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Question of the day

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Illinois

* Speaker Madigan responded to this question on Tuesday…

Does the governor really want a solution, or does he want chaos and upheaval in the state?

“I really don’t know, and I don’t plan to try to answer that question.”

* The Question: Does the governor really want a solution, or does he want chaos and upheaval in the state? Take the poll and then explain your answer in comments, please.

survey tools

posted by Rich Miller
Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:15 am

Comments

Perhaps he wants a solution through chaos and upheaval.

Comment by MrJakeTomlinson Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:18 am
His actions and words indicate to me that he wants chaos and upheaval. I think he thinks such a condition gives him leverage. I hope I’m wrong.

Comment by Demoralized Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:18 am
I believe Governor Rauner wants *his* solution, and will endure much chaos and upheaval to get it.

Comment by thunderspirit Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:19 am
I think he wanted chaos. He ran on chaos. He fired up his base with the red meat of chaos.

But I’d like to think his chaotic vision has been tempered by a sense of responsibility. I haven’t seen that yet. But I have to believe any moral being would understand that the state is more than numbers on Arduin’s spreadsheet.

I want to think this because if it’s not true, then Rauner is — and will be — a nightmare. If he lacks a moral core — something that he understands when he’s alone but doesn’t reveal publicly — then many Illinoisans will be hurt in a way we’ve never seen.

Comment by Macbeth Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:20 am
He wants a solution, but given the major players involved it may take chaos to get there

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:20 am
“Pressed to explain, Rauner simply said: ‘Crisis. Crisis creates leverage.’” - https://capitolfax.com/2015/04/07/a-gush-is-worth-a-thousand-details/

Comment by #5 Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:20 am
None of the above. He wants his solution, not a solution.

Comment by Stuff Happens Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:22 am
==Too soon to tell==, but only because ==both== is not available.

To him, the chaos and upheaval is part of the solution.

Comment by Formerly Known As... Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:22 am
Thunderspirit nails it - “I believe Governor Rauner wants *his* solution, and will endure much chaos and upheaval to get it.”

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:22 am
What #5 said!

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:22 am
The “what #5 said” was me.

Comment by Concerned Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:24 am
He only wants HIS solution, which is his pro-business, anti-union turnaround agenda. He never talks about promoting his balanced budget plan, because he has no budget plan of his own. I think he somehow feels that chaos will get him his turnaround agenda. Only then will he go along with the Democrats budget so he can blame the Democrats for any tax increases. His turnaround agenda is more important to him than a balanced budget, even if it causes chaos.

Comment by Joe M Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:26 am
His actions don’t appear to indicate that his endgame is a bargained solution.

Comment by Bluefish Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:28 am
Lol. Wholly unsurprising early results of that poll here.

Comment by Rat Race? What's that?? Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:29 am
I’m pretty sure Rauner wants to go into FY16 without a budget, just as I suspect Madigan wanted to take the session into overtime.

For Madigan, it ensured that the Democrats got to write the spending bills and now the Republicans will have to put votes on the revenue bills.

For Rauner, it means he can apply maximum leverage to AFSCME in the contract negotiation. I don’t believe Rauner wants chaos and upheaval, but he’s willing to risk it in order to decimate AFSCME. It’s a dangerous game of chicken and real people will get hurt if this gets out of hand.

Rauner wants to win at all costs, but it still isn’t clear to me yet what “winning” looks like to him. Is winning getting most of the Turnaround Agenda passed? Is it breaking AFSCME? Is it winning legislative seats from the Democrats next year?

Whatever winning means to him, it doesn’t appear to have anything to do with actual, responsible and competent governing. But I guess I should be used to that by now. TII.

Comment by 47th Ward Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:30 am
I believe he wants a solution. But as Mr. jake opined, and #5 pointed out it seems a bit of Rahm rubbed of on never let a crisis go to waste.

So a solution by using the chaos and upheval to obtain the objective

Comment by Todd Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:30 am
Sledgehammers, “shake up Springfield” and non stop campaigning would indicate Chaos and upheaval.

Comment by Hip Hop on Wax Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:31 am
Chaos and upheaval.

The GA Leaders are corrupt. The members they control are corrupt. The Supreme Court is corrupt.

Without all the money, he’s a ranting talk radio caller. With the money, he’s Governor.

Also, a tax increase is the only “chaos and upheaval” that he’ll hear about from his friends and supporters. None of the other human costs will wash up on the tony Winnetka shores.

Comment by LizPhairTax Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:31 am
Voted “wants chaos and upheaval”

“Why?”

Not for the reasons some may suspect.

Rauner has personally stated, numerous times (sorry “ck”) that Rauner is willing to shut down the state - chaos.

Rauner has gone out of his way, again, to say “crisis creates leverage” - upheavel.

Rauner has stood in front of microphones blasting the Democratic Leaders, while privately doing the opposite, a negotiating move confusing many.

The million dollar Ad buy six months after taking the oath, telling us all how swell Rauner is, we should love him, as chaos surrounds Illinois government. “I’m workin’ for you”, with no sign of measurable acvomplishments.

You either… plan… to make these moves, which is encouraging upheaval, or Rauner is willing to let things happen, hoping to leverage his way out of… chaos… Rauner let fester, in hopes of passing his Agenda.

The saddest part, for me, might be that Rauner is hoping for chaos and upheaval more, than wanting to serve what is best for all of Illinois, no matter how many ego-driven Ads Rauner runs…

…without a budget, without a Union contract, and schools inching closer to not opening… and Rauner seems to care less.

Voted “…chaos and upheaval”, but can Rauner control the aftermath? I dunno.

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:32 am
He wants chaos. He wants his solution, but thats not a real option so he’d rather wreck things than compromise.

Comment by relocated Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:32 am
He has openly applauded Scott Walker’s end to labor peace in Wisconsin. He seems to be a true believer on top of a bully streak shown in the unethical behavior of his business empire. The man just expects to get what he wants, whatever the cost.

Comment by Albany Park Patriot Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:32 am
He’s still is in campaign mode…so he cant be taken seriously

Comment by foster brooks Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:32 am
===“Pressed to explain, Rauner simply said: ‘Crisis. Crisis creates leverage.’” - https://capitolfax.com/2015/04/07/a-gush-is-worth-a-thousand-details/===

I think the Governor probably should have studied a little political science before jumping into office. I might have recommended Gaus’ the ecology of public administration. Catastrophe doesn’t create leverage. It creates public will and determination to take action.

Crisis won’t necessarily bring about his political agenda — in fact it could very well galvanize action against him. But, maybe this governorship is a performance piece and he intends to get folks to support responsible and progressive long term goals by showing them what the alternative really looks like.

Who would be so clever as to trick the people of Illinois into a progressive income tax amendment and fully funding education and social services by raising taxes and eliminating foolish tax expenditures?

What if Bruce Rauner is Batman?

Comment by Anon Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:33 am
If he was in the business (before being elected) of turning around failing companies, then would he not benifit from causing upheavel and chaos in Illinois and then fixing the created chaos in order to take credit? I hope he is not using this to try to make his case as a great governor in an attempt to make a run at president or something. I do not think America could survive that.

Comment by Call me Naive Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:35 am
If he wanted a solution, he’d have pushed for real but obtainable workers comp reform, tort reform, and a lean but agreeable state employee contract. He has to realize that he can’t get everything he wants, so he must truly want chaos and upheaval, or he’d have plenty of pro business reforms already in place. In essence, he seems to be uninterested in changing the trajectory of the state because he wants what he wants.

Comment by AC Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:36 am
I have no idea what he wants, so too soon to tell.

Given the last five months, I can’t see a plan at all.

– The turnaround agenda road show. That was a plan?

– Fair share grab and the initial lawsuit filing? That was a plan?

– Introducing is budget out of whack by about $3.5 billion. In February, then never pushing it, or even mentioning it, again? That was a plan?

– Pesonal image spot after five months on the job. That’s a plan?

Kurtz: “Are my methods unsound.”

Willard: “I don’t see see any method at all, sir.”

Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:36 am
Voted for chaos. I think he believes that a state shut down hurts his opponents more than him. He wants state unions negotiating with him while they are out of work and groups that depend on state money negotiating how much to cut when they have $0 coming in. He wants people pleading with their Democratic legislators to take whatever deal Rauner is offering in order to make the state work again. And I think there’s some chance that he doesn’t want a tax increase, that he just wants people desperate enough to accept deep cuts.

Comment by Century Club Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:36 am
He craves chaos, angry fists waving, etc.
only way he will be able to get the POTUS campaign going after the 20 Dwarfs kill themselves off and leave Trump the only man standing. TeamBungle counting on GOPies rushing their bobblehead, who won Obama’s state & crushed Speaker Madigan, as the last defense against Hillary.
Simple plan for simpletons
Why else kind readers would so much money be amassed. There is no one who believes the quest to be West Indiana costs that much

Comment by Anonin' Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:38 am
The IPI has advocated several forms of chaos and they have the Govenor’s ear.

Comment by A Jack Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:41 am
Too soon to tell his resolve has been compromised with flip flopping already I can’t read the guy?

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:42 am
Ruling with chaos is easier since people lose sight of what they want or need. But, the Gov wants what he wants and doesn’t care how he gets it.

Comment by Belle Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:43 am
geez, it’s a heck of a thing five months in when you’re wondering if the new governor’s goal is “chaos and upheaval.”

Before long, he might want to review the Preamble and governor’s duties as outlined in the Constitutution, as well as his oath of office.

I’m sure there are Fantasy Camps for rich guys who want to play reactionary. I bet they win every time, too.

Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:45 am
I voted for chaos. I think his gigantic ego requires this — how much attention would he garner from his favorite peeps if he settled for a fair union contract and compromise reforms on WC?

Comment by kimocat Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:46 am
Chaos and upheaval. No brainer.

Comment by Nick Name Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:46 am
Any governor thirsting for angry rallies at the Capitol, and thinking it helps them personally… They are rooting for chaos.

I’m tellin’ you, the most damaging long term mistake any Union; AFSCME, Teachers, SEIU… will make wil be to have massive rallies to galvanize Rauner and elevate Rauner in the eyes of those who despise you Unions already.

The greatest way to handle Rauner is wait for the lockout, don’t say boo, don’t rally, and let the agencies flounder, and have a lone spokesperson daily at a podium, reiterating…

“We want to work, Governor Rauner locked us out.”

Rauner would be livid!

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:47 am
The responses provide more evidence — in addition to your efforts yesterday, Rich — that the audience here is largely comprised of state employees or invested insiders. Change is especially scary to these folks, I get it … but that change is desperately needed for everyone else.

Comment by Georg Sande Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:49 am
Chaos and upheaval.

Given the Gov’s business mindset and background, I think his ads are an insurance investment to manage the risk of him going to war with the Speaker. He’s trying to win as many hearts and minds to his side before he shuts down the government and blames it on Madigan and the Dems… “See, I told you these guys are this way.”

Comment by The Muse Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:49 am
Whatever he wants, he seems to be enjoying himself immensely.

Comment by Wensicia Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:49 am
Chaos. Problem with the Governor is that he’s not dealing with Maxwell Smart…

Comment by Mouthy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:56 am
He wants HIS solution.

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:57 am
I thought he wanted solutions, but now after seeing how badly he seemed to have thrown away governing, I’m forced to believe that he wants chaos.

Here is why:

I believe Bruce Rauner believes in market solutions to such an extent that he is willing to burn down a National Park while looking forward to the springtime flowers that will grow in the ashes.

Rauner has been so divorced from need, for so long, that it seems that he has forgotten the SHORT TERM needs of citizens living paycheck to paycheck. Our current governor doesn’t need to survive at normal US levels. His immense wealth has made his vision doable, in his own head.

Governor Rauner believes that our government needs to be leveled and replaced. He doesn’t seem to be interested in how anyone would survive post-government apocalypse. His lip service to the contrary, this governor’s actions are more similar to an anarchist’s, than to a Rockefeller.

Surprise me though, Mr. Rauner. Please prove me wrong.

Comment by VanillaMan Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:57 am
Rauner’s “solution” revolves around his Turnaround agenda.

What most others would call solutions — better government operations, balanced budget, bi-partisan problem-solving in the next two years– are apparently not his highest priorities. They are hoped for by-products of Turnaround over the long term.

Note: most of his Turnaround Agenda items would not have any real impact until at least 2018, and a couple probably not until 2023. That’s if they work as imagined, and the courts agree.

The answer “Too soon to tell” is ironically appropriate.

Comment by walker Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:57 am
I punted and voted Too Soon to Tell. Maybe a little bit of both.

I continue to be foolishly optimistic and think he’ll compromise on the tax hike if he gets 1 or 2 partial victories on the items still remaining on his Turnaround Agenda.

Probably will require some early July chaos to get to the solution.

Comment by Robert the Bruce Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:58 am
He wants his way on some issues, and he does not care what happens to the people of the state so long as he and his donors get what they want.

As Rush would say, follow the money…

Comment by Ghost Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:58 am
Voted “change and upheaval.” Kinda what he campaigned on and still is today. Lot of people drank the kool aid on this concept as it sounds good and will fix all our problems. The problem is once they realize it is actually going to effect some program, service, school, state institution or building project in their area it will be too late. Some of the downstate communities that were promised their facilities would re-open or not be closed are experiencing that now.

Comment by Tough Guy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:59 am
Chaos and upheaval. He doesn’t seem to be the bright shining star he perceives himself to be because I don’t think he’s taken office yet (campaigning) and hasn’t given a thought to how he will be remembered as governor in years to come. I don’t think it will be kindly. It may be as inept.

Comment by AnonymousOne Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:59 am
I voted “Chaos and Upheaval.” I’m not convinced that even giving him everything he wants would stop his campaign, and it’s not clear what he wants. You can’t take votes on platitudes and broad statements lacking in specifics.

If I was forced to take a guess at this point I would say he’s playing a long game and is about garnering a majority in the House and Senate over time.

Comment by Earnest Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:59 am
Rauner wants to drag this out as long as possible.

The longer he stretches out this ordeal the less likely the new State taxes will effect him personally.

Rauner is focused on raising taxes on what people spend, not earn.

Rauner makes much, much, more than he can spend.

Comment by Chicago 20 Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:03 am
Voted ‘chaos and upheaval’. Like a someone entering bootcamp, he believes you need to break them down before you build them back up.

Comment by Bogey Golfer Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:09 am
The Governor does want reform, it’s just that Mike Madigan wants the status quo.

Comment by Steve Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:09 am
This is a well designed question to divine the serious commenters from the trolls. At this point it’s hard to believe that any rational person would believe that the governors election was an elaborate rouse to bring about a new age of anarchy. Of course he wants a solution.

If you answered Chaos and upheaval you should probably take a few deep breaths and walk away from the internet for a few hours. It’s possible to disagree with someone without demonizing them. A little perspective is important.

Comment by Thunder Fred Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:09 am
- Thunder Fred -,

If you have examples of wanting solutions, and how Rauner is trying to get those solutions, please enlighten us all.

Otherwise, your critique is lacking, at best.

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:15 am
Being the eternal optimist, voted “too soon to tell” b/c, while I think he thinks he wants HIS solution, I don’t think he even understands what he thinks his solution is. He is so lacking in understanding of government being a different institution than his business world that he does not comprehend that he cannot have what he thinks he can.

Comment by D.P.Gumby Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:16 am
Very seldom does anyone on here explain themselves better than VanillaMan!

- Oswego Willy - Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 10:47 am: “We want to work, Governor Rauner locked us out.”

“Sonny” would be livid!……..BETTER!

Comment by WeeblesWobble Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:18 am
You cannot “shake things up in Springfield” without some “chaos and upheaval” so that in the end Rauner gets his promised solution.

Comment by Hit or Miss Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:20 am
@Thunder Fred, it’s possible to vote Chaos and upheaval without demonizing him.

Do you deny that each of these are possible?

1) Gov. Rauner believes some chaos & upheaval (”Shake Up Springfield”) is necessary.

2) Rauner is playing the long game, hoping to pick a big fight with state workers that he believes is right, and that he believes will help him in a Presidential primary a few years from now.

3) Rauner believes Madigan won’t negotiate and has lost his temper; it has become personal.

Comment by Robert the Bruce Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:22 am
I picked “too soon to tell” because we won’t know for sure until midnight June 30/July 1 (and possibly not until July 15, the drop-dead date for state worker payroll) whether this is all posturing/bluffing or if he really means it. He did, after all, back off from the Good Friday Massacre cuts when the heat got turned up.

Comment by Secret Square Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:23 am
OW, I don’t think Rauner will lock us out. I think he knows that would play against him. I am hoping that if we vote for a strike that we will not picket and march but engage in public and highly visable charitable activities like door to door food drives, repairing and cleaning blighted communities, “serving our communities in a different way”. That would both achieve strike pressure and make the Governor look bad. Could we be disciplined about it and not protest? Honestly….no. Folks are gonna get angry and ugly. I can always hope though.

Comment by Honeybear Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:24 am
- Thunder Fred -

“It’s possible to disagree with someone without demonizing them. A little perspective is important.”

That is fine advise for our governor.

Comment by Call me Naive Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:26 am
– It’s possible to disagree with someone without demonizing them.–

Is that a gag, Fred? Have you told the boss that?

So far, everyone, and I mean everyone, who disagrees with the governor is “corrupt.” Legislstors of both parties, legislative leaders, union leaders, the Supreme Court….

And you’re calling people trolls? Dude, you live under a bridge.

Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:29 am
It is painfully obvious that he wants to break up the Madigan operation. When u have money and are not concerned about the next election or a legacy or people for that matter this is what u get

Comment by regular democrat Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:31 am
Since we got this far… chaos, but I also wouldn’t be shocked if he caves to avoid the bad PR and political fallout in the next few weeks. Rauner is going to have to wait months for him to ‘win’ and might not be able to stomach the bashing he’ll receive.

But he’s all but said for two years that he wants this, so I’m going to hold him at his word for now.

Comment by From the 'Dale to HP Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:32 am
==that the audience here is largely comprised of state employees or invested insiders.==

Georg Sande: The “audience” might be, not sure, but am fairly sure that most of the usual commenters are not.

That aside, do you have an opinion on whether Rauner would foster some substantial upheaval as a tactic to achieve some of his, and your, desired change? That seems to be the reasonable question.

Agree that “chaos” is too strong a word.

Comment by walker Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:35 am
Chaos. Provides a better environment to get what he wants.

Comment by Smitty Irving Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:44 am
#5 hit it on the head.

Comment by Stones Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:48 am
I voted for chaos, etc. Seems to me like a reasonable extension of “Shaking Up Soringfield.”

See post above for illustrative examples.

Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:52 am
I believe Governor Bruce Rauner wants chaos and upheaval in the state. However, if he thinks that is a winning strategy, that is incorrect. It’s a loser. The people of Illinois are not ticked off as yet. A government shutdown will tick off the citizens of Illinois en masse and turn their rage on Rauner.

Comment by MrGrassroots Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 11:58 am
I voted he wants Chaos & Upheaval. Either he gets what he wants or he helps further the Republican position that government is too big & ineffective. A Win-Win in his eyes.

Comment by Lincoln Parker Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:03 pm
- Honeybear -,

Sonny Corleone will lock you out. He is salivating at the premise of putting Union workers in a corner with their only options being to rally against him. Rauner stated time after time he will shut down the state, he wants the Unions broken.

I wouldn’t even VOTE to strike. Sonny is begging for conflict.

I wish you the best, I really do.

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:05 pm
Disaster capitalism sees chaos as opportunity

Comment by alas Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:15 pm
I voted for wants a solution.
To date his words have been threatening. His actions have avoided significant and irreversible damage.
In July he will have to choose. Cut a deal or cause damage. I don’t think causing damage helps him. He may think otherwise.

Comment by Last Bull Moose Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:16 pm
Rauner seems to have no interest in administration or executive decision making. He reminds me a lot of Blagoyevich. I voted for chaos and upheaval.

Comment by Emily Booth Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:20 pm
I think he wants solutions and can cause them to happen through chaos?

Comment by Sunshine Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:22 pm
He wants a solution in which all of his reforms are passed. The chaos and upheaval are a means to an end.

However, I don’t think he’s so naive as to think that running TV ads is how one gets legislation passed. He knows that a Democratic super majority is not going to, in fact, cave to his demands. These ads are simply an attempt to burnish his image and get ready for a fight to take back the legislature in 2016.

Comment by Snucka Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:23 pm
Chaos and upheaval.
It’s the only thing he’s working on; the only thing that he’s promised (ref #5 link above) that he’s delivered.

Comment by anonlurker Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:30 pm
“I wouldn’t even VOTE to strike. Sonny is begging for conflict.”

The unions sent the governor an anti-strike bill, to have a possible avenue away from chaos. Let him veto it. Then union members can put pressure on their Republican legislators to make a choice between people and money.

It’s so much easier said than done, to not consider striking, when you (plural) are not the one facing vicious cuts and decimation of the union and job protections for which thousands have worked so hard for so many years. What happens if Rauner doesn’t budge from his draconian proposals?

What the unions have to do in my opinion, and what I see that they’re doing successfully up to this point, is placing themselves in the strongest possible position for when the big fights begin. I see that they’re doing that and need to continue: signing up fair share fee payers, moving legislation that has the public’s interest in mind (the anti-strike bill), having active and engaged members, as was seen via AFSCME unity day days last week, reaching out to other unions, etc.

I voted too soon to tell, because I’m holding out hope that Rauner won’t cause chaos–very slim hope.

Comment by Grandson of Man Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:38 pm
In Soldier Field, the City of Chicago, and the whole state, everyone is wearing red. Not so much Governor Rauner.

Comment by JackD Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:48 pm
Huh? To me this isn’t the simple question it appears. We have had many “solutions” which have revolved around shorting pensions and other short term gains. All of which have left us with a systematic problem now. Particularly a penchant for spending more than we take in and a combination of a public which is accustomed to high levels of services with low tax rates.

Now hiking taxes alone will solve the problem at least until the newest must have project or service comes along. In which case IMHO we will be right back here.

You could (theoretically) solve the problem with massive cuts. However there are many legitimate gov. functions that would be all but eliminated.

The only true solution lies somewhere in the middle a reigning in of spending with a responsible increase in revenue and some structural reform to help keep the two inline. As I understand it, thanks to our host, Rauner has proposed something along those lines.

Now I admit I am a bit dubious as to how his reforms are going to yield what he claims. However I think we all do Ourselves a disservice when we assume Rauners cuts are motivated by hate or just not caring about those less fortunate. I think the governor cares about IL and her citizens and is motivated to act on what he sees as the path the state should be on. Now I freely admit his vision is differant than I would have.

I think the governor wants a solution to the big problem but will happily suffer chaos for the short term.

Of course I could be all wrong and we have Don Quixote jousting at the union windmills. God I hope not though.

Comment by Mason born Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:51 pm
Chaos,

He was elected to change how we operate. Madigan is in control. You can’t change when your opponent has control. Rauner can’t gain control, but he chaos takes some of it away from Madigan.

Grandson, republican legislators don’t matter. If your tactic is to squeeze them, you are more likely benefit from squeezing milk out of a boar hog.

Comment by the Patriot Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:54 pm
Thank you OW, I only hope that people on this blog remember that chaos and upheaval, when they take place, are going to hurt families like mine. We are already tightening up the budget in preparation. Last week I would have said we were in pretty good shape to weather it but one very expensive A/C blower motor later and we are hoping nothing happens till the end of July! The majority of folks I work with are the breadwinner of their families and extended families. Even one missed paycheck and a lot of damage is going to be done. I beg the netizens of this blog will not be cavalier and callous when the turmoil goes down.

Comment by Honeybear Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 12:58 pm
Wants what he wants

http://www.vox.com/2015/6/16/8790357/rich-people-jerks

Comment by lost in the weeds Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 1:00 pm
Some people just got to create a diversion when they don’t know what they’re doing. Hence, Bruce Rauner goes for chaos and upheaval.

Comment by Cheswick Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 1:19 pm
My Tea Party friends just think he’s the greatest. Especially the arrogant ones.

Comment by Austin Blvd Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 1:20 pm
So I voted that he wants chaos. There is no way he can play nice after promising to shake up Sfld. It’s also the reason he presented a phony out-of-balance budget in Feb.
he knew it would be a trick bag for Dems.

Comment by Austin Blvd Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 1:23 pm
- Honeybear -,

I especially feel bad for Union state workers that voted for Rauner, and now seeing what Rauner thinks of Union workers.

Those like you, effected directly, I hope it works out.

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 1:26 pm
Scary thing is that a lot of Republicans legislators are so set on a balanced budget by making cuts that they believe that a shut down-chaos and upheaval- is okay.

Comment by downstate commissioner Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 1:29 pm
chaos and upheaval

to drive down the stock price so you can walk in and rescue it for pennies on the dollar

t’ain’t dat howz ya’ll doos it in da bidniss shakin’ em ups?

Comment by Pink E. Kent Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 1:53 pm
He believes shaking up Springfield means re-wiring the existing system by creating chaos and upheaval. Seems like a lot of effort for very little actual outcome, but seems very consistent with his past business practices of buy, strip, sell/bankrupt with a focus on the net gain.

Comment by zatoichi Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 2:37 pm
I do think the Governor wants a solution. but he’s used to being able to dictate plans. because he can’t do that here, and because he’s used to the heavy hand, he’s creating chaos and upheaval with his actions. and because he wants what he wants, I don’t think he’s particularly concerned that chaos and upheaval are the result. he just wants the result and strongly believes he can get it with his actions. thing is, most of his business could remain behind closed doors. this being public policy, it’s, well, public. and perhaps he does not realize the messy, mean nature of what he is doing has a profound effect on the people of Illinois in money and in spirit.

Comment by Amalia Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 2:50 pm
He wants to have chaos and upheaval until he can get his way. The intent is to wear down the opposition.

Comment by Enviro Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 3:21 pm
Seems the group think in the echo chamber has reached a consensus. Many thanks to those few who spent the afternoon posting the same opinion over and over and over and over. Truly a life well spent. Lol

Comment by Thunder Fred Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 3:32 pm
Oh - Thunder Fred -, no one is on your lawn, but if yelling from your porch helps…

If you had examples of wanting solutions, and how Rauner was trying to get those solutions, I’m sure you would’ve enlightened us all.

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 3:41 pm
@ George Sande

I understand why it would be nice to so easily dismiss opinions you don’t like, I really do. But reality does not work that way.

Comment by Arsenal Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 3:43 pm
Oswego Democrat; HB 4222, HB4223, HB4224, HB 4124, SB 884, SB 994, SB1046, HJRCA 39, HJRCA40, SJRCA 14, SJRCA 15 for starters.

Comment by Thunder Fred Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 3:48 pm
- Thunder Fred -,

Can the Governor get 60 House votes and 30 Senate votes?

You put a think on that, get back to us.

By the way, I’m a Republican, not a Raunerite. I know Raunerites have hijacked the ILGOP and the GOP GA, but because I won’t back the Blago of the GOP, that doesn’t mean I’m a Democrat.

I can’t wait until ILGO starts funding Democrats for Rauner, lol

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 3:54 pm
Oswego Democrat; You asked for the Governor’s proposals. There they are. The fact that your party has the majorities doesn’t negate the fact that they exist.

Take a deep breath. There is more to life than playing a character on a blog.

Comment by Thunder Fred Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 4:01 pm
OW - Keep in mind, whether you believe it or not, there are some state workers out there who care more about the success of this state as a whole rather than their specific personal interests, and believe if things can get back on track, however it is done, the benefits will be reaped by all. Now if we could just get some politicians like that . . . . . .

Comment by Kodachrome Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 4:03 pm
- Thunder Fred -,

So, it was never the intent of the governor to get 60 and 30, it’s the governor’s intent to propose things with NO intent on trying to pass them, what a genius strategy. lol.

“Golly, we tried ‘weal’ hard.”

I thought the governor never fails?

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 4:04 pm
- Kodachrome -,

I hear ya. I feel for those in Agencies. Many social service state agencies I’m sure have workers with breaking hearts as to what is systematically being proposed too.

The point Rauner is trying to drive for results is; if you don’t agree with me, you’re corrupt, you do NOT care for Illinois, and I know best, compromising is failure.

Publicly.

Privately, it’s working to and whittling down to “two” wins, for (surprise) a revenue increase that both budgets, both phony budgets, need.

Sadly, the pawns in this theatre of the absurd are, and in no particular order;

The ILGOP, GOP GA members, all state workers, especially Union state workers, munis and counties, and taxpayers.

Rauner wears the jacket for the Rauner Cuts. It’s not personal, all governors own their own decisions. Rauner would rather burn down the village and blame others, than to, from Inauguration Day to today, look solely for his deals.

RTW is the #1 prime example of the disconnect.

Now, thrown in personal attacks, and how about just making it personal. That’s not being the Executive of Illinois.

It’s June. It’s late. It’s chaos. It’s purposeful. It’s not helping.

Rauner, he owns all that.

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 4:25 pm
This is the Governor’s MO in his private business dealings. Buy it, tear it apart/destroy it and declare victory.

Comment by vince glothor Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 4:25 pm
Well, there you have it. Almost 70% of those taking this poll believe the Governor is just out there for chaos and upheaval, and not interested in a solution. This would fit into the Speaker’s definition of the mainstream.

This is pretty telling in a number of ways.

Comment by A guy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 4:29 pm
- A Guy -, how so?

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 4:30 pm
I voted chaos but I don’t think he realizes exactly what that will look like when it’s all said and done.

Comment by Politix Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 5:53 pm
I don’t know who’s fault it is but there is chaos in our regulatory agency. I do know it hasn’t been this way in 30 years. So there ya go.

Comment by sad Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 6:50 pm
I voted chaos because that’s how he operated in business. In the private sector he had one goal, to make money. He wasn’t concerned with providing a service or making a product, it was make money at all costs. Frequently that meant completely dismantling companies. You can see that attitude in the first 6 months of his term. He has one goal: achieve his view of reform and everything else is secondary. If that requires chaos in State government then so be it.

Comment by MyTwoCents Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 7:01 pm
A Guy: with respect.

My take is that the majority of commenters do not believe that the governor is “just about chaos and not solutions.” Rather that his primary solutions are long term, which Thunder Fred just confirmed for us, and that he is willing to leverage some short term upheaval if necessary to reach them.

Not sure, given his Turnaround Agenda objectives, some of us wouldn’t do the same thing.

Peace brother.

Comment by walker Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 8:03 pm
I totally agree with 47th Ward. However, I doubt that these shenanigans will work over the long term. Illinois’ residents won’t be able to stomach this nonsense much longer. A shutdown of the state’s operations later this summer might just be the straw that will break the camel’s back. I hope it doesn’t get to that point.

Comment by REE Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 8:52 pm
I would have voted psychotic if I could have so I voted chaos instead.

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 18, 15 @ 9:43 pm
Walk, I made a similar point myself earlier in the thread. I am in agreement with you. I hope you’re right with regard to the disposition of the poll participants.

Comment by A guy Friday, Jun 19, 15 @ 9:24 am