Illinois Senate super-majority overrides Rauner veto of fair arbitration bill
Union leaders: Bill ensures reasonable compromise and keeps Illinois working
By a vote of 38-15, a super-majority of state senators from every part of Illinois voted today to override Governor Bruce Rauner’s veto of the fair arbitration bill, Senate Bill 1229.
Applauding the action was the Illinois AFL-CIO and many unions that represent state workers and other public employees, including the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 31, the Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT), the Illinois Nurses Association (INA), the Laborers International Union of North America-Midwest Region, the Police Benevolent & Protective Association (PB&PA), SEIU Healthcare Illinois and the Illinois Education Association (IEA).
The legislation offers to state employees (such as child protection workers, nurses and caregivers) the option of the same fair arbitration process provided to state and local police, fire and prison security personnel in Illinois for more than 30 years.
The bill would help avert the potential conflict, hardship and disruption of a statewide strike or lockout by offering arbitration as an alternative means of resolving contract disputes between state employees’ unions and the Rauner Administration if ongoing negotiations fail to produce agreements.
To enact the bill, three-fifths of the state Senate and House of Representatives must vote to override the Governor’s veto. With the Senate’s action today, the House now has 15 days to follow suit.
As a candidate, Governor Rauner repeatedly vowed to “take a strike and shut down state government for a few weeks” in order to force workers to accept his extreme demands. More recently, the governor has made legislation that strips the rights of workers to bargain collectively a precondition of his willingness to enact a state budget or address other unrelated policy matters. And in a possible signal that the governor’s office is preparing to provoke a work stoppage, the Rauner Administration has reportedly solicited retirees to serve as strike breakers and considered mobilizing the National Guard.
“The Senate has done right by the citizens of Illinois today,” Illinois AFL-CIO president Michael Carrigan said. “Simply put, this legislation will make sure the state keeps working if negotiations fail.”
“State employees keep us safe, protect kids, care for veterans and provide countless other important services,” AFSCME Council 31 executive director Roberta Lynch said. “Public service workers want to be treated fairly, they don’t want to be forced out on strike, and today’s vote is a strong step in the right direction.”
“On behalf of the thousands of state employees represented by the IFT, I want to thank State Senators for standing up to protect the vital public services we all rely on,” said IFT President Dan Montgomery. “While it doesn’t provide the Governor with the political showdown he so obsessively desires, this legislation does help ensure state services will continue without interruption—a real priority to Illinois taxpayers.”
“After this resounding defeat, it is time for Bruce Rauner to follow the advice of Gov. Jim Edgar and shelve his anti-worker obsession so that a budget is passed and vulnerable Illinoisans are protected,” SEIU Healthcare Illinois president Keith Kelleher said. “We applaud the senators who stood up to his bully tactics and join the growing chorus who see the Rauner agenda for what it is—protection for billionaire interests and pain for everyone else.”
“Registered Nurses and the patients they care for deserve the fair and reasonable process provided by SB 1229,” INA executive director Alice Johnson said. “We thank the senators who, in voting for SB 1229, stood up for nurses and patients, and against an extremist agenda that seeks to force nurses to work while exhausted, putting lives at risk.
“Today’s vote shows again how far out of step Governor Rauner is with Illinois’ middle class,” said Sean Stott, Director of Governmental Affairs of the Laborers’ Midwest Region. “Rauner claims to want good-paying jobs in this state but is moving heaven and earth to cut workers’ pay and benefits. We thank the supermajority of senators who stood up to him today.”
“The governor’s statements contradict the facts. He has had months to negotiate but has failed to make any meaningful progress,” PB&PA Illinois director Sean Smoot said. “He says he will not lock workers out, but he has already sent layoff notices to employees. A layoff is quite simply a targeted lockout.”
“We believe it’s important that state services continue to be delivered to the people of Illinois by hardworking state employees,” IEA president Cinda Klickna said. “By voting to override the veto, the House will send the message that it’s time for the governor to stop pushing a personal agenda against unions and, instead, focus on solving Illinois’ real problems, starting with the state budget.”
One Republican, Sen. Sam McCann, voted to override.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:29 pm:
=== It is now up to House members to take the responsible, pro-taxpayer position and uphold our veto.”===
“Our”?
The Royal “We” bleeds out…
- Kasich Walker, Jr. - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:31 pm:
Don’t stop now.
Plenty to override when the Rauner reformation reappears.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:32 pm:
“Line ‘em up, Governor. Find out who is against you, and who is conspiring against you.
Signed,
Capt. Phillip Queeg, USN (retired)”
- Macbeth - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:35 pm:
Bravo!
- Anon - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:37 pm:
The unions and Dems just proved a point - the same point Rauner has been making since the campaign - unions and Dems run the state.
- RNUG - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:37 pm:
Sen. Sam McCann was always going to be a Rauner “target”. I applaud his action and will be one of his supporters at election time.
- Wensicia - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:38 pm:
I believe Rauner needs to rethink the frothing at the mouth threats and reactions, and get a grip. Start doing your job, governor.
- Macbeth - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:39 pm:
Yes — thumbs up — way up — for GOP supporting this.
This override matters. Very, very much. Thanks to those GOPrs who understand that.
- sparky791 - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:41 pm:
-ANON-
-The unions and Dems just proved a point - the same point Rauner has been making since the campaign - unions and Dems run the state.-
And Rauner unified them better than they themselves ever could have dreamed.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:41 pm:
- RNUG -
Agreed. All this does is let the SGOP give him “thirty-two hundred bucks” and walk away from him.
McCann made his own bed.
- Norseman - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:41 pm:
Hat tip to Willy for the Caine reference.
Is somebody keeping an eye on Rauner’s blood pressure? Although I’m not sure Slip N Sue could be any worse.
- Rufus - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:41 pm:
Let us deem this as “Veto Override Day”! SB1229, SB1344, SB274. SB51, SB650, SB781
Has there ever been more veto overrides in 1 day?
Happy Governor’s Day Rauner!
- RNUG - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:41 pm:
== The unions and Dems just proved a point - the same point Rauner has been making since the campaign - unions and Dems run the state. ==
No. The Senate just voted a path out of the stalemate.
- Pelonski - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:42 pm:
He sounds very concerned. I wonder how many more lies about the process we will hear from him in the run up to the House vote? If AFSCME leadership was smart, they’d challenge the Governor to open up the negotiations to the press and make the terms presented by both sides available to the public. This would make it absolutely clear that AFSCME is being the more reasonable of the two in negotiations.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:44 pm:
===No. The Senate just voted a path out of the stalemate===
That’s the ball game. Anything else, like Rauner’s quote, is quite lacking
(Tips cap to - Norseman -)
- RNUG - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:44 pm:
- OW -
I like Sam; he’s my Senator and I’ve had several conversations with him. Admittedly, I don’t know him as well as I know Larry Bomke (which is quite well on both a personal and business level), but I think I have a feel for where Sam is coming from. He was never going to be a Raunerite.
- Wordslinger - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:48 pm:
Tnere is some serious big heat coming for a lot of House GOP members.
A boatload of them took a walk in May when it passed with 67.
I don’t think that’s an option this time around.
- Anon - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:48 pm:
Proud of you, Sen. McCann!! You voted for your constituents. BRAVO!!
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:49 pm:
-,RNUG -,
With respect, as always,
I’m coming from it as McCann handled “his business” in the Caucus well before Rauner. Rauner exacerbates, but actually shines a light on McCann that reflects two angles of the final result; He wasn’t going to get a pass.
I hear ya, I actually applaud the vote, and you’re right. But going a lil ways back, it’s about Leader Radogno too.
Respectfully.
- Casual Observer - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:50 pm:
It’s in the Speakers hands now. When he says he has the votes is he bluffing? The Governor has tonight and the. Morning to negotiate with the speaker. He better start if the speaker answers the phone.
- Macbeth - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:50 pm:
More like McCann, please.
- PublicServant - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:50 pm:
Hey Bruce, … Check.
- Loyal fan - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:50 pm:
Senator McCann has my vote and support.
- Scholar athlete - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:50 pm:
I think ANon actually IS Rauner not just a Raunerbot.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:51 pm:
The “Cowardly 7″ will have all of the Labor community watching.
If they “walk”, “NV”, that would be mind boggling.
- Shoedoctor - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:53 pm:
How is it constitutional for the legislature to take the power of the executive branch to collectively bargain with State Workers away?
- That's The Fact Jack! - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:53 pm:
@ Anon - Wednesday, @ 6:37 pm:
“The unions and Dems just proved a point - the same point Rauner has been making since the campaign - unions and Dems run the state.”
No it just proves a point that a Billionaire nor his ego run this state… Working men and women run this state. I’m not a math whiz… but last time I checked 70,000 workers outnumber 1 Governor.
- Fed up with Rauner - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:54 pm:
One down, one to go. Time to show this blowhard that taking a “my way or the highway attitude” is no way to govern.
- Mason born - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:54 pm:
Well done McCan. There is no doubt he voted his district. That district would be devasted by a strike or lockout. It’s nice to see someone represent the people who elected him instead of some party.
Now it’s time to see if his district and AFSCME will take care of him.
- Rufus - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:54 pm:
Those that did not vote on SB1229:
Oberweis, Anderson, Duffy, Martinez, Morrison, Rezin
Why?
- Shoedoctor - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:54 pm:
Rauner is not a billionaire
- ToughGuy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:54 pm:
A tip of the hat to Senator McCann. Listen governor, listen to what some of your own guys are telling you such as Edgar and Davis. Quit painting yourself in a corner by listening to your frat boy advisors. It will work better for you and Illinois.
- Rich Miller - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:54 pm:
Shoedoctor, where in the constitution is that alleged gubernatorial right protected? Got a cite?
- Rich Miller - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 6:55 pm:
Rufus, they’re not in town.
- Shoedoctor - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:00 pm:
No Cite Rich but I think it will be challenged in court. Wanna bet?
- Rufus - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:02 pm:
RM - true… and on Governor’s Day, one would have to ask “Why?”
(I don’t deny that some had very legetitive reasons)2
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:03 pm:
Mr. Rauner has only himself to blame for this SB passing.
His his self defined method of playing hardball has alienated most of his pre election support.
I believe the balance of his term will be one of the most painful terms for any governor in recent memory.
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:05 pm:
So McCann is the first to break from the fear of dollars going against him. Do any other legislators have the courage to break from the money tree?
- Rufus - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:06 pm:
Legitimate (dang spell checker) — my apologies
- Wensicia - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:06 pm:
They’re not taking away the right to collectively bargain. They’re adding an option when the process fails to come to an agreement.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:07 pm:
===So McCann is the first to break from the fear of dollars going against him.===
He was probably facing Rauner’s money in a primary irregardless. Doesn’t take away the courage or importance, however.
- PublicServant - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:09 pm:
Senator McCann, from a disabled veteran, who, after serving his country, chose to serve his state for 34 years, thank you. I wish I could vote for you, but I will financially support you against our billionaire governor’s Cayman Island stash. I will also support those brave republican reps in the house willing to join you in opposition to the governor’s extreme demands.
Semper Fi. Those aren’t just words Senator McCann, they’re a Marine’s life blood.
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:10 pm:
When does the House vote?
- Wordslinger - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:10 pm:
SD, challenged on what grounds?
Make an effort if you’re going to throw “unconstitutional” around.
Reading the constitution might be a good start.
- efudd - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:11 pm:
Shoedoctor, what makes you think Rauner has the huevos to file suit? He’s faded every time he has been faced with confrontation.
I remember a story I read about Johnny Unitas. It was the end of his career when he was with the Chargers. The team was in the locker room pre-game and one player was giving the usual rah-rah that is common place today. When he was finished every one looked at Unitas, because, well he was Unitas.
He simply said, “talk’s cheap”, and walked out of the locker room to play ball.
It that analogy, who do you think is Unitas, Madigan or Rauner?
- Norseman - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:15 pm:
=== How is it constitutional for the legislature to take the power of the executive branch to collectively bargain with State Workers away? ===
Read the constitution and report back the article and section that deals with it.
- Grandson of Man - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:17 pm:
I agree that SB 1229 needs to happen. I just don’t trust Rauner. I believe that most if not all moderation he’s showing is because he has no choice. I believe that if he could, he would do as much damage to unions as the laws allow.
Now it’s Madigan vs. Rauner in the House. It should be very intense. Let’s see, again, which Republicans beside Poe vote with their union constituents. How can positive change happen, and “shaking up Springfield,” if Rauner is special interests on steroids–accusing unions of owning politicians yet throwing tons of money at them himself, and having millions to use in politics?
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:19 pm:
What a jerk. I’m contacting my Representative and requesting that he vote “Yes” on this override.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:24 pm:
Figurin’ that Madigan starts with the 67 “Green”, finding 4 noses that were NVs or a flip that can be had after all the hyperbole, 4 isn’t 8 or 9.
I’m sure Goldberg will be helpful in peeling of Dems.
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:27 pm:
This is a debate (SB1229) we need to have. I know it’s not popular on this blog to point out that Rauner is the rare politician that has refused to cave to the insurmountable pressure to go along to get along approach to Illinois governance. I think even Alan Dixon (king of afore mentioned go-along-get-along style) might begrudgingly looking on down at Bruce with shock and amusement that a governor would be in his 7th month in office and still refuses to kiss MJM’s ring!
- Tom K. - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:29 pm:
It appears the IL constitution allows one branch of state government (the Legislature) to neuter another (the Executive) - what would prevent the Legislature, providing the votes are there, from doing this with almost every other Gubanatorial power? Does the same mechanism exist in reverse, perhaps by Executive Order? If not, the courts should rule on this. If so, it’s going to get REALLY interesting in the near future. And by interesting, I mean uglier than anyone thought it was going to get.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:30 pm:
Um, “- Anonymous -”
===…a governor would be in his 7th month in office and still refuses to kiss MJM’s ring!===
President Cullerton just overrode the Veto in his chamber.
Not everything is “Because… Madigan”
- burbanite - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:30 pm:
My Senator voted the way I asked him to. I certainly don’t consider my status as a voter who disagrees with the Gov. as a special interest. If Democrats control the state its because the majority of voters voted them in. Its called Democracy.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:34 pm:
- Tom K. -
===It appears the IL constitution allows one branch of state government (the Legislature) to neuter another (the Executive) ===
Rauner isn’t a victim. To get 3/5th to override, it’s tough, never ever guaranteed.
The governor of Illinois is, arguably, one of the most powerful governorships in America.
Can “we” read the constitution and understand how co-equal branches work before “we” decide how “things work”? /rant
- DuPage Don - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:34 pm:
OW - “Not everything is because of Madigan” — Oh how I disagree!!!!!
- Wordslinger - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:36 pm:
Who’s the goof claiming to channel the ghost of Alan Dixon?
- Northern pike - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:38 pm:
Glad to see a republican vote for his constituents and not Rauner. Will be supporting McCann during whatever Rauner does to him.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:38 pm:
- DuPage Don -,
Do yourself a solid; read McKinney in Crain’s.
It’s actually because … everyone.
- DuPage Don - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:38 pm:
That “goof” hit the nail on the head!
- Me too - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:41 pm:
Tom, the lege gave that power to the guv. What they giveth they can taketh away. In all seriousness though, he still has the power to bargain, but he can no longer force a strike or attempt to impose egregiously unfair terms unilaterally. The Constitution doesn’t give the governor any power to collectively bargain, a law does. Laws can be changed. He has the power to try and stop such action and then the lege has the power to attempt to override. Heck, even if it was in the Constitution it could be changed by a supermajority and the voters. You seem to be missing something here. That is, the governor isn’t all powerful no matter how much you want him to be. Tom K’s opinion isn’t called for in the Constitution or in any statute, and there will be no court battle over a veto and its subsequent override. Jeez
- DuPage Don - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:41 pm:
OW - I read McKinney in Crain’s….I’m not in the camp that is buying “it’s everyone.”
- Mason born - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:41 pm:
If MJM has the votes as he says then I syspwct the only thing to change that is the permanent death of the “turnaround agenda” and a budget.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:42 pm:
- DuPage Don -
Explain the Senate’s override today. How did Madigan do THAT?
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:44 pm:
===OW - I read McKinney in Crain’s….I’m not in the camp that is buying “it’s everyone.”===
Then… you are to blatently partisan, you can’t be rational.
I tried, you answered. Good luck.
- Wordslinger - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:45 pm:
From the May 29 House roll call:
67-25-3
That makes 23 members who haven’t chimed in yet.
Not Voting:
R- 16
D- 2
Excused:
R- 3
D- 2
- thoughts matter - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:46 pm:
Police and fire fighters already have no strike, go to arbitration at impasse… that’s not unconstitutional,why would this be?
I don’t consider this any more special interest than anything the Governor has proposed - right to work, freezing local property taxes, revise work comp, eliminate collective bargaining. Those benefit people with money - this benefits the people of the state of Illinois because it ensures state employees won’t strike.
- DuPage Don - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:46 pm:
The map is locked down like Fort Knox. You’re a “map guy”, remember???
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:46 pm:
Poe is a “watch” that day. Seeing what he does could be interesting. Tough choices ahead for the HGOP
- Me too - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:47 pm:
BTW, which dems might not vote for this? I’m curious. I’d guess poe can make up for one.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:47 pm:
Madigan beat the GOP Map 4 of 5, and 4 in a row.
Anything else?
- PublicServant - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:49 pm:
Rauner’s high-pitched squeals indicate the override is likely in the house. He’s in damage control mode already.
- Wordslinger - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:51 pm:
Tom K, didn’t they make you pass a Comstitution test in 8th grade?
Is this “veto override” thing really new to you?
SPOILER ALERT
There are override provisions in the U.S. Constitution, too.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:51 pm:
- Public Servant -
Agreed. Rauner might be worried it’s too late now. Why go so partisan/USSR/China if you feel you can peel enough votes to stop an override.
- DuPage Don - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:52 pm:
OW - lets have a map drawn by a non-partisan commission and let’s see how it goes.
- taxpayer - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:52 pm:
Just proves that MJM and JC run this corrupt state…into the ground as they have been doing for years. Turn out the lights when you leave.
- AC - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:56 pm:
Poe knows his district, and the dynamics of the vote. Rauner needs to realize that he put Republicans in a tough spot.
- DuPage Don - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:57 pm:
Taxpayer - It seems sometimes were the only ones who havd lived in this state. You are correct, sir! I still have a hard time grasping MJM was sworn in two years after Woodstock and three months before Trish Nixon was married in the Rose Garden. It’s mind boggling!!!
- Just me - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:58 pm:
I feel Rauner may fail at many of his extremists demands. Personally, George Ryan was moderate and accomplished the states’ business. Jim Edgar was a moderate and was one of our most excellent of Governors. If Rauner could tone it down and offer ideas and changes that might take effect over 2 to 4 years of his term vs incredible changes all in one session- then he might have a chance. But then again he’s not a politician.
- Wensicia - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:05 pm:
Political capital Rauner has left? I’d say at minus fifteen.
- Wordslinger - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:07 pm:
– Taxpayer — It seems sometimes were the only ones who have lived in this state.–
Well, it’s just kismet that you two crazy kids found each other! I’m sure you’ll be very happy.
- Mouthy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:08 pm:
==- AC - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 7:56 pm:
Poe knows his district, and the dynamics of the vote. Rauner needs to realize that he put Republicans in a tough spot.==
No more free rides for Poe who now has to choose between the Governor and reelection..
- Just Me - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:08 pm:
I know the unions love to point out that this process has been used for other unions, but I see a difference between unions that — if they were to strike — would immediately jeopardize public safety.
Paper pushers are a little different. I think the state could live without paper pushers for a few weeks.
I also think it interesting this bill only lasts for years, if this bill is such a great idea why is it only for four years?
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:08 pm:
- DuPage Don -,
We’re not getting a new map in 15 days (the length the House has to act)
One thing at a time…
- PublicServant - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:14 pm:
Some minds are easier to boggle than others…just sayin.
- Southern illinoisan - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:17 pm:
I read with amusement many editorials that have stated how passing SB 1229 would be terrible policy and an insult to the voters who elected Rauner. Many indicated that voters spoke loud and clear that they wanted change. I see SB1229 as an extreme reaction to Gov Rauners extreme demands. This is what politics have come to in Illinois. I tend to agree with MJM that Rauner did not win a mandate but Quinn lost the election. Eliminating collective bargaining will not cure the ills of this state. Most of the rhetoric of how good state employees benefits are is exaggerated. Tier 1 pensions are good , but they will be phased out in the coming years. Rauner wants to speed up the process by throwing all public employees under the bus. Hopefully, a veto override will insure a more moderate approach prevails.
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:18 pm:
Rauner said he wanted to reform collective bargaining in this state like how Jimmy Carter did with Congress, he just got it.
- AC - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:19 pm:
Mouthy, agreed, no more free rides for Poe, and I don’t see siding with Rauner being a successful strategy in his district.
- PublicServant - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:20 pm:
Southern Illinoisn, you seem sensible. I think you’d be safer in or around the Springfield or Chicago area however.
- Honeybear - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:21 pm:
Thank a loving God. Thank God that this was overturned. My spouse and I sat watching and waiting. I am so thankful that this was overturned in the Senate. I know that the house is going to be more difficult but hopefully the representatives will see that overturning the veto for 1229 is the only way that Rauner will respect the negotiating process and give us state workers a contract. Realize that most state worker would be just fine with the contract we have! I’d even take a bit less than what we have. I pray that the house overrides the veto. I don’t want Ragnorok. The last thing I want is to battle to the death with Rauner.
- AC - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:25 pm:
==I also think it interesting this bill only lasts for years, if this bill is such a great idea why is it only for four years?==
An amendatory veto, and Rauner could’ve been the one to take away the right to strike indefinitely. He also could’ve got AFSCME to agree to the worst contact in a generation. The problem with Rauner is that he isn’t realistic, and is unwilling to change the trajectory of anything if he sees the remote possibility that he could make a radical change.
- ash - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:26 pm:
just me — a good idea because we have never had someone so extreme and unwilling to actually negotiate. They are assuming the next governor will get out of campaign mode and try to govern. Had Rauner done his job and acted in good faith, I’ll bet the bill would never have been introduced…
- Mouthy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:28 pm:
==- Just Me - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:08 pm:
Paper pushers are a little different. I think the state could live without paper pushers for a few weeks.==
I worked for the state thirty some years and I don’t recall ever seeing a paper pusher. Where do you find them?
- Wordslinger - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:30 pm:
Just Me, I find it interesting that a GOP governor who vows not to impose a lockout doesn’t bite at the chance to take away a union’s ability to strike.
What’s up with that?
Just kidding. In this instance, the governor is certainly transparent.
- Triple fat - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:35 pm:
Hey Tommie and DP Don just what are you two trying to say? Is you guy winning? I don’t think so. Is he capable? No that’s not it. Is it all over for the Governor but the pouting? That has to be what you’re saying! I’m convinced. You two had me at your first but but…
- AC - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:36 pm:
==I worked for the state thirty some years and I don’t recall ever seeing a paper pusher. Where do you find them?==
In the minds of Randian Rauner supporters.
- Austin Blvd - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:42 pm:
When Rauner runs to the press to describe Madigan as having “ice water” in his veins, it would appear that he thinks this little game of name calling has no personal effect.
Guess what Bruce. You should understand Madigan’s position that, “It’s not personal, it’s only business.”
- DuPage Don - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:55 pm:
-PublicServant- “seems some minds are easier to boggle than others”………to which I reply, it seems some people’s affinity for Kool-Aid is more prevalent than those with boggled minds….just sayin
- Skirmisher - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 8:57 pm:
Another instance of the legislature’s penchant for short-sighted, partisan governance. So AFSCME has a current guv who is not giving the customary level of deference and cooperation, so the legislature steps in and does away with the entire negotiating process! And you guys think this is good for Illinois??? I am once again dumbfounded.
- Triple fat - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:00 pm:
Am I the only one that would consider it a compliment if someone described me as having ice water in my veins? isn’t that saying Speaker Madigan keeps his emotions in check and can’t be rattled? Maybe Rauner was just expressing his frustration at not being able to get under the Speaker’s skin.
- Big Z - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:13 pm:
Looks like the Gov. is wishing he hadn’t blow 61 grand on a public relations cash cow and put that money towards paying off a federal mediator.
- Arsenal - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:15 pm:
==so the legislature steps in and does away with the entire negotiating process==
It really doesn’t. It just says what happens if the negotiating process fails.
==Am I the only one that would consider it a compliment if someone described me as having ice water in my veins?==
Yeah, I’ve always heard it as a compliment.
==Paper pushers are a little different. I think the state could live without paper pushers for a few weeks.==
I have a funny feeling that the way to convince state workers and their allies to compromise with a hostile governor does not include insulting them.
- Illinoian - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:15 pm:
The debate that is being forced shouldn’t be my side against your side and winner take all. I would hope pending decisions are made with the intent of what is best for the State. That includes State workers - who are also Illinois tax paying citizens, whose profession happens to be working on our behalf. Throwing a small group under the bus is at best dishonest. It took 40+ years to get in this mess why should we expect it can be solved in 4? Concession not destruction is needed. Time the Gov realizes that being a robber baron might work in business but makes poor governance
Presuming he cares.
- Joe M - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:15 pm:
==Paper pushers are a little different. I think the state could live without paper pushers for a few weeks.==
Just Me, you don’t have a clue what state workers do - so why don’t you find out something about what they do before making uneducated comments. You can go to http://www.illinois.gov/SitePages/Agencies.aspx and then open up the links to the state agencies and their sub-agencies and find out what they do do. That might also be a good exercise for Governor and his staff. I doubt if they have a clue either what many state workers do.
- Macbeth - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:16 pm:
–
Presuming he cares.
–
Rauner doesn’t care. That’s the whole point. He could care less what happens to 38,000 state workers.
- Jorge - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:19 pm:
To paraphrase the immortal Ali G, “Most Respek” Sam McCann.
- Triple fat - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:19 pm:
Skirmish- apparently those who have posted this fact earlier were typing too quickly- so I’m texting this post very slowly. The negotiations are still ongoing. The Governor can still try to drive home a reasonable bargain. If the Governor is bargaining in good faith he has lost nothing. If he is bargaining in bad faith… He has lost a morally reprehensible path to follow. Now try to keep up, please.
- Arsenal - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:26 pm:
With McCann voting to override, Poe almost has to now; and if Poe votes to override, that probably gives the Dems enough cover to vote for it (as well as one slot if someone really needs that free vote).
- Jorge - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:28 pm:
Triple fat, I’m with you. That’s a compliment and a half for The Speaker.
- Triple fat - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:31 pm:
DP Don you can do better than kool-aid. Why don’t you go back to but but… Mean old Speaker and his house of Senators!
- Southern Girl - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:37 pm:
McCann is my legislator. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by his willingness to listen to constituents. I didn’t elect him into office but you can bet that I will be voting for him in the next election. He has also supported a number of bills that I asked him to, that many other republicans did not. He’s a brave guy.
- AnonAmos - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:49 pm:
Like many, I was pleasantly surprised with Senator McCann, my senator. He understands that money doesn’t buy votes loyalty does. His constituents who feel well represented will vote for him again.
Rauner could take a lesson from this, but he won’t.
- MurMan - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 9:50 pm:
DuPage Don, are you seriously criticizing someone else for drinking the partisan Kool-Aid? C’mon man. You know what they say, people in glass houses shouldn’t talk out their #*$. Or something like that.
- 5ohhhhhh - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 10:05 pm:
Thanks Sam. I ve been a supporter for years and I ve also supported C.D. Davidsmeyer. Come on C.D. Support those who support you. Listen to your district and do not cave into the pressure.
- nixit71 - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 10:09 pm:
IFT President Dan Montgomery: “…this legislation does help ensure state services will continue without interruption—a real priority to Illinois taxpayers.
That is high comedy coming from the union guy whose employee grifted the state pension system for one day substitute teaching. Not a guy, I’d say, that has his pulse on the “Illinois taxpayers’ priorities.”
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2011-10-22/news/ct-met-pensions-teacher-perk-20111023_1_preckwinkle-and-piccioli-steven-preckwinkle-david-piccioli
- RNUG - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 10:21 pm:
- Southern Girl -
When the redistricting occurred and Sam was the “new” candidate for part of Larry Bomke’s old district, I had my first conversation with him almost a year before the election, came away convinced he would do a good job representing his district, and voted for him. I haven’t regretted that vote. Since then I’ve talked with him several more times and still feel the same way. We will all need to support McCann come the next election, both with our votes and financially.
- Property of IDOC - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 10:23 pm:
We all need to log onto Sen.McCann’s site and send him a big OXX.
- Wisdom 1 - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 10:27 pm:
old Brucey apparently never heard the age old saying…
“How do you eat an entire elephant?…one bite at a time”
He bit off way more than he could chew when he tried to tackle everything in one bite
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 10:33 pm:
- RNUG -,
High praise from you. McCann is lucky to count you a supporter.
I don’t know how it will shake out, but I do know that district requires some finesse, and a cookie cutter, one size fits all, won’t find much success.
- Property of IDOC - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 10:33 pm:
And Rich,
could you please forward the slew of positive posts here for Sen.McCann and his ability to listen to his constituents (instead of Rauner’s money/threats) to Sen.LaHood? He really needs to understand he works for us.
Oh, and don’t try to call, his office won’t pick up…
- GlimmerGirl - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 10:40 pm:
Thanks Sam McCann for breaking party lines and doing what was right for your constituents. I know that Raymond Poe will do the same. He did it at the COGFA hearing for the Museum and he will do it again.
- Omega Man - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 10:47 pm:
Bravo Senator McCann! Hopefully the governor will now call you for some pointers on how reasonable compromises can move the state forward.
- Norseman - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 10:51 pm:
You can send a message to LaHood by voting against him in the special election. He’ll still win, but a nice scare would be good for him.
- Triple fat - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 11:08 pm:
Nixit - I fail to see the humor in two people taking advantage of a loophole at the taxpayers expense. Montgomery said the loophole should never be allowed to happen again. What more do you want from him? Well -yes… Although what was done was legal and even though we are a nation of laws… Yes well I believe we must take the necessary illegal steps to with hold what they are now legally entitled to. Would that satisfy your alternate view of reality if Dan Montgomery had said something like that? You know, if Rich would let me, I would love to list a number of bad actors and convicted felons who have committed illegal acts while working for companies controlled by the Governor. I can name more than two and the two you cite did nothing illegal.
- walker - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 11:26 pm:
Rauner has settled on this veto override as the reason for a “massive” tax hike.
This?
- Quizzical - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 11:28 pm:
it would be great if we could force the Governor and legislative leaders before an arbitrator.
- The Dude Abides - Wednesday, Aug 19, 15 @ 11:32 pm:
There are some interesting responses on here tonight. There are some on here that seem concerned about the legislature overextending their power at the expense of the executive branch. Where were these guys when Rauner suggested that the Governor appoint judges rather than have them elected by the general populace?
- Point of clarification - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 5:51 am:
It’s called “balance of powers” and it’s a good thing.
- Runaround Agenda - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 6:32 am:
I think he means Checks and Balances.
- Grandson of Man - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 6:45 am:
“He understands that money doesn’t buy votes loyalty does.”
I hope this works for some House Republicans, to vote for their constituents and not out of district money from Rauner and his two billionaires. I’m sorry it has come to this, but Rauner hates public unions and has tried to many good people by calling them corrupt–and for what? He has thrown millions into politics and wields huge money over politicians’ heads.
- Loop Lady - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 6:49 am:
As I have said before, this ain’t WI, and now Rauner knows it…
- Flynn's mom - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 7:31 am:
Is Madigan a member of the Senate??
- Excessively Rabid - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 7:34 am:
I thought the GA was just trying to get Rauner’s attention and force him to get off the dime on the turnaround and budget issues. If this becomes law, we’re all going to be sorry. Handing the state checkbook to the “arbitration community” is a big and potentially expensive mistake, one in which the intransigent Rauner shares the blame with the GA, and one which may long outlive the political fracas of the moment.
- Chicago (D) - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 7:39 am:
Love how the Governor says “our” veto. It’s his veto and if he hasn’t realized yet, not every Republic is anti-union. On to the house
- VanillaMan - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 7:47 am:
Rauner might have finally discovered that you have to earn political power, not just buy it.
- Nick Name - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 7:58 am:
God bless Sen. McCann. That took a lot of courage.
- VanillaMan - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 8:25 am:
Rauner has Linda Lingle working for him as COO. Why isn’t he listening to her? She was a successful red governor in a deep blue state.
Rauner has no excuses to be such a complete loser.
- Wordslinger - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 8:40 am:
VMan, the governor only gives former Gov. Lingle the toughest assignments, like arranging “logistics” for state employees to walk behind him in a parade.
Apparently, that’s beyond the capacities of the chief of staff and deputy governors.
All are in the $200K neighborhood, by the way.
- RNUG - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 8:42 am:
== one which may long outlive the political fracas of the moment. ==
Not necessarily; the bill sunsets in 4 years.
- Anon - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 8:49 am:
I would imagine if he had made it a priority to negotiate the contract quickly and in good faith he would have likely not seen this bill pass. Instead, he basically opted to maintain bargaining positions that were literally illegal until the existing contract expired and opted to call removing the literally illegal demands a concession.
Kinda digs one’s own grave.
- Chicagonk - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 8:55 am:
Just another vote on the path to bankruptcy.
- Huh? - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 9:26 am:
Keel haul that scurvy traitorous dog McCann for voting for the phony scam of a bill, argh.
- Cassandra - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 6:17 pm:
Now we see if the guv absorbed anything from a world-class education (Dartmouth, Harvard) and an post-education upper class ride among the country’s elites of both major parties. Ignore the grade-school insults from the Dems and public service employees. Taking it personally is never a good tactic. Move on and make a new plan.
- Property of IDOC - Thursday, Aug 20, 15 @ 9:33 pm:
@Huh?
Snark, I assume?