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* Yeah, that’ll help…
In the latest lob of back-and-forth insults between Gov. Rauner and Mayor Emanuel, the governor stopped by a Lakeview grocery store to buy dead fish he vowed to send to the mayor.
It’s a jab at the old story of Emanuel sending a dead fish to pollster he was unhappy with in 1988. And that was a play off the scene in “The Godfather,” when the Corleone family was sent a dead fish as a message that their enforcer, Luca Brasi, was dead and “now sleeps with the fishes.”
On Friday, Rauner said he hoped two plastic-wrapped tuna steaks would send the same message, especially with regard to this week’s landmark property tax hike.
“This mayor has put in the biggest tax hike in Chicago’s history with no structural reform,” Rauner said. “I understand why he’s sensitive right now — he’s got a lot of angry constituents, and they’re angry for good reason.”
* The pic…
Gov. @BruceRauner stopped by @PaulinaMarket to buy Rahm Emanuel a dead fish. #nottheonion https://t.co/aLw3DSzY6Q pic.twitter.com/vHHwQ9BOwu
— Ariel Cheung (@arielfab) October 30, 2015
* And this is odd, because the mayor has repeatedly said he wants to work with the governor on workers’ comp…
Rauner at Paulina Meat Market says Mayor Emanuel supports his workers comp plan; there's "hiding, dodging" going on pic.twitter.com/ChBwmAtDKx
— Tony Arnold (@tonyjarnold) October 30, 2015
A Rahm quote from two weeks ago…
“Having supported workers’ comp before, in 2011 when we passed the last major reform of workers’ comp, there’s a place I’ll work with you. And I want to see a municipal part of that because, as one of the largest employers in the state, we have a vested interest in reform to workers’ comp.”
*** UPDATE 1 *** Tribune…
Gov. Bruce Rauner on Friday tried to inject some levity into his back-and-forth with Mayor Rahm Emanuel, telling told reporters he planned to send a piece of “dead fish” to City Hall.
Just hours after Emanuel suggested that the rookie Republican governor “stop name-calling and just do your job,” Rauner held a news conference at a North Side meat market, where he bought some double-cut pork chops, a beef tenderloin, and a piece of tuna steak.
The tuna, Rauner said, was “a gift for a special person.”
“I bought some fish, to send some dead fish to the mayor,” Rauner said. “I think he will deeply appreciate that, as only he can.”
*** UPDATE 2 *** Raw audio…
posted by Rich Miller
Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:17 pm
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Meanwhile, Rahm has had staffers out scouting antique and junk stores for a stuffed horse’s head…
Comment by Archiesmom Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:21 pm
The Frat Boys must be proud of themselves for this one…..
Elections Have Consequences.
Comment by Dee Lay Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:21 pm
Jerk vs. Jerk!
Comment by Federalist Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:21 pm
It’s a good diversion for Rauner. When you aren’t doing your job, point somewhere else. Maybe Rahm can send a civics 101 book to Rauner and highlight the Executive portions of the book.
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:22 pm
That fish pic is just weak.
Comment by ryan Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:23 pm
Cuckoo!
Comment by Jack Stephens Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:23 pm
I guarantee you that Rahm is not laughing right now. Really, can this get more juvenile?
Comment by Archiesmom Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:23 pm
Really Governor? Is this the most effective use of your position as the leader of the ILGOP/Rauner party? Stop with the stupid photo ops and get to work.
Comment by Union Leader Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:24 pm
The bigger jerk is that facist pig with 18 dollar watch and carhartt jacket.
Comment by Jack Retired Water Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:24 pm
Not to get too Alex Jones-conspiratorial but this is now so overtly over-the-top as to be a “false-flag” operation.
Comment by Kasparov Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:25 pm
Well this will get the national headlines. Not sure if anyone will like what happens when the flyover media starts reporting (most likely innacurately) what is going on here. Get ready for the Fox News/MSNBC yappers to set the whole stalemate process (if you want to call it that) back a few months.
Comment by Jimmy CrackCorn Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:25 pm
==That fish pic is just weak.==
Maybe an Asian carp would have been a better prop instead of fillets…
Comment by Vote Quimby! Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:26 pm
Shows again ow out of touch he really is. He goes to Paulina Meat Market for fish?? Who gave him that tip - the ketchup hot dog girl? He should have gone to the Fish Guy, it’s only 15 minutes away. And a tuna steak?
Comment by Henry Francis Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:26 pm
Also, if he had walked a block south on Lincoln there is a wonderful little fish market. Visual would’ve been much better. Standing in front of a bunch of weenies isn’t helpful.
Comment by Jimmy CrackCorn Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:26 pm
Um, this is insane…Italian mobsters and Jewish political operatives do this, not sitting Governors…
Comment by Loop Lady Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:27 pm
Too bad the reporters didn’t think to ask that perhaps rather than sending that fish to Rahm, perhaps the Gov could send that to a local food bank. Where families are turning as the State has completely fell down helping needy familes in this time of crisis. (IE Ashley Goodwin). Maybe that would have erased his smarmy grin.
Comment by How Ironic Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:27 pm
It is such a rich boy tactic to get the fish already packaged. That isn’t scary. Get your hands dirty and get the whole fish, with blood and everything. You might as well get a box of cereal and hold it up and say “no more milking springfield”.
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:29 pm
Did he charge the fish to the state or was he grocery shopping in his “individual capacity”?
Comment by hisgirlfriday Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:29 pm
Is he poking him with those nice tuna steaks, or trying to get invited over for dinner? You’d think a guy in a Carhartt could find himself a real fish.
Comment by Century Club Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:29 pm
The Mayor and the City Council did what needed to be done. The Governor will not.
Comment by Retired lawyer Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:29 pm
A filet? Did Luca Brasi send a filet? Get a whole fish, Brucie. It’ll make for a better image. Even your stunts are bungled.
Comment by Senator Clay Davis Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:30 pm
Why go after Rahm with a stunt like this?
How is this governing?
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:30 pm
It’s official. The Governor has jumped the shark.
Comment by Juice Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:30 pm
Glad Rauner has time to play childish games instead of staying busy in Springfield not presenting a balanced budget.
Comment by too obvious Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:31 pm
This is getting close to Blago antics.
Comment by Almost the Weekend Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:32 pm
Um…has he lost his mind? He actually invited the media to this.
Does he think this is a joke? People are suffering under his leadership and THIS is how he spends his time?
How long is he going to get away with this?
Comment by Politix Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:33 pm
And I thought squeezy was bad.
Comment by Boat captain Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:33 pm
Juvenile? Or a cheerful reminder of who he must ==work== with?
Rahm has many old ==fish== stories like this. The knife? The Karen Lewis meeting? The shower?
Meh. They are probably laughing right now at the way they ==fooled== us all.
Comment by Formerly Known As... Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:33 pm
From someone who often loves immature, childish stunts, this seems ridiculous behavior for a governor, and placing dead fish in an opponents mailbox is a waste of good tuna. According to Google, while a light red or strong dry southern French or Spanish rosé is perfect with seared tuna, they had no suggestions for scortched earth tuna wine pairings.
Comment by AC Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:33 pm
The Govenror’s mercurial smile reminds me of SuperTroopers:
“But our shenanigans are cheeky and fun!”
“And his shenanigans are cruel and tragic!”
Comment by Shark Sandwich Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:34 pm
Is this from chapter 3 of Rauner’s book on how to win friends and influence people?
Does Rauner still have the chickens? Maybe he can send those to Cullerton and Madigan.
To all those suffering from Rauner’s impasse, note the funny things your governor likes to do while you go without.
Comment by Norseman Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:35 pm
Rahm should send him back a Prairie Chicken.
Comment by Senator Clay Davis Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:35 pm
Have to agree with Loop Lady: insane. The expression on his face is that pic is worth a thousand words. But, appreciate that the pretense has been dropped and he’s showing who he really is. This has been a bad media week for the governor and Diana Rauner, and this just made it worse.
Comment by Willie Stark Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:36 pm
Can we call the peeps in the white coats, yet?
Oops, forgot. They got laid off because no funding.
Seriously, this is unstable.
Comment by cdog Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:37 pm
A totally embarrassing stunt on the Governor’s part. He looks like a total juvenile.
Comment by Stones Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:37 pm
The frat boys are going to be criticized over this one. Does the Governor not have anything else to do?
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:37 pm
Thank goodness they won’t have to work together for the next 3 years.
“Oh Rahm, that was for the press, we’re still buddies”
“You purposely had a photo op of buying me fish to send a message. Ok. You made a choice. Got it”
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:37 pm
“Bruce” was the nickname for the malfunctioning mechanical shark in “Jaws.”
Comment by Owen, son of Gus Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:37 pm
“You Can Tune A Piano but you Can’t Tuna Fish”..REO..
Comment by Mouthy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:37 pm
Please marginalize this man.
He appears to not even respect himself, let alone be worthy of respect from others.
Comment by cdog Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:39 pm
Fake Madigan:
“I’m holding up a box of raisins. We all need be more raisinable, not operate in the extreme.”
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:40 pm
It’s not April Fools’ Day, is it?
Comment by Keyrock Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:40 pm
Yeah - governors do this kind of stuff all the time, right?
Uh - didn’t Thompson show up at Jane Byrne’s place and deliver her tacos and a Miller Lite?
Then Edgar showed up at Daley’s condo with an order of chicken fried rice and a Zima? Lots of yuks all around, right?
OK - I’m officially freaked out by this man’s behavior now.
Comment by VanillaMan Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:40 pm
Sorry Charlie, this is weak.
Comment by Michelle Flaherty Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:40 pm
Rich - and you deleted my earlier comment today about this guy?
Holy crap. I don’t want to be right.
Comment by VanillaMan Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:43 pm
Can we get a tweet reaction from Ron Sandack on fishgate?
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:47 pm
“I’m officially freaked out by this man’s behavior now.”
This^^^^^^^^^^
I’d be more scared but I can almost hear the press room dreaming this one up. There’s been a lot of talk lately about “lightening the mood” and “doing something fun.”
Comment by Politix Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:47 pm
Meh, retired guys like Rauner who have no responsibilities have to fill the days somehow.
As an aside, Greg Hinz reported this week that there’s $1 billion in private construction taking place right now in Lakeview.
The governor’s right — Chicago is a terrible place to do business.
Comment by Wordslinger Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:48 pm
We are 4 months with no budget, our state social services are a wreck, state museum is shut down, etc, etc…and he has a photo op buying fish for a frat boy prank. Show what the priorities are.
Comment by Jeep Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:48 pm
“It’s not April Fools’ Day, is it?”
I wondered for a split second if it was a Halloween prank.
Comment by Politix Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:48 pm
:-0
Comment by VanillaMan Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:49 pm
Said press room…meant press shop.
Comment by Politix Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:49 pm
Is the fish on the right or left side of this picture?
Comment by otherwise Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:49 pm
Fake Governor:
“I’m holding this fish up, well, because it sums up my first nine months. I feel like a fish out of water.”
Fake press guy:
“Holy Mackerel”.
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:50 pm
Rauner’s only constituency is himself and the handful of other billionaires that are underwriting the fantasy of turning Illinois into an Ayn Rand playground. The amen chorus: the Trib editorial page and choir director Katrina McQueary, the IPI wingnut welfare hacks, Tweety Bird Sandack and the transplant DC frat bros.
Comment by Willie Stark Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:53 pm
It’s one thing to be portrayed as a caricature, it’s another to embrace that caricature to make it who you are.
Lemme guess, Rahm made him look foolish.
No, I’m choosing to be this foolish.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:53 pm
Catching an Asian carp out of the Chicago or Illinois rivers might have been a slight bit humorous, but going to a store for the fish?
#Idiocracy
Comment by Jeff Trigg Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:54 pm
A wrapped, Tuna steak.
Let that sink in a little.
Comment by Ok Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:54 pm
He gets stranger by the second. Could someone please explain to BVR that he has work to do?? He is making himself look more and more lost everyday. He does not have a clue as to the role of the governor.
Comment by Flynn's Mom Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:56 pm
Rauner…lookin’ more “cra-cra” every day. Stop the stunts and start governing!
Comment by Former Hoosier Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 1:57 pm
Finally, a good use for the Tribune—-wrap the fish in it.
Comment by Buzzie Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:00 pm
After recommending the tuna, Rauner suggested that Rahm pair it with a Loire red, such as a Chinon or Bourgueil, or a light red burgundy, if it’s simply seasoned. A fruitier New World Pinot Noir would be good if you’re giving it a spicier treatment. If Rahm grills it on the barbecue and serves it rare like a steak, he could bring on a beefier red such as a Syrah or Barbera.
Comment by 47th Ward Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:00 pm
== Standing in front of a bunch of weenies isn’t helpful. ==
‘weenies’? Maybe Raunner thought he was standing in front of his Superstart staff?
Comment by sal-says Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:02 pm
The fish rots from the head down, it has been reported.
Comment by atbat Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:03 pm
So when it starts as farce, then what does history repeat itself as?
Comment by forest4trees Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:04 pm
== It’s official. The Governor has jumped the shark. ==
How about: ‘It’s official. The Governor has jumped into a public display of severe mental illness.’?
Comment by sal-says Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:04 pm
@OK:
I couldn’t believe it either.
Especially when there is an excellent fishmonger just up Lincoln Avenue, The Fish Guy. owned by Bill Dugan, at 4423 N. Elston.
Which, BTW, sells whole fish.
Comment by Juvenal Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:05 pm
Apparently CapFax caption contests don’t sufficiently meet his need to look insensitive.
Comment by Streator Curmudgeon Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:06 pm
I’ll bet he could the guy that dressed up as Quinnocchio to dress up as a fish.
Comment by Skeptic Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:06 pm
“I can out Trump the Trump”.
Comment by old guy 2 Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:08 pm
The Trib has a story up. It looks like Lance dictated the lede.
Comment by Keyrock Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:08 pm
Only Frat Boy dilletantes would think a couple of tuna steaks made them look all Godfather gangster.
Did you see the movie? The message wasn’t “a heart-healthy dinner for two.”
What’s next, are they going to try and sneak a My Pretty Pony doll into Emanuel’s bed?
Comment by Wordslinger Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:09 pm
Unreal.
He did it wrong too. It’s a shrink wrapped frozen filet. Not the same thing at all. When you send someone a filet, the message your are sending is “I’m a moron, I don’t know how to cook this - can you help me with dinner?”
The message he was trying to send is “I killed your friend - and you can’t do anything about it” - which should have been a large whole fish wrapped in newspaper. Fresh, not frozen - for the smell factor.
And is he really trying to tell the Mayor that he killed someone close to him? What the heck is going on over there? The Governor is trying to emulate mafia stereotypes ? he wants to act like he kills people?
Doesn’t anyone in Rauner land tell him “no” “Maybe Governor, this is not a great idea” ? I never expected him to be very good, but he’s got smart people around him. I thought they could help. The whole operation looks totally insane.
Comment by siriusly Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:09 pm
As a political metaphor, this doesn’t work. It makes no sense. What’s he trying to say? I don’t even really buy that these two are in a fight. This is staged nonsense.
Comment by horse w/ no name Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:09 pm
THIS is what happens when funding for mental health services gets cut.
Comment by Dance Band on the Titanic Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:10 pm
Added to the list of gubernatorial duties. Buying gifts for old friends.
Comment by Juice Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:11 pm
Well, the high mercury content in tuna is kind of intimidating.
Comment by sangamo better blues Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:12 pm
What will Rauner do for Madigan? Cut off the tops of apples and send it to him?
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:12 pm
I am disappointed. If a wealthy guy sends some fish to a wealthy friend, I would have picked a couple of trout instead of a tuna filet.
Comment by Huh? Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:13 pm
Photo caption: Rauner provides more adolescent antics to show he is more juvenile at age 58, than Emanuel was at 29.
Comment by Beaner Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:13 pm
Next stop….the TP aisle.
Comment by Moby Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:14 pm
===What’s next, are they going to try and sneak a My Pretty Pony doll into Emanuel’s bed?===
That made me laugh out loud. Man, great stuff.
Some people understand “The Godfather”, others buy pricey fish for photo ops.
This buying of fish, even Fredo wouldnt so that.
(Someone help the Governor with who Fredo is)
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:14 pm
To the update…
Rauner: You’re a pistol, you’re really funny. You’re really funny.
Rahm: What do you mean I’m funny?
Rauner: It’s funny, you know. It’s a good story, it’s funny, you’re a funny guy.
[laughs]
Rahm: What do you mean, you mean the way I talk? What?
Rauner: It’s just, you know. You’re just funny, it’s… funny, the way you tell the story and everything.
Rahm: [it becomes quiet] Funny how? What’s funny about it?
Cullerton: Rahm, no, You got it all wrong.
Rahm: Oh, oh, Johnny. He’s a big boy, he knows what he said. What did ya say? Funny how?
Rauner: Jus…
Rahm: What?
Rauner: Just… ya know… you’re funny.
Comment by Rich Miller Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:14 pm
I agree, this seems so over the top to the point that it may be contrived. Either way, this behavior is childish and embarrassing. I am embarrassed for the Governor. I wish he understood just how ridiculous and nonsensical he looks doing this. Is this what leadership looks like in 2015?
Comment by Xavier Woods Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:15 pm
360 Degree TurnAround - Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:12 pm:
What will Rauner do for Madigan? Cut off the tops of apples and send it to him?
This gets my vote. (Maybe applesauce)
Comment by Mouthy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:15 pm
I now join those among you who believe this “feud” is contrived. This stunt is too absurd for the Rahm-Bruce brouhaha to be for real.
Comment by Father Ted Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:16 pm
What is wrong with Rauner? I suppose an open-ended question like this is ill advised.
Comment by Anon Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:17 pm
Sham fish
Comment by ChicagoVinny Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:17 pm
In all seriousness, if Governor Rauner really wanted to send a message he’d have held up a can of sardines and said “This is how I’ve got the Democrats trapped”..
Comment by Mouthy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:18 pm
To the Update,
Finding gags in this mess is something I would do. How about the governor leave the gags for (banned word) like me, abd Rauner governors.
It’s breathtakingly pathetic that this bit is a chosen part of Rauner’s Day
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:18 pm
OW PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE for the love of God, tell us all that somehow this will make Dad’s Home State?
Maybe for Halloween, Bruce can dress up as the Gorton’s Seafood Captain (mascot) and pass out fishsticks to all the neighborhood children. Lance could tweet about it. Donna Arduin could pop in, and be disappointed in Bruce because he’s being seen as providing welfare, when the little kids could be out ‘working hard’ for their food rather than relying on handouts. Comedy.
Comment by How Ironic Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:19 pm
The least he could have done was send some trout or salmon freshly caught from his ranch!
Comment by Annon3 Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:19 pm
At least it wasn’t Mrs. Paul’s fish sticks. This had to be one of his aides photo op ideas…..I hope.
Comment by Bogey Golfer Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:21 pm
- How Ironic -
I’m “thinking”, but it has to be “no pun intended” restaurant-quality
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:22 pm
If Rauner was really trying to disgust Rahm, he should have just bought a can of Jewel private label canned tuna.
Really? A tuna filet? He’s like the dad trying to be cool, all while wearing dark socks, birkenstocks and a cowboy hat. This is worse than gradeschool antics.
Comment by How Ironic Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:23 pm
“The least he could have done was send some trout or salmon” or bluegill. It is the state fish after all.
Comment by Skeptic Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:23 pm
@siriously:
Thanx for the laugh!
Comment by Jack Stephens Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:24 pm
This is so scary I’m hoping he will go for a “rest cure” and Evelyn will take over. I’d actually feel safer.
Comment by Northsider Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:25 pm
NOTE TO RAUNER: When sending a dead fish make sure its a not wrapped in plastic and styrofoam. An actual dead fish that smells is preferable.
Comment by wndycty Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:27 pm
Could have been a REAL ” Chicagoan” and sent an Alewife from Lake Michigan.
Oh, that’s right he’s an Elitist from the North Shore!
Comment by Jack Stephens Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:30 pm
I am going to flee the state out of embarrassment. Grow up. Maybe we can use the newly unemployed daycare workers as mediators on Nov. 18.
Comment by burbanite Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:30 pm
The Godfather references on here were some months ago. It took that long to catch up? What will happen when he finally catches the Dad’s Home State episodes?
By this time frame, OW will have the whole first season finished just in time for Christmas. Maybe they will have time to binge watch On Demand.
I mean he clearly doesn’t have much else to do- if you have time to plan this type of prank and then carry it out. Of course he wouldn’t have listened if someone dared tell him this wasn’t really a good thing to do.
Comment by carbaby Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:30 pm
I’m on the fence about whether this is contrived. He does seem to enjoy gloating a lot. And dominating. I’m sure he sees himself as dominant over Rahm and over the City of Chicago. What a fool.
Comment by Politix Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:33 pm
Seeing this after reading the post about Ms. Goodwin’s situation just really sickens me. “Hey Governor Billionaire, How about writing a check to help one of your constituents pay her rent and feed her kids?”
Comment by BluegrassBoy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:36 pm
Only a starched collar from Winnetka would buy fish at Paulina market
Comment by Chicago PR Guy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:36 pm
Someone needs to be sent to time-out.
Comment by Enviro Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:37 pm
While I don’t agree with the Governor on his entire turn around agenda, I support his efforts for reform and believe the IL Democratic Legislature is draining Illinois of all it’s economic life.
This however belongs on The Onion and not in reality.
Comment by Ahoy! Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:38 pm
Ironically Rich, Rahm is about as tall as Joe Pesci, so your reference is even better! Well done.
To the post:
The Gov is just celebrating Halloween in his own scary way - trying to be artful imitating life and…just…blowing…it!
Comment by Captain Illini Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:41 pm
HBO - “Dad’s Home State” - Season 1 Episode 87.
Bruce watches “The Godfather” trilogy, thinks the “Third” one was the best. Diana writes “open” letter in her own defense, but id told Ounce will “Take it friem here.”. Lance sets up “Godfather” scavenger hunt to boost Bruce’s spirits. Lyndsey gets lost in the grocery store looking for ketchup. Comedy, 59 minutes.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:42 pm
Sadly, what this puts into perspective is that for Rauner, this is all a game and winning is far more important to him than is funding the various services so many vulnerable people are being deprived of the longer this drags out.
Comment by slow down Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:43 pm
===Gov. Bruce Rauner on Friday tried to inject some levity===
You mean, beyond his governing skills? LOL
Comment by Ducky LaMoore Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:43 pm
He wants to send a dead fish and he buys fillets?
Woof.
Comment by Nicholas Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:46 pm
Fake Leslie Munger:
“I’m here today holding up this millstone and my resume. It represents the situation I am now in. I’m joined here by Leader Durkin, but he’s not allowed to speak”.
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:46 pm
At least Rauner sleeps soundly at night.
Comment by Albany Park Patriot Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:48 pm
Rauner sent fillets because he doesn’t have the guts (to govern).
Comment by Wensicia Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:50 pm
In the audio, King Rauner repeatedly bemoans the red tape, bureaucracy, and the delay in allowing that business to get a liquor license.
He was sent the bill on 9/3. He finally signed it 10/30. Apparently he was in no hurry to help that business out.
Comment by unspun Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:50 pm
So is the Governor, by holding up that little itty-bitty wrapped piece of Tuna, calling Rahm a itty-bitty fish?
Too funny!
Comment by Louis G. Atsaves Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:54 pm
The Fish
by William Butler Yeats
ALTHOUGH you hide in the ebb and flow
Of the pale tide when the moon has set,
The people of coming days will know
About the casting out of my net,
And how you have leaped times out of mind
Over the little silver cords,
And think that you were hard and unkind,
And blame you with many bitter words.
Comment by Loki Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:55 pm
===So is the Governor, by holding up that little itty-bitty wrapped piece of Tuna, calling Rahm a itty-bitty fish?
===
- Louis G Atsaves -,
Lemme guess; you think “Part III” is the best one too?
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:56 pm
Apparently, Rauner doesn’t care how he comes across. Not only is he callous beyond belief, he’s going for photo ops that make him look foolish.
Comment by Aldyth Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:57 pm
Rauner knows what happened in the Godfather to the guys who sent the fish, right?
Comment by 47th Ward Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 2:59 pm
Governor “Trash Can Van” tries to further connect with the common folk by demonstratin’ his version of Hillbilly Hand Fishin’.
Comment by Johnnie F. Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:00 pm
QUINN: “I organized the tea party in Illinois in 1978 where 40,000 Illinois citizens sent tea bags
to Governor Thompson because they didn’t like unfair political pay raises”.
Maybe Governor Rauner deserves a “fish party”.
Comment by James Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:01 pm
===Rauner knows what happened in the Godfather to the guys who sent the fish, right?===
Ah! That might explain why Bruce thinks “Part III” is the best of “The Godfather” movies.
Thanks, - 47th Ward -.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:03 pm
Maybe we can get a judge to agree to release Blago from jail if he agrees to be governor again? We need some maturity in the job.
Comment by Nick Name Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:07 pm
Wait the point of the press conference was to sign a bill so the store could get a liquor license (they are next to a Buddhist temple and school). In doing so the governor wanted to highlight how slow government works and how much it burdens business.
Not mentioned is that the bill was sent to the Governor 57 DAYS AGO! Very efficient shop you got there.
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=3540&GAID=13&GA=99&DocTypeID=HB&LegID=89728&SessionID=88
Comment by Jimmy CrackCorn Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:08 pm
Sorry, Unspun @2:50PM. I didn’t see you beat me to it.
Comment by Jimmy CrackCorn Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:09 pm
To the update…
Governor Rauner lobbies for universal liquor licenses for each business in Illinois within 100 feet of a church or school.
Comment by Vote Quimby! Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:10 pm
Vote Quimby! What are the chances that the Governor actually knows that is what he just called for?
I mean, the bill was 72 pages!!! long, and we know he is not much of a reader. Now granted, the relevant portions of the bill are only like two pages. But those underlined words really do have a way of just popping up out of nowhere sometimes.
Comment by Juice Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:16 pm
==Sorry, Unspun @2:50PM. I didn’t see you beat me to it.==
It’s worth repeating, Jimmy CrackCorn…especially with the detail you provided.
I must have missed the part in the presser where Rauner took ownership of the 57-day delay by his office.
Comment by Vote Quimby! Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:16 pm
==What are the chances that the Governor actually knows that is what he just called for?==
About equal to the odds of a budget agreement completed on November 18.
Comment by Vote Quimby! Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:18 pm
It’s not funny Louis, its immature and embarrassing. Its also disrespectful to those who are currently faces homelessness, unemployment, hunger and cold b/c of this mess. How bout they spend less time trying to be humorous and snarky and more time actually talking. I have seen more productive discussions on the budget on this blog than in the capitol. Shameful, not funny.
Comment by burbanite Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:20 pm
I had no idea that government red tape was keeping this business from succeeding. I guess being around for over 60 years and getting $40 per pound for beef tenderloin is struggling. Thank goodness the governor cleared space in his busy schedule to allow them to sell liquor. Another Illinois business saved.
Comment by Henry Francis Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:21 pm
Thanks to many for the funny comments. It’s a kind of gallows humor, to be sure. 47th Ward at 2 p.m. was really quality writing! And, the reminder at 2:59 equally worthwhile.
Comment by Willie Stark Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:24 pm
“===Lemme guess; you think “Part III” is the best one too?===”
There was a Part III?
Comment by Louis G. Atsaves Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:25 pm
“Governor Rauner lobbies for universal liquor licenses for each business in Illinois within 100 feet of a church or school.”
Winner! lol
Has anyone noticed how hard Rauner laughs when asked a hard hitting question? Everything’s a joke.
Comment by Politix Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:25 pm
@burbanite, it’s not funny? Lighten up! Actually the “sardines in the can” comment that preceded mine was funnier!
Comment by Louis G. Atsaves Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:27 pm
======So is the Governor, by holding up that little itty-bitty wrapped piece of Tuna, calling Rahm a itty-bitty fish?
===
This wasn’t in Part I or Part II, you either didn’t see those or don’t understand the joke, just like Bruce, lol
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:33 pm
HB4223 Workers Comp is a really long bill to read. Basically increases the burden to the injured worker that the injury happened at work and is work related and “Reduces certain payments under fee schedules to 49% of the scheduled amount after January 1, 2016.” Reads like a product of ALEC. Wonder what parts Emanuel supports?
Comment by Beaner Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:38 pm
What is truly stunning about this is that Bruce Rauner now thinks he is the Godfather.
Woe is Illinois.
Comment by Austin Blvd Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:38 pm
How embarrassing that we have a Governor that can’t help himself from these childish antics. As a taxpayer and voter in the State of Illinois, I am embarrassed and ashamed.
Comment by Magic Dragon Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:39 pm
Rauner hasn’t got the personality to pull off a harmless joke in public. Not naturally “out there.” He wills himself to gregariousness as part of his perceived job.
(Guessing of course. Just an impression.)
Whatever — We spend too much time picking apart every little thing politicians say and do.
Comment by walker Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:39 pm
This is quickly turning into a Monty Pythn gag. Just get it over with and slap each other a couple times with real fish. Silly walks are coming.
Comment by zatoichi Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:41 pm
@Willy, the “fish” reference comes from the original Godfather (Godfather #1). And it was a whole fish wrapped in a bullet proofed vest that was then wrapped in a newspaper. The owner of the vest was the feared Luca Brazzi (who in a trivia note was played by a former professional wrestler).
A piece of tuna in a plastic baggy? Good grief! Did that come from some Waylon Brothers mobster movie parody?
Comment by Louis G. Atsaves Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:44 pm
===A piece of tuna in a plastic baggy? Good grief! Did that come from some Waylon Brothers mobster movie parody?===
Ask Bruce Rauner, lol
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:48 pm
Right now the Frat Boys(TM) are scheming to follow up this hilarious gag with a box wine being delivered as follow up.
Comment by How Ironic Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:50 pm
“Rauner knows what happened in the Godfather to the guys who sent the fish, right?” Come to think of it, does he know what happens when a trusted associate arranges a meeting on your own turf?
Comment by Skeptic Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:50 pm
What? Huh? This is very weird. Very concerning.
Comment by Lil Squeezy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:53 pm
I love Paulina Meat Market, their smoked pork butt is amazing. The butchers there care about their meat, I cant imagine them being ok with someone intentionally destroying some tuna.
Comment by Lil Squeezy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:56 pm
I guess he CAN afford to be made to look ridiculous!
Comment by Nicholas Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 3:56 pm
Funny. Lighten up people. All the Dems seem to know is just raise taxes to solve the problems they created. This is unsustainable. What will they do next year?
Comment by Let'sMovetoNorthDakota Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:01 pm
@FakeBruceRauner:
Do-over! Do-over! C’mon, gimme a do-over!
http://reboot.rebootillinois.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/November-20-2013-Bruce-Rauner-and-fish.jpg
#BackAtchaRahm #MoreCarping #NoFlipFlop
Comment by Anonymousse Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:02 pm
How sad. Can it possibly get any worse? Unfortunately the answer is yes.
Comment by Motambe Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:03 pm
Let’s: It’d be mildly amusing (but no less sophomoric) if this were a campaign.
Comment by Skeptic Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:05 pm
If the Sunday News shows and SNL don’t pick this up I’ll be surprised. What a way to “represent” Illinois.
Comment by Anon221 Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:05 pm
HB4223 also Gives the Worker Comp Chairman the ability to move arbitrators around at will to whatever county and case desired. This reads like a bad bill.
Let’s not just screw those in need of Child Care Assistance, let’s cut by more than 50% the cost to employers of injured workers.
Maybe the issue is Other State’s Worker’s Compensation plans are too Chamber of Commerce friendly. Wish there would be more reporting on the Turnaround Agenda than Term Limits (not constitutional).
Comment by Beaner Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:12 pm
what really stinks is the $589 million dollar increase that Chicago property owners will have picked from their pockets next year. Not to mention the $114 extra for garbage pick-up. Rahm failed to consider a realistic discussion on substantial budget cuts ( I am aware of the token and temporary cuts Rahm has offered), city expenditures are out of control and there is only so much OPM ( others people’s Money) going around. Rauner is aware of the spending problem in Springfield and Chicago that is fueled by the unholy alliance of Unions and crooked elected officials, and he is using unconventional methods to achieve his goals
Comment by Texas Red Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:16 pm
Rauner v. Rahm = The Godfather vs. Star Wars.
Who wins that?
Comment by JoanP Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:20 pm
Could have at least gone with seabass
Comment by Fisherman Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:22 pm
Someday he and Rahm will share a $1000 bottle of wine and laugh about it.
Comment by Filmmaker Professor Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:26 pm
Every time he acts like a real governor, the Superstars PULL HIM BACK IN.
Comment by Streator Curmudgeon Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:29 pm
There are hungry people in this state. There is a rehabilitation center a few blocks away that I am sure would except the meat.
Comment by Lil Squeezy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:33 pm
Mr. Rauner, what was your purpose in doing this? You’ve wasted our time, wasted our resources, and now you’re wasting food. I hear there’s an almost-homeless family out there that could use a good meal. Why don’t you send them some money, instead? Or, you could even work on a budget.
Comment by South Central Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:37 pm
http://www.businessinsider.com/10-craziest-rahm-emanuel-momentsfacts-2011-2
Comment by Formerly Known As... Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:39 pm
Texas Red, the property tax increase for the city of Chicago next year is actually $318 million (not counting CPS), not the number you are stating. City spending is going up because last year’s pension payment was $450 million and next year’s Payment is going up to over $900 million.
On the other hand, in the year since his election, the Governor has proposed shorting the pension funds by $2 billion, lengthening the group health backlog by $700 million and used one time gimmicks to deal with the FY 15 mess that was handed to him. That doesn’t sound like someone who understands the spending problems in Springfield and Chicago. It sounds like someone who is in denial.
Comment by Juice Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:40 pm
==Someday he and Rahm will share a $1000 bottle of wine and laugh about it.==
How did you know their dinner plans for tonight?
Comment by Formerly Known As... Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:42 pm
Look you guys can stand on your soapbox and espouse you progressive ideas - but in the end people vote with their feet and their pocketbook. Chicago unfortunately is a dying city…Chicago’s population grew over one year by just 82 people. That’s barely a blip in a city of 2.7 million. The U.S. Census Bureau released its latest population numbers this week, showing that Chicago’s .003 percent growth between 2013 and 2014 was the lowest of the 10 largest cities in the country.May 21, 2015
Comment by Texas Red Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:49 pm
Maybe it’s a couple of red herrings?
Comment by SourKraut Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 4:58 pm
Texas Red -
Chicago is dying? lol ask Site Selection magazine who ranked them #1 back in March for the most corporate expansions. and ConAgra is relocating their corporate HQ. wow.
Comment by Poolguy Friday, Oct 30, 15 @ 5:06 pm