* As I told you late yesterday, Gov. Pritzker kicked in his second $500K installment to the Democratic Party of Illinois. And now this…
Hope they list that as an in-kind to Paul. /s
Also, it occurred to me that I haven’t done any “Shenanigans!” blog posts this cycle because every day brings at least one. Shenanigans is now our default mode, I suppose.
* Sen. Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) reported receiving $61K in campaign contributions on the same day her opponent was endorsed by the Tribune. Her primary opponent hasn’t reported any contributions in the last month and a half. Villanueva should renew her subscription.
* The other day, I had you rate a broadcast TV ad from Rep. Mike Zalewski (D-Riverside) that tried to tie his opponent to Mike Madigan. This is a new rebuttal cable TV from Zalewski’s opponent Abdelnasser Rashid…
Mike Zalewski was a lobbyist for ComEd. Then Mike Madigan appointed him state representative and Zalewski voted to raise utility rates to record levels. This year? Zalewski introduced a law to raise the gas tax while we suffer at the pump. We can’t afford Mike Zalewski.
The corrupt Madigan Zalewski machine will say or do anything to win. Zalewski lies about Rashid having a Republican donor. The donor is actually a Democrat who gave to President Obama, Senator Durbin and Congressman Garcia. You just can’t trust Mike Zalewski.
A whole lot coming at you in that spot.
* As subscribers know, the Senate Democrats have funneled a ton of cash and other advantages to newly appointed Sen. Eric Mattson (D-Joliet) in his primary race against progressive Democrat Rachel Ventura…
Today, Democratic Candidate for State Senate Eric Mattson announced the endorsement of U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).
“Eric Mattson is prepared to be a voice for the people in Springfield,” said Senator Duckworth. “As a career firefighter, he’s served his community as a first responder, volunteer and union leader. Throughout the pandemic his leadership and dedication helped the members of his community get vaccinated, protecting themselves and others. Mattson is the public servant the people of the 43rd District deserve in Springfield.”
“I am grateful to have the support of Senator Duckworth,” said State Senator Eric Mattson. “As a veteran firefighter of 26 years, and am honored by the Senator’s service and sacrifice for this country, and I look forward to working with her to bring jobs and opportunities to the 43rd.”
* Remember this Greg Hinz piece about attorney general candidate Steve Kim’s ties to the Saudi Kingdom?…
In a phone interview, Kim said the sole function of Global Business Ventures was to link American firms to good international investments. Beyond that, he said he never received “any compensation” from the Saudi government, and that he left Global Business Ventures awhile ago—“maybe a year or two; I don’t remember”—and gave up his “very small” equity interest for free.
A spokesman later added that Kim’s major opponent in the June 28 Republican primary, downstate attorney Thomas DeVore, has not displayed the temperament voters should expect in an attorney general.
Steve Kim says he thinks I don’t have the temperament for the Attorney General office. It that the best he’s got. Lol!! It seems he believes fighting directly and indirectly to protect the rights of millions of kids, tens of thousands of small businesses and tens of thousands of public employees gives me a bad temperament. It seems he thinks spending thousands of hours over two years educating and empowering everyday citizens gives me a bad temperament. He’s right I have a street fighter temperament as that’s what it takes to fend off the tyranny of Pritzker and his minions. Mr. Kim is the same old, same old type of establishment politician that has already been rebuked by the people of Illinois in two failed statewide elections. He is tied at the hip to the Richard Irvin establishment RINO’s and there is zero chance he would ever take the fight to corruption and government overreach in this state. Him and Jimmy Boy Durkin are cut from the same cloth and Mr. Kim would be emboldened to the Republican establishment just ask Kwame is emboldened to the Democrat establishment.
It seems the reckless roadshow, snake oil salesman, grifter with a bad temperament is my new call sign. LOL
These people are ridiculous and have no idea how to save this state. If the people want more of the same, elect these RINO’s. If you want to create real change, you might consider electing patriot street fighters who will fight for your families when it’s not popular!!
There are 17,520 total hours in two calendar years. He must be quadruplets.
— Leading candidates in IL-03 gearing up for a close race: “This is a race that pits a sitting Chicago alderman against a sitting state representative from the city, each trying to balance their progressive credentials with the need to appeal to typically more conservative DuPage County voters out in the western part of the new district,” reports ABC 7’s Craig Wall.
— Sen. Dick Durbin has endorsed Nancy Shepherdson for 5th District State Central Committeewoman seat. Shepherdson is an incumbent (redistricted into the 5th) who’s in the race with state Rep. Margaret Croke — who’s endorsed by Gov. JB Pritzker — and MWD’s [sic] Mariyana Spyropoulos
— Bernie’s back: Sen. Bernie Sanders hosts a “Get Out the Vote” rally Saturday at 9:30 a.m. in Humboldt Park. Sanders, who endorsed Delia Ramirez for the IL-03 race, is in Chicago for the annual “Labor Notes” conference that brings together workplace organizers and union representatives from across the country. … Sun-Times has more here. … The “Get Out the Vote” rally is free but RSVPs encouraged here.
— Richard Uihlein and Elizabeth Uihlein have each donated $2,900 to Catalina Lauf’s bid for Congress in the IL-11 Republican primary. […]
— Precious Brady-Davis, candidate for commissioner at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, is out with a new video. If she wins she’d be the first trans woman of color to be elected in Illinois. The ad’s tag line, “nothing is more precious than water.”
That Precious Brady-Davis video is pretty well-done.
* CD3…
Today, the Progressive Change Campaign Committee (PCCC) is endorsing State Representative Delia Ramirez for Congress in Illinois’ 3rd District.
Delia Ramirez is running for an open seat in the newly-drawn district, which now covers Chicago’s Northwest Side and suburbs. It contains a Latino plurality and is strongly Democratic.
Polling shows Delia Ramirez is the frontrunner in four-way primary, where she leads 19% to 11% over Chicago Alderman Gilbert Villegas. In addition to the PCCC, Ramirez has been endorsed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, the Working Families Party, and the Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC. If elected, she would be the first Latina in Congress from the Midwest.
“Delia Ramirez doesn’t just wage uphill battles against establishment lawmakers—she wins meaningful change for the people,” the PCCC said in an email to its membership. “Delia Ramirez leads on issues that are central to the working families she represents, like lowering prescription drug prices and fighting for a $15 minimum wage. Instead of taking corporate PAC money, she has pushed to end the revolving door between lawmakers and lobbyists. This is the kind of transformative leadership we need in Congress.”
“I am proud to receive the endorsement of the Progressive Change Campaign Committee, which is building grassroots power across our country to pass Medicare for All, Paid Family Leave, and the expansion of Social Security so that everyone in our country can have the care that they need when they need it,” said Delia Ramirez (IL-03). “I look forward to working with them to continue to charge the path for bold progressive policies in Congress.”
The daughter of Guatemalan immigrants, Delia Ramirez’s focus on bold, transformative solutions to homelessness and poverty is inspired by her childhood experience volunteering at a soup kitchen. As a nonprofit executive, community organizer, and Illinois state legislator, she has consistently prioritized housing insecurity. Delia Ramirez passed the COVID-19 Emergency Housing Act to protect renters from eviction and homeowners from foreclosure, and secured funding for a tenant and landlord pandemic relief fund.
The PCCC has raised over $35 million for progressive candidates and committees this past decade. The PCCC will fundraise for Delia Ramirez from its nearly-million members nationally and will recruit volunteers and local endorsements from its 15,000 Illinois members.
In 2007, Chicago officials and civic leaders had an idea: to create a nonprofit organization that would bring Olympic sports to the city’s youth, promote Chicago as an international sporting metropolis and, in turn, boost the city’s chances of securing the 2016 Olympic bid.
When Chicago infamously lost its bid for the games, backers of World Sport Chicago insisted the nonprofit would still carry on a legacy — bringing sports and the “ideals of the Olympic movement” to underserved youth.
In 2015, Kambium Buckner — current Chicago mayoral candidate, state representative and former employee with the Chicago Cubs — took over the nonprofit, and promised to use WSC to give kids in “forgotten pockets” of the city “opportunities and chances to succeed and to survive.”
But a WBEZ analysis shows that, while Buckner carried out that mission for several years, World Sport Chicago slowly dissolved, its finances diminished and money spent on programming for kids decreased during his tenure. This all came as documents show Buckner’s salary nearly tripled, from $137,352 to $364,159 in just four years, before the organization was “involuntarily dissolved” by the state last year.
Buckner is among seven others vying for the 2023 mayoral seat. He announced his campaign in May with a “four star” plan that includes “safety and justice,” improved education, economic recovery — as well as stabilizing the city’s long-troubled finances. In his campaign literature, he has touted his time at World Sport Chicago, saying he brought sports to 70,000 students.
* CD14…
Senator Sue Rezin (SD38), a leading conservative voice in Illinois’ legislature, endorses Kendall County Board Chairman, Scott R. Gryder, frontrunner for nomination of the Republican Party to challenge Lauren Underwood for Illinois’ 14th Congressional District.
Calling Gryder the candidate “best equipped to take on Lauren Underwood in November,” Senator Rezin highlighted Scott’s “proven track record of strong leadership and sound fiscal policy.”
Contrasting Underwood’s “far left, progressive ideologies,” Rezin believes Gryder will “bring his common-sense conservatism to Washington, D.C. and will focus on stopping wasteful spending, protecting patients’ rights, standing up for our veterans, and securing our borders.”
Upon receiving the endorsement of Senator Rezin, Gryder released the following statement:
“My campaign for Illinois’ 14th District is being waged on behalf of the hard-working families struggling under the policies and failures of leadership exhibited by Lauren Underwood and her allies in Washington, Joe Biden and Nancy Pelosi. It’s time for a change, and I am honored that Senator Sue Rezin, a conservative leader we know and trust believes my pro-growth, pro-family, pro-freedom approach is the right choice for our district and our future. I thank Senator Rezin for her friendship, her confidence in my leadership, and her support as I prepare to take on Lauren Underwood.”
* How’s he gonna withhold the salaries of state’s attorneys?…
That was sent to a Downstate D3 voter, by the way.
…Adding… [I’ve pulled this release down for now.]
*** UPDATE *** I had quickly posted a press release and then thought about it and quickly took it down. The release was from the Kari Steele campaign claiming “At least two of Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi’s senior officials have broken the law on the County’s residency requirements for employees, which mandates that employees live in Cook County.” This is from the assessor’s office Chief Legal Officer Tatia Gibbons…
The courts have ruled that the law cited here is unenforceable against the majority of county employees. In order to treat all employees similarly, the Assessor chose to adopt the same approach for all employees. This decision was made by the Assessor after consulting with the County Independent Inspector General to ensure that this was an appropriate course of action.
* Click here to see the sign-up page. Mendon is about 16 miles from Quincy. That’s where the fairgrounds are.
Looks like it’s really happening, campers. Buckle up!
*** UPDATE 1 *** Rodney Davis campaign…
Rodney Davis, Republican candidate for Congress in the 15th District, released the following statement after President Donald Trump announced a campaign rally to be held in Adams County on Saturday, June 25:
“I’m proud of my conservative record of working with Trump when he was in office, and I won’t shy away from it. I’m focused on winning this campaign, firing Nancy Pelosi, and re-implementing the many policy successes we had when Trump was president, like building the wall, cutting taxes, and making America energy independent again.
“As the future Chairman of House Administration, I will also be focused on investigating the security failures leading up to January 6, finding out if Speaker Pelosi had a role in those failures, and holding her sham Select Committee circus accountable.
“I would hope President Trump and Republican voters are aware of the baggage Mary Miller has, including a convicted pedophile serving as her personal driver, her rhetoric encouraging illegal immigration, her vote with the Socialist Squad to defund the military, and her close ties to an anti-Trump Super PAC. Time and again, Mary Miller has put America last in Congress.”
*** UPDATE 2 *** Not a huge surprise considering the personal ties between Irvin’s campaign staff and Rodney…
Ken Griffin, the billionaire Citadel CEO and Republican megadonor, gave $1.5 million as sole donor to Illinois Values PAC that's spent ~$1.5 million opposing Rep. Mary Miller (R) in June 28 primary vs Rep. Rodney Davis (R): https://t.co/IQf8nYXjP9#il15#twill
A complaint was filed with our office on April 26th containing various allegations against you arising out of your position as a State Senator. I have reviewed the complaint and evidence obtained from a detailed and thorough investigation conducted by all members of the Office of the Legislative Inspector General.
The investigation included witness interviews in Chicago with the signatory complainant Jan Czarnik, who did not prepare the allegations in the complaint. Also interviewed was Kathyrn “Kitty” Kurth who prepared all of the allegations and documents in the complaint. Finally, this office interviewed you, Senator Melinda Bush and you provided this office with voluminous bank records and legal documents to refute the allegations of the complaint.
After thorough investigation by my office, I have concluded that the allegations of misconduct and violations of law described in the complaint are factually unsupported and therefore unfounded.
Because the complaint in this case waived confidentiality when it was filed, and because Kathyrn Kurth released the complaint to the press on the day it was filed, I believe further comments by me are appropriate. The waiver of confidentiality at the time of filing the complaint combined with a press release on the same day was not an accident. Such conduct appears to have been an attempt to politically weaponize the filing of the complaint as a political action in advance of a proper investigation by this office.
Moreover, by publishing and politicizing the complaint in advance of a proper investigation by this office, I find such conduct to be unfair to the accused, Senator Melinda Bush. That is especially true when in this case, the allegations made in the complaint tum out to be factually unsupported and unfounded.
Because the allegations of the complaint lack evidentiary support, this file will be closed without further action.
Current law prohibits the Office of the Legislative Inspector General from publicly disclosing the results of a complaint deemed unfounded, Nor will any public comment be isssued from this office as a result of my findings closing the investigation. A copy of this letter will be emailed to the complainants as well.
Sincerely,
Michael P. McCuskey
Illinois Legislative Inspector General
Yep. That Sam Yingling crowd really ought to be ashamed of themselves for this. But there’s no chance of that. Sheesh.
…Adding… In a previous life, Emily Miller did some PR work for Rep. Yingling. So she knows whereof she speaks…
Writing & filing a fantasy IG complaint to satiate your need to vilify a retiring senator for your own political gain is very stupid, and it’s a waste of taxpayer money. IGs are important, and I’m glad this IG was clear about how inappropriate this was. https://t.co/Oi5mDjS6MC
Q: My question is how much does a senior income have to be in order to receive a tax freeze on their property? Thank you.
Steele: I believe the senior income has to be less than 55. I’m not sure because I’m not at the assessor’s office now. But I can tell you this, once I’m at the assessor’s office, one, I’ll definitely know the amount, but I will work with the senior community…
Um, it’s $65,000 and that answer is just facepalm embarrassing. Video clip is here. Full show is here.
Trump campaign rally for Rep. Mary Miller appears increasingly likely […]
Overall, Trump’s candidate has won 12 congressional primaries and lost three times with 11 left to be decided, according to Axios.
* The House Republicans have taken the “closet Democrat” claim to a whole other level in the 93rd District, where Rep. Mark Luft (R-Pekin) is facing Travis Weaver in the primary. From a Weaver Facebook ad…
In this week’s installment of “What’s Mark Makin’ Up”, we have a decade old picture of me and a family friend that has been photoshopped into a picture of me and public enemy number one—JB Pritzker. You can’t make this stuff up; oh wait… I guess you can! These untruthful mailers are sad, but fortunately they’re so blatantly bad it is comical. Nonetheless, without any further ado, here is FACT CHECK #3:
- Claim #1: I “share the same insider circles” as JB Pritzker and Mike Madigan
- Fact #1: It is an absurd statement to make. I have never hung out with them, I don’t have any friends who have hung out with them, I don’t know what shows they watch; frankly, sometimes I don’t know what planet they live on. I would recognize them if I saw them because they ransacked our state, but that’s about it. I don’t know how else to refute it, except to point out that I live by Kickapoo. This may shock you, but I don’t think Pritzker and Madigan are regulars at the Jubilee Café.
- Claim #2: I’m “not a Republican”
- Fact #2: I’ve been a Republican my entire life, I was raised by two Republican parents and four grandparents who flipped between Rush Limbaugh and the Chicago Cubs on the radio. I have never voted for, aligned with, donated to, or supported a Democrat in my life. In the words of Mike Pence, “I’m a Christian, Conservative, Republican, in that order”
State Rep. Tim Butler, R-Springfield, faces a challenge in the Republican primary from Kent Gray, a candidate with more baggage than Samsonite. […]
Gray, 52, is a Springfield-area lawyer who had his law license suspended for one year, beginning in December 2018. He owes back property taxes for his Leland Grove home. And by his own admission, he’s behind on child-support payments for his two children.
“The Illinois General Assembly already has enough ethical challenges without electing someone like this,” Butler said of his opponent.
Gray said the Sangamon County Republican Party establishment hates Donald Trump and consequently is opposed to him because he supports the 45th president and once managed his Illinois campaign. He added that his opponent is a “Never Trumper.”
“Day One” a 30-second ad has begun to run on broadcast and cable television. The ad will also reach voters on digital channels, and features Alderman Pat Dowell, saying in her own words that she will be ready on Day One to represent the 1st Congressional District. The ad will run through Election Day.
“My goal as a public servant has always been to listen and speak directly with the people I represent. As Alderman and Chair of the Budget Committee in City Council, I have been able to pass legislation and work across the aisle to get results. I am ready to begin work on Day One in Congress,” said Ald. Pat Dowell, candidate for the Democratic nomination for Illinois’ 1st Congressional District.
The ads can be viewed at:
TV
https://www.dropbox.com/s/xth7hun61emdy6y/PatDowell_01DayOne.mov?dl=0
Digital
https://www.dropbox.com/s/7eou87l88o0hnes/PatDowell_01DayOne.mp4?dl=
“Day One”
Alderman Pat Dowell:
I got my start with Mayor Harold Washington.
As an alderman, I’ve delivered resources that have transformed neighborhoods into thriving areas of growth and opportunity.
Now we need a voice in congress to deliver on the issues that matter.
Protecting our votes;
Stopping gun violence;
Making it easier to afford gas and groceries.
I’m Democrat Pat Dowell. I approve this message because on day one, I’m ready to get the job done for you.
* Also from Dowell…
National Organization for Women Political Action Committee has endorsed Pat Dowell for Democratic Nomination for Congress in the First District of Illinois.
“The National Organization for Women has been the voice for women for generations, and I am incredibly proud to receive this endorsement. I will continue standing with NOW to fight for a women’s right to choose, pay equity, and equal rights. If elected, I will be the first woman to represent the 1st Congressional District; I am ready for that responsibility,” said Ald. Pat Dowell, candidate for the Democratic nomination for Illinois’ 1st Congressional District.
…Adding… Press release…
As part of a multi-stop tour of Chicago, Senator Bernie Sanders will host a rally at the Humboldt Park Boathouse for Northwest side progressives. The event is aimed at encouraging Chicagoans to take advantage of early voting, which commenced on June 13th.
Senator Sanders has endorsed progressive Delia Ramirez in her run for U.S Congress in the newly re-drawn 3rd District, which covers Humboldt Park as well as Logan Square, Belmont-Cragin, and several northwest suburbs. Ramirez is a lifelong Chicagoan and daughter of Guatemalan immigrants who has served as 4th District State Rep in the Illinois General Assembly since 2018.
WHO: U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, State Rep. Delia Ramirez, Congressman Chuy Garcia, Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates, Jonathan Jackson Candidate for IL-01, Senator Omar Aquino, Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas, Senator Karina Villa, Senator Robert Peters, State Representative Will Guzzardi, 4th District Illinois House candidate Lilian Jimenez, 8th District Cook County Commissioner candidate Anthony Quezada, 35th Ward Alderman Carlos Ramirez Rosa, 33rd Ward Alderwoman Rossana Rodriguez.
* More…
* Illinois Republican primary for attorney general: Tom Devore against Steve Kim and David Shestokas: Crackdowns on crime, corruption and COVID-19 restrictions — with some unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud for good measure.The three men vying for the Republican nomination for Illinois attorney general have all the major conservative hot-button issues pressed down as they duke it out for a challenge to Democrat Kwame Raoul, who is wrapping up his first term as the state’s chief legal officer.
* Karl Rove: Why Democrats Are Funding the GOP Fringe
* Rob Martwick and Erin Jones square off in negative campaign mailers in race for 10th Senate District seat: Jones has said that she became politically engaged about 5 years ago when she was one of dozens of city workers who former alderman John Arena (45th) filed a police accountability complaint against because of “racially charged” comments she allegedly made on social media about a controversial mixed-income housing project at 5150 N. Northwest Hwy. … Jones’ campaign is being supported by the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7, and she has been endorsed by Alderman Anthony Napolitano (41st) and County Clerk of the Circuit Clerk Iris Martinez.
* ‘Save America Rally’ reserves Adams County Fairgrounds for June event: A contract to reserve the Adams County Fairgrounds June 24 to 26 has been signed by a renting organization named “Save America Rally,” fairground officials confirmed Tuesday. Save America likely is a reference to the leadership PAC established in November 2020 by former President Donald Trump, who previously stated he would be open to traveling to Illinois to support the campaign of U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, R-Oakland.
* From the Chicago Area Aggregate Producers Association, which has just three very large corporate members…
On June 7, International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150 began a strike against three companies that make up the Chicago Area Aggregate Producers Association: Vulcan Materials, Lehigh Hanson and Lafarge.
As the strike continues, it is important for union members, customers, stakeholders and the public to know the facts. Below is a statement from CAAPA to set the record straight:
“It is unfortunate that Local 150 decided to strike and that union leaders have been providing misleading information about the situation.
We reached out to Local 150 on March 1 to begin contract negotiations and were in contact with the union throughout the spring. Local 150 did not agree to sit down for talks until after the contract expired on April 30 and almost immediately decided to strike. Local 150 still has not presented a wage and benefit proposal despite multiple requests.
Local 150 has made unfounded claims regarding safety issues and using unskilled replacement workers. These allegations are simply not true. Our trained and experienced management employees are working to support our customers to minimize disruption to their businesses.
The strike not only jeopardizes essential infrastructure needs that impact roads, bridges and flood-prevention projects, it also increases costs for taxpayers during this shortened construction season.
We remain committed to finding a path forward that is mutually beneficial, and we are hopeful our continued negotiations at the bargaining table bring our employees back to work soon.”
* Meanwhile, here’s a press release issued Tuesday…
This morning, leaders from the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police and Chicago Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7 issued statements in support of the striking members of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 150.
More than 300 IUOE Local 150 members went on strike on June 7th against construction material producer companies Lehigh Hanson, Vulcan Materials, and Lafarge Holcim in protest of unfair labor practice charges filed with the National Labor Relations Board.
“Hard working men and women deserve to be treated with dignity at work,” said Illinois FOP President Chris Southwood. “We stand in solidarity with the striking members of IUOE Local 150 and call on these companies to prioritize these workers’ health, safety, and rights on the job.”
“The officers of the Chicago FOP stand with Local 150 members as they exercise their right to peacefully strike in the wake of their employers’ alleged unfair labor practices,” said Chicago Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7 President John Catanzara. “The men and women of the FOP understand the power of collective action to bring progress on the job and call upon these employers to negotiate in good faith and work with the union to reach a resolution that is fair and equitable for their workers.”
The Illinois FOP is the second largest State Lodge, proudly representing over 33,000 active duty and retired police officers – more than 10 percent of all FOP members nationwide. The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7 represents officers of the Chicago Police Department.
* The day before that Tuesday press released was issued, the Chicago Land Operators Joint Labor Management PAC, which is heavily influenced by Local 150, put $10K into the United Working Taxpayers PAC. That committee had previously been funded solely by the Chicago FOP and, as subscribers know, had sent out a negative mailer against a couple of Democratic state legislators that 150 supports, but the FOP opposes…
The FOP is a PAC, just like this PAC Casper setup. They could have sent the mailers. Why all the runaround?
The FOP knows Dems reading a negative mailer from the MAGA FOP isn't going to land with a lot of voters. But "United Working Taxpayers"? That has a veneer of legitimacy.
— The People's Fabric (@peoplesfabric) June 9, 2022
It also allows the Chicago FOP to get around the contribution caps since the group was nearly at that cap for Chicago police detective and Republican activist Erin Jones, who’s running against Sen. Rob Martwick (D-Chicago) in the Democratic primary.
The United Working Taxpayers PAC has not yet disclosed spending that money, but it recently disclosed spending cash in a bevy of races, including for Cook County Circuit Court Clerk Iris Martinez’s state central committee contest and on behalf of Carmen Navarro, who has since been removed from the ballot for county sheriff. Those are/were both Chicago FOP peeps. The FOP/Operators-funded PAC has also reported spending $19K against state Rep. Delia Ramirez in her congressional primary against Ald. Gil Villegas.
This story gets even more complicated, but I’m going to wait for a bit on that.
…Adding… Ed Maher from Local 150…
Hi Rich,
The contribution to UWT was made in support of Election Day activities for candidates that we’ve endorsed. Nothing more to it than that.
Police have often voiced support for Local 150 and other unions during strikes. Employers will frequently call police on striking workers or union representatives on picket lines, but we are extremely thorough in educating our members and staff on laws that apply to picketing in order to ensure that all picket lines and strike activity are conducted peacefully and in accordance with applicable laws.
Two Illinois Republican gubernatorial hopefuls visited the Quad Cities area on Wednesday, making another pitch to voters ahead of the June 28 primary election. […]
Both candidates believe, however, Gov. J.B. Pritzker is trying to influence the Republican primary election with recent advertising.
“For a Republican to win as governor of the state of Illinois, that Republican’s going to need Republican support, independent support, and democratic crossover support. J.B. Pritzker knows I’ll be able to get all those,” Irvin said.
“I think it’s obvious Governor Pritzker thinks I’m the easiest candidate to beat and my message to Governor Pritzker is be careful what you wish for because it’s coming right toward ya,” Bailey said. “So, the people of Illinois are absolutely fed up with the state of our state. They’re ready for something different.”
Discuss.
…Adding… The Bailey campaign’s spokesperson texted me this afternoon to say Bailey’s comments were “cut off” by the paper, but didn’t respond when I asked what else Bailey said.
* Since we last discussed this topic, Gov. Pritzker has contributed $55,000 to Avon Township Democratic Chair Hal Sloan’s campaign for state central committee. Tom Maillard is the incumbent, but despite receiving several endorsements, he has reported raising almost no money.
And then this hit the mailboxes today…
Former Senate President Cullerton voted with Pritzker on the DPI chair election, accurately predicting that the state party would face some big legal hurdles to raise and spend non-federal campaign funds if Robin Kelly won. Cullerton is running against Sen. Rob Martwick (D-Chicago), and Martwick wasn’t surprised with the endorsement.
Also, Martwick and Pritzker have tangled a bit on MWRD candidate Daniel Pogorzelski. “Pogo” was endorsed by the county party and he’s close to Martwick. Pritzker is going up against the party in that race and is backing former staffer Chakena Perry, who was appointed to the MWRD.
That makes seven public endorsements so far in contested races. The others are here.
*** UPDATE 1 *** The governor has contributed another $500,000 to the Democratic Party of Illinois. He also gave $15,000 to Karen Yarbrough, who’s running unopposed for both state central committee and for county clerk. He also contributed $5,000 to Lake County Sheriff John D. Idleburg.
*** UPDATE 2 *** Rep. Gordon Booth, a strong Pritzker ally at the Statehouse, is running against two other Democrats in this open-seat contest, Pam Davidson (who has also sent a mailer) and Linda McNeely…
*** UPDATE 3 *** Rep. Maurice West (D-Rockford) just confirmed that he was endorsed by Gov. Pritzker. West is running against Virgil Mayberry in the 17th District.
House Minority Leader Jim Durkin, alongside Chicago Fraternal Order of Police President John Catanzara and former Chicago Police Department Officer Robert Mizera, criticized Gov. J.B. Pritzker at a Tuesday news conference for his handling of the Prisoner Review Board.
Mizera, a former CPD officer, was shot and injured by Kensley Hawkins in 1980. Hawkins later would be convicted of the murder of a 65-year-old man and was sentenced to almost 100 years in prison.
He is now out of prison after being commuted by Pritzker and his appointed Illinois Prisoner Review Board.
“Mr. Hawkins was zealously represented by Department Counsel Lisa Schoedel at Jenner & Block, as part of [Illinois Prison Project’s] pro bono program,” an April 28 statement from Jenner & Block said. “Ms. Schoedel’s commitment and dedication to Mr. Hawkins and his case paid off: Last week, she received a call from the Illinois Governor’s Office, telling her that Mr. Hawkins would be coming home.”
Mizera said he learned of his attacker’s release via an email and has had no further discussion with Pritzker or his administration about the decision.
“On April 22nd, 2021, I was informed by email that Mr. Hawkins had been released from prison with no reason given,” Mizera said at Tuesday’s news conference. “The governor did not call me, he did not ask me what I thought and he probably did not care, so that’s my dealing with Governor Pritzker and his release of people who obviously should still be in prison.”
Catanzara asked the residents of Illinois to think about what would happen to them in this situation.
“If an officer cannot get justice, and their families cannot get justice, what does the average person think is going to happen to the monsters that murder their loved ones?” Catanzara said.
Durkin, R-Western Springs, called the clemency a sign of disrespect to law enforcement.
“Today I am here to talk about Governor Pritzker’s continuing lack of respect and continuing attack on our police officers, those currently on the force and those who have already served, and the victims of crime in this state,” Durkin said.
Pritzker has granted clemency to more than 20 individuals previously convicted of crimes since taking office.
I emailed Durkin’s spokesperson to ask if Hawkins had been arrested since his release more than a year ago. No reply.
* From the governor’s office…
The leader of the Republican Party standing with a racist zealot spewing lie after lie while using racist language like “savages” is unfortunately the new norm. If Leader Durkin truly cared about making our state a safer place to live, he would have voted to provide funding for more Illinois State Troopers, to build and staff a new crime lab to process evidence, and expand violence interruption programs. While Leader Durkin continues to lie about what the criminal justice reform bill does, advocates for survivors who worked on the law say “it increases safety for survivors.” Gov. Pritzker is focused on solutions, not tired talking points.
BACKGROUND
Kensley Hawkins spent 40 years in prison after being convicted of attempted murder based on the conduct of his co-defendant under the theory of accountability. He was 70 years old with a number of health conditions at the time he was granted parole.
• “That’s not what we consider advocating for survivors, nor is the tendency of some law enforcement officials to use survivors as an excuse to justify total opposition to reform, all the while ignoring the lived experiences that informed these structural changes.
Contrary to the false arguments advanced by opponents, the new pretrial system will not simply release every person arrested for a crime. For example, it will ensure people held for forcible felonies, including domestic or sexual violence, are kept for up to 48 hours. It will give the state time to gather information about whether someone poses a threat to others. It is a welcome reform to the current practice of releasing people who can pay the bond with minimal regard for the threat they may pose to survivors.”
— The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence (@CMBWNTheNetwork) January 20, 2022
The end of sexual harm includes the end of oppressive practices in the criminal legal system. As survivors and allies who advocate for victims' rights, CAASE wholeheartedly supports the PFA and will fight for its implementation. #EndMoneyBail#DefendPFAhttps://t.co/U2wMXbJAtM
— Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation (@TheCAASE) January 20, 2022
Who is John Catanzara?
• According to the Citizens Police Data Project, he has been the subject of 50 allegations — more than 96% of Chicago police officers.
• Once suspended for 30 days following an investigation into allegations of domestic abuse in 2003.
• Reprimanded following an investigation into an allegation of excessive force in 2003.
• Suspended for six days following an investigation into allegations of conduct unbecoming an officer by associating with a felon while off-duty in 2003.
• Suspended for 20 days following an investigation into allegations of conduct unbecoming by associating with a felon while off-duty in 2004.
• Suspended for 10 days for insubordination in 2005.
• Suspended for 15 days following an investigation into an allegation of a personnel violation at an Old Town tavern in 2007.
• Suspended for 20 days after the Chicago Police Board found him guilty of violating department rules by working as a private security guard while on medical leave for a back injury in 2008. Supt. Garry McCarthy had sought to fire him.
• According to the Chicago Tribune, then-Police Supt. Jody Weis sought to fire Catanzara in 2008, accusing him of failing to follow orders to complete a psychological exam, but the Chicago Police Board cleared Catanzara of wrongdoing.
• Suspended for 10 days following an investigation into miscellaneous personnel violations in 2013.
There is a provision in [the SAFE-T Act] which for the first time is going to allow a defendant, a defendant to be able to compel the victim of crime to appear at a detention hearing starting January 1. … We have a responsibility to protect victims, not to feed them to the savages, is what JB Pritzker and the Democrats have done under this legislation.
…Adding… From a contemporaneous news report…
* And a debunking of Durkin’s actual claim…
At a press conference today, opponents to the #PretrialFairnessAct used gender-based violence victims to make false and repeated claims. The fact is that the PFA makes it *harder* for defense attorneys to call victims to the witness stand in detention hearings. #twillpic.twitter.com/i8AMtaF10l
— Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation (@TheCAASE) February 9, 2022
* Statement from the Illinois Prison Project…
The Illinois Prison Project represented Kensley Hawkins in his clemency petition alongside Jenner & Block through our pro bono program. It’s no surprise proponents of failed, carceral policies would rather resort to racist dog whistles and political grandstanding than engage with substantive, evidence-based solutions that actually make our communities safer.
Mr. Hawkins was released in April 2021, just six years short of his estimated release date, after having spent almost four decades behind bars. His medical conditions put him at an increased risk of death from COVID-19 at a time when the virus had already infected tens of thousands of people in Illinois prisons.
Mr. Hawkins was convicted under the controversial theory of accountability, a legal doctrine that allows for a person to be convicted of a crime they not only didn’t commit but also didn’t plan, agree, or intend to commit, and at which they were not even present.
State Senator Rachelle Aud Crowe was recently confirmed by the United States Senate to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. Leading up to her swearing in, she released the following statement after resigning from the Illinois Senate Wednesday:
“Since joining the Senate in 2019, I’ve felt overwhelming support from my family, my colleagues in the General Assembly and the Metro East community—my heart is full of gratitude as I submit my resignation.
“I will cherish the partnerships and friendships that grew in my time in the Illinois Senate as we worked to advocate for change, update laws and improve our great state together. While serving the diverse communities of the 56th District was often challenging, I was overjoyed to see how we are united in our fight to enhance opportunities for families across the state.
“I am forever grateful to families of the 56th District for giving me the opportunity to serve, and I thank you all for your encouragement and thoughtfulness over the years. I love Illinois, and I look forward to continuing my work in public service in my new position.”
Senator Crowe submitted her formal resignation Wednesday, June 15 and was effective as of 10 a.m.
For a brief moment, the Senate’s membership included an actual fed. Weird times.
…Adding… Senate President Harmon…
Senate President Don Harmon issued a statement praising Crowe’s tenure in the Illinois Senate.
“Rachelle Crowe is a rising star who has been a strong voice for the people and communities she represented and the issues they care about. She will be a fantastic U.S. attorney, and I look forward to following her successful career,” Harmon said.
* Gov. Pritzker was asked about Caterpillar moving its corporate headquarters out of the suburbs and down to Texas. Man, is this ever a major downplay…
Well, if we’re talking about net jobs in the state, actually, Caterpillar has added jobs in our state. So it is true that they are moving 240 of their personnel, those are not manufacturing personnel, they’re office personnel, to another location. But they’ve added hundreds of other jobs to the state. We have more than 17,400 Caterpillar employees that are working in factories and assembly plants in our state. We’ve added many more jobs, in fact, hundreds of thousands of jobs since the worst parts of our pandemic have been added to our economy. So we’re gonna keep working at that. I’m proud of the work that’s been done to attract businesses to the state. We’ve had so many move in here. And of course, disappointed to see Caterpillar move that one office.
Of course businesses reopened after the worst of the pandemic and hired back hundreds of thousands of people, but Illinois’ unemployment rate continues to lag the rest of the country.
Also, Cat has been headquartered in this state for almost a hundred years. This ain’t some just-passing-through company like Boeing.
…Adding… Not to mention the loss of business to accountants, law firms and other headquarters vendors…
Just five of those Cat "office personnel" made over $28M in total compensation in 2021. If just those 5 relocate to Texas I think that's potentially over $1M in lost State income tax alone (admittedly very rough guess since lots of it is stock awards). https://t.co/ouTGRtB6KMhttps://t.co/ISqyQBQiWJ
