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Rauner on the stump

Posted in:

* Keep in mind that he proposed huge childcare program cuts in his February budget…


Gov. Rauner: Dems have dragged their feet on a new budget because they — politically — want childcare probs, etc. pic.twitter.com/MBtwUcp3dE

— Matthew Nordin (@MatthewNordin) October 21, 2015

* And this is an interesting admission…


"She's upset with me. She's upset with everybody." ~ Gov. Rauner on first lady of Illinois, a children's advocate. pic.twitter.com/SOZfbUPmyy

— Matthew Nordin (@MatthewNordin) October 21, 2015

Maybe she’s been having tea with Edgar and Thompson.

/snark

posted by Rich Miller
Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:16 pm

Comments

  1. I think its time to celebrate. Illinois elected it’s first invertebrate governor. Hallelujah for diversity!

    Comment by Ducky LaMoore Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:18 pm

  2. Rauner saying the Democrats want problems with child care services because it helps them politically is a disgusting lie. And it’s stupidly unproductive.

    Did anybody call him on his BS?

    Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:19 pm

  3. Blatently dishonest to a “fault”

    It’s going to be up to the Social Services and their Advicates to remind those that the untrustworthy member of the equation would own it as governor as all governors do anyway.

    Just a pathetic and pandering way to be Illinois’ Executive.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:21 pm

  4. Looking more and more desperate every day.

    Comment by Stones Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:25 pm

  5. If either Rauner or Madigan really cared about the ==hostages==, we would have had a temporary budget in place or a clean budget extension months ago.

    Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:25 pm

  6. I can imagine Eddie Haskell listening to him, shaking his head with incredulity.

    Comment by Jocko Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:26 pm

  7. The cuts he proposed in February to the Child Care Assistance Program are not at all the same as the emergency rule. He proposed increased co-pays and cutting the program off after a certain age.

    Reducing eligibility to only 10% of former eligible applicants was necessary only because he has no spending authority from the GA so he needs to make due with much more limited cash flows.

    Comment by Political Animal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:27 pm

  8. Just more delusional hypocrisy - we have been hearing this for months! When will this end?

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:29 pm

  9. Unbelievable. What a despicable thing for this very cynical man to say.

    Feeling the heat, chief? More to come.

    Guess what? You’re the governor. Apparently, you didn’t take that oath very seriously.

    Comment by Wordslinger Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:29 pm

  10. He really is an impressive governor, just not in a good way.

    Comment by Earnest Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:31 pm

  11. ==If either Rauner or Madigan really cared about the ==hostages==, we would have had a temporary budget in place or a clean budget extension months ago.==
    Madigan needs 71 votes to pass bills. He does not have 71 votes so…

    Comment by Mama Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:33 pm

  12. Rauner never expected his child advocate wife would be upset by a massive failure to fund programs to help children, he never anticipated Madigan wouldn’t agree to gut collective bargaining, and he never anticipated Rich Miller would link to his own site where Rauner proposed cuts to childcare himself. It’s the kind of convoluted mind that would propose that the state loan money to entities the state owes money to, presumably secured by the money owed by the state. I’ll try to help by providing some profound wisdom. Child advocates advocate for children. Democrats advocate for their traditional base. Skilled journalists (outside certain editorial pages) can and will remember things that happened days, months, sometimes years ago.

    Comment by AC Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:33 pm

  13. Honesty has never been a priority for Rauner.

    Comment by Norseman Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:34 pm

  14. Maybe she’s the only one in the household with a dose of reality and compassion. Maybe time for HER to speak out publicly.

    Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:34 pm

  15. Why isn’t the media making more of an effort to call him out on outrageous lies like this? Capitol Fax seems to be the only place willing to report the truth.

    Comment by Wensicia Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:38 pm

  16. “Diana, it’s Madigan’s fault. I pinky swear. Hear I have this letter from Goldberg that says so.”

    Comment by Norseman Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:40 pm

  17. Mama- Madigan does have a supermajority. He just thinks it is politically expedient for Rauner to own the tax hike.

    Comment by Southern Illinois Hoopdee Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:40 pm

  18. ===Why isn’t the media making more of an effort to call him out on outrageous lies like this?===

    1) lazy

    2) McKinney

    3) underminding Editoral Boards to the real statehouse press shop.

    Rauner knows.

    Rauner owns the messaging, and with IPI, the Tribune Edit Board, laziness, and the undercutting, Rauner doesn’t fear the press.

    Rauner fears… Saying dumb thugs in front of the camera or follow up questions, but he’s avoided them this far, no fear that will change.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:42 pm

  19. ==Capitol Fax seems to be the only place willing to report the truth.==
    Yes, the comment section on a liberally biased blog is the perfect place to “report the truth.” That is very rich.

    Comment by #freedumb Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:43 pm

  20. He’s starting to go a little crazy. Governor Raunerevich…err, Blagojauner?

    Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:44 pm

  21. Drip, drip, drip - more leaks for the poor governor.

    Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:45 pm

  22. Please tell me that I’m not the only one whose blood pressure goes up reading some of this stuff.

    Comment by AnonymousOne Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:45 pm

  23. “Mama- Madigan does NOT have a votable supermajority. Rauner just thinks it is politically expedient to blame Madigan and this ‘phantom tax hike’ that isn’t happening for a very long time.”

    That’s as honest as it gets.

    - Southern Illinois Hoopdee - is either willfully ignorant or purposefully dishonest.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:46 pm

  24. ==liberally biased blog==

    Thankfully there’s the Tribune editorial pages, where truth blows like a strong breeze from a massive hurricane. /s

    Comment by AC Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:46 pm

  25. Shouldn’t bring up the wife. Now every paper is going to be hounding her for a quote.
    “So what exactly did you say to your husband for him to make a statement like that.”
    I’m sure that’s just what she wants is to be put into the middle of his battle with Madigan. UGH

    Comment by DuPage Bard Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:48 pm

  26. ==Madigan does have a supermajority. He just thinks it is politically expedient for Rauner to own the tax hike.==

    You might recall that one member of the supermajority opted out of voting with the other Democrats on a one month budget.

    Comment by Enviro Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:48 pm

  27. - #freedumb -

    You must be the only Troll I know that touts their poor spelling prowess.

    Well, you own it, I’ll give you that…

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:48 pm

  28. - #freedumb -

    Your handle says it all.

    Comment by Wensicia Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:50 pm

  29. =====liberally biased blog=====

    Now I’m mad…. Who decided that genuine reporting and truthfulness is liberal?! /s

    Comment by Ducky LaMoore Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:51 pm

  30. Even my Republican friends are getting tired of the games he is playing (yet several members of the GA that I know have cashed his $1000 checks as well as some other affiliated organizations ). They are feeling the heat from many of their constituents and are being very circumspect when talking about these issues. That $20 Million in the bank is the back page story to what is going on.

    And to a few other comments - you are correct - if it were not for this site I would be far less informed about what is going on in our State. Local media does not even come close to what we learn here ( thanks to Rich, but also those who add to the discussion with their comments ).

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:51 pm

  31. Way to make an astounding leap in logic @AC. Where did I say anything about the trib?

    I am not a smart man Willay.

    Comment by #freedumb Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:51 pm

  32. ==they — politically — want childcare probs==

    It’s a shame that Bruce doesn’t know anyone in an executive capacity that could combat problems like these facing Illinois.

    Comment by Jocko Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:52 pm

  33. @wensicia if you only knew my thought process when I made it

    Comment by #freedumb Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:53 pm

  34. Ducky LaMoore, is Kristen McQueary the answer to your rhetorical, snark labeled question?

    Comment by AC Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:54 pm

  35. ==Capitol Fax seems to be the only place willing to report the truth.==
    ==Yes, the comment section on a liberally biased blog is the perfect place to “report the truth.” That is very rich.==

    This blog is only liberally biased to those who are “extreme” pro-business, anti- worker conservatives. The rest of us know that this blog is as fair and balanced as humanly possible.

    Comment by Enviro Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:55 pm

  36. Mama, you know better than listen to Hoopdee. The Dem supermajority is in name only. The truth doesn’t help the Rauner narrative.

    Comment by Norseman Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:55 pm

  37. ===Ducky LaMoore, is Kristen McQueary the answer to your rhetorical, snark labeled question?===

    Nope. Trudy Rubin… /s

    Comment by Ducky LaMoore Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 4:56 pm

  38. ==Madigan needs 71 votes to pass bills. He does not have 71 votes so==

    @Mama - Rauner and Madigan have the same problem. Neither can get to 71 votes. They need each other.

    Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:00 pm

  39. “If either Rauner or Madigan really cared about the ==hostages==, we would have had a temporary budget in place or a clean budget extension months ago.”

    Rauner has promised to veto any temporary budget.

    Comment by Nick Name Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:00 pm

  40. Still wondering what’s become of Lady Rauner’s $100k/year chief of staff. What’s she been doing in service to the state of Illinois? Would Diana now consider repurposing that money to child services?

    Comment by X-Prof Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:02 pm

  41. Surprised nobody’s gone there, but what the hell…

    If only Mike Madigan and the Governor’s wife he controls would help us turnaround Illinois, this would all be fine.

    Comment by Chicago Cynic Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:02 pm

  42. just me or does there seem to be a semi-concerted trolling effort to try and dumb down or weaken the credibility of arguments being made on posts not so friendly to the Governor this past week? disinformation or misinformation, not just regular posts by people in support of the Governor. or maybe I’m just paranoid lol.

    Comment by Poolguy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:03 pm

  43. Leadin’ sure is harder than pillagin’, especially when one does not know the difference.

    Comment by illinoised Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:04 pm

  44. ==Yes, the comment section on a liberally biased blog is the perfect place to “report the truth.” That is very rich.==

    As a liberal, I can tell you for sure that Rich never comes to our meetings.

    Comment by Arsenal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:05 pm

  45. === or maybe I’m just paranoid===

    Somebody has most definitely released the hounds.

    Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:10 pm

  46. OW,

    Speaking as someone who thinks the Democrats would gain politically by a great degree through the implementation of a progressive tax, I am utterly disappointed that you would make a personal attack like that.

    It’s simple. A progressive tax is what the people of IL want. I don’t see why that gets ignored on here.

    Even though I’m to the left of you, people are now name calling. All I want is for a solution to the impasse. Yet this sort of all in attack gives ammo to the Raunerites crowd you rightfully attack.

    Comment by Southern Illinois Hoopdee Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:12 pm

  47. Ugh, enough with the “I Love Brucie” show and the wacky hijinks of those crazy opposites. It’s phony and obnoxious.

    Diana Rauner was specifically trotted out during tne campaign to ensure Democrats and Independents that fhe reactionary agenda in motion right now would not happen.

    They put a lot of money behind those spots for a reason: to win, with 50.3 percent of the vote. She was instrumental in putting him over the top.

    The spots she starred in were a lie.

    “No social agenda” was meant to be interpreted as no right-wing attacks on abortion rights and gays. Instead, they meant “no social agenda,” period, like Ayn Rand.

    Diana Rauner has peeps on the state payroll to advance the governor’s agenda. She’s a player, she’s on the team, and her role is to distract from the reality of tne agenda.

    Comment by Wordslinger Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:14 pm

  48. First time I’ve posted a comment. I’ve enjoyed reading all the comments on Capitol Fax. My question/comment: Didn’t Rauner hire a budget expert and then let her go even though there’s no budget? What did she accomplish for the $165,000 she was paid? I’m not trying to be snarky, I’m just trying to figure out how you can have a budget expert and no budget.

    Comment by Scoop1732 Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:14 pm

  49. @MatthewNordin: “Gov. Rauner now at Marion Junior High, where he’s telling students he wanted to come by & thank teachers.” https://twitter.com/MatthewNordin/status/656915477814382592

    Well, of course he did.

    – MrJM

    Comment by @MisterJayEm Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:15 pm

  50. ===Madigan does have a supermajority. He just thinks it is politically expedient for Rauner to own the tax hike.===

    That is willfully ignorant or purposefully dishonest no matter who say it, lol

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:15 pm

  51. This is the Governor’s bad policy.

    What he is really saying is HE is having a child care problem, completely self-inflicted.

    It is rather poignant that Thompson, Edgar, and now it appears possibly even Mrs. Rauner, are in agreement about Mr. Rauner’s bad policies regarding child care, higher ed, and social services.

    Comment by cdog Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:17 pm

  52. Norseman - It’s a definite strategy being employed by both sides of the aisle. If either side really wanted a budget we’d be much closer to an end. Madigan could get downstate GOP defectors in labor friendly districts to end the conflict and pass true tax reform.

    I suppose that holding true to progressive principles would be too much to ask here, though.

    Comment by Southern Illinois Hoopdee Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:19 pm

  53. There’s no mistake and there IS an absolute reason and rationale that “Dad’s Home State” (Seen on HBO, check your local cable and satellite providers) has Diana Rauner in the “Cast”

    Casting exists for a reason.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:19 pm

  54. =dumb down or weaken the credibility of arguments being made on posts not so friendly to the Governor this past week? disinformation or misinformation, not just regular posts by people in support of the Governor. or maybe I’m just paranoid lol.=
    Who would have thought we would have looked upon posts from AZ Bob or A Guy as the Good Old Days?

    Comment by Qui Tam Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:22 pm

  55. I honestly do not know how anyone can accuse this site as being a “liberally biased” site - maybe they are looking at only a small portion of the posts and comments rather than looking at the past 4 or 5 years as I have.

    I do comment when I have an opinion and feel that it might add to the discussion. And, yes - I tend to be more liberal for the most part, but I have been as critical of MJM and JC as I have been of BVR. I admit I have not had many good things to say about our Governor continuing his campaign mode for the past 6 months rather than concern himself about doing what he was elected to do!

    We get more news and inside info on Illinois politics on this site than any other source I know of. For those detractors - take the time and effort to learn what is really going on in Illinois and don’t be small minded about what is a service to those of us who do pay attention and who do care.

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:24 pm

  56. OW,

    You can look at actions. Funny how we ignore the property tax - the most regressive tax this state has. A progressive tax doesn’t even have to hurt the property tax law business in IL. They’re going to do just fine.

    Give Rauner his freeze. That’s the “thanks for playing” item as the rest of the agenda goes down in flames. And it’s still a net loss as a progressive tax is implemented.

    Comment by Southern Illinois Hoopdee Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:25 pm

  57. @mama - though Speaker Madigan did suggest he could pass a budget without Governor Rauner’s support. I still do not believe that is possible. They do not like this partnership, but it is one they are stuck with.

    https://capitolfax.com/2015/07/17/get-out-your-decoder-rings/

    Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:27 pm

  58. ===Give Rauner his freeze.===

    And end Prevailing Wage?

    Nope. Rauner can’t get 60 and 30 for that.

    C’mon you know better, don’t you?

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:27 pm

  59. As far as this site being liberally biased… Not at all. I’m not sure where people get that.

    Comment by Southern Illinois Hoopdee Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:27 pm

  60. ===All I want is for a solution to the impasse===

    We’ve got a wealthy Republican governor who campaign strongly against your idea, and you say you want a solution? Stick to the possible. Forget the pipe dreams. If they wouldn’t/couldn’t do it when Quinn was around, what makes you think they could or would do it now?

    Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:28 pm

  61. HBO - “Dad’s Home State” - Season 1, Episode 81

    Bruce goes on tour saying everyone’s mad at him. Diana learns the Mansion View Inn doesn’t have room service or turn down service. Diana’s state employee gets the United Way survey for Diana. Lance tweets pictures of Bruce hugging people, “ck” and her manual crank laptop get kicked out of Starbucks for making too much noise. Comedy, 61 minutes.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:32 pm

  62. Illini,

    Those are some great counter points and I agree wholeheartedly. Just wish we’d not launch into the personal attacks.

    Comment by Southern Illinois Hoopdee Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:33 pm

  63. Final words to OW, I’m on your side on Rauner. You may not believe it, but it is true. I see the wreckage up and personal every day and I am utterly angry at the toll it is creating. It breaks my heart. I do blame Rauner completely for that. He knows good and well what he’s doing.

    I just disagree with strategy. It has been helpful to push the fight to this stage. But enough is enough.

    Comment by Southern Illinois Hoopdee Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:36 pm

  64. @SILHoopdee
    Maybe cause most people, including Edgar, Thompson and Munger, think that Rauner is off his rocker and is disingenuous. And that he has taken Durkin and Radogno and their respective caucuses off the deepend with him.
    Maybe everyone is liberal these days and you missed the train.

    Comment by Austin Blvd Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:49 pm

  65. And don’t forget about that $20 million “slush fund” that BVR controls !!!!!!!!!!!

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:54 pm

  66. Austin - Rauner absolutely has done all the things you mention. I didn’t know I was denying that.

    Yes, most of the people I know, some of which voted for him, are absolutely laying the blame on him first. In fact, I’d say that it’s maybe even happening to a greater degree than you think.

    I don’t see a good ending for Rauner here. We may be too far gone for him to salvage any of this.

    Comment by Southern Illinois Hoopdee Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 5:58 pm

  67. Hoopdee, I’ll play along for a bit.

    It’s hard to follow all the twists and turns in your comments. For the sake of this comment, I’ll assume you’re a political rookie and a recent reader of Cap Fax.

    Hopefully, you now understand that the House Dem supermajority is in name only when it comes to politically hot issues. This is not the opinion of a few, but a well-accepted fact. Rauner’s folks know that, but like to keep up the obfuscation for political cover. Repeating the mantra that the Dems have a supermajority to vote a tax hike would make you a troll.

    You advocate a progressive tax and say that’s what people want. Whether folks want it or not, the Illinois Constitution prohibits it. The Dems don’t have the votes to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot to change that. Repeating the comment that Dems can pass a progressive tax hike would make you a troll.

    Saying that neither side wants a budget is wrong. Rauner wants a budget, but he says that he wants reform before agreeing to support some tax increase. Dems will not support anti-union provisions and some other parts of Rauner’s alleged reform agenda. I believe (but can accept arguments to the contrary) that Rauner wants and needs a tax increase because he doesn’t want to be blamed for the carnage required to reach a balanced budget without one. Rauner’s reform agenda will provide him and members of the GOP legis caucuses with political cover for those tax votes. That’s not to say Rauner doesn’t want or believe in his agenda, I’m just saying that he will not present another balanced budget bill or use his item/reduction veto powers in retaliation for Dem refusal to support his so-called reforms. To do so would mean that he would hold the jacket for massive cuts to a lot of politically popular programs.

    So Hoopdee, saying things that aren’t possible legally or practically makes people seem like trolls.

    Comment by Norseman Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 6:05 pm

  68. Fair enough, Norseman. I appreciate your measured and well thought out reply.

    Comment by Southern Illinois Hoopdee Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 6:08 pm

  69. Well done, - Norseman -. You just hit the “reset” to the unattainable and the argument(s) for them.

    Thanks.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 6:09 pm

  70. Nicely done, Norseman.

    Comment by Arthur Andersen Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 7:09 pm

  71. Hey Rich, just wondering if there is a reason that you delete and suppress comments which politely call you out for misrepresenting facts.

    Your reporting on the child care assistance cut has been highly inaccurate. The proposed February cuts are not the same as the emergency rule which is restricting eligibility.

    No one told me to write that, despite your conspiracy theories.

    If you’re doing it on accident, no big deal. Just don’t delete the comment, look it up, and print a retraction.

    If you are deliberately misrepresenting the facts to your readers and trying to suppress the voices who call you out on it, that is a journalistic ethics problem.

    Comment by Political Animal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 7:14 pm

  72. ===The proposed February cuts are not the same as the emergency rule which is restricting eligibility.===

    “Who” decided to restrict eligibility?

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 7:17 pm

  73. Willy - is “Dads Home State” really an HBO Show? Love your comments. but have no point of reference.

    Maybe I should open up the checkbook and get HBO, but I am fairly happy with what I get over the air ( 38 Channels ) and what I can watch on my computer.

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 7:19 pm

  74. - illini -,

    Everyone plays along that the “bit” is real, so…

    I’m still waiting for the WGA to send a certified letter to Dave Bakke, or at least some acknowledgement.

    Of course, you pitch this idea and say it’s based on true interpreted side stories, they ask you “got anything else?”

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 7:33 pm

  75. -OW-,

    Rauner proposed the rule. I thought we were all on board with that.

    But his February “savings”, “cuts”, whatever were not substantively the same as this emergency rule.

    In February, he proposed increasing co-pays and time limiting the program for 5 years. That’s much more in line with the type of Welfare reform Bill Clinton supported in the 90’s.

    Social programs should be a leg up, not a handout. Rauner basically wanted to turn the program into an “early child care assistance program.” Since working parents with young kids often have the most trouble (I am and was one) this makes sense. The State helps you figure things out for a while but when your kid turns 5 you should have stuff figured out on your own. That’s not heartless, it’s realistic. Can’t rely on the taxpayer forever.

    Eligibility based on financial need would have stayed the same in February. Now, the Emergency Rule is because we have a CASH SHORTAGE and Rauner has no discretion on MOST of the spending. So he has to disqualify 90% of applicants from a program he supports.

    Rich keeps saying “he proposed cuts to this program in February” as if that’s somehow a counter to the idea that he’s doing it now to manage the budget crisis. It isn’t because they aren’t the same.

    False equivalency. Misleading.

    I know Voices of Children spun it that way, but consider the source and what their stance would be on ANY cuts to this program, no matter how it came.

    Comment by Political Animal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 7:43 pm

  76. Kind of thought that was the case and good luck selling the concept and promo.

    I know, that at times, I am a little slow and do not always catch the “snark” you, and a very few others, are so very good at. Yet you do make great points. If it is ever aired - I promise to subscribe.

    Thanks for keeping some of the heavy comments and issues on the lighter side. Now that I know the whole story.

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 7:45 pm

  77. ===In February, he proposed increasing co-pays and time limiting the program for 5 years. That’s much more in line with the type of Welfare reform Bill Clinton supported in the 90’s.===

    Hmm. This sounds like a Rauner Press talking point…

    ===Eligibility based on financial need would have stayed the same in February. Now, the Emergency Rule is because we have a CASH SHORTAGE and Rauner has no discretion on MOST of the spending. So he has to disqualify 90% of applicants from a program he supports.===

    But in February, I thought Rauner made it quite clear, this was a cut. Rauner chose the cut. Just because Rauner can’t get a budget, it doesn’t negate the February planning… does it?

    Well, if Rauner is getting heat for, once again, dismantling social services for Prevailing Wage and Collective Bargaining, of course Rauner Press talking points need to have cover that Rauner desperately doesn’t want to own his choices, does he?

    ===I know Voices of Children spun it that way, but consider the source===

    I know flack talk “consider the source” is flack talk, lol

    Let’s be quite clear;

    ===Rich keeps saying “he proposed cuts to this program in February” as if that’s somehow a counter to the idea that he’s doing it now to manage the budget crisis. It isn’t because they aren’t the same.===

    Rauner wanted the cuts, but now that they hurt, if Rauner can blame it on the Democrats to get what he wanted in February, that’s the real spin.

    I will say, you hit all your dot points, LOL

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 7:54 pm

  78. It’s disappointing that you continue to insinuate that because I support Rauner, I’m somehow working for him.

    As I’ve told you before, I don’t support everything he’s proposing and I think he needs to change his negotiating strategy.

    Keep the conspiracy theories out of it, stop making it about the person, and let’s elevate the conversation a bit. Lord knows the state house could use more substantive discourse and less personal attacks.

    Comment by Political Animal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:00 pm

  79. ===But in February, I thought Rauner made it quite clear, this was a cut. Rauner chose the cut. Just because Rauner can’t get a budget, it doesn’t negate the February planning… does it?====

    This is where you’re wrong.

    They are different cuts.

    One was a choice and he would have to defend it. Normal budgeting often means tough choices.

    The other was a choice, but a choice in crisis. It was forced on him. It’s not the way he wanted to do it. Crisis budgeting often means impossible choices.

    Again, February cut =/= emergency rule. Stop the false equivalency.

    Comment by Political Animal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:03 pm

  80. Whether you work for him or not isn’t the issue, and in fact, no one cares. A Guy should have told you that.

    Blog comment sections, the good ones at least, are about conversations, and that’s what this is. You are free to start your own blog and respond (or not) to comments as you see fit. Some of us have been following this particular blog for many years, so think of it this way: you walked in the tavern in which I am a regular patron and humble guest, and you’re talking smack. Forgive me if I don’t let your BS go unchallenged, but I’ve paid my dues and I’m not going anywhere.

    Frankly, I have no where else to go, and more importantly, no where else I’d rather be.

    Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:09 pm

  81. Political Animal

    You’re scannin for a bannin. My comments get deleted all the time. It happens when you are a blowhard. Friendly advice, don’t question it unless you really don’t care about the blog at all.

    Comment by Ducky LaMoore Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:09 pm

  82. Political Animal - seems like you are dealing with “false equivalency” being an enabler and being an apologist for the continued Rauner Agenda.

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:11 pm

  83. ===Keep the conspiracy theories out of it, stop making it about the person, and let’s elevate the conversation a bit.===

    I have. I’ve gone chapter and verse with you, but you already know that.

    ===The other was a choice, but a choice in crisis. It was forced on him. It’s not the way he wanted to do it. Crisis budgeting often means impossible choices.===

    Nah. If there was no “crisis” of Rauner dismantling Illinois Social Services, Rauner would’ve done it himself.

    The flack talking point is “what else could he do?” instead of just saying…

    ===One was a choice… === and ===The other was a choice, but a choice in crisis===

    That’s spin, bud.

    You said it yourself. It’s choices, but Rauner gets to “pretend” to have cover.

    What “false” is this pretending about Rauner and these cuts. Rauner chose them. They were coming in a “packaged form” now to try to blame someone else for the choice.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:12 pm

  84. I could care less if you are or not working for Rauner, but - 47th Ward - addressed as well as anyone could, so I’ll leave it with his comment.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:15 pm

  85. Political Animal

    Who owns the crisis and the budget, who, who?

    Comment by XDNR Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:16 pm

  86. 47th, Ducky and willy - well stated.

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:18 pm

  87. I fail to see how I am “talking smack” by pointing out that an emergency rule restricting eligibility based on financial need is substantively different from a proposed cut which changes the program in a completely different and, for most, more palatable way.

    In fact I’ve done nothing but stick to the issue and politely explain my side, while be insulted in turn. I don’t care, but this is “when the pot is actually the kettle” as rich said.

    And Willy, if you don’t recognize that the lack of legal appropriations limits options and forces bad choices on an executive, I really don’t know what to tell you.

    Imagine this:

    Barack Obama has previously proposed Social Security savings by changing the COLA formula. Now imagine that there’s a federal government shut down and he’s unable to make all of his legally mandated payments.

    In response, he issues an emergency EO that says they will continue making SS payments to seniors but not the disabled young. He has to do this because there simply isn’t enough cash to make all required payments.

    Would you say “he wanted to cut SS all along”??

    Comment by Political Animal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:20 pm

  88. Those hounds didn’t come here by accident.

    If you go to IPI’s Facebook page and disagree with the slanted and twisted half truths, you will be banned from posting anything further.

    The Illinois Policy Institute only wants viewers to read what they want them to read.

    The Illinois Policy Institute is double plus ungood.

    Comment by Chicago 20 Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:28 pm

  89. Wasn’t that choice made while the budget super star was still here drawing her I believe 30g a mo. salary?

    Comment by burbanite Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:29 pm

  90. For the record, I’ve been deleted as much or more than anybody here. The thing is, more often than not, I fully understand why my comment got deleted. The trick is not to cry about it and instead, do better next time.

    And like any tavern, if Rich serves up a warm or flat beer, by all means, ask for another. But don’t complain that he doesn’t carry your new favorite IPA, because again, you just walked in here and if you don’t like what they’re serving, go find another place.

    Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:38 pm

  91. No, I quite like Rich’s work. His reporting is usually good, even when I disagree with the opinions attached. I also didn’t “just walk in.” I’ve been following the blog for about a year and a half and sporadically commenting.

    I always do my best to follow the rules as I know them.

    Trouble is, it seems like comments sometimes get deleted simply for disagreeing with an editorial position or for posting sourced facts which contradict part of the story.

    I get that it’s his blog and he can delete every comment that doesn’t simply echo and congratulate him if he wants, but I don’t think this is that kind of place and, if it turns out to be, I’d gladly “find another tavern.”

    So long as it’s a place where dissenting opinions are welcome and solid facts are accepted into the conversation even when they don’t fit the prevailing narrative, this is where I’d like to be.

    Comment by Political Animal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:49 pm

  92. Chicago20 I do go to the IPI Home Page, infrequently but fairly regularly, but have never commented on their Facebook page - you could very well be right.

    This is one of the facts that I appreciate about this site - we can voice our opinion, comment on the foibles of our elected officials and their misguided ideas of governing including their dxxn dumb and misguided priorities and can still be heard as long as we are to the point of the post and do not engage in hypothetical facts and half truths.

    Even SNARK is allowed, but at times I am not that good at detecting it and will not even attempt to retort.

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:50 pm

  93. Just FYI, I flashed Rich the secret liberal gang sign, he responded by itching his nose, which is totally NOT the answering sign. I persisted and flashed the sign again and again…he just gave me a weird and perplexed look and wandered away shaking his head….

    I don’t think he’s part of the secret liberal society

    Comment by morty Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 8:52 pm

  94. PoliticalAminal@8:49 - I am not here to defend Rich ( I am hardly worthy ), but -

    Are you saying that the postings/comments are being edited/deleted to reflect a given political agenda? And, if so, what is that agenda?

    I guess we might disagree about what are “sourced or solid facts” that don’t fit the “prevailing narrative” and that those would be something for me other commenters to call you out on.

    I have always found that, what you categorize as dissenting opinions, are welcomed here.

    And, I am fairly certain, will continue to be posted.

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 9:07 pm

  95. No I don’t think Rich is promoting a partisan agenda and you won’t see me claiming that in any of my posts.

    Rather, I’m saying he’s a human being who has opinions that I sometimes disagree with. It’s not a partisan thing. That said, when I post a dissenting opinion with facts to back it up, I don’t think it should be deleted just for disagreeing (while again I understand that he CAN delete whatever he wants.)

    For the record, I don’t consider myself a partisan either. I absolutely criticize the Republican party. If you asked me about specific R members of the GA, you’d hear a lot. If you asked me about national Republicans (which I know we don’t do here) you’d hear a lot more.

    Comment by Political Animal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 9:11 pm

  96. ===Rather, I’m saying he’s a human being who has opinions that I sometimes disagree with. It’s not a partisan thing. That said, when I post a dissenting opinion with facts to back it up, I don’t think it should be deleted just for disagreeing (while again I understand that he CAN delete whatever he wants.)===

    So what are you saying?

    Rich is NOT partisan, but you hace opinions, Rich doesn’t like them, he censors you?

    Yikes…

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 9:19 pm

  97. ==The other was a choice, but a choice in crisis.==

    Ha ha, yeah, a crisis he invited and prolongs. “Crises creates leverage” remember?

    Rauner wanted to cut childcare programs. He couldn’t get it done one way, so he went another, and yeah, rules are different from statutes, so that necessitates that the exact nature of the cuts are different. But he’s lying to you when he says he didn’t want to do this. I mean, c’mon, 95% of the budget is being spent anyway, and he still has a line-item veto.

    He isn’t so dumb that he would have taken a job that is as powerless as he wants you to believe.

    Comment by Arsenal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 9:20 pm

  98. - Political Animal -

    FWIW, I’m pretty sure Rich has automatic filters that trap posts based on “offensive” words and phrases, plus some other criteria. This is fairly typical on “open but moderated” blogs. I’ve used similar blog tools myself, both to automatically moderate (by auto-substituting words) or just trapping a non-conforming post. BTW: auto-subbing either “BANNED” or some innocuous phrase can lead to amusing sentences in the resulting post.

    Like others, I’ve been caught by the filters.

    I’ve also had comments just disappear into never-never land. That’s a problem of the asynchronous communications protocol used by the Internet.

    Comment by RNUG Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 9:20 pm

  99. Yikes = can’t believe you’re going down this road.

    Rich gives a fair shake. I hope your not saying he doesn’t. That’s not true. At all.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 9:24 pm

  100. Willy - to your last 2 posts - could not agree more.

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 9:35 pm

  101. - illini -

    Thanks, but it’s the commenters like - 47th Ward - and - RNUG -, and I absolutely will not add any more because the community Rich has here is huge.

    It’s also diverse, in its politics, experiences, professions and backgrounds. But what’s best, is that the community tries to patrol itself, and Rich prunes what needs to be pruned at the bud stage.

    No place on the Internet covers and digs into Illinois politics like Rich’s place and speaking only for me, I’m glad I can hang around here, and can’t imagine hanging anyplace else.

    I think - 47th Ward -’s “bar” analogy is the best way to see this place. Sometimes patrons don’t respect the bar. That usually doesn’t go over well. But, it’s a more than welcoming place, and the merits of the argument always win out. That’s the best part.

    The “releasing of the hounds”, isn’t about the bar or the patrons. That will cause blowback. Rauner is causing his own blowback. That’s on Rauner, and no one else.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 9:53 pm

  102. Political Animal,

    1) about comment deletion, dont sweat it. See RNUG’s explanation and others’ points that their posts too are often deleted.

    2) I hope you stick around and post constructively as you have at times. Blog comments need more alternate yet respectful voices.

    Comment by Go Huskies Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 9:55 pm

  103. Willy@9:53 - I have gained more insights into Illinois politics in the past 5 years than I learned in the previous 40 ( from a lot of involvement ).

    I’ll continue to hang around for as long as I can - and hopefully will still be able to make some relevant comments. Maybe this site is a little like “Cheers - Where Everybody Knows Your Name”. New patrons are ALWAYS welcome, but you have to respect the rules.

    And you are absolutely right about the “blowback”.

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 10:13 pm

  104. -go Huskies-
    ‘Respectful’ - I like it
    ‘Constructive’ - Another good one
    Excellent input, and more to strive for!

    Comment by Hmmmmm Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 10:14 pm

  105. - illini -,

    Raunerites seem to forget how governors before Rauner… how they all have been in the barrel.

    It comes with the big chair.

    … and you have held up “your end” when you’re here. Much respect.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 10:23 pm

  106. - Southern Illinois Hoopdee-
    I found your comments today ‘respectful’, and completely within the context of vocalizing an opinion and view you are entitled to have. I don’t recall a situation where that was not the case.
    I appreciate your view, whether I agree with it or not, when it is presented constructively.

    Comment by Hmmmmm Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 10:25 pm

  107. Thanks Willy - time for me to get off tonight! Back tomorrow.

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 10:32 pm

  108. -OW-,

    I was trying to be respectful which may be why it was unclear.

    Essentially I think comments get deleted when they challenge Rich’s assertions rather than challenging his narrative. And I don’t think it’s partisan or agenda drive. I think it’s simply not liking being challenged.

    Hope I’m wrong and maybe the comment got nabbed for some technical or accidental reason.

    Comment by Political Animal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 10:40 pm

  109. === I think it’s simply not liking being challenged.===

    Please, stop digging. Just stop.

    Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 10:43 pm

  110. Damn - I’m still here. This thread is not going anywhere else, in my opinion, any more this evening.

    So, will Political Animal have a different handle tomorrow that will be promoting the same half truths and partisan polemics and bogus or questionable talking points that we have been subjected to this evening?

    The commenters on this site will pick this out quickly!!!!!!!!!

    Comment by illini Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 10:58 pm

  111. No I’ve got the same handle I’ve had for over a year.

    Not trying to be obnoxious here, so I’ll drop it and bow out. I look forward to future discussions focused on substance rather than blog meta or conspiracies about my motivations.

    Comment by Political Animal Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 11:02 pm

  112. What Diana’s not happy with the man she told us all to vote for. Give me a break. She’s totally in on this good spouse bad spouse game. Remember the cutsie-folksie ads from a few months ago?

    Comment by Johnnie F. Wednesday, Oct 21, 15 @ 11:04 pm

  113. ===Hope I’m wrong and maybe the comment got nabbed for some technical or accidental reason. ===

    Two comments were held. Not sure why. But you did manage to out yourself as a conspiracy theorist last night.

    Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Oct 22, 15 @ 8:53 am

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