silverstein?===
There are a dozen or more possibilities. This has a long way to play out.
- He Gone.... - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:30 am:
Ghost…
So you are telling me that Rich knows who Emil’s successor is? How can he know when there are deals being cut right now by all of the committeemen to select the replacement…is he that good? If so then I will subscribe…
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:31 am:
===So you are telling me that Rich knows who Emil’s successor is?===
I can tell you who EJJr wants to take his place, and already have. I can’t say for sure who will.
And if you don’t want to subscribe, I don’t care, but try not to be so snide about my bidness. Thanks.
- Cassandra - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:32 am:
I didn’t say it was his fault. I said part of closing the deal is persuading the guv to sign it.
And part of being a political leader is persuading others to follow you, including those others who may not want to. It’s not at all clear that Harmon has the necessary skills. I don’t believe Fritchey is being mentioned as a potential Senate president, so his sponsorship is irrelevant to the topic.
- OneMan - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:33 am:
He Gone,
Rich knew Emil was going to retire before Emil even did…
- He Gone.... - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:33 am:
Calm down Rich don’t take it so personal. LOL
- Joe in the Know - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:34 am:
Rich, instead of writing “double”, I should have written “substantially increase his pension”. The point being: there has to be some reward for his steadfast support for Blago over the years. So, I humbly stand corrected.
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:34 am:
HG, that sort of crud makes me touchy. You said something about how you heard something about EJIII, and I said it was already reported. Then you come back with some weird stuff about how I don’t know for sure. Not sure what the heck that was about. No mood for it.
- Bill - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:36 am:
Emil,
It has been a great run. Thanks for everything. You have really blazed a trail and have a great legacy. Don’t be a stranger around the Township.
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:36 am:
Cassandra, your logic is a stretch. It’s backwards and doesn’t reflect the realities of the GA as it stands.
- Muskrat - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:40 am:
Clearly, Jones is going to star in a new reality TV show: Trading Messes. He’ll go to Pakistan, and just-resigned Pakistani PM Musharraf will come to Illinois. Watch as the Chicago pol tries to deal with the tribal areas along the Afghan border through scattered-site madrassas and Section Eight Vouchers. Thrill as the former general diverts funds to a covert downstate nuclear weapons program. This season on Fox!
(Also, don’t miss “Home Makeover, USAF edition” — see what a laser-guided 500 lb bomb can do to that cement-block decor!)
- I'm just saying - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:47 am:
I wish President Jones the best of luck, I haven’t always agreed with him, but overall I think he served well. I wonder how much his Bad Back has to play in this, going back and forth to Springfield for 35 years can grind on you after a while. It grinds on me to go down once or twice a year
I only hope that he doesnt’ resign from his DNC spot, all things being said, he’s a pretty decent guy to travel with when I go
- Pat Collins - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:52 am:
This state is so weird. I would have thought after being second fiddle so long he’s at least stay to see what comes out of the hat in 2011.
But, maybe he does want to enjoy life.
But, I wonder if now is the time the downstate Ds start to make some hay? I mean, if the next leader is from Chicago it can’t help them this Nov.
- Legal Eagle - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:53 am:
If the Senate Dems are split, then the GOP could elect the new Senate president by aligning with a Dem who has just 7 votes. Let’s make a deal! It confounds me that officials like Hastert and Jones decide to retire in the middle of their terms, or after they announce for re-election and get on the ballot. That is irresponsible, in my opinion (barring some health emergency, etc.).
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 9:55 am:
===If the Senate Dems are split, then the GOP could elect the new Senate president by aligning with a Dem who has just 7 votes.===
That would be a last resort. And it’s 8, not 7. The SGOPs have only 22 members and you need 30 to win.
- Bookworm - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:06 am:
Travel and long commutes wear me out and I’m only in my 40s! My in-laws are in their 70s and don’t get around as much as they used to. If Jones is 73, the grind must certainly have been getting to him. Not to mention the near-fatally-toxic working atmosphere around the Capitol (even if he did contribute to it to some extent).
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:06 am:
===Travel and long commutes wear me out===
He flies back and forth. Not so bad.
- archpundit - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:06 am:
With the number of Dems right now, a Banana Republic leader is pretty hard to imagine. If Dems were to lose some seats there are some scenarios, but with Obama on the ballot, that’s not very likely and in fact, it could increase the number of Dems.
Ultimately, the Banana Republic scenario is something I sit around and think about how much fun it would be to cover like a brokered convention–but also not likely to happen.
And no one would be as dumb as Rock was that day.
- Mr. Cub - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:09 am:
Look for EJ to retire and enjoy his campaign largesse or replace Frank Clark or John Hooker at ComEd/Exelon when they go to DC to help Obama turn around the nation.
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:13 am:
===or replace Frank Clark or John Hooker at ComEd/Exelon===
That sounds like decent speculation.
- Pat Collins - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:17 am:
I would think the VP of Gov. affairs is much more likely than CEO.
CEO’s are under increasing spotlight these days. It’s not like the 60’s when you could have a figure head Celeb as CEO while someone else ran the firm.
And it would be doing what he likes to do, help someone take money out of people’s pockets. I would think CUB would howl, though.
- Moderate Repub - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:29 am:
No one seems to be talking about what impact this will have on the upcoming elections for Jones incumbents (correct me if I am wrong). With all of his association with Blago, the repubs were going to be able to use this (as they have done in the past) association against Jones incumbents. While I am sure they will still use it, this will allow the incumbents to distance themselves from Jones, and give them some cover, or will it? Rich, maybe this is a good question to post. Others would be:
• Would repubs (Watson) lend votes to certain Dem candidates’? (Claybourne comes to mind)
• How would this affect seniors Senate Dem staff? (Who affect how the Senate is run day to day.)
• Would Jill Rock still be Chief of staff for the Senate Democrats?
Some are more insiders than others, but maybe some things to address.
Pingback ArchPundit | To Clarify on the Banana Republic - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:35 am:
[…] Just today, it would take 8 Democrats to switch and in 1981, that wasn’t the case. The only reason the Republicans could pull it off was that there were two absent Democrats in a Senate divided 30-29 and Thompson gave a questionable ruling that it wasn’t a Constitutional majority that was required, but a majority present. As Rich notes, the current Senate rules require a Constitutional majority (30 votes). […]
- Moderate Repub - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:36 am:
- Rich Miller - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:13 am:
===or replace Frank Clark or John Hooker at ComEd/Exelon===
That sounds like decent speculation.
Don’t forget about Chicago State. The President slot is interim right now I believe.
- archpundit - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:37 am:
—#Don’t forget about Chicago State. The President slot is interim right now I believe.
Well, given the comment up thread, we now have the manner in which he can double his pension (joking).
- OneMan - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:37 am:
Does Emil have a phd or a JD? Would a University have a president without one?
- wordslinger - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:38 am:
–Back to Harmon…he’s an early Obama backer who delivered Oak Park huge in the 2004 U.S. Senate primary. Harmon would soothe some anxiety that Americans might feel if their only glimpse of Obama’s launching pad was Jones.–
Back to reality. Harmon didn’t deliver anything for Obama in Oak Park in the primary. You couldn’t have concocted a more perfect Senate Democratic candidate for Oak Park in a laboratory. Harmon was smart enough to jump on the train.
And I doubt Sen. Harmon’s ascension to Senate President would have any impact on how Americans feel about Obama. Geez, perspective!
- Cassandra - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:43 am:
Wait.
Obama’s whole campaign is based on the need for change in the way government conducts business on the national level…not current realities.
No reason we can’t aspire to the same change in current realities at the state level… or that we shouldn’t. Are we really forever mired in the present.
I’m just saying that Harmon, my state senator, whom I have observed closely over the years, is not the senator to lead that change as Pres of the Senate.
- Jake from Elwood - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:43 am:
Remember, Emil, there is no “i” in ComEd, but there is a “m” and an “e”.
- Anonymous45 - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:45 am:
wordslinger: Harmon didn’t deliver anything? I beg to differ: the turnout for Obama was close to 90% in OP/RF in the 04 primary for BO…dems the fax…do the research before you type…
- Invisible constituency - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:47 am:
As a parting move and as a final act of social consciousness to his career as a Greatness in a Statesman who gave a voice to the disadvantaged, I hope the Senate President ‘restores the funding’ for substance abuse programs…this constituency is in a state of severe crisis, since the budget cuts implemented July 31st…As Obama, his protege, said this weekend at the Rev. Rick Warren religious convention on the question “America’s greatest moral failure?”…we don’t abide by “whatever you do for the least of my brothers you do for me”…New Testatment Matthew. Restoring budget cuts…to ‘empower this population to be clean, sober and self-sufficient’ would be an Act for Greatness, Courage, Compassion and Vision. Thanks Rich for this forum.
- VanillaMan - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 10:50 am:
Illinois Democrats are tired of the current situation with Jones/Blagojevich/Madigan and would like an end. Whom they select to replace Jones will indicate their level of arrogance at this time. A risky personal pick would have been more probable a couple of months ago, now I sense that a more responsible-looking choice will be made.
The perfect political solution would be a female senator responsive to public demands of ethics and reform while still fulfilling political IOUs to Party supporters. Non-Chicagoan a plus.
If I were in the Senate and a Democrat, I’d be contacting that gal running in the 11th US Congressional District to see if she is really all that serious.
- Evita Halvorson - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 11:03 am:
When to the flowers
so beautiful the Father gave a name,
Back came a little blue-eyed one
(All timidly it came);
And standing at its Father’s feet
and gazing in His face,
It said, in low and trembling tone
and with a modest grace,
“Dear God, the name Thou gavest me,
Alas I have forgot!”
Kindly the Father looked him down
and said: “Forget-me-not.”
- wordslinger - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 11:11 am:
Anon45, I’ve lived and voted in Oak Park for more than 20 years. If you think Oak Park can be “delivered” like some 1950s Machine Ward, you don’t know the place or people.
Obama was the perfect candidate for Dem Senate Primary and nobody delivered anything for him. It was the candidate, period. That’s a fact, jack.
- dhouser - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 11:11 am:
Harmon would be a great choice. He’s bright, gets along with everyone and will not be seen as a “city-only” guy.
- Truthful James - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 11:13 am:
Seems to me that if Daley & Co could convince Sen. Jones to back a Chicago friend for Senate president, the largesse would come ‘atumblin down.
The City is going to need billions to build out their Olympic dream — transmogrifying thw RTA being the very least. That is going to involve a lot of arm twisting and log rolling. Which may be one reason why the House M.L. might be able to see his way clear to supporting a thirty year lease on the lottery.
I don’t believe that a JD, an EdD or a PhD is required to run Chicago State U. Just the undying love of the County Democratic and Chicago Democratic Party.
- Soy Milk - Formerly Known As Napoleon has left the building - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 11:19 am:
President Jones:
Thank you for the mouse pad, and the cool pen. No thanks for backing Blago. Enjoy your food stamps.
Time for new leadership.
- Anonymous45 - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 11:20 am:
Wordslinger: let’s scorekeep: I’ve lived in OP since ‘63…remember the Dem primary field in ‘04? Hynes, Obama, and assorted other wannabees…Harmon was wise enough to let his organization endorse Obama and let them do the work…he did not personally endorse Hynes, and old friend, who evetually went on to encourage Barack to run for President…Harmon is wise, wily, and willing to work quietly to accomplish what is good on the local, state, and national levels…he helps himself thru hard work in a bi-partisanship manner…
Besides, Obama came to OP in August of 2003!!
Where the hell have you been Mr. Know It All?
- anon - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 11:21 am:
Is the GA pension based on last day pay or an average of last X years? If it’s last day pay, makes sense why Jones wanted that raise so bad!
- Gameplan - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 11:21 am:
About time. I saw the quip about Obama how Emil’s replacement may hurt him. We need true leadership that can work both parties to fix a beleagured state. Obama is not going to fix that for us. He will have other issues to deal with but not the state of politics in Illinois. We need to fix our own household. Republicans if you can find someone to run against the democrats move it along folks!!!! I don’t know about you all but I really dispise the gamesmanship - and what do you want to bet that this wasn’t the tactic all along - to retire with a larger salary so that he could retire on 75% of his new salary. God help us all. Take an ethics class people.
- wordslinger - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 11:24 am:
Anon45, take it easy. Difference of opinion on the how the primary was won. I have nothing against Harmon. I just don’t think he “delivered” Oak Park like some old ward boss. Doesn’t happen here.
- Steve - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 11:32 am:
One has to wonder whether we are getting the real story here on Emil Jones.Is Jones under investigation? Why step out of the limelight now after Obama is in the Presidential spotlight? Here’s an interesting quote form the Sun-Times today:
“Jones, a former city sewer inspector, endured criticism for taking tens of thousands of dollars in interest-free loans from his campaign fund and for multimillion-dollar, no-bid government contracts steered to a technology firm headed by his stepson, John Sterling.”
- Little Egypt - Monday, Aug 18, 08 @ 11:55 am:
It’s an UP day for Dudley Do-Right. Why? No one knows but for sure he will call it an UP day.
I’m a little skeptical of Jones retirement. I tend to agree with Steve. There’s always another side to the story other than the public one. For someone who has tried to live off the “fat” of the State via the Illinois Senate and claims to need the money (and I don’t believe he was joking about that either), this just doesn’t add up.