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Question of the day: Golden Horseshoe Awards

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Illinois

* The 2017 Golden Horseshoe Award for Best State Senate Staffer - Non Political goes to Ashley Jenkins…

Ashley Jenkins, hands down. She is extremely intelligent and managed some pretty big bills this session, including the Civil Asset Forfeiture bill. She’s principled and knows how to get things done

* The 2017 Golden Horseshoe Award for Best State House Staffer - Non Political goes to James Sherwood…

He recently left to become a lobbyist, but deserves recognition for being Leader Durkin’s go-to guy on just about every important issue. A great guy who treats everyone with respect.

Both are extremely deserving.

* OK, on to today’s categories…

* Best Illinois State Representative - Republican

* Best Illinois State Representative - Democrat

Remember to explain your nominations (or they won’t count) and try to nominate in both categories.

posted by Rich Miller
Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:38 pm

Comments

Would say David Harris for Republican. Live in his district and he always takes a sensible approach to issues and is not afraid to work with the other side.

I feel that it is Springfield and the 53rds loss that he is retiring.

Comment by Buford Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:42 pm
Best Republican state rep.: Tim Butler

I nominate Mr. Butler for his enthusiasm, his ability to read situations, and his willingness to listen and learn from staffers, agency folks, and constituents. all around a great guy and a major asset to the party. Plus his social media is always on point and his taste in music is of the coolest in the chamber.

Best House democrat: Scott Drury

Because he voted his conscious and has always been a wild card in the GA.

Comment by Iggy Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:51 pm
In the past, I’ve nominated David Harris and believe he’s still worthy. But I think he’s won a Golden Horseshoe already. This year, I’ll suggest Steve Andersson for his good-natured accessibility, his knowledge, his fearlessness, his bipartisanship and statesmanship. He’s stood up for his ideals, even when it meant losing his floor-leader post and, eventually, foregoing a shot a reelection. He will be very sorely missed.

I’m still considering Dem nominees for this award.

Comment by Linus Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:52 pm
Steven Andersson - even though internal politics ended in him stepping down, he was by far and away the best floor leader the ILGOP has had in a long time. He also bucked his party and voted to end the budget debacle.

Barbara Flynn Currie - Notorious BFC is still kicking butt and taking names. How she has handled the sexual harrassment crisis is just one example how her leadership will be missed.

Comment by Kyle Hillman Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:52 pm
Representative Steven A. Andersson- for his true bi-partisanship votes on the budget

Representative Barbara Flynn Currie- for her tenacity and quick and knowledgeable quips on the floor

They will both be sorely missed.

Comment by Anon221 Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:53 pm
I nominate Rep. Emmanuel Welch. He was the lead plaintiff on a lawsuit against the IL Compotroller for Reps and Senators to get paid after almost a year without pay, and he passed some big bills this year that took bipartisan support like the Trust Act and the Cursive bill. Welch deserves the nod for Democrat.

Comment by Springfield Watcher Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:53 pm
Best Republican: Dan Brady, his tenure in the legislature has earned him the respect of all across both sides of the isle. He is extraordinarily attentive to his constituents, and has always held a great public image. A true role model for politicians.

Comment by Howsaboutit Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:54 pm
I think Anon221 is onto something good: BFC deserves this one for a long career’s worth of service to Illinois. Even as the Speaker’s majority leader, she’s well respected on both sides of the aisle. Her contributions to good public policy are numerous, spanning the fields of human services, healthcare, education, government transparency, and on and on. She’s irreplaceable.

Comment by Linus Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:57 pm
Republican- Rep. David Harris for his pragmatism, compassion and integrity. His departure signifies the potential end of an era. He’s a true Statesman. I wish the General well in his retirement.

Democrat- Rep. Wallace. As a newer legislator she’s shown leadership on a number of issues. Remember the video? Now she’s running for LG and was recently noted for stabilizing Biss’s gubernatorial bid. Hopefully we won’t have to wish her a happy retirement

Comment by AngelFire Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:57 pm
Durkin
Madigan

Crazy right? Actually, some things got done that we’ve been waiting too long for. Both have had very difficult and exhausting years. The progress in the GA, while begrudging, occurred. Their differences don’t appear to be overly personal. They deserve some credit this year.

Comment by A guy Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:57 pm
===I nominate Rep. Emmanuel Welch===

Doesn’t count since you printed it. /s lol

Comment by A guy Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:58 pm
Rep. Steve Andersson took on the Governor and lead the republican revolt and got our state a budget. He deserves the nod as a republican, but the other 9 who stuck with him deserve consideration.

Comment by Springfield Watcher Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:59 pm
Republican - Bob Pritchard He has a wealth of knowledge and he works hard to do the right thing. He works across the aisle and has done a lot of good on behalf of Higher Ed. He will be missed when he retires at the end of this term.

Democratic - Chris Welch I met him for the first time this Spring and he has the enthusiasm, work ethic, and a willingness to listen. Great Rep!

Comment by Pot calling kettle Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:59 pm
Republican: Jeanne Ives. For single handedly sticking it to Bruce LAMER. Always a strong woman voice in the GA and speaks her mind.

Democrat: Mike madigan. Need I say more? The man is the best at what he does.

Comment by Reaganing Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 2:59 pm
I vote for the Harris brothers…Greg & The General…
Greg has become a key go to person in the General Assembly on many issues. He fortified himself as a leader in the gay community and has now expanded that knowledge and legislative experience to a variety of key issues. Dave has been a strong leader for many years. The Republican party would be much better off if they listened more to Dave.

Comment by Fan Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:00 pm
Best DEM: Drury. Hands Down, his first vote was the correct vote, and he took a lot of heat for it.

Comment by ughhh Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:02 pm
Democrat- Emily McAsey. She did the best work of her legislative career this year.

Comment by Postbot5824 Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:03 pm
It can’t be said enough that Steve Andersson is the reason we have a budget today and without a doubt the most impactful Republican state rep. Were it not for his relentless efforts, we would not have passed a budget. During his short tenure, he not only rose to GOP floor leader, he built respect and trust among his Democratic colleagues. Paired with his persistence, patience, and grace under pressure, he was able to bring enough colleagues over the finish line.

Steve didn’t just negotiate and whip the votes- he is responsible for creating the very conditions under which it was possible to pass a budget. And he paid a steep price.

Elaine Nekritz ended her time in the House this year. Without relitigating SB1, I don’t think many would disagree that she’s done her share over the past 15 years to address the state’s problems. She wasn’t motivated by ideology but by a desire to ameliorate the pressure that the pensions put on core state services and an understanding that the goal isn’t 100% perfect- it’s 60-30-1.

Past the pension issue, she was a skilled legislator and a champion for criminal justice reform, the environment, and infrastructure investment. She cared about the institution and worked hard to mentor junior legislators of both parties. Her lack of pretension, her straight-forwardness, and her diligence will be sorely missed.

Comment by LakeviewJ Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:05 pm
@Postbot5824

“Emily McAsey. She did the best work of her legislative career this year.”

The best part of her work this year was leaving. I live in her district, and she did NOTHING. Didn’t return calls or e-mails, never saw her in the community. Good riddance.

Comment by Romeo Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:10 pm
Jeane Ives: because she’s sticking it to Rauner as best she can.
Katie Stuart: because she is so responsive to her constituents.

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:11 pm
===Best Illinois State Representative - Republican===

I’m going to come at this backwards, to try to bring forward who my nominee is.

In a time where bipartisanship was highlighted by members working together for something greater than themselves and party, my runners-up are the Brave 15 and Perfect 10, thanking them with these few lines, and in practice and in action, showed incredible courage when courage to do the right thing should be encouraged more, not stifled more. So thank you, you are all worthy.

Politics today as partisan and pointed as it is leaves little room to find winning compromises and allow “the enemy” to win, but also feel they have an adversary that also has the best interests of Illinois at heart, they just think that best way is different.

The key, of course, is that both sides realize the end game is that best interests of Illinois. Never has the best interests of Illinois been to hurt her, or continue to her her. This member looked beyond the partisan pains that both sides were wrestling with and moved to end gridlock, and lead others away from the safety and warmth of the cold need of dysfunction.

Rep. Steve Andersson took the lead, and walking with other GOP members, and decided that Illinois must be better than allowing things to crumble to begin the rebirth of Illinois. Rep. Andersson became the face, the lightning rod, because governing within the parameters of 71 was a belief he knew was better than withholding that 71.

Governing something includes choosing the best choices from a list of terrible options. Rep. Andersson knee his choice to lead a charge with others was going to be simplified, but the complex governing, that begins with a budget and a commitment to those who count in the state to be an honest partner was too loud of a call for he and others to ignore.

It costs Rep. Andersson. Ringleaders usually stevyhr examples. For me, it was a clear example of what honesty to job, integrity to purpose, ethics to the hypocrisy he was stopping, and the moral fortitude to deliver for Illinois as a state, and nothing more.

I nominate Rep. Steve Andersson. This nomination is for this year, but the actions he did, with others, will last for some for years to come. For that, I’m grateful to you long past these words I’m typing.

Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:11 pm
Without a doubt, Andersson. He saved the state from going to junk. Kudos for him for doing what’s right over what’s easy.

BFC for the Dems. Linus explained it better than I can.

Comment by Steve Rogers Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:16 pm
This one is easy.

The budget wouldn’t have happened if it were not for these two reps:

Republican: Steve Anderson — first, Steve is incredibly smart, thoughtful, and kind. He is a great state rep, and he truly cares about people and the State. But, second, even more important, Steve was the driving force to making the tax increase happen. Everyone knew that the tax increase was necessary, and someone had to work to make it happen within the HGOP. Steve didn’t just work to make it happen. He DID make it happen. Frankly, I’d name this award after Steve.

Democrat: Kelly Cassidy - Kelly is an incredible elected official that is willing to take on the biggest fights, and stand up for what she believes in. But even more so, she worked her a$$ off behind the scenes to force HDEM leadership to actually start doing something on the budget that wasn’t just symbolic. She (along with a couple of her colleagues) organized within the HDEMs to create real pressure. And she also worked hard to organize HGOP members to get there as well. She is constantly one of the best reps in the GA, but this year she really stood out.

Comment by SaulGoodman Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:17 pm
I loved David Harris’s leadership during the budget debates over the summer! I Nominate Representative Wallace because I see how hard she works for vulnerable people! I got to see her advocate for domestic violence victims after the DV shelters lost their funding. Plus she is relentless in the fight for child care! She even introduced a bill to raise minimum wage to $15hr. I’m praying she becomes our next Lt Gov!!

Comment by Joi Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:19 pm
“It costs Rep. Andersson. Ringleaders usually are made the examples. For me, it was a clear example of what honesty to job, integrity to purpose, ethics to the hypocrisy he was stopping, and the moral fortitude to deliver for Illinois as a state, and nothing more.“

Apologies.

Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:19 pm
GOP Rep: Tim Butler- I don’t think there is one person who has said a bad word about him at the statehouse, he clearly has learned how to get along with the otherside (even if you do not always agree with them), like his former bosses Ray LaHood and Rodney Davis. He works his district non stop and has transformed how Reps handle themselves on social media. Staff has always been accessible - even on nights and weekends. He seems to have a bright future at the statehouse, regardless of what happens next November in the Governors race.

Dem Rep: BFC- She will be missed by many .

Comment by Hmmm Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:20 pm
Republican: Does any member work a roll call harder than David McSweeney? He is a wonderful asset to have on your side of an issue. Other members can learn from him on how to work one’s district while really raising money.

Democrat-Christian Mitchell Law school, boxing fan, no primary…………..dude.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:33 pm
Republican - Jeanne Ives; she had the stones to give up her seat on a quixotic campaign against a governor of her own party simply because she felt he didn’t represent the true Republicans.

Democrat - Marcus Evans; he doesn’t get a lot of press statewide, but the seminars that he’s put on for his constituents re: property tax appeal, estate tax, etc… are exactly the kind of things that his constituents can use the guidance on. Plus he’s a great guy de boot.

Comment by Chucky Jay Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:40 pm
Steve Anderson was good but Mr/Ms Fan noted the Harris Brothers were the driving force that ended the budget impasse. Very impressive.

Comment by Annonin' Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:45 pm
I nominate Elizabeth Hernandez for best Democratic Legislator. Lisa has flown under the radar for a while, but deserves recognition for her work on immigration issues, including helping pass the TRUST Act, being part of the negotiations for the New School Funding Bill, passing TVDL, having exemplary constituency services, and continuing to fight for all communities.

Comment by Mike Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:45 pm
Welch and Andersson. Welch because it wasn’t easy to take on that pay lawsuit issue. Rauner and Munger pounded him for it. And Andersson for being willing to take on Rauner and fall on the sword for the State. Those guys are champs.

Comment by And the Awards go to... Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:46 pm
===Best Illinois State Representative - Democrat===

As this year began, the lines of partisanship deepened as the days rolled on towards summer. Meanwhile, social questions and issues were also being bantered with partisan takes, and party line thoughts. This year, the challenges were about finding the answers to help Illinois, but also raise your voice for what you believe. There was one member that stood out in both arenas.

Rep. Kelly Cassidy made her voice heard, not just within the budget discussions, wonky as they can be, and the social policy and policies this session tackled, including her own brave testimony that put more thought to this discussion than just hypothetical or antidotal practices.

My respect for her, and her drive of purpose to the work she had done in the budget discussions but also in unwavering commitment to her beliefs, Rep. Cassidy was the catalyst this session in shaping the results that we now see measuring the accomplishments of the General Assembly.

I nominate Rep. Kelly Cassidy. Her dedication and leadership, along with her personal drive and bravery to purpose, I can’t think of a more deserving nominee that earned the Golden Horseshoe this year then her. It’s years like this that others strive to emulate. Rep. Kelly succeeded where others rarely try.

Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:48 pm
Republican:

Mike Unes — He’s really what a Rep should be. Works his district hard and votes his district — even if it means bucking the governor. Always works to cut a deal rather than score political points. You can’t find anyone in Springfield with a bad word to say about him. There’s a reason he’s the only GOP “yes” vote on the budget who wasn’t forced into retirement or a primary.

Democrat:

Elgie Sims — He’s smart, likable and politically skilled. Understands the legislative process and policy making better than most and has shown an ability to bring opposing sides together on complicated legislation, like police reform. One of a handful of members I can visualize with the speaker’s gavel in his hand some day.

Comment by Roman Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:53 pm
I’ve got to go with Representative David McSweeney for GOP Rep. McSweeney is not afraid to take on the Governor, Speaker or anyone else for that matter if he believes it is in the best interest of his constituents and the people of Illinois. We need more like him.

For House Dems I will greatly miss Barbara Flynn Currie. Whoever Speaker Madigan appoint to take on the role of Majority Leader, that individual has some mighty big shoes to fill!

Comment by Anon Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:58 pm
Rep. David McSweeney is my nominee for best Republican legislator; very smart, wired into both sides of the aisle, hard working and thoughtful. He’s just as comfortable supporting a good idea from a Democrat as he is a Republican and just as comfortable criticizing a Republican as he is a Democrat. On the merits. Plus, he’s a die hard Cubs fan!

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 3:58 pm
Rep David McSweeney - House Repub. Not afraid to take on the Governor or anyone else for that matter if he believes it is in the best interest of his constituents and the people of Illinois.

Barbara Flynn Currie - House Dems. No one better! Whoever the Speaker appoints for the position of Majority Leaders has some mighty big shoes to fill.

Comment by Anon Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:01 pm
Republican: McSweeney — The guy seems to be everywhere and on top of darn near every issue. He works with all sides and has figured out to pass his bills (and kill or greatly amend ones he doesn’t like).

Democrat: BFC - There will never be another one like her. This place will be the same without her, but the statehouse is better because of her.

Comment by Law Dawg Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:03 pm
David Harris and Kelly Cassidy. You won’t find better people who responsibly fight for what they believe, while respecting and caring for people on the other ideological side.

Comment by walker Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:03 pm
Republican: Rep. Steve Andersson for many of the reasons already mentioned but also because he is the consummate statesman and gentleman. He refuses to join that element of his party which hates and rails against others. A face-to-face with Steve always restores my faith in the political process.

Democrat: Rep. Greg Harris for the way he digs in deep on policy issues. Nobody is better for doing his homework. I also appreciate the fact that he stays connected with people like me, the ordinary citizen. I think he legitimately enjoys both policy and people.

Comment by Dome Gnome Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:03 pm
Republican: Andersson. For Rauner’s entire term, all of us oh-so-smart armchair quarterbacks said the House Republicans hold an awful lot of power if only they would use it. Well, Andersson did. It probably ended his career in elected office, but he did.

Democrat- Currie. This is basically a lifetime achievement award. I’ve watched my female friends in politics line up to pay tribute to her since she announced her retirement, and that’s worth recognition.

Comment by Arsenal Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:09 pm
Democrat:

Emanuel Chris Welch - He has done an outstanding job of representing his District. He successfully passed the Cursive Writing Bill, passed the Trust Act, he courageously sued the Comptroller’s office to get the General Assembly paid, and he is currently running unopposed. Rep Welch being unopposed is a reflection of the great job that he’s doing. He listens to his constituents and put us first.

Comment by Taylor Newton Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:09 pm
I nominate David McSweeney for best Republican legislator; very bright, hard working, thoughtful and wired into both sides of the aisle. David is equally comfortable offering support or criticism of a Democratic proposal as he is a Republican proposal. It’s on the merits. Plus, he’s a die-hard Cubs fan!

Comment by 1060 Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:17 pm
Republican - Mike Unes; One of the hardest working reps. you will find. Cares enough to learn the issues and listens to all sides. Unes thinks for himself and is very respectful to all concerned. He is respected by both sides of the aisle and always represents himself with class. It is no accident that he is the only rep from the 15 republicans of the caucus running, not to have a primary. It would be difficult to find someone that works and understands his district more than him.

Democrat - Greg Harris; Hands down the go to guy for all Human Services questions under the Dome. Harris is a true professional especially while running his committee meetings. He is always respectful even when the witness or member doesn’t deserve such treatment. He was the default guy for the caucus when it became clear that Madigan and Rauner couldn’t be in the same room together. He has respect from both sides.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:18 pm
Best Illinois State Representative - Republican:
I’ll nominate two for basically the same reason — being common sense adults.
Steve Andersson and David Harris

Best Illinois State Representative - Democrat:
Jaime Andrade.
He delivered the floor speech takedown of that IPI cartoon and it was all downhill from there for the Rauner administration.

Comment by Michelle Flaherty Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:19 pm
Republican:

Steve Andersson - I would like to thank him for putting the best interest of the people ahead of the Republican agenda. He was brave enough to go against his party to work across the aisle to ensure that the people of Illinoiis received a well deserved budget. Thank you sir, your efforts should be celebrated and we’re sorry to see you go. Job well done!

Comment by Taylor Newton Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:20 pm
Dem- Rep Welch, does a fantastic job of working the podium and never backs down from a Wehrli twitter troll. he has great relationships with both D and R legislators and maintains composure. He has stood for the TRUST Act when others wouldn’t and made the necessary changes to get that bill accomplished and signed..

GOP- Rep McSweeney, works both sides of the aisle really well. Hard pressed to find another Rep who can be seen at dinner with folks from super far right and left wings of the party. Gets his bills passed better than all on the R side and is vocal about calling out the Gov, the Speaker and anyone else who’s a hypocrite.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:32 pm
Like Buford, I’m a constituent of Rep. David Harris. Not only did he really step up to help break the impasse this year, but lifetime achievement as well. As a lifelong D, I let him know I’d be proud to vote for him in 2018. Alas, it wasn’t to be.

On the Democratic side, BFC. Both earned and lifetime achievement award. I was thrilled when she was named Majority Leader after Jim McPike retired and she did very well.

Comment by Lt Guv Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:44 pm
I would nominate Representative David McSweeney. He has consistly fought for all of Illinois. He points out when something is not right regardless of which political party caused an issue. He has shown real leadership and independence, especially this summer fighting against an unbelievable tax increase and wasteful spending.

Comment by Hans Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:53 pm
Best Republican in the Illinois House, I would nominate Representative David McSweeney. He has consistly fought for all of Illinois. He points out when something is not right regardless of which political party caused an issue. He has shown real leadership and independence, especially this summer fighting against an unbelievable tax increase and wasteful spending.

Comment by Hans Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:54 pm
House GOP - Bob Pritchard. He had quite the year. Helped tremendously on the budget compromise and worked tirelessly to help land the school funding overhaul plan. He will be sorely missed in Springfield.

House Dem - Currie. She embodies the definition of leader.

Comment by Under Influenced... Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:55 pm
House Democrat- Rep. Flynn Currie remains the point person on every significant issue, and increased her time in the Speakers Chair. A proven Democratic leader.

House Republican- Rep McSweeney. Nobody in the Republican caucus gets more press than McSweeney. He runs a roll call on every initiative he carries. While we rarely agree, nobody works harder and carries the Republicans more than McSweeney.

Comment by Baseline Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 4:56 pm
Rep. McSweeney is one interesting dude and no matter what you think of his political philosophy you have to give him credit for the work he puts into his trade–and his willingness to speak truth to power.

Comment by ANON Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 5:05 pm
Dem-MM, delivered big for his members against a governor with a bottomless pocket
Rep- McSweeney, few bright spots for the R’s.

Comment by Rutro Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 5:06 pm
This one couldn’t have been better timed for my nomination of Rep. Welch, who passed large and small bills this year with a similar conviction.

I happened to be the last Appellate Court oral argument today and heard the presding Appellate Justice Holdridge comment several times during the afternoon about how bad the attorneys’ signatures were on the docket sign-in sheet, which is the only way the court uses to identify who is there that day for oral argument. Justice Holdridge stuck around after arguments had finished and wondered aloud whether cursive was still being taught in schools. He was intrigued when I told him about Rep. Welch’s cursive legislation…although it was commented that it will be sometime before those students argue in front of him.

I’m not sure how much Justice Holdridge and Rep. Welch would agree on issues but on this one they may.

Comment by COPN Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 5:12 pm
The best Republican State Representative is Rep. David McSweeney. He represents the views of his district well and he is not afraid to take on people in his own party. My vote is for Rep. McSweeney.

Comment by Not in charge Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 5:20 pm
Rep. McSweeney is a Profile in Courage in a caucus where courage is typically in short supply. He is a deficit hawk who applies his principles regardless of the who is in the governor’s mansion. Though he’s partisan, he doesn’t wear blinders; he calls out shortcomings of both parties. An example is challenging the Governor on proposing unbalanced budgets and on spending money that hasn’t been appropriated. It’s refreshing to see a Representative who believes his principles, not just when convenient to attack the opposition, and who is willing and able to work with both parties. McSweeney demonstrates leadership, and is clearly among the most talented members of his caucus.

On the other side of the ailse, BFC has had a career unmatched by anyone. She has had an integral role in every budget that has been adopted. She is clearly in a class by herself.

Comment by anon2 Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 5:26 pm
Dems: BFC on a lifetime achievement award. Trailblazer as first woman assistant majority leader, brilliant, uses the committee process as a means to determine whether bills merit debate before the full chamber rather than as a rubber stamp.

Repubs: Gotta go with the crowd on Steve Anderson for taking one for the good of the state this year.

Comment by SAP Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 5:26 pm
Unes hands down on the gop side. Along with everything already said, he gave one of the most heartfelt and compelling floor speeches that I have ever seen during the budget debate. He is also simply one of the kindest people in the building and great to work with.

Zalewski gets my vote on the Democrat side. He gets most of the toughest assignments mainly because of his ability to comprehend and articulate the most comprehensive legislation. He is often used as a peace maker among his colleagues within the caucus.

Comment by Benji Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 5:26 pm
Republican: David Harris
He’s a true public servant - smart, honest, and full of integrity. In addition, his work ethic and expertise has earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues on both sides of the aisle.

Democrat: Chris Welch
In addition to his legislative accomplishments (passed the Trust Act, cursive writing bill, etc.), he works tirelessly on behalf of all his constituents. Most importantly, he’s honest, exercises good judgment, and has high moral character. Oh, and did I mention that he’s a pretty sharp dresser too.

Comment by Land of Lincoln Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 5:56 pm
House GOP: Rep Tim Butler. He has shown the entire caucus how to be effective on social media and how to use it to engage constituents. Real statesman who uses technology to adapt to the troubles of legislating in this climate.
House Dems: Kelly Cassidy. She is a member who although I don’t always agree with politically is a passionate advocate for her causes. She has carried some bills that I believe strongly in and deserves recognition for her compassion.

Comment by EIU2 Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 6:19 pm
Rep Emanuel Chris Welch, cursive handwriting Bill. Working across the aisle to get the bill passed. Trust act which is huge! He sued the comptroller and the GA was finally paid! Chris is always walking his district speaking to his constituents. He is always hosting informative very helpful events in his district, looking out for seniors and kids!Chris is a 24/7 Rep and I believe he is going to great heights!

Comment by ILRealtor Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 6:43 pm
Representative Dr. Litesa Wallace. Not only does she have excellent leadership skills, her compassion and tenacity in representing her district are well known. One impassioned speech actually went viral!

Comment by Anon Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 6:45 pm
This was the year that Chris Welch came into his own. The Speaker gave him very important legislation to carry. He got the cursive bill and also working by building bipartisan coalitions, he was able to get the Trust Act signed into law.

I noticed that when Chris came down here, he sat and listened to the old Bulls and gained a lot of knowledge and as I said with that knowledge, he really came out of his shell this year.

He also has been a pretty decent Higher Ed chair too. Chris Tirelessly traveled the state going to different colleges listening to the various constituiency groups, admin, teachers and most importantly the students. That role was made for Chris.

I also think Chris is able to be a partisan, without being personal. He was able to work across the aisle to get things done, a hard task for a legislator in today’s climate.

For the GOP I would pick David Harris. The house will be a lesser place without David Harris in that seat. Rep. Harris has always been a very thoughtful rep. There is no wonder why he successfully came back to the house after serving his country in Iraq.

Harris respects the process and respects the house as an institution. There is no wonder why he was the tip of the spear when it came to bipartisan cooperation on the budget. It will be a shame when he goes back home to the NW Suburbs. As I stated previously, the house will we be a worse place for it. We need reasonable leaders, who are not afraid to look across that vast aisle for the betterment of the state.

Comment by Some One You Should Know. Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 7:00 pm
Belongs to Republican Steve Anderson for delivering the budget. It was Republican Anderson who Madigan walked up to on the floor and thanked after the budget passed. The Democrat’s best this year was Welch. The Trust Act was historic legislation that has caused an uproar and divide in the Governor’s base, and Welch then overrode the Governor’s veto of his cursive writing bill. Legislative achievements aside, if you talk to legislators, lobbyists, and staff, they would tell you Anderson and Welch are easy picks this year.

Comment by Best of the Class This Year Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 7:22 pm
Dem - Mike Zalewski. He is a thoughtful legislator who is not afraid to take on tough issues.

GOP - David McSweeney. He knows the process and he has found a way to get things done without sacrificing his core beliefs.

Comment by The Last Jedi Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 7:32 pm
House GOP - David McSweeney is a thoughtful, independent voice. Stands on principle, but
can work with the other side.

House Dem - Greg Harris was a true leader in
developing the budget.

Comment by FDR Democrat Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 8:27 pm
I still can’t believe we’re losing both Barbara Flynn Currie AND Elaine Nekritz. The Capitol will never be the same, it’s a huge loss of character, knowledge, ability and class. They were each an oasis, a walking talking classroom, a dedicated servant leader.

They are also skilled politicians, as good as any who’ve served in the Capitol. In an industry where “nice guys” finish last, they showed that being principled still matters. We need more Elaine Nekritzes and Barbara Flynn Curries.

I’m not trying to eulogized them, they aren’t dead. But it’s a palpable loss for me. Springfield will be different now.

I second each of them and applaud the others who earlier made a better case for both.

And I second everybody who nominated Bob Pritchard on the other side. He too will be greatly missed.

Comment by 47th Ward Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 9:34 pm
Dem: Mike Madigan. How has no one nominated him before? The guy is an institution. His knowledge and handle on the process is second to none. Every two years he gains the vote of not only his district but also his peers. Oh yeah, he also somehow finds a way to manage the responsibilities of being a husband, father, grandpa, tax attorney, businessman, campaign strategist, fundraiser, State Rep., and Speaker of the House of the 5th largest state in America all at the same time. When you go to bed tonight, ask yourself, did you have as productive of a day as Mike Madigan did today? I can bet with near certainty that the answer would be no regardless of who you are and what day it is.

GOP: Terri Bryant. She has voted her district time and again while under constant fire from both sides. She’s also sticking around to face the music when lots of men are headed for the exits. She is a tireless worker and highly respected by members on both sides of the aisle.

Comment by ChicagoInn Tuesday, Dec 12, 17 @ 11:06 pm
Best GOP Tom Demmer - Super smart on policy and political strategy

Best Dem - Ann Williams - Well respected on a number of issues

Comment by ChiefM Wednesday, Dec 13, 17 @ 9:06 am
GOP: Steve Andersson - brave, intelligent, classy, not afraid to work across the aisle for the good of the people of Illinois - best floor leader I have seen in 6 years of watching the General Assembly - he will be a big loss to the GA.

DEM: Greg Harris - a true leader willing to work in a bipartisan manner

Comment by ANON Wednesday, Dec 13, 17 @ 11:00 am