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IRMA board unanimously agrees not to endorse anyone for governor

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Illinois

* Press release…

The Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA) represents more than 20,000 stores across the state that include chains and family-owned and operated stores as well as all types of retail including pharmacy, grocery, hardware and restaurants. Four years ago, IRMA remained neutral in the race for Governor and four years later we will do the same.

In the last month, IRMA representatives met individually with each of the major candidates for Governor. Many issues of importance to the retail community and their customers were discussed. As a result of those meetings, the IRMA Board of Directors unanimously agreed not to endorse a candidate for Governor in this year’s election.

Governor Rauner was recognized for his heartfelt desire to reform Illinois government, revitalize the state’s economy and minimize the need for tax increases and excessive regulations. However, concerns exist over the ability to move the state forward in a bi-partisan fashion and, given the fiscal condition of the State, the feasibility of any tax roll-back. Additionally, there were concerns over positions expressed versus actions taken by his Administration on retail specific issues. Finally, there are continuing concerns that there is not a full appreciation for the economic significance of the retail sector within Illinois, which is the second highest producer of GDP and generates enormous tax revenue for state and local governments.

JB Pritzker was recognized for his stated desire to work with all parties. Mr. Pritzker clearly recognizes the economic importance of the retail sector and the opportunities it provides, and revenue it generates, for state and local governments. There are concerns, however, over his advocacy for issues that would add significantly to the cost of doing business and the impact these issues, combined with increased taxes, would have on retailers and the consumers they serve.

“IRMA’s focus is supporting a ‘retail majority’ and supporting those candidates who understand the value of retail to the state and local governments. Unfortunately, neither candidate’s approach struck the right balance in sustainably moving the state forward and supporting the state’s second largest GDP producer for the state of Illinois. IRMA will, as it always has, work in a positive, consensus building manner with the next Administration and their team no matter who is elected,” said Rob Karr, president and CEO, Illinois Retail Merchants Association.

Translation: Rauner couldn’t and won’t deliver and Pritzker wants to increase taxes on upper incomes and boost the minimum wage.

posted by Rich Miller
Friday, Oct 5, 18 @ 10:00 am

Comments

But, but, but Bruce said in the debate this week that he had the endorsement of all business organizations in the state. I’m so surprised that he didn’t tell us the truth./s

Comment by Big Joe Friday, Oct 5, 18 @ 10:11 am
==concerns exist over the ability to move the state forward in a bi-partisan fashion==
==the feasibility of any tax roll-back==

I think that sums it up very well.

Comment by Demoralized Friday, Oct 5, 18 @ 10:14 am
JB hasn’t even reached out to reform minded Democrats and independents much less Republicans

Comment by Lucky Pierre Friday, Oct 5, 18 @ 10:20 am
IRMA didn’t endorse in 2014, either, if I remember correctly.

Comment by SaulGoodman Friday, Oct 5, 18 @ 10:26 am
Not a surprise that they would take a sober, middle-of-the road view of things and live to fight another day.

IRMA, under both David Vite and Rob Karr, has long been the state’s most politically savvy lobbying group. Unlike a lot of other business associations, unions, and other advocacy groups, IRMA does not play hyperbolic games to gin up their folks and fuel membership dues. They count votes, and then quietly and effectively pass or kill legislation. Ever wonder why minimum wage increase has stalled in the General Assembly?

Comment by Roman Friday, Oct 5, 18 @ 10:40 am
=== if I remember correctly===

If you’d read more than the headline, you wouldn’t have to rely on your memory.

Comment by Rich Miller Friday, Oct 5, 18 @ 11:53 am
**If you’d read more than the headline, you wouldn’t have to rely on your memory.**

Ha - I missed that line in their statement. Oh well.

Comment by SaulGoodman Friday, Oct 5, 18 @ 12:08 pm
==JB hasn’t even reached out to reform minded Democrats and independents much less Republicans==

He’s got a Rauner transition official appearing in a commercial for him. Do better.

Comment by Arsenal Friday, Oct 5, 18 @ 3:42 pm
I understand how they feel lol.

Comment by Arthur Andersen Friday, Oct 5, 18 @ 4:14 pm