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Morning after thoughts?

Posted in:

* What’s on your mind after this historic election year?

…Adding… This Daily Herald chart may help you put things into perspective…

posted by Rich Miller
Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:23 am

Comments

  1. Voters are not lemmings.
    Seeing the discrepancy in margins between state-wide candidates shows that straight party voting is no longer the “norm”.

    Madigan still holds lots of levers. But, Rauner (both good and bad) is unlike any Governor we’ve had in my 50 year recollection.

    Comment by Downstate Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:27 am

  2. Wondering what will occur during the veto session and the lame duck session after the New Year. Worried about taxes.

    Hoping that Quinn will concede sometime today.

    Comment by Under Further Review Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:28 am

  3. I just woke up and had this horrible nightmare, in which Mitch McConnell was painting the U.S. red with Democratic blood…..

    Comment by East Side Alex Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:28 am

  4. 2016 starts today

    Comment by 618662dem Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:28 am

  5. Seems the Rauner camp’s last poll from Ogden & Fry that many here scoffed at….was pretty darn close.

    Nate Silver now 0 for 2 in his predictions for Illinois Governor

    Finally…..has anyone heard from Doug Ibendahl or William Kelly?

    Comment by Anonymoiis Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:29 am

  6. Too many teardrops / For one heart to be crying / Too many teardrops / For one heart to carry on /

    Comment by Soccermom Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:29 am

  7. Rauner might fire the State workers like Reagan did to the air traffic controllers.

    The state is in trouble.

    Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:29 am

  8. I just woke up and had this horrible nightmare that Mitch McConnell was painting the U.S. map red with Democratic blood…..

    Comment by East Side Alex Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:29 am

  9. I’ll go with Mark Brown’s analogy today…
    http://www.suntimes.com/news/brown/30866613-452/with-rauners-victory-voters-get-change-they-sought.html#.VFpCSPnF-So

    Comment by 2 Cents... Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:30 am

  10. The state is in trouble

    Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:30 am

  11. Interesting, the dynamic between the GA and Rauner will be fascinating to watch. For the Democrats, they need to rebrand the party or else they will take more bloodbaths in the years to come

    Comment by Publius Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:31 am

  12. Looking good Billy Ray. Feeling good Louis!

    Comment by Living in Machiaville Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:32 am

  13. Whether the public unions will try to find common ground with the new Governor or resort to confrontation?

    Comment by Cassiopeia Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:33 am

  14. Has anybody got an aspirin?

    Comment by Aldyth Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:33 am

  15. Wow, i predited rauner should win with 4%. Im in the wrong business.

    Comment by Nathan R. Jessup Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:33 am

  16. BIG WINNERS
    - Bruce Rauner
    - Mike Madigan (retaining veto proof H and S)
    - Bob Dold
    - Ogden and Fry Polling
    - Jesse White

    I’m fascinated that on Rauner’s big night, Madigan defended all his Tier 1 races.

    Comment by Rhino Slider Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:33 am

  17. Is Quinn privy to information the public doesn’t have or is he really just a narcissist?

    Comment by MOMof8 Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:34 am

  18. Compared to 2010, Rauner did a little bit better than Brady, and Quinn didn’t get his peeps out. I guess an approval rating in the 30s will do that to you.

    2014 Rauner: 1.758 million
    2010 Brady: 1.713 million
    +2.6 percent

    2014 Quinn: 1.590 million
    2010 Quinn: 1.745 million
    -8.9 percent

    There’s your ball game.

    I think I can answer that question as to whether Quinn will sign a lame-duck tax increase now that he’s lost.

    And sooner or later, we’re going to find out how Rauner will fill up those proposed budget books.

    Comment by Wordslinger Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:34 am

  19. If PPP would’ve stuck with phone polling instead of mixing in internet polling, they would’ve been close as well

    Comment by Anonymoiis Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:36 am

  20. Ugh. I woke up to an empty bottle of tequila. What happened? Did I miss anything?

    Comment by Casual Observer Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:36 am

  21. Whether the public unions will try to find common ground with the new Governor or engage in confrontation.

    Comment by Cassiopeia Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:36 am

  22. And the era of buying elections is now unquestionably upon us. Hurray for democracy.

    Comment by Urbs In Horto Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:36 am

  23. People hear what they want to hear but Rauner has some explaining to do when he comes up with actual proposals. Rauner won because people have Quinn fatigue.

    Comment by Liberty Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:37 am

  24. Those Collar County numbers are brutal for Quinn.

    Comment by John A Logan Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:37 am

  25. “If we do not hang together, we shall surely hang separately.” - Ben Franklin

    The balance of constitutional powers at play between the Executive and the Legislative will be beyond fascinating.

    The most underpaid, under appreciated job, with the most headaches for someone will be the Legislative Liaisons for the Rauner Administration.

    Given the conditions of all four Caucuses, does Governor Rauner look to the HDems and the SDems to find another non-traditional Floor Leader(s)? Might be a good idea, but the rub might be “who will want to do that, given how Rauner has shown he will ‘handle’ a disappointing legislator?”

    It’s one thing to go after vulnerable, it’s another to try to send a message, to make a point. One is forgivable, the other is hard pressed to be forgotten.

    Just some quick thoughts…

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:38 am

  26. Looking good Billy Ray. Feeling good Louis.

    Counties don’t vote, people do. (circa 2010)

    Comment by Living in Raunerville Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:39 am

  27. Not much should change from a legislative standpoint. Vetoes get overridden but the administrative side of the Executive Branch will have a new feel. Fracking may actually happen now.

    Comment by Ronco Nagurski Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:39 am

  28. Whose got a fresh pot going?

    Comment by Dirty Red Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:39 am

  29. Kind of curious, does anyone besides Quinn’s people think the uncounted votes can overcome this number?

    So what is the over/under on when Quinn concedes?

    Comment by OneMan Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:40 am

  30. Whether the public unions will try to find common ground with the new Governor or engage in confrontation?

    Comment by Cassiopeia Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:41 am

  31. Should not change much legislatively. Vetoes will get overridden. the real change will be in the administration of the executive branch. Maybe fracking will actually happen now

    Comment by Ronco Nagurski Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:41 am

  32. 1) I’m curious how strong African-American turnout was or if Rauner’s outreach may have tamped some of that down (he may not have won many African-American votes but calmed fears that he was an enemy that needed to be stopped).

    2) Sheila Simon did a lot better than the JBT genuflectors predicted.

    3) Reading a couple of the columns in today’s papers, you’d think it was Rauner and the GOP who had the power to pass any legislation they wanted to and not Madigan and the Dems. To me the wildcard is Rahm: how tight are his ties to Rauner (politically) and does he have any influence in Springfield.

    4) Nationally the big winner should be Hillary Clinton. First, the results showed that women candidates attract women voters more than a “war on women” theme. Second, it may dampen some of the enthusiasm on the far left for an Elizabeth Warren type challenge - though these are the same people whose ideological stubborness gave us Nader and subsequently George W. Bush so who knows…

    Comment by lake county democrat Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:42 am

  33. Despite all the bragging about GOTV it appears that there will be 200k+ less votes than in 2010.

    Despite over 10 mil in party spending and 1 mil plus in outside group spending not a single house seat changed hands–that is if “landslide’ Kate Cloonen’s lead holds up.

    Comment by train111 Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:42 am

  34. Unless Quinn can uncover evidence of large scale voter fraud its time to give this up.

    Comment by Very Fed Up Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:43 am

  35. What do you supposed what was said on the cullerton/madigan phone call? First order of biz for bruce go after the idot patronage?

    Comment by foster brooks Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:43 am

  36. Maybe its me accidentally putting on my tinfoil hat in celebration of no more campaign ads, or maybe I’m seeing something here.

    Am I the only one who noticed a missing GOTV by the Democrats in Cook County? I live in Dick Mell country, one of the last bastions of the old Democratic Machine. No poll watchers, no voting cards, no signs. Nothing. I have talked to other people and they all report the same thing in their precincts. The only signs up anywhere around where I live were some Andrade signs left over from the primary in storefront windows.

    My suspicion, or admoration for the skills of MJM has me wondering just what does this mean. Did the regular organization sit this one out, hoping Rauner would win, so Lisa Madigan could run in 4 years against a failed GOP administration? MJM will place plenty of landmines in Rauner’s path to make his life uneasy.

    But then, maybe its the tinfoil.

    Comment by AFSCME Steward Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:43 am

  37. 1) I’m curious how strong African-American turnout was or if Rauner’s outreach may have tamped some of that down (he may not have won many African-American votes but calmed fears that he was an enemy that needed to be stopped).

    2) Sheila Simon did a lot better than the JBT genuflectors predicted.

    3) Reading a couple of the columns in today’s papers, you’d think it was Rauner and the GOP who had the power to pass any legislation they wanted to and not Madigan and the Dems. To me the wildcard is Rahm: how tight are his ties to Rauner (politically) and does he have any influence in Springfield.

    4) Nationally the big winner should be Hillary Clinton. First, the results showed that women candidates attract women voters more than a “war on women” theme. Second, it may dampen some of the enthusiasm on the far left for an Elizabeth Warren type challenge - though these are the same people whose ideological staunchness led them to break for Nader so who knows.

    Comment by lake county democrat Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:44 am

  38. Mandate is probably too strong a word, but if I were the D’s, I’d be careful about going back to business as usual–if not for Grimm, Rauner might well have won by more than eight points. Rauner just may have a window here to get things done if he plays his cards right.

    Comment by Not OW Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:44 am

  39. How truly awful the Democratic field plan was, this was truly
    Not the year to experiment, hey i’ve got a great idea… let’s ignore the base and go after the ballot skippers who don’t give a hoot

    Brilliant

    Comment by Someone you should know Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:44 am

  40. A moderate Republican can win and do so with upstate support. It’s incredible to see the support for the guv-elect in suburban Cook. No, its not all the north shore. Additionally, class-warfare doesn’t work. It may be a dirty personal secret; but we all want to be rich.

    Comment by Lake Co Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:44 am

  41. Quinn’s decision not to concede is confusing. It is difficult to understand given the vote totals. It looks bad because it seems impossible that late vote tallies will change the outcome.

    Comment by Under Further Review Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:44 am

  42. With regards to the new Governmor, I think he’s greatest strength and his greatest weakness are the same thing - he believes in nothing. What I mean by that is that he is not a crusader or any kind - liberal or conservative. I think at one time he was a true believer in the Ayn Rand style of capitalism but that was when he was making a ton of money. He’s moved on from that to this new phase as a governor for all the people. Because he has to deal with veto proof majorities its not like he could do anything radical anyway - like tort reform, right-to-work zones, etc. If he is as smart as he thinks he is, he will become kind of a “plodder” type of governor - he will let the income tax increase stay and govern fairly moderately and who could get reelected. I say this as someone who wouldn’t vote for him if you put a gun to my head and who said a rosary for Quinn. Anyway, what do I know.

    Comment by paddyrollingstone Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:45 am

  43. ===Whose got a fresh pot going?===

    Bought cannoli this morning, no snark, enjoying a 2nd cup of coffee…

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:45 am

  44. Quinn’s GOTV failed statewide, bringing in 8% fewer votes than in 2010. Rauner’s millions only added about 1% to Brady’s total, but that was enough this year.

    One interesting note - Rauner almost won Chicago’s 43rd Ward. The north side of the city was a major disappointment for Quinn. I really believe that something needs to change within the Cook County Democratic Party.

    Comment by Snucka Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:45 am

  45. That sonic boom everyone heard around 10:30 last night was Yellow Dog Democrat and Wordslingers heads exploding.

    Comment by wally Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:46 am

  46. ==So what is the over/under on when Quinn concedes?==
    6:00 PM today so he doesn’t get beat up on the 6 PM news/doesn’t have to see Rauner’s face until the 10 PM news?

    Comment by Robert the Bruce Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:46 am

  47. Quinn will be fine and will have a nice retirement, giving speeches and being on boards and so on, but he needs to get out of the way now. He ran a tough campaign but the times were against him. It seems that many voters really are annoyed, locally and nationally. In Illinois, voting for Rauner was one of our few ways to show it.

    Rauner as governor is a blank slate. I wouldn’t assume anything at this point-I certainly wouldn’t predict doomsday budget cuts, elimination of unions, or any of the other scary
    scenarios we heard. And if he can broaden the tax base, that in itself would be a huge accomplishment. We’ll see.

    Comment by Cassandra Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:47 am

  48. Senator Clayborne and Rep Mautino should not take their seats for granted

    Comment by train111 Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:47 am

  49. Well, the democrats still have a veto proof super majority in both houses of the state legislature. So, that means Mike Madigan is Governor now, right? I’m surprised I haven’t seen more discussion of that. What power will Rauner really have?

    Comment by Martin S. McFly Sr. Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:47 am

  50. Do we have any estimate of the number of votes not yet counted? It’s hard to imagine there are enuf out there for quinn to win, even if he got a huge majority of them.

    I am waiting for the rollout of superstars.

    I am anticipating R harrumphing and scolding the GA for the inevitable bills coming during veto session, if Q is willing to go along.

    Let the speculation begin on the exec orders–DCEO?

    Comment by Langhorne Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:47 am

  51. The decidedly different totals for statewide candidates are an indication that voters are not “lemmings” - they no longer follow the party line throughout the ballot.

    Madigan still has many of the levers of power. But Rauner (good or bad) is unlike any governor we’ve had in my 5 decades of memory.

    Comment by Downstate Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:47 am

  52. I congratulated Rauner and his campaign in another thread. One can’t be a sore loser. I personally worked hard to turn out voters, but it didn’t work.

    One Rauner supporter with whom I spoke yesterday said that Rauner is good for Illinois because he made his investors a lot of money.

    Rauner has Democrat Jack Franks as an anti-tax ally, but I hope that these men realize that we just can’t cut our way out of our fiscal problems and that more revenue is needed. Perhaps we can get this revenue now, in a larger legislative package that includes so-called business reforms.

    I hope that Democrats push the millionaire surcharge (see the poll result) as a way to augment tax revenue, rather than only service taxes and another temporary tax increase.

    As far as unions, the courts and grievances have been very good to us, so we have those options in case of executive wrongdoing.

    Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:47 am

  53. Whether Gov. Quinn will have the class to concede and go out on a magnanimous note, or let his petulant side rule the day. Sadly, it appears to be the latter. Does he not have any adults in the room to talk some sense into him? From what I hear, he doesn’t.

    Comment by Ron Burgundy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:47 am

  54. After all the sound and fury, with both campaigns reasonably strong and smart — we ended up where Vanilla Man and others sussed on day one: General voter frustration and desire for a change will trump the details.

    Maybe we over-analyze.

    Best wishes to all. Congrats to the winners.

    Comment by walker Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:48 am

  55. A moderate Republican can win and do so with upstate support. It’s incredible to see the support for the guv-elect in suburban Cook. No, its not all the north shore. Additionally, class-warfare doesn’t work. It may be a dirty personal secret; but we all want to be rich.

    Comment by Impressed Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:48 am

  56. I need several cups of Irish Coffee this morning. The Fall Veto session should be interesting this year.

    Comment by Mama Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:49 am

  57. Those percentages returned to the pro GOP pattern of the 1970s-1990s. The Elephants have not seen that pattern in 20 years.

    Comment by Percival Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:49 am

  58. I’m surprised at how strong Rauner was in suburban Cook. It seems the suburban Dem township ward bosses either didn’t get sufficient “walking around money” or the Dem electorate just didn’t care. The Dem legislators in suburban Cook and the outer wards got their vote out, so my guess is that Quinn was the problem.

    I think that Dems will be surprised by how well and effectively Rauner, Rahm and Madigan will work together. None of them are really ideologues. They’re pragmatic power politicians who understand that money, and the pockets the taxpayer booty goes to, is what it’s all about.

    Madigan wants the 5% income tax extended (and I suspect so does Rauner, but he can’t advocate openly for it) so that will happen in the lame duck whether Quinn likes it or not.

    Without Rauner’s bucks, there’s no chance for the state GOP to nibble away at Madigan’s supermajority, so you can rest assured that deals will be made.

    My guess is that sensible pension actions will happen after the last “reform” is ruled unconstitutional. Some low clouted oxes will be gored, but the patronage base will remain intact.

    The path will be painful for Illinoisans to pay for the mistakes they made electing Ryan, Blago (twice) and Quinn, but I really think it’ll look like the adults are running things now.

    Comment by Arizona Bob Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:49 am

  59. I’m shocked that the last Chicago Sun-Times poll didn’t catch the accurate break down of the Quinn/Rauner voting totals downstate. LOL.

    Comment by Steve Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:50 am

  60. Impressed by Bost’s performance in Metro-east. Narrowly won St. Clair and stayed competitive in Madison.

    Comment by Dirty Red Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:50 am

  61. Time for the adults in the room to tell Quinn to concede, or time for him to find some adults for the room.

    Comment by Ron Burgundy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:51 am

  62. Rauner won the 42nd and 43rd Wards.

    Frerichs won the 42nd and 43rd Ward.

    Where else did Quinn under perform Frerichs?

    Comment by Born to Rauner Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:52 am

  63. Madigan wins again. It’s better to be feared than loved.

    Comment by Machiavelli Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:52 am

  64. I don’t think Poulos and Cosgrove will be smiling in any “caption contest” photos anytime soon.

    Comment by phocion Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:52 am

  65. It was all about turnout, and Chicago just didn’t show up.

    Comment by sss Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:52 am

  66. If the new Governor and the Speaker choose to work together, much could be accomplished. If both are more interested in maintaining or expanding their “power”, then we will be subjected to more politics as usual in Illinois.

    Comment by One of the 35 Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:52 am

  67. I saw a quote in this morning’s Daily Herald from a Quinn supporter that said, “Pat Quinn is a good man. It just shows that our country is for sale.”

    I’m sure Quinn is a good guy, and Rauner’s cash helped, but that’s not why he won. By not pushing the social issues, Rauner was a viable candidate for independents who feel our state is a mess and are tired of one party rule. Maybe now the Republican party in Illinois will catch on to that, although I’m not holding my breath.

    Comment by scurvydog Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:52 am

  68. Here is a reality for Quinn;

    Between looking at Jesse and Lisa AND Durbin, and how the state legislative makeup may break out, Quinn was the only one of the legitimate contenders that had winning a strong possibility of happening with the voters that actually got there to vote.

    The voting voters universe, this playing field, they rejected you Governor Quinn, as much, but not quite as much as you got out hustled by Rauner’s Crew.

    The delicious irony for the Rauner Crew to savor is that they picked the playing field, Quinn didn’t deliver to win, while Rauner bucked all the Dem “success” above.

    Makes Rauner’s Crew’s win even more impressive.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:52 am

  69. I will make sure to have my curbs and side walks in good order. We have a new LG - and she is going to have a bunch of time on her hands. :)

    Comment by anonymoose Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:52 am

  70. Last night I went to bed thinking that Cross had an insurmountable lead but now I’m not so sure.

    The Trib has Cross up about 8,500 votes with 10,093 of 10,125 precincts reporting (32 remaining), the Sun-Times has Cross up 19,000 votes with 10,067 of 10,114 precincts reporting, the Daily Herald has Cross up 22K votes with 10,016 of 10,114 precincts reporting.

    The Cook County Clerk lists all their precincts as having reported. The Chicago Board of Elections lists 23 precincts unreported. They also list 8 unreported precincts in the 1st CD, 1 in the 2nd CD, 1 in the 3rd CD, 5 in the 4th CD, 4 in the 5th CD, 4 in the 7th CD and 2 in the 9th CD so it appears these unreported precincts are just spread out throughout the city.

    And then there’s the question of what vote hasn’t been counted. We know that the AG directed all the clerks to not count any early or mail votes until after 7pm and since each county or election authority does their own count you have 110 different methods for counting that vote, some of it was reported in the numbers last night and some not. For example David Orr was saying that his numbers included all of early vote but only some of the mail vote. If the Chicago Board of Elections said anything about their numbers I didn’t see it so who knows what is left in any of these election authorities.

    It could be days before anyone knows for sure who won the Treasurer’s race.

    Comment by The Captain Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:53 am

  71. Ronco, oil prices will determine Illinois fracking.

    Saudis announced yesterday they are cutting prices for export to U.S. refineries. They seemed bound and determined to hold market share regardless of price.

    WSJ had a few days ago that the price drop has put a couple of shale fields on the shelf, although West Texas and Bakken can probably handle $70 to $75 a barrel before its a losing proposition.

    What’s the break-even price in Illinois? Fracking ain’t cheap.

    Comment by Wordslinger Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:53 am

  72. Fly Gadfly, Fly……

    Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:53 am

  73. I figured it would be a decent GOP year. Didn’t think it would be enough to make Rauner Governor though. Definitely didn’t see governors of WI and FL re-elected.

    After the LA runoff election, I think the US Senate will be 54-46 GOP.

    I’m highly looking forward to the new Congress and Governor to see how the state and country move forward. We’ll at least have plenty of news to keep us entertained.

    Comment by Jay Dee Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:54 am

  74. **I don’t think Poulos and Cosgrove will be smiling in any “caption contest” photos anytime soon.**

    FWIW…Cosgrove did a lot to help push several HDEM targets across the finish line as winners.

    Comment by AlabamaShake Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:54 am

  75. William Kelly was at the Hilton and tried to gain access to the after hours party. I saw him in the hallway pleading his case to few people. Needless to say it went on deaf ears. I guess everybody loves a winner.

    Comment by over heard Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:54 am

  76. Rich, You blocking me today? Comments not making it, but seem pretty bland.

    Comment by walker Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:54 am

  77. I agree largely with Arizona Bob. Rauner’s greatest liability is also his greatest strength - like the Nihilists in the Big Lebowski he believes in nothing. I mean that in the way that he doesn’t really have anything he is dying to do with his new found power - he doesn’t want to restrict abortion or guns and he also wont have the power to establish right-to-work zones stop union collective bargaining or some other right wing flim-flam. I think he will be pragmatic - he will make a deal on income tax and other hot button issues. I think if he does this type of governing he will be re-elected. I say all this as a person who wouldn’t vote for him if you put a gun to my head and who said a rosary for Quinn to win. But what do I know?

    Comment by paddyrollingstone Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:54 am

  78. walker, something really bad happened to my site. Working on it still.

    Gonna be a long day.

    Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:54 am

  79. How about I just cash out my pension, use it to buy 3/4 of a bottle of Bruce’s favorite wine, give it to him, and then die?

    Comment by James Knell Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:55 am

  80. I’m completely unimpressed with the booing last night at Rauner’s saying he’d work with the opposition.

    Comment by Cheryl44 Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:55 am

  81. In the end it looks like Rauner’s + lists were solid despite concern from some.

    Comment by Dirty Red Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:55 am

  82. I’m just so very happy we didn’t all have to stay up until the wee hours of the morning to know the results of most races locally or nationally.

    Comment by Responsa Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:55 am

  83. The sun rose in the east, just as it did yesterday. Both in victory and in loss, it would be helpful if everyone resorts to graciousness and moves forward as cooperatively as possible. A fresh start is something everyone can take advantage of and make the best of.

    No gloating, as I’ve always liked Pat Quinn personally and believe he’s brought some wonderful gifts to public life. He took his turn at a tough time and I have no doubt he did his best, often when surrounded by foes on his own side. I sincerely wish him well and honestly believe he’ll find a way to make his time post-Governor to be productive and helpful. I’m sure he hurts a little today. But the sun will come up tomorrow too. Put enough of those together and he’ll find a newer, and I believe, even better mission for himself.

    Comment by A guy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:56 am

  84. I think the biggest impact of this election won’t be in governance - it will be in the dynamic between the executive off and legislative races. Now, with Rauner in place, he play out his long-con and work on down ballot races from within his official government capacity. He’s showed it easy to buy off the top of the ticket - now the game is strong-arming the bottom of the ticket with influence.

    Comment by Mr. Jim Lahey Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:56 am

  85. The masses are asses

    Comment by Loop Lady Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:56 am

  86. @Arizona Bob “Madigan wants the 5% income tax extended (and I suspect so does Rauner, but he can’t advocate openly for it) so that will happen in the lame duck whether Quinn likes it or not.”

    You’re kidding right? Why in the world would Madigan want to ‘wear the coat’, or for that matter would Quinn push for a lame duck tax increase?

    Rauner won, now it’s HIS job to round up GOP votes for a tax increase. Madigan isn’t going to deliver it for nothing.

    No way.

    Comment by How Ironic Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:58 am

  87. The governor lost this one more than Rauner won it. Quinn’s GOTV was an utter failure statewide. His overall vote was 8% behind 2010. Rauner added about 1.5% to Brady’s total vote.

    One interesting note - Rauner almost won the 43rd Ward, where Quinn beat Brady by 3,800. The north side “White Democrat/lakefront libreral” wards as a whole were an embarrassment. North side wards saw an 18% drop in Democratic votes while the Republicans saw an 8% increase.

    I really think that something needs to change within the Cook County Democratic Party.

    Comment by Snucka Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:58 am

  88. Let’s do some tracking!

    Comment by Neglected stepchild Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:58 am

  89. Quinn looks like a jerk for not conceding. Early voting is supposed to be rolled into each precinct’s election night tallies. They are already counted. No way provisionals can make up 150,000 vote gap. Does Quinn think David Orr’s partisan office will bail him out?

    Comment by Formerpol Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:58 am

  90. All of my teacher friends are hysterical about Rauner being elected. Any thoughts/guesses on what will happen to pension reform after Quinn’s is ruled unconstitutional?

    Comment by southwest Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:59 am

  91. Does anyone know exactly which Chicago precincts are still missing?

    Comment by Dirty Red Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:59 am

  92. Illinois loves its corrupt governors. What else can you say?

    Comment by too obvious Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:59 am

  93. ===In the end it looks like Rauner’s + lists were solid despite concern from some.===

    Long response?

    ===- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:41 am:

    Dear Rauner Crew,

    I was wrong.

    With a great deal of humility, and with no reservation or conditions, your deft skill at understanding what you were trying to accomplish and to do that, with technology, shoe leather, and a strong understanding of how Illinois as a battleground would react to your exceptional… exceptional… ground game tactics and dedication, you proved me wrong, embarrassingly wrong, and made the point loud and clear that your cake can bake, it was delicious for your Principle, and for me, it is baked with a double helping of crow, unconditionally.

    Governor-Elect Rauner,

    Congratulations on being elected the 42nd governor of our state. I wish you the sincere best wishes as you take the oath in January to lead Illinois for the next four years.

    The challenges will be many, and I know your heart and love for this state will guide you in your job as our Executive in government.

    Had your opponent won, I would have written this next paragraph the same as I write to you;

    I did not vote for you, and I didn’t vote for your opponent either. I left it up to you to convince others as your road to victory. While you didn’t earn my vote, you earned my respect as our elected governor, and while there will be times I disagree, I look forward to the times I can follow your lead to make a better Illinois for us all.

    Campaigning is hard, but governing is difficult. Many things will not be easy. Leaders I respect most are the ones I disagree with, but I know that the place they come from in the decisions they make for us all have our best interests at heart, even if getting where you lead may not be my first choice.

    As you prepare your new administration, keep close to your heart your words you ran on, and if you keep Illinois as your constant concern, you will not fail, but succeed in leading from your leadership, not the title that allows it.

    Congratulations, and congratulations to you and your campaign Crew and the thousands of volunteers that made your win possible.

    It was a huge effort, led by you Governor-Elect Rauner, with leadership and teamwork.

    Governing has the attributes too, and I look forward to that success story too.

    With respect,

    OW===

    Short response?

    Yes.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:00 am

  94. We are the crest of the national Republican wave. The wave brought in the Governor and went no further. Illinois is now a political ground zero.
    “May you live in interesting times.”
    Chinese curse.

    Comment by Quiet Sage Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:00 am

  95. ===For the Democrats, they need to rebrand the party or else they will take more bloodbaths in the years to come ===

    In 2010 it was the Republican party that needed to rebrand to avoid going out of business. Don’t overreact.

    Comment by veritas Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:00 am

  96. “A souffle only rises once”.

    Actually, gracefully (as you can) concede. Walk away.

    Does not matter if you like the results or not, the voters made that decision for you.

    Decompress. Enjoy yourself for a change. It’s not all about politics. Do a little traveling - only keep it simple.

    You put your time in. Time to move on to something else - a new stage in your life.

    Just a thought.
    ———————–

    To Bruce Rauner:

    Your life just changed. You may think it’s been hard - now, it’s about to get a lot harder. Now you get to make the hard calls.

    If there are any easy calls, they’ve already been made by somebody else. Deal with it. You made the first step n a very long journey by calling both Speaker Madigan and Senate President Cullerton on election night. Common courtesy is always a good start.

    Let’s see how good you really are. Personally, I think you are a ‘Closer’ type. Something we haven’t seen much of here in Illinois these last few years.

    Just as an aside, you might want to do something unexpected. Chicago needs help. As does Cook County government. Your best bet might be to see what common efforts can be done to assist the City of Chicago in getting out of the debt hole they are in, as like it or not, Chicago is our major economic engine here in Illinois.

    Just a thought.

    Comment by Judgment Day (on the road) Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:00 am

  97. I think the people have spoken…….love the response in southern Illinois…..remember Quinn said he only needed Cook County and Chicago to win….guess that didn’t work out for him!

    Comment by SICK OF IT Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:00 am

  98. I don’t think there will be any income tax extension in the lame duck session. Let it expire and then Rauner will need to get GOP votes to pass any tax increase to balance the budget.

    Why would Madigan and Cullerton rescue Rauner?

    Comment by MOON Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:01 am

  99. So Rauner won and the state has not fallen into Lake Michigan? Phew!

    Comment by Wumpus Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:01 am

  100. OK, Bruce, time to walk the walk. Go get ‘em

    Comment by Scott in Chicago Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:01 am

  101. Not like anyone can say that this is a surprise. Politics, as Nature, abhors a vacuum. The political malpractice and corruption of the past decades in the State of Illinois, and the increasing irrelevance of the State GOP, created a vacuum into which a well-funded candidate could enter, both taking over the GOP and changing the face of Illinois Government.
    The new Rauner GOP could be quite formidable for years to come and is probably what the GOP needed: A move away from social issues, a more inclusive GOP and fiscally responsible.

    How Rauner got to this point needs no further analysis other than to help moving forward.

    Comment by Samurai Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:02 am

  102. @paddy, 9:45
    === If he [Rauner] is as smart as he thinks he is… he will let the income tax increase stay and govern fairly moderately and who could get reelected.===
    But current law lowers the income tax as of Jan. 1st. And the current budget does not really reflect that fact. So BR does not have the ’status quo’ option that you suggest. He has to do something, and pretty much whatever he does will make a lot of people mad (and some regret voting for him).

    Comment by UIC Guy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:02 am

  103. At the end of the day Pat Quinn simply wasn’t a strong enough candidate for his party to rally around so this shouldn’t be a big surprise. What’s shocking is that it looks like the spread between Rauner and Quinn will be larger than the difference between JBT and Simon. I realize that the Comptroller race draws little notice but really did anyone see that coming?

    Comment by pundent Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:03 am

  104. Last night’s biggest winner? Rich Miller. This blog is going to be a fascinating read for the next couple of years.

    Comment by Sangamo Sam Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:03 am

  105. As the saying goes, we get the government we deserve.

    I would LOVE to see Rauner allow us to have our cake (more money for education & infrastructure) and eat it too (property taxes stay the same while allowing the 5% tax rate to expire).

    Comment by Jocko Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:03 am

  106. The time has come to put aside personal interests and all parties need to work together to save our State and its citizens. Let’s put the people first rather than the elected officials. All could follow the example of our Governor-elect and give back your paycheck.

    Comment by Anonymous Retiree Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:03 am

  107. “I just woke up and had this horrible nightmare that Mitch McConnell was painting the U.S. map red with Democratic blood…..”

    That is East Side Alex’s quote above.

    Is anyone old enough to remember when the color coding was the opposite? Thirty years ago when checking “D”s and “R”s during the primaries, a red pencil was used to indicate a Democratic voter and a blue pencil to underline a Republican. When did that change?

    Comment by Under Further Review Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:04 am

  108. Brooke Anderson’s performance yesterday as Quinn’s spokesperson was just…shrill?

    also is Scott Drury going forward with his lawsuit, even though he won?

    Going to be fascinating to see who Rauner appoints in his Cabinet…lots of outsiders or as Jim Edgar suggested, people with experience in Springfield?

    Comment by Ravenswood Right Winger Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:05 am

  109. With Chicago turnout way down from the last election, I realized last night I had not heard one word from my alderman, an Emanuel ally, or his hand-picked Democratic committeeman throughout this entire election. Did Emanuel put out the word to his allies to not lift a finger to support Quinn? It sure looks that way, especially given the local ward committee’s efforts in previous governor’s races. What’s next? I’d bet the farm that one of Rauner’s first “bipartisan” moves will be to work with Emanuel to get that Chicago casino that Quinn opposed. Welcome to the Rauner/Emanuel playlot.

    Comment by OldSmoky2 Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:07 am

  110. Congratulations to the truly big winner last night, GTCR.

    Comment by too obvious Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:07 am

  111. Gee, Wally, I’m not a kid. I think I’ll muddle through somehow.

    Now get on with the saving the state, whatever that means.

    Comment by Wordslinger Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:07 am

  112. ==”something bad happened to my site”==

    Thanks Rich.

    You sound like Quinn campaign headquarters, still counting votes.

    Comment by walker Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:07 am

  113. It seems we owe Chip an apology.

    Comment by haverford Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:08 am

  114. Did Rauner’s party take control of both houses, or do I need new glasses and less Irish Coffee?

    Comment by Mama Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:08 am

  115. Snucky said “One interesting note - Rauner almost won Chicago’s 43rd Ward. The north side of the city was a major disappointment for Quinn. I really believe that something needs to change within the Cook County Democratic Party”

    To piggyback on that statement, Rauner actually beat Quinn in the 42nd Ward.

    I thought Sheila Simon performed way better than people expected.

    I also thought Jim Oberweis did better than expected.

    The Treasurer’s Race is a toss-up. This will be very interesting to see who wins this race.

    Comment by jakecp Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:09 am

  116. Check out the Will County Sheriff race…

    Also going to miss Brooke Anderson’s tweets…

    Finally, will they try same day registration again?

    Comment by OneMan Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:10 am

  117. Never would have expected this.
    The first results to come in were from Cook County and it looked very good for the Democrats.

    I was surprised at how close JBT and Simon were.

    Comment by 3rd Generation Chicago Native Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:10 am

  118. Any thoughts/guesses on what will happen to pension reform after Quinn’s is ruled unconstitutional?

    Virtually nothing for those currently in the plan because virtually any change would be ruled unconstitutional

    Comment by OneMan Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:11 am

  119. At the very least, this is going to be fun to watch. We get to test my personal modern day political theorem… A competent Republican can do more damage to a government than an incompetent Democrat.

    Comment by Ducky LaMoore Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:11 am

  120. Simon’s better than expected showing? Well, I had a friend tell me this morning that he voted for Rauner and then Sheila –strictly because Ms. Simon showed intelligence in separating herself from Quinn and he wanted to reward her. Had to chuckle at that.

    Comment by Responsa Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:11 am

  121. Who wants ice cream?

    Hey, the ice cream man won!

    But it was in Arizona. The former CEO of Coldstone Dairy won an election out West.

    Comment by Under Further Review Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:13 am

  122. REALITY CHECK: Evelyn Sanguinetti is a heart beat away from being our state’s chief exec.

    Comment by Just Observing Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:13 am

  123. Illinois election result governor map>

    Comment by 3rd Generation Chicago Native Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:13 am

  124. OW @ 10am. I think you just captured the thoughts of many people, including mine.

    Comment by FormerParatrooper Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:13 am

  125. I’m glad we’re returning to how things used to be– a seemingly moderate Republican governor and a Democratic legislature. One party rule in either direction disservices the population.

    Comment by Lunchbox Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:14 am

  126. Did anybody tell Rauner that he can’t fire Madigan? That he can’t divest himself of the Democrat controlled legislature? This should make for a few interesting years. It’ll be educational.

    Cheri Bustos won handily over Bobby Schilling in the 17th Congressional District. Well done, Cheri and crew! That was the best news of the night.

    Comment by Aldyth Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:14 am

  127. Tom Friedman in the NYT said it best: “Never has more money been spent to think so little about a future so in flux.”

    Comment by uptown progressive Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:15 am

  128. Here’s my guess as to where they’ll go with pension reform after the current plan is rejected by the Supremes. Madigan wants the cost shift to local suburban and rural districts, and that’s going to happen. If Rauner communicates this right to suburban voters and makes the districts earn any additional funding through referendum rather than by statutory automatic increases to pay for it, he can keep the more conservative suburban communities with him. Voters likely won’t hold a grudge four years from now, and the unions will have to accept it as a fact of life by then. New employees won’t get the sweet deals their predecessors did, but they’ll know what they’ll be getting as far as pensions if the system becomes stable.

    This would be an ideal time to modify the Education Labor Relations act to limit strikes to cases where money is available for requested increases by the unions not being able to exceed rate of revenue growth for increases to salaries and benefits, nor allowing them when projected district cash reserves are less than 180 days operating expenses, and giving teacher unions the right to put tax rate increases on the ballot to pay for contract increases by petition rather than board approval. I think that’d be a little too bold for this necessary step.

    One can only dream……

    Comment by Arizona Bob Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:16 am

  129. Pat Quinn got fired.
    Everything else stayed the same.
    Illinois got shook up - where?

    Rauner discovered that if he wishes to govern a blue state, he will need to wake up and stop dreaming of a Scott Walker or a Mitch Daniels state legislature that is either purple or red. I recommend he look towards Governor Kasich in Ohio who was able to recover his fall from grace and win in a landslide yesterday. That means Rauner needs to can the anti-union crap. Completely.

    Running as an anti-union candidate nearly cost Rauner the nomination. When he shut up over it, he was able to beat our beloved Benchwarmer Governor. He needs to continue shutting up or he will find himself as fired as one of his former managers in 2018.

    Rauner wants to be nice and liked. He didn’t drop $27,000,000 to be spat at. He has big dreams. He will need to have one of his minions slap him on the back of his head and tell him to buckle down and fix the fiscal mess Illinois is in.

    Rauner said he has no social agenda. Well, today, Governor-Elect Rauner will need to start telling Illinoisans that he has no anti-union agenda too. If he attempts either - we will happily have one of Madigan’s or Cullerton’s aides show our new governor the constitutional and political conditions of being a governor of Illinois.

    Finally, I’ve been right on this election for months. Quinn could have won if he balanced his negative ads with ads reminding us why he is our favorite Caretaker Governor. Even though he has enough back hair and the image of a teddy bear, watching Pat claw and maul Mr. Big Bucks was not what Governor Quinn needed to do to win.

    Negative campaigning not only ruins candidates and robs incumbents of their needed mandates, it ruins bipartisanship, respect and credibility needed from citizens that empowers an elected position. Rod Blagojevich was reelected over Judy Barr Topinka this way. If you need an example of why we should never allow this to happen - there you go. Winning is losing when it comes to negative campaigns like Blagojevich’s and Quinn’s.

    This election was a referendum on Pat Quinn and Pat Quinn had a lot of reasons to win reelection. He staunched the bleeding and was an attractive nursemaid as our state healed. Whoever was out of patience with him that voted for him in 2010, could have been persuaded to do that again yesterday, had Pat Quinn asked them.

    Consequently, the incumbent lost.

    This is a BLUE STATE.
    Governor-Elect Rauner, ignore that at your peril.

    Comment by VanillaMan Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:16 am

  130. @OldSmoky2:

    I wonder if you are right. In many neighborhoods, it looked as if the ward and township committeemen did the absolute minimum and were content to let direct mail, television and radio do the bulk of the work.

    Of course, in many districts, the down the ballot legislative and county candidates were running unopposed.

    Comment by Under Further Review Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:17 am

  131. At the moment, my most pressing question is:

    Will the Rauners really, really live in the Mansion? And will they fix it up?

    Comment by Cassandra Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:17 am

  132. I thought it was interesting that Rauner reached out to Madigan and Cullerton last night. Sounds like the Governor didn’t get his call. Bad reception in the Panic Room at the Hotel Allegro. Also, a pretty power move by Rauner to declare victory last night, after Quinn didn’t take the window of opportunity to concede.

    Comment by Ron Burgundy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:19 am

  133. Is it just me, but when Republicans win, I never seem to hear the words “voter fraud.”

    Comment by Deep South Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:19 am

  134. Bruce Rauner will be shocked to find out how difficult the Governor’s job is, if he seriously wants to make big changes. It’s probably beyond anything he has faced so far in his career.

    Good luck to him.

    Comment by walker Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:20 am

  135. Some post-election education-related questions: what happens to public school general state aid funding; what happens with pensions; what happens with possible school district mandated pension payments; what happens with possible school district consolidations; what happens with possible changes in the State School Board and State Superintendent; and what happens with school choice/vouchers?

    Comment by Buzzie Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:21 am

  136. Cassandra - what if Rauner paid personally to fix the mansion? For some reason, that would actually make me like him a little.

    Comment by haverford Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:21 am

  137. Will the new Governor find common ground with ALL Public Sector Unions (Police, Firefighters, Prison Workers, Teachers) or just confront the Teachers?

    Thats what testicularly challenged Scott did in Wisconsin?

    Comment by Del Clinkton Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:21 am

  138. Clearly a personal referendum on Quinn himself. He had made enemies in the legislature by dissing them so badly, he had no favors to call in as far as associating himself with popular local Democrats, with predictable results–he loses, but the legislative Democratic supermajorities remain. I can’t read how smart Rauner is, nor what his real policy motives are, but if he wants to survive in the long run (more than one term) he will publicly denounce the tax increase that is coming in the lame duck/veto sessions but then gratefully accept the revenue and use it to shore up popular policies

    Comment by jake Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:21 am

  139. Now I want to see the man deliver, period. Jobs, funding, all the magic he promised. If not, and if it is not in a big way, he will be a one term Governor. If he does, he will be governor for as long as he would like or have a shot at higher office.

    I thought it was funny last night when Ray LaHood immediately started advocating for the income tax rate extension. The votes were not even counted and the song had already changed. It may be part of the awakening that happens for candidates that decried taxation levels and then realize they have to have it. Rauner will have to go to bat for the rate extension or it does not happen and then all bets are off. As a previous poster mentioned, Madigan is not going to wear that one alone.

    Comment by JS Mill Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:22 am

  140. With Dem Super majorities in the House and Senate, I’m wonderin’ what the over/under is on when that soon to be annoying Line Item Veto power goes away!!
    I’m thinking May 1st.

    Comment by WhoKnew Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:22 am

  141. =How about I just cash out my pension, use it to buy 3/4 of a bottle of Bruce’s favorite wine, give it to him, and then die?=

    Sounds like a plan…….

    Comment by Arizona Bob Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:23 am

  142. “What’s on your mind after this historic election year?”

    Now we’ll see what happens when the dog catches the bus…

    – MrJM

    Comment by MrJM Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:23 am

  143. - scurvydog - Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:52 am:

    I’m pro-life and voted for Quinn in 2010 and 2014. The social issues will not lose an election.

    It is the big picture.

    Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:24 am

  144. Two surprises to me from last night was that Rauner broke 50%. I really did not have a gut feeling on who would win, but I expected the winner to be around 48-49%.

    But an even bigger surprise is that Frank Mautino won by only 350 votes against a political newcomer who had almost no support for the Republican Party.

    Comment by G'Kar Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:24 am

  145. Speechless! What a crazy state.

    I guess I don’t understand. Like the last race for governor, and I realize that “people vote” and not counties, 101 counties are red. One large county, Cook, is blue. But the sum of the people voting Republican in the 101 counties and 1/3 of the votes Rauner took in Cook won him the election. That would seem to make us a red state?

    In the legislature I believe the Democrats held onto a “veto proof” majority? That would seem to make us a blue state?

    Probably a stupid question, but seriously, how does Quinn lose if the Democrats have that much power throughout the state in legislative races? Just seems logical that some of that voting power would transfer. Is Quinn hated that much or people want change so bad they would elect anyone but Quinn?

    Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:25 am

  146. So the Gilded Age started around 1870 and lasted until 1929 although it was punctuated by a brief period of populist reforms in the 1910s. 1929 - 1870 = 59 years. Our Gilded Age began in 1980 so we are 35 years into it. So if your 50 like me, you have a decent chance of seeing the end since things move faster now. Bring on the Great Depression part 2. Will there be a FDR to save us from fasc… I mean oligarchic corporatism this time?

    Comment by James Knell Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:25 am

  147. - scurvydog - Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:52 am:

    Many Pro-lifers voted for Quinn in 2010 and 2014. Social issues are not a losing fight in Illinois.

    Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:26 am

  148. I think this was more “anybody but Quinn” kinda election. The only thing that made it close was Rauner scared a lot of people.

    Comment by Bruce (No not him) Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:27 am

  149. Governor Rauner will raise our taxes while freezing some and cutting others.

    He will increase educational spending.

    He will not be confrontational during this term.

    He will find a replacement for Evelyn.

    He will be coopting, buying in, and merging with Illinois power players from both parties.

    He is shooting for a higher elected office and it wouldn’t surprise me if he considers a US Senate run against Kirk in 2016. This means he will want to be liked and be considered successful.

    Michael J. Madigan’s gubernatorial autopilot will remain turned on while Governor-Elect Rauner demonstrates an ability to govern according to the standards of Mr. Speaker. MJM will allow Rauner to handle issues that could potentially damage Mr. Speaker.

    Mr. Madigan will be testing how well the new governor can take a hit on an issue, within government and how well Mr. Speaker can use the new governor as a shield to get his way in Illinois.

    Mr. Rauner will allow MJM to do this until he feels the public supports him over Mr. Speaker. Once that debt is paid, expect the governor to begin taking stands at odds with Mr. Speaker.

    Remember, MJM is getting older and is not expanding his political power. Consequently, he will be in a position to lose power and hold on as long as possible before retirement. Rauner, on the other hand, has a longer view politically. Together, they can juggle issues in a way that satisfies both.

    It is in MJM’s interest to move Rauner out of the governor’s office into a federal one, so that his daughter’s future in state government won’t be delayed due to Governor Big Bucks.

    Comment by VanillaMan Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:29 am

  150. ==William Kelly was at the Hilton and tried to gain access to the after hours party. I saw him in the hallway pleading his case to few people. Needless to say it went on deaf ears. I guess everybody loves a winner.==

    Of all the things caught on tape the last year, Oh how I wish that would’ve been

    Comment by Anonymoiis Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:29 am

  151. It would be nice if (oh gosh) Governor and Mrs. Rauner could take on the Mansion as a gift to the state. We are blessed and cursed with the largest governor’s mansion in the nation. It’s a mess. Start with those awful bushes outside - the place looks more like a Halloween Haunted House than a Governor’s Mansion….

    Comment by Soccermom Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:29 am

  152. Well those leftover Blagojevich flunkies will finally have to get a job.

    Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:30 am

  153. I don’t think Rauner needs to worry too much about Democratic super-majorities.

    His challenge will be to get a large number of GOP legislators to sign on to his spending and revenue plans. I think Madigan and Cullerton will carry some of his water, but definitely not all of it.

    Many of today’s GOP legislators have never taken a tough vote. They’re going to be expected to now by the leader of their party.

    Comment by Wordslinger Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:30 am

  154. I wonder how busy SERS will be this month. Quinn wouldn’t fumigate when Madigan had his back. I don’t think Bruce will hesitate, especially DOT and CMS.

    Comment by Casual Observer Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:31 am

  155. Not sure what is going to happen in 2015, but I do know that after January 12 Quinn and his second grade soccer team will not be a part of it. That alone makes me feel better about the future.

    Comment by Jaded Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:33 am

  156. @Arizona Bob:

    “This would be an ideal time to modify the Education Labor Relations act to limit strikes to cases where money is available for requested increases by the unions not being able to exceed rate of revenue growth for increases to salaries and benefits, nor allowing them when projected district cash reserves are less than 180 days operating expenses, and giving teacher unions the right to put tax rate increases on the ballot to pay for contract increases by petition rather than board approval.”

    I agree with the part about money (technically Public Safety workers cannot “strike”). As long as this applies Police, Firefighters, and Prison Workers Unions.

    Comment by Del Clinkton Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:34 am

  157. There are a whole bunch of “Chicken Littles” out there claiming the sky is falling or is going to fall with a Rauner win.

    There are a lot of people who vastly over-estimate the governor’s power or ability to muscle things through.

    But some of those statements are, I believe, an effort to save face on the part of groups who made some pretty wild claims ahead of the election.

    Claims such as Rauner is going to fire a whole bunch of city, county and state workers to privatize those functions.

    Claims that Rauner is going to roll back the minimum wage.

    Not likely.

    And the people who suggest there was voter fraud to get this result… they are my favorite. In Chicago, a city so intrinsically known for Democrat vote fraud that everyone in the nation has heard the joke, “Vote early and vote often in Chicago.”

    Enough with the sky is falling hysteria.

    As many have said before, Madigan still has commanding majorities in the Illinois House and Senate.

    Illinois is still a long way from the Wisconsin success story.

    John

    Comment by John Boch Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:34 am

  158. =Quinn could have won if he balanced his negative ads with ads reminding us why he is our favorite Caretaker Governor.=

    What exactly did Pat Quinn do that was worth reminding us of? The only distinguishing act of his tenure was suspending the pay of legislators which ultimately ended up costing us more in the long run.

    Other than that he largely stood by and watched Madigan do whatever he wanted to do. Pat Quinn was neither a caretaker or catalyst for anything these last four years. That’s why he ran the campaign that he did.

    Comment by pundent Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:34 am

  159. Sorry…10:25 Anonymous was me.

    Comment by Finally Out (formerly Ready to Get Out) Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:35 am

  160. For the record, Chicago’s majority black wards went 94% for Quinn. He got 96% there in 2010.

    Overall, Democratic votes in these wards were down about 5,300 and GOP votes were up about 5,400. In short, the black vote was not the difference here. The difference was white Democrats staying home and independents switching from Quinn (2010) to Rauner (2014).

    Comment by Snucka Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:35 am

  161. I, ummm, harrumph. I kind of agree with VanillaMan. Except for the Ohio part - Kasich has never had a D legislature, not even one of the chambers.

    Still, Illinois didn’t catch the national R wave. It was a referendum and Quinn was fired.

    And if Rauner wants to roll back the income tax, great, but he better start counting House Republican noses for raising it first. He’ll probably need 30-40 for that. I doubt Madigan will have his members wear the jacket for another tax increase.

    Comment by Joe Bidenopolous Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:36 am

  162. Wishing both Governor-elect Rauner and we the people of Illinois good luck and God speed!

    Comment by Sunshine Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:38 am

  163. Here’s one thought on the “veto proof” majority in the House. Yes, the appropriate number of people to meet this definition will be in the caucus.

    But make no mistake, while winning, many supposedly very safe members were put on notice by their voters. Few are safe who refuse to listen to the conflicting voices of their residents vs. their leader. Jack Franks will not be the Lone Ranger in mild or dramatic defiance anymore. There will be others. A veto proof majority requires perfect attendance and unfettered loyalty to the leader. I believe that situation took a big hit last night in races all around the state.

    I can think of at least 6 or 7 members who are standing in front of the mirror today practicing the phrase “I apologize Mr. Speaker, but No sir”.

    Comment by A guy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:39 am

  164. Casual Oberserver @10:35

    I have already had one email this morning from a former co-worker that is thinking about moving up their retirement date.

    Comment by Finally Out (formerly Ready to Get Out) Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:39 am

  165. Really concerned about my department’s funding/my livelihood. Hope Rauner is a pragmatist and not going slash-and-burn. I hate top-level shakeups because they introduce such uncertainty even in bureaucratic (non-policy) positions as policy guys scramble for bureaucracy jobs and vice versa.

    Comment by Educated in the Suburbs Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:39 am

  166. John Boch, you heard voices claiming that Rauner was going to fire city and county workers? And about vote fraud? Does anyone else hear those voices?

    Are you proposing a progressive income tax to get us on the road to the “Wisconsin success story?”

    Comment by Wordslinger Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:39 am

  167. I think Pat Quinn simply overstayed his welcome.

    Quinn caught a huge break when he did not have a major primary opponent.

    Quinn definitely did some goofy stuff like using the cartoon character “Squeezy” or suspending paychecks for legislators when he was angry at them (losing a lawsuit in the process)for not passing pension laws.

    Rauner’s victory would probably have been close to impossible against a candidate other than Quinn.

    Sometimes, I think Quinn’s political career and longevity is to Illinois what Jerry Brown is to California. There are a few parallels.

    Comment by Under Further Review Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:40 am

  168. I for one welcome our new Chicago private-equity overlords.

    Comment by too obvious Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:40 am

  169. Quinn should have picked Blair Hull instead of Vallas

    Comment by gesquire Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:41 am

  170. ===I can think of at least 6 or 7 members who are standing in front of the mirror today practicing the phrase “I apologize Mr. Speaker, but No sir”.===

    If you can think of them, name them.

    It’s is by the assistance of MJM they won. Just saying.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:42 am

  171. - James Knell - Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:55 am:

    How about I just cash out my pension, use it to buy 3/4 of a bottle of Bruce’s favorite wine, give it to him, and then die?

    Thanks, I agree

    Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:44 am

  172. Spend $65 million and you too could be governor! Seriously, it’s going to be fascinating watching the Rauner/Madigan dance, as well as defendant Rauner ongoing lawsuits.

    Comment by Former Merit Comp Slave Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:46 am

  173. Assuming this is the end for Governor Quinn’s political career (a big if given his history), by my count this tilter of windmills against career politicians ran in 10 different election cycles since 1982, ultimately winning 5 times and losing 5.

    Comment by Ron Burgundy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:47 am

  174. I have a feeling Quinn is waiting for all of the early ballots to be counted. Have the oversea ballots from the soldiers been counted yet?

    Comment by Mama Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:47 am

  175. VanillaMan, that’s an excellent comment. I agree with you very much.

    We are in a new day in Illinois, and I hope that we can incorporate some of the best policy ideas out there toward our betterment. That’s what this is all about for many of us, and why I believe many come to this blog to read and comment.

    I am disappointed in the so-called national mood. So many people are disgruntled, though this country is making progress. We were in a brutal economic crash. Our unemployment rate is down, GDP is up, around 10 million people have health insurance who didn’t have it before, gas prices are down, etc.

    We can’t repeal Obamacare, in my opinion, unless we replace it with something better. America had the highest healthcare costs in the world, and before Obamacare, there were something like 40-50 million uninsured people. Clearly this is unsustainable in a first-world country. Rauner said he would have vetoed Medicaid expansion, but it’s moot now.

    If we can wage wars over false pretenses for trillions of dollars in the long run, we can spend money on our own people to help them with the vital basic need of health insurance.

    I am on a public union contract negotiation team. It should be interesting, to say the least, to see what happens with our next contract. I hope the Rauner administration doesn’t come with the attitude that because Rauner refuses a paycheck, we should take drastic cuts.

    Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:47 am

  176. ~~A guy - The sun rose in the east, just as it did yesterday. Both in victory and in loss, it would be helpful if everyone resorts to graciousness and moves forward as cooperatively as possible.~~

    Helpful to whom? It always amazes me how the Right, in victory, so easily slips into a patronizing, condescending mode after excelling in the most mean-spirited, partisan, divisive, and least graceful rhetoric, during the entire contest. Rauner won, we get that. Congratulations. But it also matters *how* you win. Respect, trust and the resulting gift of cooperation is earned. You and your candidate, guy, have a long way to go…

    Comment by Observing... Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:47 am

  177. @ AZ Bob- shock of all shocks, I am still a little tipsy from last night- I agree with some of what you have written.

    In many counties, the communities have already spoken regarding PTELL, so tax rate increases have to go to the voters. They also have the opportunity to go to the BoE meetings and speak as well as vote for and run for the BoE. So I differ there. I also think the state needs to stop providing tax capped districts with PTELL supplemental funding (adjustment). Their communities have spoken. For CPS alone that number is in the ball park of $172 million.

    The rest of your post- I am in. Unscrupulous boards will keep cash on hand under 180 days to eliminate raises. The revenue growth model is already being adopted in some areas and, while not perfect, is a good option. If the union wants the money bad enough let them campaign for it instead of someone else doing their dirty work.

    Comment by JS Mill Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:48 am

  178. So this is what it feels like to have an ex-governor NOT going to jail.

    It’s been so long, I forgot what it felt like.

    NICE!

    Comment by Not that it matters Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:48 am

  179. I think this is great. Madigan is mindful of his legacy… If he wants to get something done.. He will work with Rauner.. I really believed the teachers would not support Quinn.. Not sure if it did or not happen.. Or if it mattered… Rank and file union members as well? I heard all along they will get out like they did for D-LARD … I don’t think that happened either…

    Comment by Walter Mitty Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:50 am

  180. === John Boch, you heard voices claiming that Rauner was going to fire city and county workers? And about vote fraud? Does anyone else hear those voices? ===

    Cook County AFSCME‎ Council 31 stuffed mailboxes with the flyer:

    http://www.gunssavelife.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/AfscmeCouncil31.jpg

    Wordslinger, let’s try to be a little more adult-like, okay?

    John

    Comment by John Boch Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:50 am

  181. I do not think that the repeal of Obamacare is possible or advisable, at least at this juncture. It would probably be better to try to revise portions of the law in the short term.

    Comment by Under Further Review Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:53 am

  182. I agree with others that GOTV was non-existent in parts of Chicago. My area consists almost entirely of Hispanic families and young people so it’s solid Quinn territory, but I literally saw no GOTV effort. No lit passers at polls. No canvassers. No signs. Nothing.

    Comment by Hank Scorpio Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:53 am

  183. BTW… Quinn is embarrassing himself at this point.. concede…

    Comment by Walter Mitty Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:54 am

  184. === Observing… - Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:47 am:

    ~~A guy - The sun rose in the east, just as it did yesterday. Both in victory and in loss, it would be helpful if everyone resorts to graciousness and moves forward as cooperatively as possible.~~

    Helpful to whom? It always amazes me how the Right, in victory, so easily slips into a patronizing, condescending mode after excelling in the most mean-spirited, partisan, divisive, and least graceful rhetoric, during the entire contest. Rauner won, we get that. Congratulations. But it also matters *how* you win. Respect, trust and the resulting gift of cooperation is earned. You and your candidate, guy, have a long way to go…===

    O, I think I’ll just let this one go past me.

    Comment by A guy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:55 am

  185. The most overplayed story going into the election was Grimm.

    Grimm did worse than the third party candidate in the U.S. Senate race. All that effort focused on him was either a waste or a wash.

    One William Kelly sighting — he was spotted heading to his precinct to vote. He refused to sign petitions for various Chicago offices. Who knows. Maybe he’s planning to run for Mayor, Alderman and City Clerk next year.

    Comment by Gooner Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:55 am

  186. I heard that Rauner just gave himself (somehow) a $65 million tax cut. WOnderful investment

    Comment by Wumpus Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:55 am

  187. A lot of gridlock and sometimes gridlock is good.
    A lot of vetoes. Some will be upheld and some won’t

    Well that’s how I see the broad picture.

    But then again, I predicted Quinn to win by 1 to points.

    Comment by Federalist Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:56 am

  188. Quinn says he’s waiting for provisional ballots to be counted.

    Six precincts stayed opened late in Chicago and those will all be counted as provisional ballots.

    Does Quinn think there are enough votes there?

    Comment by Stuff Happens Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:57 am

  189. 14 years of political patronage means there will be alot of people out of a job. I wonder if Rauner’s Ax will be as big as Blago’s was?

    Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:58 am

  190. John Boch, take a little more adult-like care of your guns so you don’t keep losing them. That’s how they end up in the wrong hands, and no one wants that.

    Comment by Wordslinger Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:59 am

  191. I should add that it was not just Cook County that lost Quinn this election. The collars and downstate were both a disaster as well, and were enough to give the election to Rauner even if Quinn had matched his 2010 turnout and percentages in Chicago and the suburbs.

    That said, Joe Berrios still has plenty to answer for today.

    Comment by Snucka Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:01 am

  192. @Hank Scorpio:

    Yesterday, I was running errands (I voted early) and I past several polling places in Chicago and the near suburbs and next to nothing was going on. There were no precinct workers passing literature outside of the buildings. I posted a comment on an empty polling place in a suburban precinct that ought to have been in an area where Quinn could clean up and nobody was inside of the polls other than the election judges.

    If there had been a better Quinn GOTV effort, Rauner could have easily lost yesterday.

    Comment by Under Further Review Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:02 am

  193. PQ needs to resign. He’s been a good governor, but this is embarrassing to all of us. Still shocked Madigan will hold his supermajority in the face of this Rauner win.

    Comment by k3 Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:03 am

  194. Willie,
    Crespo, Mautino, Conroy, Mussman, Willis, Moynihan, Moylan, Drury, Sente, Yingling, Smiddy. I gave you a few extra. I know Willis was unopposed, but she’s a smart lady who I think would like to keep it that way. There were a lot of tough races. While the Speaker helped with resources, in many cases he inspired votes that made them require those resources.

    Comment by A guy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:04 am

  195. “Illinois is still a long way from the Wisconsin success story.”

    This is debatable. Wisconsin is facing a $1.8 billion dollar budget shortfall, and while this is nowhere near the fiscal crisis of Illinois, it is still a problem. Our pension crisis is a result of decades of irresponsible funding, so comparing us with Wisconsin is not apples-to-apples.

    Plus, Wisconsin’s job creation was down compared with the national average in probably the vast majority of months in which Walker has been governor. Wisconsin has been trailing Illinois recently in job creation.

    I say this with the full understanding that governments have a limited role in job creation. However, if drastic budget cuts are made, that means money is being taken out of the economy. In Wisconsin’s case, the limited savings people got via property tax cuts has not stimulated economic growth. Corporate tax incentives to open shop in Wisconsin have not resulted in economic growth. The same can pretty much be said of Kansas and New Jersey. Is anyone surprised?

    Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:08 am

  196. I believe that Madigan and Cullerton will use the referenda votes to argue that, while Mr. Rauner won the race for governor, the people are still in favor of Democratic policies. This will be a major argument in favor of the legislature setting the agenda.

    Interestingly, I don’t recall Rauner ever actually coming out against any of those ballot questions.

    Comment by Snucka Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:09 am

  197. I’m left wondering how pragmatic Rauner will be. With so few specifics it’s anyone’s guess at this point. How I wish, with rose colored glasses, for the Republicans of old. I’m too young to be this nestolagic, and too old to be this worried about the future of the state.

    Comment by AC Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:11 am

  198. ===While the Speaker helped with resources, in many cases he inspired votes that made them require those resources.===

    Thus the conundrum of being a Mushroom;

    Do as I need to, to get the support and resources needed to win…

    Do as I may want to, and be exposed to a Primary challenge.

    Now, if you - A Guy… - think it would be helpful, especially in those specific instances, those Members, those districts, for Governor Rauner to openly and overtly help those Democrats, as opposed to helping Durkin pick them off as they go off the reservation and say “No” to the Speaker, will Governor Rauner now dictate to the H&SGOP their “targets”?

    A Republican sitting Governor, advocating against his legislative leaders’ best interest isn’t a good way to build.

    Just some thoughts.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:12 am

  199. Soccermom is so wishing she had nailed down a new job before last night. The landscape just got very different…

    Comment by Soccermom Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:15 am

  200. Ouch. I was way wrong on my take. With two guys saying “I’m not the other guy,” the new “I’m not the other guy” guy carried the day–big time.

    Yet it was interesting how well Frerichs, largely unkonw before this race, and Simon, largely ignored compared to ‘Our Lady of Illinois” did in thier races. That and given the hold the Dems still have on the House adn Senate, I am not sure this can be called a Republican revolution. I think it was a Rauner revolution.

    Comment by Concerned Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:16 am

  201. Looking at the Chicago results, I was shocked to see how well Rauner ran in the 2nd Ward (Alderman Fioretti). Gentrification and redistricting has changed the area, but a Republican candidate has not performed so well there since Prohibition.

    Comment by Under Further Review Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:16 am

  202. I would love to know what Speaker Madigan thinks of the election. Any thoughts?

    Comment by Mama Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:18 am

  203. - Machiavelli - @ 9:52 am:

    “Madigan wins again. It’s better to be feared than loved.”

    You can’t Gerrymander a statewide race.

    Comment by Anon III Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:19 am

  204. ===I can think of at least 6 or 7 members who are standing in front of the mirror today practicing the phrase “I apologize Mr. Speaker, but No sir”. ===
    All those that are in a position to lose in the next election are probably already being told to start following the program. Start walking precincts today, say what we tell you to say, and vote how we tell you to vote. The speaker is not going to let them take bad votes. A lot of the onus to put members on bad votes is going to be on Durkin.

    Comment by Been There Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:19 am

  205. @ - Grandson of Man 11:08 am:

    I took the statement you quote as ironic.

    Comment by UIC Guy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:20 am

  206. ===Quinn says he’s waiting for provisional ballots to be counted.
    Six precincts stayed opened late in Chicago and those will all be counted as provisional ballots.
    Does Quinn think there are enough votes there?===

    I don’t think there is a chance at all that Quinn can pick up enough votes. But Frerichs on the other hand should be all over this. If I was him I would have people over at election boards all over the state.

    Comment by Been There Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:27 am

  207. Not OW, yes - you’re not. The Dems can also claim a mandate. We’ll enjoy watching this battle of mandates.

    Comment by Norseman Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:28 am

  208. Rauner’s win raises the question: If you have enough money, can you buy the Governor’s office in Illinois?

    Comment by Streator Curmudgeon Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:36 am

  209. Hey, who had the bet last week on the over/under in the Durbin Obie race? Someone thought Durbin would win by 15 and another poster took the under. It was only a 10 point spread so time for someone to pay up. I didn’t bet but I would have taken the over and lost.

    Comment by Been There Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:37 am

  210. I think I predicted that Bruce Rauner would win by 5% yesterday in AM. Quinn won’t concede, not surprising. Showing his true colors.

    Comment by Beetlejuice Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:41 am

  211. Quinn’s behavior is delusional. He needs to do the right thing and try to salvage a measure of dignity.

    Comment by Under Further Review Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:44 am

  212. “Out of a job…”? I don’t think so. Isn’t about 95%+ of the state work force in positions covered by either civil service or union contract, or both. How many at will staff are there, really. And how many on term? More will be moving into protected jobs over the next couple of months I imagine, but Rauner’s upcoming crash course on the arcane world of government personnel rules is likely to be one of his first shockers. And since he’ll have to pick his fights, that may not be the one of the first ones he picks.

    Comment by Cassandra Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:47 am

  213. I wonder why so many Democrats point to ’super PACs’ as the problem in this country; especially when its in the context of GOP victories. Democrats certainly have them too. Clearly, money is the common denominator. I was watching MSNBC last night. I dont think I have to mention their political position. They literally had a commercial during the Rachel Maddow show for Koch Industries. Liberals HATE the Koch brothers. Sorry, I’m ranting.

    Comment by Impressed Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:55 am

  214. I will also confirm the William Kelly sighting. He was begging like a puppy for anybody to talk with him. Not one person gave him the time of day, it was kind of sad.

    Comment by 19th Ward Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 11:56 am

  215. The Illinois fossil fuel industry just got a shot in the arm. Rauner will be adding jobs to the economy the day he takes office. That is, IDNR may soon start reviewing the permit applications it has been sitting on during the Quinn administration. Drilllers and miners will concurrently be gearing up to produce revenue (including tax revenue). This must be a blow to the Greens.

    Comment by Keyser Soze Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:00 pm

  216. Been there, that was me on the bet on Obie and Durbin.

    I doubt that poster(don’t even remember who it was) will surface.

    Comment by anon Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:04 pm

  217. ==The Illinois fossil fuel industry just got a shot in the arm. Rauner will be adding jobs to the economy the day he takes office. That is, IDNR may soon start reviewing the permit applications it has been sitting on during the Quinn administration. Drilllers and miners will concurrently be gearing up to produce revenue (including tax revenue). This must be a blow to the Greens.==

    Quinn signed fracking in to law last year.

    Comment by Impressed Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:05 pm

  218. ~~~a guy: O, I think I’ll just let this one go past me. ~~
    That was actually fairly graceful of you…thanks for the change in attitude!

    Comment by Observing... Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:05 pm

  219. Oberweis clocked Durbin in Sangamon County, Durbin’s home county. Beat him 53-43, IIRC.

    Comment by anon Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:07 pm

  220. It will be interesting to see if Quinn starts to fill a bunch of board vacancies with terms that extend out a few years. Not that they pay much, if at all, but some of them do control some important areas and some have their own budgets.

    Comment by Been There Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:07 pm

  221. Been there ==It will be interesting to see if Quinn starts to fill a bunch of board vacancies with terms that extend out a few years. Not that they pay much, if at all, but some of them do control some important areas and some have their own budgets.==

    You can make $30k a year on the Mosquito Abatement Board. Thats over minimum wage for a wealthy campaign contributor.

    Comment by Impresseda Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:10 pm

  222. Keyser Soze
    The holdup on fracking, right now, is JCAR, not Quinn.

    Comment by Anyone Remember Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:11 pm

  223. Upon Further Review,

    You can’t compare the current 2nd ward to the prior. There is no overlap that I’m aware of.

    Also, there was no Democratic organization making any effort there. The candidates for alderman (well, at least two of them) were out getting signatures, but that was it.

    Comment by Gooner Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:15 pm

  224. Rauner’s upcoming crash course on the arcane world of government personnel rules is likely to be one of his first shockers. And since he’ll have to pick his fights, that may not be the one of the first ones he picks.

    Do you know of any union contract or labor experts who are Republicans? How about one that has served in a Illinois GOP administration recently? Rauner needs to discover that not only is he unaware of how government personnel rules and the Illinois constitution protects a citizen’s rights to contract and right to work within their governments - he is going to discover that there are few union experts knowledgeable enough and politically willing and capable to take on the real experts during negotiations.

    Throughout my university years, I found no Republican or business-oriented students remotely interested in union law and contract. By the time I arrived, Republicans had convinced themselves that studying union law and contracts and a citizen’s constitutional rights, was a waste of time.

    Good luck even finding someone that knows what the hell they are talking about from Rauner’s team. Rauner’s anti-union talking points were gut-level and political, not based on any real thoughts and knowledge. His advisors are ignorant on Illinois union law.

    If Rauner had a brain at all, or an ounce of political smarts, (which he has), he needs to do a Ronald Reagan, (his professed hero), and only pounce on AFSCME if they make themselves an irritant.

    Consequently AFSCME needs to ignore Rauner as well and stop the silly scare talk. It is poker playing time. No time for stupid comments that can’t be backed up.

    Illinois law favors your constitutional rights as a citizen to work for your government at the contractual pay negotiated through labor contracts.

    Comment by VanillaMan Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:17 pm

  225. ==The Dems can also claim a mandate. We’ll enjoy watching this battle of mandates.==

    I’m not sure how this is true, and I’m also not ready to say that Rauner can claim a mandate. But it was definitely a solid victory that most of the so-called pros didn’t see coming. If nothing else, I think we’re more likely to see a more progressive tax system under Rauner, and that’s a good thing. If the D’s dig in and opt for extension of the income tax increase instead of broadening the base with taxes on services, retirement income, etc., it would seem out of touch with what voters just signaled. The state has to do something about revenues, and maybe, just maybe, the stars have aligned for Rauner to make some progress that doesn’t punish the middle class, which is already feeling pretty punished.

    Not saying that Rauner can succeed on this, or that he would try, just saying there might be an opportunity. Early in a first term is a good time to address taxes.

    I do wish the campaign vitriol would stop. For good or for ill, Rauner is now the governor, and it would be nice if people would at least give him a chance. I’ve heard so much sky-is-falling rhetoric today. Wasn’t it Madigan who called for a fumigation after Blago got tossed? Well, it looks like the speaker might get his wish, just not the kind of housecleaning he was looking for.

    Comment by Not OW Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:22 pm

  226. Now lets see if his wife was telling the truth when she said Rauner doesn’t have a social agenda.

    Comment by Waldi Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:24 pm

  227. ===The candidates for alderman (well, at least two of them) were out getting signatures====
    I think this was definitely part of the turnout problem in Chicago. The locals were looking ahead to February and didn’t care about turn out. Just wanted to use the election to gather signatures. And, probably more important, not tie themselves to Quinn

    Comment by Been There Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:33 pm

  228. Evelyn Sanguinetti is a heart beat away from being Govenor.

    I hope Govenor-elect Rauner rethinks some of his anti-union remarks and tries to work with public employee unions. After all, we are not the enemy, we did not create the pension crisis.

    Good luck Mr. Rauner.

    Comment by Union Leader Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:42 pm

  229. Time to buy a nice Carhartt jacket.

    Comment by Nuclear Bozo Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:51 pm

  230. - James Knell - Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:55 am:

    Unless the Illinois Supreme Court decides to roll over and play dead for Rauner, the pensions of every current employee and retiree are safe.

    Comment by RNUG Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:52 pm

  231. - southwest - Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 9:59 am:

    Best guess is the ISC finds the currently being legigated SB-1 pension bill unconstitutional and lays out for the legislature a road map of what would be legal based on previous rulings. That will, most likely, translate to being able to change the rules for new hires (assuming it doesn’t run afoul of federal IRS regulations) and a true. VOLUNTARY, choice offered to existing employees / retirees between their existing defined benefits system and some newer type of portable retirement benefit.

    Regardless of who won last night or what rhetoric is tossed around, in the end Illinois will have to pay all the currently promised pensions so take a deep breath. chill out, and relax after work with your beverage of choice.

    Comment by RNUG Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 12:59 pm

  232. - Under Further Review - Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:04 am:

    I remember that also, but I thought my memory was just going as I got older.

    Comment by RNUG Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 1:03 pm

  233. @ Soccermom - I agree with you. The mansion is in need of some serious landscaping, and not just for a weekend (as was done in the past).

    Comment by Cheswick Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 1:13 pm

  234. @upon further review

    =Who wants ice cream?

    Hey, the ice cream man won!

    But it was in Arizona. The former CEO of Coldstone Dairy won an election out West.=

    Yep, my guy Doug Ducey, governor elect in Arizona.

    How’s this for culture shock?

    While Illinois had toothless advisory referenda on the ballot, we Arizonans had the opportunity to decide if our state legisaltors deserve a raise from $25K to $35K. It got rejected.

    In Illinois legislative pay is decided by those getting the raises (at least in the next cycle).

    In Arizona, the people control the government, just the opposite of the crooked pols in Illinois, who control the people.

    God (I can use that word in Arizona), do I love this place after living for 59 years in Illinois!

    Comment by Arizona Bob Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 1:14 pm

  235. - Anonymous - Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 10:58 am:

    Blago didn’t ax that many. Most left voluntarily because the 2002 ERI deal, originally intended only for the politically connected few but had to be offered to all employees, was a huge bribe to get out.

    Comment by RNUG Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 1:16 pm

  236. Looking at the election results themselves, quite a few races were tighter than expected. The national GOP wave, or was it the anybody but the incumbent wave, did hit Illinois, but it ran out of steam once it passed the top office.

    Comment by RNUG Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 1:24 pm

  237. One last thought, the silence is nice … the land line hasn’t rang a single time today!

    Comment by RNUG Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 1:31 pm

  238. One thought occurs to me…Oswego Willy in ‘18!

    Comment by Skeptic Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 1:42 pm

  239. Thanks Renug and AZ Bob for answering my question re the ISC and pensions!

    Comment by southwest Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 2:41 pm

  240. ===One thought occurs to me…Oswego Willy in ‘18!===

    I am going to be more interested in the short term to see the Rauner Administration and this new GA work towards 2016.

    Plus, as always, it’s up to - Norseman - 3 years from now.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 2:59 pm

  241. RNUG, thanks for trying to be reassuring. I don’t understand billionaires. They never come to my parties when I invite them, lol. So I assume they can and will buy anything they want. In my ideal world, no one would want all the money. People would consider those that do to be mental ill. Not that I wouldn’t take a million bucks, but I wouldn’t use it to impose my will on everyone else.

    Still, thanks for the kind reply.

    Comment by James Knell Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 4:30 pm

  242. Wow. Just realized how many comments this post had. lol

    Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 6:15 pm

  243. OW - What new GA? No new GA in IL that I know about.

    Comment by Mama Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 6:52 pm

  244. - Mama -,

    We, as a state, seat a new GA, every two years.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Nov 5, 14 @ 7:12 pm

  245. There’s one thing I’ve known for a long time, probably 10-15 years, but didn’t want to express until after the election.

    The psychopaths are winning.

    Comment by Mighty M. Mouse Thursday, Nov 6, 14 @ 12:33 am

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