* Fox 32 has aired two reports about a new Ogden & Fry poll, but has yet to disclose what the actual toplines are except that Bailey leads Irvin by 14 points and Sullivan trails Irvin by about 6 points. The person who owns the firm, Republican Cook County Board candidate Matt Podgorski, did say that his toplines came very close to the Sun-Times result of 32-17 Bailey over Irvin, but that’s it.
By the second story, Fox 32 shared the factoid that when undecideds were pushed to make a decision, Bailey’s lead supposedly increased to 16 points…
No methodology was disclosed, including how many people were polled, how they were polled, what sort of Republicans were polled, when they were polled, the geographic breakdown and the MoE. Not exactly best practices, but I figured you’d want to know and hear some of the caveats.
Supposedly, we’ll find out more tonight during the 9 o’clock news, including maybe results in other races.
*** UPDATE 1 *** Toplines…
Darren Bailey 31
Gary Rabine 8
Jesse Sullivan 11
Max Solomon 1
Paul Schimpf 3
Richard Irvin 17
Undecided 30
Methodology…
Ogden & Fry conducted a nine-question poll June 11 - 12, 2022, with 662 respondents. Respondents were selected by random sampling of likely Republican voters. Responses were gathered through SMS to web. The margin of error for this poll is +/- 3.89% at the 95% confidence interval.
The poll was clear where Illinois Republican voters stand.
Nearly two-thirds of the Republicans surveyed supported tossing out Roe v. Wade, with less than a fifth in opposition.
Fewer than 20 percent of Republicans oppose tossing out Roe v. Wade, according to that poll. And not a single Republican in either state legislative chamber is pro-choice. Just more reasons why that recent “analysis” from Capitol News Illinois was so far off the mark.
Site selection experts say they don’t expect a Supreme Court ruling against Roe v. Wade to result in a sudden flood of new company headquarters moving to Illinois or Chicago. But promoting the state as a haven for reproductive rights could possibly burnish its reputation as a business hub.
“Companies are really in a battle to hire and retain the best talent, and young workers prefer to work for companies that prioritize environmental, social and governance issues,” and that now includes abortion, said John Boyd, principal of The Boyd Co., a national site selection firm. “I can certainly see (overturning Roe v. Wade) impacting some companies more sensitive to the abortion issue.” […]
“It is reasonable to anticipate that reproductive rights will receive the most attention given the history, the number of people impacted, and the extreme measures being implemented in some states,” [Ray Perryman, CEO of The Perryman Group, a Waco, Texas-based economic research and analysis firm] said. “While I would not expect either a mass exodus of firms from or a major initial slowdown in locations to the more restrictive states, I am confident that there will be long-term benefits to more inclusive areas.” […]
[World Business Chicago CEO Michael Fassnacht] said a shift in attitude is underway among business leaders in states such as Texas. He recently met with a group of about 50 from Austin, Dallas and other cities, and asked whether all the controversy now surrounding abortion would start affecting decisions on where to locate new business.
“Roughly half of them said yes,” he said. “That’s a pretty strong indication, I think.” […]
Abortion restrictions are already unpopular. A March survey by Morning Consult, a business intelligence firm, found that by a 2-to-1 margin, employed adults prefer living in states where abortion is legal.
Fassnacht is a committed and paid booster, and he’s likely meeting with people who are at least remotely open to the idea of possibly locating something here.
The Republican primary for Illinois attorney general pits a loquacious southern Illinois civil attorney who approaches folk hero status among some on the political right against a soft-spoken North Shore attorney making his third bid for statewide office.
Thomas DeVore entered the public consciousness early in the coronavirus pandemic as he launched unrelenting, if largely unsuccessful, legal challenges to Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s executive orders.
Steve Kim, a partner in a boutique international law firm based in Chicago, has little name recognition outside political circles after two failed bids for statewide office, including a 33-point loss to incumbent Democrat Lisa Madigan in the 2010 race for attorney general.
Mr. Kim is the General Counsel and a Principal at Global Business Ventures, a Chicago-based international development firm formed to assemble the global alliances that have proven capabilities and experiences to launch world-class community developments that fulfill the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 master plan.
So, he works with the Saudis? The master plan’s mastermind is Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, or MbS, who was linked to the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Today, Congresswoman Marie Newman and Iymen Chehade called on Sean Casten and his backer Democratic Majority for Israel PAC (DMFI PAC) to remove their misleading attack ad and halt all deceptive messaging targeting Congresswoman Newman in Illinois’ new 6th Congressional District. The ad produced by the right-leaning DMFI PAC, and subsequent communications produced by Congressman Casten’s campaign, promote a false narrative intended to mislead voters ahead of the June 28th Democratic primary election.
“I will not remain silent while a conservative super PAC encouraged by my opponent spends hundreds of thousands of dollars pushing a contrived narrative meant to tarnish my name and reputation,” said Congresswoman Marie Newman. “I am calling on DMFI PAC to pull its dishonest ad from the air and on Sean Casten to immediately stop pushing this deceptive narrative in paid digital advertisements, on social media, and in email solicitations to his donors.”
“More than a year ago, a complaint meant to derail my candidacy was lodged with the Office of Congressional Ethics by a right-wing organization, and now my opponent and his backer, DMFI PAC, are willfully doing the bidding of the far-right group who initiated this spurious charge.”
“My opponent has a history of bending the rules and distorting the truth to silence progressive women. Enough is enough. I will not be silent.”
During a recent forum hosted by WTTW, Iymen Chehade directly addressed the right-wing complaint and ensuing Congressional Ethics review, affirming that the complaint was baseless.
“I was never a candidate for Congress. I never declared candidacy. I never hired anybody. I never fundraised. I never did any of those things. Did Marie and I sign a contract? Yes we did. Was it for me to drop out of the race? Absolutely not. I was not in the race. This is an issue that was brought on by a right-wing organization that the media has latched on to,” said Iymen Chehade.
“Marie and I have had our issues in the past but I can tell you this is a hit job on her, and I’m collateral damage for it. So read the facts. Take a look at the reality of the situation. I think the facts are going to come out after the primary, and you will see this is just what it was, just nothing but a hit job…”
Very lawyerly explanation. And does she mean this Iymen Chehade?…
Mary Miller is facing an ethics complaint submitted to the House Ethics Committee over misuse of public resources for campaign purposes. Miller used official video footage of House floor proceedings in a campaign ad, which is a clear violation of House rules. Punishment for a founded ethics violation against Miller may include a fine or censure by the House of Representatives.
“It’s no surprise that Mary Miller’s false ads against Rodney Davis have landed her an ethics investigation. Whether it’s having a convicted child sex predator serving as her campaign driver, being repeatedly fined for not paying taxes, or hiding from the local media in her basement just like Joe Biden, Miller’s personal and political habits are not on the up and up. Miller should take down her false ad and come clean to voters about her shady record.” - Davis campaign spokesperson Aaron DeGroot
* CD1…
TODAY, June 13, Jonathan Jackson, candidate for Congress, will host the “Jonathan Jackson Town Hall Meeting” at New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church, 754 E. 77th St., from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. The Jonathan Jackson for Congress Ministers Committee is sponsoring the Town Hall meeting.
The topic of the Town Hall centers on Jackson’s vision of progress, improvement, and revitalization for the 1st District.
Santita Jackson will serve as moderator of a panel of journalists who will pose questions to Jackson about issues affecting the residents of the 1st congressional district. The journalists include Erick Johnson of the Chicago Crusader, Hermene Hartman, Publisher of N’digo, Lady Red from WSRB 106.3, and Sonya Tompkins of WVON radio.
“I am eager to share the points of my platform for the 1st District with the residents,” Jackson said. “I am very interested to hear from the people and engage in meaningful dialogue about how we can work together for the benefit of the region once I am in Congress.”
The next day, Jackson will participate with other candidates in the Illinois 123GO – Democratic Party Town Hall on Tuesday, June 14, 6:00 – 8:30 p.m., at Bethany Union Church, 1750 W. 103rd St. This forum features a “Coffee with the Candidates” segment from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., followed by the Town Hall Meeting from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
* CD7…
Today, the Chicago Tribune’s Editorial Board announced their endorsement of Kina Collins in the Democratic primary for Illinois’ 7th Congressional District. The Tribune, the largest newspaper in Chicago, endorsed Collins over 25-year incumbent Danny Davis for the first time in his career, citing her leadership on gun violence prevention in Chicago and the Biden administration, reproductive rights, and the time for a new generation of leadership in IL-7.
“It’s a tight decision and Davis’ decades of public service have our respect, but we think the time has come for new blood, and we endorse Collins,” said the Chicago Tribune Editorial Board. “Collins’ strong suit is fighting gun violence. She is one of Chicago’s leading anti-gun violence activists, and served on the Biden-Harris transition team’s task force on gun violence prevention. Though Collins supports universal background checks, raising the legal age to purchase firearms to 21, and banning assault-style rifles, she knows that the gun lobby’s influence in Washington dooms any hope of passage of those measures. “So people need to start electing candidates and folks who will reject this corporate PAC money,” she told us. “I think the only way we will move these elected officials is we have to move the people.
“We have admired Congressman Davis for many years, and endorsed him in the past. But we also admire Collins’ energy, passion and activism, particularly for an issue so urgent in the 7th District — gun violence.”
“I am so proud to have the endorsement of the Chicago Tribune in this race to bring a new generation of leadership to our community,” said Kina Collins. “It’s time we build on the work and legacy of those who came before us to deliver the needs of our district with the urgency that the ongoing crises of gun violence, climate change, healthcare, housing, and reproductive rights demands. I am ready to take on corporate power in Washington and truly fight to deliver for the working families of Illinois’ 7th Congressional District.”
Sen. Dick Durbin is endorsing Lauren Beth Gash for the Democratic State Central Committee seat in the 10th District. “I’ve known Lauren for decades and I’ve watched what she’s done to change what had been considered a solidly Republican area into a mostly Democratic one,” Durbin said in a statement.
The endorsement is the latest move in a battle to control the Illinois Democratic Party. Gov. JB Pritzker is endorsing Gash’s opponent in the race, outgoing state Sen. Melinda Bush.
We’ll see if Durbin puts in any money like Pritzker already has.
* Supreme Court…
Today, the Teamsters Local 916 announced its endorsement of Judge Elizabeth Rochford for the Illinois Supreme Court’s Second District. The union represents over 4,000 individuals throughout the state of Illinois in a range of professions including highway maintainers, truck drivers, security guards, warehouse employees, manufacturers, road and bridge engineers, food technicians, security guards and others.
“I am humbled to receive the endorsement of the hardworking men and women of Teamsters Local 916,” said Judge Elizabeth Rochford. “I am grateful that they believe in my qualifications to serve the people of the Second District as an Illinois Supreme Court Justice, and will bring my lifelong commitment to equity and fairness under the law that I’ve upheld in my decades-long career to this position.”
The endorsement from Teamsters Local 916 builds on Judge Rochford’s strong union support, which includes the Illinois State AFL-CIO, Local 881 UFCW, LIUNA Chicago Laborers’ District Council, Plumbers Local Union 130 United Association (UA), the Lake County and McHenry County Building & Construction Trades Councils and their affiliates, which together include 44 local affiliate trade unions.
* DCCC on CD13…
It’s been nearly two years since President Joe Biden was elected to the White House, but that hasn’t stopped IL-13 candidates Regan Deering and Jesse Reising from refusing to acknowledge that reality.
The State Journal-Register reported this week that Deering and Reising are digging their heels into the Big Lie conspiracy that fueled the deadly attack on our nation’s Capitol – which led to the deaths of 5 police officers and injured nearly 150 others. In recent public appearances, Reising “did not directly answer” and Deering “wouldn’t commit” to the basic truth that Joe Biden won the 2020 election.
“Regan Deering and Jesse Reising are so desperate to make it through their wide open Republican primary they’ll say whatever it takes, even if it means lying about the results of the 2020 election and casting doubt on the democratic process,” said DCCC spokesperson Helen Kalla. “Clearly Deering and Reising care more about peddling disinformation to cozy up to their party leaders than focusing on the everyday issues that matter to Illinoisans.”
* House primary…
Illinois’ longest-serving Democrats, US Senator Dick Durbin and Secretary of State Jesse White have endorsed Jeff Deppe for State Representative in Illinois’ 72nd District, the campaign has announced.
“I am proud to support Jeff Deppe for State Representative because Jeff will fight for good jobs and an economy that works for everyone,” said Sen. Durbin.
“As a lifelong volunteer in his community, Jeff has put his own sweat equity to work building ramps for seniors and the disabled, repairing and rebuilding homes for those struggling, and giving his time working with children in need.
“In Springfield, Jeff will continue that mission of putting the people of his community first because that is just who he is,” Sen. Durbin concluded.
Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White was equally enthusiastic about Deppe.
White, the Democrats’ top vote getter since 1998, said, “I endorse Jeff Deppe for State Representative because he will do a great job. I appreciate the work he does helping aging and disabled veterans and keeping at-risk young people out of harm’s way.
White continued, “These are issues close to my heart and are a testament to Jeff’s character.”
Deppe is up against Gregg Johnson and Thurgood Brooks in an open-seat Quad Cities-area primary.
In her campaign for state representative, real estate broker Tina Wallace touts her small business experience—but records show she hasn’t brokered a real estate transaction in four years, which is roughly when she inherited approximately $8 million worth of rental properties. […]
In April of this year, Wallace filed a lawsuit alleging legal malpractice against the attorneys who represented her in court against her brother. During the probate case, Wallace went through five different law firms and often disputed her attorneys’ fees. Wallace is currently represented by The Gooch Firm, suing her former attorneys with Levin Ginsburg.
Wallace has two liens against her personal residence from contractors who claim she failed to pay them in full for services rendered. One of these contractors wrote a Yelp review for Wallace Properties, which currently has an overall rating of 1.5 stars. Jerry B., who says he installed siding on her house, wrote:
“She never paid me balance of 7000 dollars. As far as I’m concerned she owes money to everyone there working at her house. Everyone [has a] mechanical lean [sic] on her house…she’s not a human being.”
Emails obtained by People’s Fabric show Wallace lobbied Ald. Raymond Lopez in September 2021 to support a change to the Residential Landlord Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) which would create additional hurdles for tenants seeking legal recourse against landlords who improperly withhold security deposits. Wallace wrote, “Chicago should be a place where landlords do not live-in fear of a frivolous lawsuit for a simple clerical mistake.”
Wallace has been sued at least twice by tenants alleging she improperly failed to return security deposits—neither involved simple clerical mistakes.
As previously reported by People’s Fabric, when Wallace was sued after her dog mauled a kennel worker, she unsuccessfully attempted to get Lopez to change the law to prohibit kennel workers from suing dog owners if attacked.
When Wallace wasn’t able to stop a brewpub from opening near her home, she used her connection to Lopez to dispatch city inspectors, demanding that the city revoke the business’ liquor license.
I don’t know who those people are at People’s Fabric, but, man, they sure do produce a lot of entertaining research about that part of the world. However, it’s not yet being used in this particular primary race.
* Speaking of that part of the world, Republican Cook County Board candidate Matt Podgorski is trying to play in the Democratic primary…
From what I gather, Podgorski would rather face Trevor than her well-funded primary opponent Sam Kukadia. So, he sent that text to Dem voters.
You may remember Trevor, who ran for the House twice against GOP Rep. Tom Morrison and lost. She lost her first House race by a razor-thin margin.
* More…
* Mark Brown: Mike Madigan has left the building — but the former House speaker’s shadow clouds the campaign trail - Attacks on Madigan’s influence over state government have been part of the Republican campaign playbook going at least as far back as Bruce Rauner’s election in 2014. There’s no reason to think that’s going to let up now that Madigan has been charged with racketeering and bribery.
* Secretary of State candidates field questions from disability rights group: “One of the areas we need to improve when talking about accommodations in Springfield, where I worked on getting our daily calendar to have more access for the visually impaired with not only larger print but also a brail standpoint,” Brady said.
* Some of these are either from Friday or over the weekend. Sen. Castro…
Construction workers who are not fairly compensated by subcontractors will soon be given an opportunity to collect unpaid wages, thanks to a new law spearheaded by State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin).
“Wage theft is a real problem, especially in the construction industry, which can have a complicated web of involved companies,” Castro said. “This law will provide a mechanism for the workers who have been slighted to receive their fair compensation and encourage primary contractors to employ reputable subcontractors.”
In a typical construction project, commercial property owners or developers will hire a primary contractor, also called a general contractor, to oversee a project. The general contractor will hire and coordinate with subcontractors, such as ones specializing in painting, window installation, electrical and more. Subcontractors employ their own workers to carry out their part of the project.
Under the new law, if a subcontractor fails to pay an employee, goes bankrupt or cannot pay their employee for any other reason, that employee can file a legal claim with the general contractor for any unpaid wages and benefits. Additionally, it requires the subcontractor to compensate the general contractor if this happens.
“Last year alone, 52,000 construction workers in Illinois reported payroll fraud,” Castro said. “These are real people who are going without their earned compensation, highlighting the pressing need for this law. I am pleased to see this signed to ensure our workers have an opportunity to be paid.”
The law includes exemptions for residential rehab and small commercial projects and does not include projects where a homeowner acts as their own general contractor. Additionally, it adds a statute of limitations for when complaints can be filed and creates a task force to consider innovative ways to bring bond reform to the construction industry.
The law, originally called House Bill 5412, was signed by the governor Friday and is effective immediately.
* Sen. Feigenholtz…
Restaurants, bars and retailers will be protected from unscrupulous delivery services thanks to an initiative spearheaded by State Senator Sara Feigenholtz that was signed into law Friday.
“Businesses have been victims of deceptive delivery services without their knowledge or consent,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “There are reasons some restaurants and bars may decide not to utilize delivery services. Protecting the brand and reputation that small businesses have worked to establish was a top priority and focus of this new law.”
House Bill 3205, also known as the Fair Food and Retail Delivery Act, prohibits third party delivery companies from posting a menu, registered trademark or any intellectual property without the express written consent of restaurants, bars and retail establishments.
Feigenholtz’ law bans third-party delivery services from listing non-partnered restaurants or retailers on their platform. Several reports indicate that these delivery services have listed menus and items without the knowledge or consent of the restaurant or retail establishment.
“I’m proud of the work we have done with this new law,” Feigenholtz said. “I hope that people will continue to support our local economies.”
The new law takes effect Jan. 1, 2023.
* Sen. Villa…
Legislation sponsored by State Senator Karina Villa (D-West Chicago) requiring the Governor’s Office of New Americans to create and oversee the implementation of a New American Statewide Plan was signed into law on Friday.
“One in seven Illinoisans is an immigrant,” Villa said. “People from across the world come here to make a new life, and we should do all we can to assist them in that endeavor.”
House Bill 1567 seeks to address immigrant and refugee integration issues in Illinois through the establishment of a New American Statewide Plan. Under the legislation, the Governor’s Office of New Americans would be required to put together a plan to ensure their essential duties are being performed.
The Office of New Americans is responsible for welcoming and supporting immigrants and refugees in Illinois and ensuring they have the resources necessary to successfully integrate into the social, cultural, economic, and civic life of the United States, including access to quality English language learning programs.
“We want all immigrants and refugees who come to Illinois to feel welcome in their new home,” Villa said. “By working alongside the Governor’s Office of New Americans to ensure they have the necessary resources to thrive, we lay a strong foundation for new beginnings.”
The legislation will go into effect Jan. 1, 2023.
* Sen. Peters…
A task force to investigate missing and murdered women in Chicago will be established after a measure supported by Senator Robert Peters was signed into law.
“For too long, the families of Black and Brown women have been left with no answers about the loss of their loved ones,” said Peters (D - Chicago). “Everyone, regardless of zip code, deserves justice, and every community deserves real public safety. This task force will help us provide justice for these families and provide guidance on how to address these cases.”
The new law creates the Task Force on Missing and Murdered Chicago Women, which will examine and report on the systemic causes behind violence that Chicago women and girls experience.
The report will explore methods for tracking and collecting data on violence against Chicago women and girls, policies and institutions that impact violence against them, measures necessary to address and reduce violence against them, and ways to help victims and their families and communities.
“Women that go missing or turn up murdered anywhere is unacceptable, and in Chicago specifically, we’ve found this to be a pressing issue,” said State Senator Mattie Hunter (D - Chicago). “The families of Black and Brown women that are missing or murdered are even less likely to get answers. We need to get to the root of the problem to protect our women and girls.”
HB 3988 was signed into law Friday and the task force will submit its report by Dec. 31. 2024.
* Sen. Fine…
Thanks to a new law championed by State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) and Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz (D-Glenview), pharmaceutical companies will now be required to establish a drug take-back program statewide, ensuring unused prescription drugs stay out of the hands of our children and our drinking water.
“Drug take-back programs are essential to keeping prescription medications out of the hands of our loved ones who could become addicted to these substances,” Senator Fine said. “In addition, these vital programs ensure prescription medications do not contaminate our environment.”
Many unused medicines are frequently flushed down the toilet or poured down the sink, causing harmful chemicals to end up in lakes, rivers, and groundwater, which can harm the ecosystem.
“Public safety is always top of mind for me, and the unsafe disposal of prescription drugs poses a real public health hazard,” said Rep. Gong Gershowitz, the House Sponsor of HB 1780. “40 million Americans drank from water sources contaminated by prescription drugs last year. It’s time we cut that number down to 0, and Illinois is going to do its part.”
While some counties in Illinois have already established similar programs, there is currently no statewide system in place. This law will provide a convenient way to safely dispose of unused medications, no matter what county you reside.
House Bill 1780 was signed into law June 10, 2022. It goes into effect immediately.
* Sen. Sara…
A measure sponsored by State Senator Sara Feigenholtz will allow Chicago firefighters to add MRSA to the list of occupational disease disability benefits if they contract the infection on duty.
“In recent years, firefighters have seen increased staph infections, including MRSA,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “Including MRSA on the list of covered protections for firefighters will aid in stopping the spread of the infection.”
The new law aligns Chicago firefighters with downstate firefighters by extending an occupational disease disability benefit to any active Chicago firefighter who has completed seven or more years of service and can’t perform their duties because of a contagious staph infection including MRSA.
“Firefighters risk their lives daily and serve as our first responders in many situations,” Feigenholtz said. “Aligning Chicago firefighter protections with downstate firefighters levels the playing field across the state. Illinois’ first responders have gone above and beyond to save many people in Illinois during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new law makes sense given the challenges they face every day.”
Governor JB Pritzker signed House Bill 4435 on Friday, June 10. The law took effect immediately.
* IPI…
Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a bill yesterday that amends Illinois’ Invest in Kids Tax Credit Scholarship program to protect already-enrolled students. It is effective immediately.
House Bill 4126, sponsored by state Rep. Curtis Tarver, D-Chicago, grants super-priority status to current recipients of the Invest in Kids scholarship, providing assurance to families in the program that if students receive a scholarship one year, they will be first in line for a scholarship the next year. The legislation also gives schools greater flexibility to offer more partial scholarships.
But the program is currently set to expire Dec. 31, 2023, Illinois Policy Institute experts point out. That potentially leaves thousands of families’ futures uncertain.
“We’re pleased to see this bill signed into law as these scholarships can be life-changing for low-income families who wish to provide their children an education that fits their unique needs,” said Amy Korte, executive vice president for the Illinois Policy Institute. “The next step is ensuring the program will last beyond another year and can be there for the long term for students in need.”
* Gov. Pritzker…
In recognition of National Men’s Health Month, Governor JB Pritzker today signed legislation requiring health insurance and managed care plans to allow for prostate cancer screenings.
Under House Bill 5318, health insurance and managed care plans are required to provide prostate cancer screenings without imposing a deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement. This legislation is effective Jan. 1, 2024.
“Preventative healthcare is the best healthcare of all, and it shouldn’t break the bank to access it,” said Gov. JB Pritzker. “My administration is hard at work knocking down the walls that too often separate working families from their healthiest, happiest lives. In Illinois, we’re building the kind of healthcare system that people deserve because we know that healthcare is a right, not a privilege.”
About 1 man in 8 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime, with an average diagnosis age of 66. Roughly 6 cases in 10 are diagnosed in men who are 65 or older, although diagnosis is rare in men under 40. In 2022 alone, there have been roughly 268,000 new cases of prostate cancer, with 34,500 deaths from the disease.
* Sen. Stadelman…
To help service members who are transitioning from active duty to the workforce, State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) championed a law to designate the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs as the primary assistance agency under the U.S. SkillBridge Program that helps employers find skilled workers.
“We are assisting former military residents with transitioning back into the workforce by creating a hub of resources for them to use,” Stadelman said. “Through IDVA, veterans will find assistance where they can find benefits as well, and work toward returning to a job that fulfils them.”
The program was recently suggested by the AAR Corp. to help transition veterans to jobs within similar fields and to assist with efforts in increasing the workforce at the Rockford Airport.
House Bill 5385 designates IDVA as the primary statewide assistance organization under the U.S. Department of Defense’s SkillBridge Program, which matches service members who are transitioning from active duty with workforce development opportunities at participating employers.
The SkillBridge program helps active duty members gain job experience and transition to civilian workforce by matching service members with opportunities at participating businesses where their skill sets match.
“This program will help veterans return to work after their time in service,” Stadelman said. “Veterans should be able to find the assistance they need in a singular place, whether it be for health, home, or for a job, we are going to be here to help them.”
House Bill 5385 was signed by the governor on Friday.
* Sen. Joyce and Rep. Hurley…
A Senator Patrick Joyce and Representative Fran Hurley measure to give taxpayers more opportunities to provide support and resources to first responders was signed into law Friday.
“First responders put their lives on the line for our community and we should have an easier option to give back,” said Joyce (D-Essex).
House Bill 4161 aims to increase donations to the 100 Club of Illinois by making a convenient donation option on individual state income tax returns. The 100 Club of Illinois is a nonprofit that provides resources, financial support, training and moral support to both the families of first responders killed in the line of duty and active duty first responders. All sworn federal, state, county and local first responders stationed in Illinois are included.
“I will continue to fight for legislation that benefits first responders and their families,” said Hurley (D-Chicago).
Similar donation options on state individual tax returns include the Wildlife Preservation Fund, Diabetes Research Fund, Hunger Relief Fund, among others.
“The 100 Club of Illinois has been serving the first responder community for more than 55 years. We are grateful for the opportunity to further promote the mission of the Club,” said 100 Club of Illinois CEO Caitlyn Brennan. “Funds brought in through this program will assist the Club in providing support to the families of our fallen heroes and the larger first responder community of Illinois.”
House Bill 4161 takes effect immediately. The 100 Club of Illinois Fund checkoff will be available starting next year.
* Restore Justice Illinois…
Thank you Governor JB Pritzker, Senator Laura Fine, Representative Robyn Gabel, and the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) for creating more transparency for families with loved ones who are incarcerated. Today, Governor Pritzker signed Senate Bill 3180 into law. Senator Fine and Representative Gabel ushered the bill through passage in their respective chambers.
SB 3180 will require IDOC to publish an annual report on issues being raised by family members. With the annual report, legislators can identify opportunities to address significant concerns in future policymaking.
“While I was confined in the Illinois Department of Corrections for more than 20 years, my loved ones visited many times. These visits were so important to me. On more than one occasion, a loved one traveled from out of the country to see me and was denied a visit. We did not have a meaningful remedy at the time,” said Marcelo de Jesus Velazquez.
“Thankfully, today, the calls and needs of people who are currently and formerly incarcerated and our families will no longer go unanswered.”
The Illinois General Assembly established the Family Liaison (also called the Point of Contact) in 2021 by unanimously passing Public Act 102-535. This position gives family members someone to call if they are turned away from or mistreated in visiting rooms; people with incarcerated loved ones can share complaints, suggestions, and requests with the Point of Contact to help ensure they are able to communicate with their family members. However, many family members who call and email the Point of Contact say their issues are left unresolved.
Senate Bill 3180 will ensure families have additional transparency and accountability by identifying significant areas for improvement.
“This legislation addresses family members and loved ones. We are talking about mothers and fathers, people who will now have recourse when their visits are denied or if they feel they have been mistreated,” said Julie Anderson, who has a son incarcerated in Illinois.
* Background is here if you need it. I asked Ed Maher from Local 150 of the Operating Engineers Union about the strike…
Hi Rich, we remain on strike against Lehigh Hanson, Vulcan Materials and Lafarge Holcim. They continue bringing in replacements, but shortages of material will likely cause asphalt plants to shut down this week, beginning to impact projects through the region.
We have reached an agreement with all other material producers, aside from the three we remain on strike against.
We have offered to meet to negotiate with these companies at any time, they are currently refusing to schedule any dates for bargaining, indicating that they will just continue to bring in replacements.
So far, unskilled replacement workers have damaged or destroyed multiple pieces of heavy equipment, flipped at least two trucks, and attracted a host of MSHA citations and fines.
These miners are skilled professionals, and their employers will find they are not so easy to replace.
* Asked for a response, the Chicago Area Aggregate Producers Association sent along these dot points…
Q: What is this strike about?
A: We don’t know. The Chicago Area Aggregate Producers Association (CAAPA) has been trying to get to the real issues since March 1, 2022, when we made the first of many requests to meet with the Union. The Union still has not even presented a wage and benefits proposal to consider. We have been negotiating in good faith.
Q: When did contract talks commence?
A: Local 150 did not agree to meet with the Association until after the contract expired on April 30. The Union also refused to extend the terms of the Agreement to avoid a work stoppage. The Union and CAAPA members had three meetings before they went on strike.
Q: Do CAAPA members treat their employees fairly?
A: Absolutely. CAAPA members work hard to treat their employees fairly and they value employee safety, health and well-being. Through industry-leading trainings and protocols, they ensure employees are equipped to do their jobs safely. CAAPA members also offer very competitive benefits. Local 150 members pay no premiums for their health insurance coverage – CAAPA members pay 100% of the costs. Local 150 members also have access to a comfortable pension plan and other savings opportunities.
Q: Are CAAPA members busing in outside replacement workers at their facilities?
A: No replacement workers have been bused in. Buses seen on site have been there for reasons completely unrelated to the strike activity.
Q: Did Lehigh Hanson fly-in replacement workers?
A: No, not at this time. The company has hired a national security firm to protect its properties. The security professionals are wearing hard hats and safety vests, just as required of others on site. They are not performing work that Local 150-represented employees perform.
Q: Are the operators using strike breakers on site to load trucks?
A: No. CAAPA members have relied on supervisory and management employees when necessary to serve customers. These employees have been Mine Safety & Health Administration task trained to do these tasks safely.
The easy explanation is that, despite the $50 million he was staked by Citadel chief Ken Griffin, Griffin may well be outspent by Election Day by a combination of incumbent J.B. Pritzker, Bailey benefactor and packaging mogul Dick Uihlein, and above all the Democratic Governors’ Association. All have run ads intended to help Bailey and hurt Irvin.
The Irvin folks have been left pretty much whining about it, griping—including via some film of me interviewing Bailey—that those bad ol’ Democrats are messing around in “our” Republican primary. They say their foes collectively could have spent $75 million by Election Day.
But there’s a bigger problem—beyond, that is, using my picture in an ad, which is never a good idea. The problem is that Irvin from the beginning has tried to walk an increasingly untenable tightrope, running as a tough-guy conservative in an increasingly hard-right party when, in fact, he’s pretty much a moderate. That may have been a good strategy to get to the general election, but first Irvin had to get through the primary, and in a year in which the primary is in June and not the usual March, his foes “had time to gang up on him,” says one top GOP insider.
Irvin in the time left seems to be trying to argue that he alone can beat Pritzker in the fall. But that message is all positive. On the issues that seem to count to the GOP base—abortion, COVID mandates, fealty to Donald Trump, et al.—Irvin has been unwilling or unable to distinguish himself from his foes. That, I suspect, leaves neither moderates nor conservatives terribly happy or inclined to go out and get him elected.
* I think there are other issues. Crime just doesn’t poll as well as most pundits would have you believe, for one. Irvin’s over-reliance on that issue without talking about things that people really care about have hurt him. Let’s go back to the original Sun-Times/WBEZ polling story…
In one of Bailey’s commercials, he displays a softer side of himself, emphasizing his worn hands holding two fistfuls of corn and tying the shoe of a granddaughter.
“These are the hands of a farmer, strong and determined, a grandfather’s hands, supportive and caring,” running mate Stephanie Trussell says in the ad. […]
“Bailey is courageous, and he says it very clearly what he is for, and I admire that,” she said. “He is not taking necessarily a popular opinion, but he’s doing the right thing.”
Keefe also said she considered Irvin’s reliance on Griffin’s tens of millions of dollars a liability and “very troubling.”
“There’s going to have to be some payback there,” she said, questioning whether Irvin truly could act independently of his uber-wealthy patron. “I’m not sure what side he’s [on] except the side to make Ken Griffin happy and to be the governor.”
Irvin just doesn’t seem authentic to too many people. And he hasn’t really given us a glimpse of that “softer” side of himself.
JB Pritzker knew in the 2018 primary that he had to somehow sell his billionaire self to liberal primary voters, who mostly hate billionaires. He ran several campaign ads designed to do that (talking about his late mom, driving an elderly woman to the polls, etc.). It worked.
If you’re coming out of almost nowhere and you’re relying almost solely on one person’s billions, then you’d better come off as authentic and independent and you’d better find a way to firmly connect with voters. Pritzker did. Irvin hasn’t.
Former Illinois attorney general Jim Ryan had success in politics despite never really being comfortable with the glad-handing that goes with it.
He once cut to five minutes a scheduled half-hour hand-shaking stop with voters on a chilly Michigan Avenue, telling an aide, “I got 10 votes and double pneumonia.”
A stoic politician whose life was beset by personal tragedies, Ryan rose from DuPage County state’s attorney to serve two terms as Illinois attorney general, but was twice defeated bids for governor.
Ryan 76, died at his home Sunday “after several lengthy illnesses,” according to a statement from Dan Curry, a family spokesman.
Jim was a good man who had to endure numerous health challenges. May he rest in peace.
* ILGOP…
Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy has released the following statement in response to the passing of former Illinois Attorney General and 2002 Illinois Republican gubernatorial nominee, Jim Ryan.
“Jim Ryan embodied what it meant to be a statesman. He always put the people of Illinois before politics and faithfully served this great state with honor and integrity as our Attorney General. Jim overcame great personal tragedies and health difficulties to live an impactful public life as well as being a great husband, father, and grandfather. I pray comfort and healing will come to Jim’s family in this difficult time. May we remember his contributions to Illinois and his legacy of selfless service.”
* AG Raoul…
Attorney General Kwame Raoul today issued the following statement regarding the passing of former Illinois Attorney General James E. “Jim” Ryan.
“Jim Ryan dedicated much of his career to public safety, first as DuPage County state’s attorney and then as Illinois Attorney General, and I strive to follow his example. Jim’s leadership as Attorney General and commitment to protecting all residents of Illinois is something that I have done my best to mirror since taking office.
“After being elected Attorney General, I had the opportunity to meet with Jim. I continue to be grateful for his graciousness and advice as I prepared to enter the office he once led with such integrity. His counsel has continued to guide how I, as Attorney General, have governed the office and expanded my focus on enhancing public safety.
“Jim Ryan will forever be known for his strength and dedication to service on behalf of the people of Illinois, even as he faced unimaginable personal tragedy. May his courage and selflessness in the face of adversity serve as inspiration to all. I extend my deepest condolences to Jim’s beloved wife Marie and their children, and those fortunate enough to call him a friend.”
…Adding… Gov. Pritzker…
The news that former Attorney General Jim Ryan has passed is a sad day for Illinois. MK and I offer our deepest condolences to his wife, Marie, and all of his children and loved ones.
I was saddened to hear of the passing of former IL Attorney General Jim Ryan. My condolences to his family and friends. Jim Ryan will long be remembered as a selfless, dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly on behalf of the people of Illinois. https://t.co/FB88ar80iS
— Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton (@LtGovStratton) June 13, 2022
…Adding… Comptroller Mendoza…
Jim Ryan was a dedicated public servant who could collaborate & build consensus. His moral compass aimed true – toward doing right for the people of Illinois. He'll serve as inspiration for many years to come. May he rest in God’s peace & eternal glory. https://t.co/rNFzmhufPI
— Illinois Comptroller (@ILComptroller) June 13, 2022
* Click the pics for access to the full Sun-Times/WBEZ stories. I went over some of these races with subscribers today (even though the email hasn’t sent yet), so I’ll just leave them here for y’all…
* Bill Brady ran for governor three times, so one explanation is that Dan has the better ballot name…
The Illinois Republican Party has successfully avoided being dragged into the hard-right camp at the state level for decades. Those days may be over.
With relatively liberal Republicans Jim Thompson, Jim Edgar and then George Ryan as governor, the state never embraced the sweeping policy changes that emerged from the “Reagan Revolution” and defined the national party for decades.
The Illinois AFL-CIO endorsed Thompson’s last re-election bid. The National Abortion Rights Action League endorsed Edgar’s first gubernatorial run. Ryan campaigned to the left of his 1998 Democratic opponent on guns, abortion and gay rights. They were all from the “governing wing” of the party, eschewing the rabble on the far right and occasionally batting them off like flies.
While Bruce Rauner defined himself by his rabidly anti-union stance, he was pro-choice enough to sign a bill that provided Medicaid funding for abortions. He never supported Donald Trump, even though the two shared several personality traits.
That distance from the far right helped statewide Republicans win general elections in moderate-to-liberal Illinois, particularly after the state leaned harder Democratic when Bill Clinton was elected president in 1992.
But if a recent Chicago Sun-Times/WBEZ poll is even close to accurate, those days may finally be behind the party. And, consequently, their statewide fate will likely be sealed without a sea change in Illinois political behavior and demographics.
The new poll has Sen. Darren Bailey trouncing the establishment’s choice, Richard Irvin, by 15 points, 32-17. Bailey not only leads among Downstate Republicans by 24 points, he’s also ahead in the suburbs. Another 27% were undecided, with Jesse Sullivan the only other candidate polling in the double digits (11%).
This is the second poll in a row showing a Bailey lead. Hard-right activist and radio host Dan Proft released a poll at the beginning of last week showing Bailey with a seven-point margin.
What has happened to Irvin and his $53 million war chest, most of it supplied by the state’s wealthiest resident Ken Griffin?
One huge factor is Gov. J.B. Pritzker, the Democratic Governors Association and Bailey along with his big-money backer Dick Uihlein, have so far managed to turn this race into the same sort of “traditional” GOP primary that other, more conservative states have seen for years and years, but that Illinois has generally avoided. They have reshaped the playing field, and it has become untenable for the more moderate Irvin.
After months of Irvin pounding Bailey for being some sort of closet Democrat, the Democrats, Bailey and Proft spent millions to prove without a shadow of a doubt that Bailey was a solid Trumpster.
And by deriding Bailey for being “too conservative” for Illinois, the Democrats have also apparently managed to so far convince many rank-and-file Republicans they aren’t actually trying to advance Bailey’s candidacy (even though the Democrats are clearly doing that very thing).
The Irvin campaign claims the Democrats are on pace to spend $32 million against their guy, although their numbers show the Dems have “only” spent $15+ million so far. Uihlein has contributed $17 million to Bailey and Proft’s “People Who Play by the Rules PAC,” more than he’s ever done here. Uihlein’s big spending and the willingness of the Democrats to literally spend whatever it took seems to have caught Irvin’s team by surprise.
A weekly overview of opinions, analysis and commentary on issues affecting Chicago, Illinois and our nation by outside contributors, Sun-Times readers and the CST Editorial Board.
Another factor could be that voters finally caught on to a big Irvin lie. Bailey is one of the most far-right legislators in the state. Once voters saw through Irvin’s game, everything else he said could be disregarded. And Pritzker has come on strong in recent days with two very hard-hitting ads trumpeting some opposition research on Irvin that clearly left deep marks.
Irvin spent $3.6 million on advertising during the last week of May. By the first week of June, that spending had dropped to less than $800,000. The Irvin campaign allowed all of its Downstate broadcast TV ads to expire last week. They’re now focusing solely on the Chicago media market.
The story from inside is that “regular” Downstate Republicans are already with Irvin, so they want to focus on city, suburban and exurban Republicans with more Illinois-style Republican messaging. But the party has clearly changed. They have only one narrow path out, and it’s pretty rocky and steep.
Irvin has taken to repeating a mantra that Pritzker is backing Bailey because he knows Bailey can’t win. But by doing so he’s essentially making the Democrats’ own case that Bailey is “too conservative” for Illinois. And that risks firing up the hardcore base even more.
