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* Welcome to the new world. Dan Proft had an on-air scoop this morning that Richard Goldberg is out as Gov. Rauner’s chief of staff and is being replaced with Illinois Policy Institute President Kristina Rasmussen, and then one of Proft’s newspapers picked it up…
Dan Proft, principal of Local Government Information Services (LGIS), which publishes the Sangamon Sun, first reported the story on his morning radio show on Chicago’s AM 560.
Rasmussen, 34, of Springfield, has been with IPI since 2009. She was elevated to President and COO in 2015.
Goldberg, 33, of Skokie, joined Rauner’s staff in Jan. 2015. He became Chief of Staff in Jan 2016.
Unlike Richard, she has a very pleasant public personality, but is a true believer who will fit right in with the governor’s Randian ideology. We are heading for an even sharper turn right in the wake of four bipartisan veto overrides in a week (three on the budget and one on the 911 bill).
Ain’t gonna be any more deals.
* The Democratic Governors Association is already out with a press release…
ICYMI: Rauner’s New Chief of Staff Slams Governor for Supporting Tax Increase
Today, Kristina Rasmussen was announced as Bruce Rauner’s new Chief of Staff. Rasmussen was recently the President and COO of the Illinois Policy Institute.
Below is the last article she wrote at IPI [in June].
TAX HIKE BUDGET IS POLITICALLY RISKY FOR RAUNER, ILLINOIS REPUBLICANS
By Kristina Rasmussen, June 29th, 2017
A new poll shows Gov. Bruce Rauner’s political base opposes the tax hike budget proposal the governor has supported. And Illinoisans who favor the tax hike budget proposal do not support Rauner.
The political calculation behind Gov. Bruce Rauner’s embrace of the tax hike budget plan backed by certain Republicans in the Illinois General Assembly would seem to be one of self-preservation. The benefit of appearing to back a solution – even one with over $5 billion in economically damaging tax hikes – might seem to outweigh the risk of standing firm on pro-taxpayer principle.
But new polling results show otherwise. Illinois Policy commissioned an overnight poll of 500 Illinois likely voters, which Fabrizio, Lee & Associates conducted on June 20. Pollsters asked Illinoisans whether they favor a budget with tax hikes and minimal reforms – a plan the governor has indicated he will support – or whether they favor a budget that balances through spending cuts with no tax hikes.
The results reveal that in supporting a tax hike budget plan, the governor is pursuing a politically disadvantageous course. The budget the governor is backing is unpopular with his own base of support – and that same base prefers Illinois Policy’s vision of a state budget that balances through spending reforms without tax hikes.
* Her bio from last year when she got the internal promotion…
Rasmussen has been at the helm of the organization since 2009, when she joined the Institute as executive vice president. Under Rasmussen’s leadership, the Institute has become the state’s premiere economic research engine – producing impactful work on budget and tax issues, pensions, education reform, government transparency, economics, criminal justice reform and other issues.
Rasmussen, together with CEO John Tillman, shepherded the Institute’s rapid and successful expansion over the years. In 2012, the Institute launched its nonprofit, statewide news service, the Illinois News Network. Today, INN supplies opinion and news content to more than 50 news partners on a daily basis. In 2013, Illinois Policy Action was launched as a vehicle for taxpayers to join together and amplify their voice in the Illinois Statehouse. It operates as a nonprofit, nonpartisan 501(c)4 organization.
The Institute now has more than 45 full-time employees and is one of the the largest free market organizations in the country. In 2015, Rasmussen won the State Policy Network’s prestigious Overton Award for her leadership and contributions to the liberty movement.
*** UPDATE 1 *** No campaign role for Goldberg. He’s leaving town…
Governor Bruce Rauner today announced that Chief of Staff Richard Goldberg will be transitioning back to foreign policy, national security and consulting following a three-plus year term as senior adviser to the Rauner 2014 campaign, Deputy Chief of Staff for Legislative Affairs and Chief of Staff. Kristina Rasmussen will serve as Chief of Staff.
“Rich is one of the most talented policy, political and communications advisors I’ve ever met and I will forever be indebted to his faithful public service for the last three and a half years,” Governor Rauner said. “I respect his decision to return to national security, foreign policy and consulting. Diana and I will always value his counsel and we wish him the best of luck in his next adventure.”
Prior to his service with Governor Rauner, Goldberg served as Deputy Chief of Staff for then-Senator Mark Kirk where he helped negotiate three rounds of economic sanctions against the Islamic Republic of Iran and worked to secure the deployment of an advanced U.S. missile defense radar to Israel. Goldberg also serves as a Navy Reserve Intelligence Officer and served in Afghanistan in 2011.
* And…
Governor Bruce Rauner announced today that Kristina Rasmussen has been appointed Chief of Staff in the Office of the Governor. Rasmussen will replace former Chief of Staff Richard Goldberg, effective on July 10, 2017.
Rasmussen joins the Administration from the Illinois Policy Institute, where she has served as president and chief operating officer. Rasmussen previously served as director of government affairs for the National Taxpayers Union. She is a graduate of George Washington University and Randolph-Macon Woman’s College.
“Kristina has worked tirelessly to defend taxpayers over the course of her career,” said Governor Rauner. “Her record of achievement speaks for itself, both nationally and right here in the Prairie State.
“My vision has always been for an Illinois that is prosperous and compassionate, with a state government that serves the people, rather than the other way around. That’s Kristina’s vision too, and that’s why I have appointed her my next Chief of Staff.”
Like I said above, she fits in neatly with the governor’s ideological bent.
*** UPDATE 2 *** Goldberg has been wanting to leave for a while now, so his exit isn’t that much of a shock. Most figured he’d leave after a budget was in place. He’s been talking about returning the world of foreign relations for a while now.
His replacement, however, is somewhat of a shock. There was an identifiable internal replacement for Goldberg. Rauner most definitely went in a different direction.
And that new direction should help the governor avoid a Republican primary. He just shored up his right flank.
*** UPDATE 3 *** Press release…
Illinois Policy Institute CEO John Tillman issued the following statement in response to the news that former Illinois Policy Institute President Kristina Rasmussen has been appointed chief of staff to Gov. Bruce Rauner:
“Though we will miss her immensely at Illinois Policy Institute, we are thrilled that Kristina is bringing her passion for sound policy, her love of liberty, and her vision of an Illinois that is prosperous and free to the service of a governor who shares all those qualities. Gov. Bruce Rauner was elected on the promise to translate those ideas into action – and his engagement of Kristina is an unmistakable signal that he intends to fulfill it.
“The 32 percent tax hike without reform that the General Assembly just passed illustrates the imperative to win the fight to put the people of Illinois first. We must reform the system that has allowed House Speaker Mike Madigan and his political machine to create such hardship for working families. With the governor’s decision to add Kristina to his team, Illinois taxpayers and families have an effective and proven champion on their side.”
*** UPDATE 4 *** Press release…
This morning, Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner announced that Kristina Rasmussen replaced Richard Goldberg as the administration’s Chief of Staff. Rasmussen had been serving as President and Chief Operating Officer of Illinois Policy Institute (IPI) and Illinois Policy Action (IPA). Illinois Opportunity Project President Matthew Besler released the following statement in response to Rasmussen’s appointment:
“Since 2009, Kristina has contributed immeasurably to the freedom movement in Illinois. Under her bold leadership, the Illinois Policy Institute has become the largest, most respected state think tank in the country. She is a talented executive and understands the issues.”
“The addition of Kristina Rasmussen signals a welcome departure from the approach that has placed partisan maneuvering and political insiders ahead of families and businesses. The people of Illinois are suffering. Today, more than ever, they are ready for a transformation in state government. A driving force behind IPI’s expansion, Kristina is the ideal person to usher in that change.”
“The Illinois Opportunity Project is greatly encouraged by Governor Rauner’s choice of Kristina Rasmussen as his Chief of Staff. With her at the helm, we are confident the Governor is returning to the revolutionist instinct that won him the governorship in 2014 and brought hope to the people of Illinois. We sincerely thank Kristina for her tireless efforts toward protecting families from Springfield elites in the expansion of the liberty movement. And we fully support her in this new role.”
*** UPDATE 5 *** Check out the new Google ad announcing their takeover…
*** UPDATE 6 *** Pritzker campaign…
Bruce Rauner isn’t shaking up Springfield, but he is shaking up his own administration following four bipartisan veto overrides and a complete failure to accomplish any of his legislative goals during his time in office. Rauner knows the damage is done. Someone had to pay the price for Rauner’s failed leadership, and once again, it wasn’t going to be Bruce Rauner himself.
Richard Goldberg was ousted from the Rauner administration and will be transitioning back to consulting. Rauner’s new chief of staff, Kristina Rasmussen, previously ran the Illinois Policy Institute and will be perpetuating the governor’s extreme ideology.
“The Illinois Policy Institute proposes fantasy budgets that seek to decimate Illinois working families, so this is a perfect choice for Bruce Rauner,” said Pritzker campaign manager Anne Caprara. “Last week, after 736 days of crisis, Bruce Rauner’s own party rebuked his special interest agenda. This week, Rauner is doubling down with a new chief of staff who has proposed dramatic cuts to education, raiding local government funds, and decimating unions. This is a failed governor entirely incapable of learning from his many mistakes, seeking compromise, and getting anything done. His new chief of staff will be a partner in his continued damage to Illinois.”
*** UPDATE 7 *** The governor’s new chief of staff was a Breitbart columnist back in the day. Click here for the archive. (Hat tip: IWT)
…Adding… Noted…
https://t.co/wNGbWBriRI didn't exist until 2012, following Andrew's death when everything was re-launched.
— Scot Bertram (@ScotBertram) July 10, 2017
*** UPDATE 8 *** From the Illinois Policy Institute’s news service…
Rasmussen is believed to be the first female chief of staff on a governor’s team in Illinois history. In the past 30 years, no other female has held such a position in the state.
Um, no. Michelle Saddler held that job in 2010.
*** UPDATE 9 *** Coverage of note…
* Hinz: Rauner signals war with new chief of staff
* Tribune: Days after lawmakers override Rauner veto, he gets new chief of staff
posted by Rich Miller
Monday, Jul 10, 17 @ 9:09 am
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Every GOP Legislator should be beyond furious about this after all that IPI has said about GOP Legislators. Good luck.
Comment by Hello Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 7:52 am
He’s doubling down alright. But if it didn’t get him to 30 and 60, how will it get him to 50% plus the?
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 7:54 am
Going to be a long year and a half.
Comment by RNUG Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 7:57 am
When I first read this on CapFax my first thought was now who owns whom? Is Rauner the heavier weight on the teeter-totter, or IPI and their backers? The Twitter war between IPI and Illinois Working Together has sure picked up steam, that’s for certain.
Comment by Anon221 Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:07 am
“They can’t make me spend it.” - Governor Junk
Comment by PublicServant Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:10 am
No one was letting Rauner be Rauner. Now he can be his own man and start governin Everything before now; not his fault
Comment by DuPage Saint Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:10 am
Let the bloodbath begin. Many more heads in the Giv’s office will soon roll.
Comment by Whatever Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:15 am
Sorry….”Gov’s office” #covfefe
Comment by Whatever Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:20 am
“They can’t make me spend it.” - Governor Junk
The GA can’t, but Courts can
Comment by Fax Machine Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:27 am
Can we dispense with the ridiculous fiction that Rauner didn’t want the tax hike?
If that were true, he could have sat on it for sixty days and pounded shaky GOP votes with TV, radio and direct mail, the one thing he’s really good at.
Instead, he told lawmakers to stay in town, and vetoed the tax bill before the ink was dry so it could be overriden toot sweet.
Rauner wanted the money, he just didn’t want the blame. The guy’s a phony through and through.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:35 am
Smart, savvy & capable person. Good hire.
The only question is, will the Gov really listen?
Comment by Deft Wing Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:35 am
Its been almost 24 hours, and this is still the most inexplicable move I can remember in a long time.
This is going to be a heck of a political experiment to watch. This is now a full-blown, unapologetic right wing takeover of the Governor’s office. In a blue state that Trump lost by 18 points (?).
As political strategy goes, this strikes me as not being well thought out.
Comment by ILPundit Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:41 am
It’s interesting that Tronc didn’t want to say that Goldberg was fired. Do they now print the Governor’s pr spin in the news section, too?
Also interesting that Katrina was guest-hosting with Proft when he broke the story.
Comment by Keyrock Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:43 am
Everyone should re-read wordslinger’s comment. They are right on point.
Comment by Correct Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:44 am
First we had “Z”, a person who could help Rauner learn governing and learn to get his policies passed.
Then Decatur, the Good Friday Massacre, K-12 only being signed.
Enter Goldberg, the “Wartime Consigliere”, the new tilt to take on Madigan and the Dems to get the Raunerite agenda passed.
Then, constant and brutal campaigning, undermining compromises, hold hostage the chances to save Illinois, and worse, undermine actual governing to the point of taking Illinois to the brink.
It was 16 GOP GA members that had enough.
It was 11 GOP GA members that finally closed the deal.
The destruction of Illinois was never the choosing of Z or Goldberg, but the “CEO” that demanded his wants and “no $&@%^ problems”
Enter Kristina Rassmussen.
This choice is a clear signal that the ILGOP is dead. The consolidation of all things Raunerism is complete.
I dunno how to think on a “Monday” announcement of Rauner changing COS horses (as public announcement).
Things are changing fast now, with a severe right “Raunerite” bend. Indeed, the Right flank, is now totally secured. To the politics after? Will the campaign come back towards the middle after March & how far? Hard to see the president of IPI and the cheerleader of the Draconian Budget that cut everything and had no chance of passing being the catalyst of bringing compromise to this governor.
What won’t change now is “Blame Madigan” 24/7/365 with a COS coming from a “think tank” that sold “Obey” MJM t-shirts. She mirrors Rauner’s thoughts, she’s the person most aligned of the “three” that believes in pure Raunerism.
The big joke in all this and thus move is… If the premise is Proft/Uihlein are independent of Rauner (for argument sake) then Rassmussen taking the helm of Rauner’s Shop… is that… Uihlein and Proft “merging” (business lingo) with both RaunerS and Griffin now… in the actual governing?
Are the TWO political and governmental prongs now just one big glob of Raunerism, owning Executive Branch, ILGOP, IPI, newspapers, radio, and these 5 run all things “Rauner” now?
Is this the death knell of Illinois Republicans… Is this move the “completing”… the final step in Illinois…
… is it really now Raunerites… and Non-Raunerites?
Does hiring Rassmussen mean that it’s Griffin, Uihlein, Diana and Bruce Rauner… versus Illinois?
How can it not be that signal? This move consolidates the power, and why a CEO like Rauner makes this hire.
As a Republican, I have no place to go?
Where do I and the 11/16 GOP GA members go now?
The Illinois Republican Party and the phony existence that it try to have… is over.
Rassmussen completes the demise.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:48 am
Was Goldberg fired or did he leave a sinking ship? There has been a lot of turnover of the Governor’s staff lately. No one wants to be associated with a one term failure. Failure is not a good resume builder.
Comment by A Jack Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 8:56 am
This sure gives some credence to those who have said all along that IPI was a vehicle for Rauner’s true thoughts and that IPI wouldn’t say the things they do without Rauner’s okay.
My guess would be that from here on out, Rauner will build his campaign on that we didn’t need the tax increase - just like IPI advocated - and hide under the rug the he had previously said we needed new revenue as part of a balanced budget.
Comment by Joe M Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:03 am
I’m sick of this governor picking inexperienced people for these high profile positions. It’s why nothing gets done. Rasmussen is great at spin and may be a policy whiz, but what the heck does she know about managing state agencies or 50K employees? Nothing. That’s why he picked her. It’s just sad.
Comment by not again Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:04 am
Word. You are exactly right. This is theater at its finest.
Comment by Blue dog dem Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:04 am
This is becoming a Lemony Snicket’s movie in Illinois government. Both Wordslinger’s and OW’s comment ring true. Just what do and Rauner and the IPI/Proft Band have against the people of this state?
And now I am reading that a majority of Republicans believe higher education has a negative impact on the country, which fits right in with Rauner’s agenda. Living in this state and this country gets creepier and scarier by the day. But I ain’t goin’ anywhere.
Comment by My New Handle Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:05 am
*Rasmussen is believed to be the first female chief of staff on a governor’s team in Illinois history. In the past 30 years, no other female has held such a position in the state.
Um, no. Michelle Saddler held that job in 2010.*
Hey, if you believe it, it must be true. That about sums up our problem.
Comment by Mocking Jay Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:14 am
- Joe M - Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:03 am:
“This sure gives some credence to those who have said all along that IPI was a vehicle for Rauner’s true thoughts and that IPI wouldn’t say the things they do without Rauner’s okay.”
I hope my local news people finally get this and stop using IPI as an unbiased source.
Comment by Jimmy H Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:21 am
In college, many students tilt to the left, some change over time and go to the middle and right but in college, they’re pretty left. There is always a group of “College Republicans” that on most campuses can hold their meetings in the relic phone booths. Those people now form the IPI, they write lots of words and dress the part, but their work is meant to get back at those who dismissed them before.
Comment by OurMagician Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:21 am
Word is spot on. If you don’t want your veto overridden, you don’t veto it seconds after the vote. He sees it as the perfect set up. He gets the revenue, he claims he tried to stop it, and he brings in IPI to shore up that narrative. He thinks he is playing Jedi mind tricks on us.
Comment by Montrose Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:23 am
“I’m sick of this governor picking inexperienced people for these high profile positions. It’s why nothing gets done. Rasmussen is great at spin and may be a policy whiz, but what the heck does she know about managing state agencies or 50K employees? Nothing. That’s why he picked her. It’s just sad.”
With these people it’s all about ideology, nihilism, destruction, and lust for power. Nothing else matters to them.
Comment by Nick Name Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:23 am
The Governor has at times made emotional reactionary decisions, he admitted as much after he vetoed the Chicago pension reform bill. This feels like one of those times.
Comment by The Captain Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:27 am
How long until Bruce describes Kristina as a Superstar?
Comment by Fax Machine Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:29 am
Of course Word is right. He will be proven correct next year when Rep. Jimenez isnt disciplined McCann style.
Comment by GOP Extremist Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:29 am
Rauner wanted the tax hike as long as he got the reforms Illinois needs to compete with our neighbors in the Midwest.
Why does Illinois lead the nation in outward migration? Because our weather is worse than our neighbors? Did it just start 2 1/2 years ago or about 2001?
How many times does he have to say it? Leaving that part out is just flat out dishonest Wordslinger. Or you could say a phony argument though and through.
You have said no one is saying all that is needed is a tax increase but that is essentially what the GA voted on, very little else.
If you think that raising taxes is all that is need for prosperity you are sadly mistaken.
Comment by Lucky Pierre Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:32 am
GOP - sorry to burst your bubble but I highly doubt that Rauner and the ILGOP will primary every HRO member who voted in favor of the tax hike. Steve Andersson is a maybe given what he did in going above Leader Durkin’s head, but with Rauner being up for reelection and possibly running against J.B. Pritzker there is no way he spends $10+ million in the HGOP primaries. McCann was a one-off in a year when Rauner was not on the ballot and there were few other races of consequence.
Comment by Curl of the Burl Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:34 am
===Rauner wanted the tax hike as long as he got the reforms Illinois needs to compete with our neighbors in the Midwest.===
This only works if Rauner’s own budget didn’t require a tax increase.
It’s not up for discussion. It’s not up for debate.
A revenue increase was required by every budgetary model except Kristina Rassmussen’s IPI model.
You can’t have a requirment be a “give”.
Doesn’t work that way. Ever.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:37 am
You people that say Rauner played games and wanted his veto overridden. I’m not sure and it might not be true. If he held that bill for any a few days we would have been downgraded to junk and it would of been all his fault. I think he wanted to avoid it being his fault by getting that bill off his desk right away.
Comment by Real Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:39 am
Rauner probably wanted to avoid being downgraded to junk status while the budget bill sat on his desk. This is why he did a veto right away.
Comment by Real Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:43 am
Rasmussen signals full destruction mode. If you can’t get what you want, then you destroy it to make the future environment fertile for take over. I think this is Rauner’s objective, somewhat simplified. It will take years for Illinois to recover…people have short memories.
Comment by Jimmy H Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:44 am
Except every other budget has required horse trading and bipartisan compromise. Every single one had these trade offs
Reform is a requirement. Why is it a give for Democrats to support economic development? Do no democrats work in the private sector?
Does the manufacturing industry just employ Republicans?
Are you trying to argue this was the first time supposed non budget issues were negotiated as part of a budget?
Are you also saying pensions, workmans comp etc. have nothing to do with the budget?
Apparently it has always worked that way but you have a short memory or a willful disregard of history.
Do you really think now that the budget is over the reforms will be negotiated in good faith?
That is what the Speaker told us. I am sure you believe him.
Comment by Lucky Pierre Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:44 am
Never interfere on your enemies path of self-destruction says Mike Madigan has he’s eating his Apple
Comment by Porgy Tirebiter Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:44 am
It’s back to the drawing board for the gov. He’s thinking, “one day I’ll get this right”.
Comment by Flynn's mom Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:45 am
==I hope my local news people finally get this and stop using IPI as an unbiased source.==
Your local news just got bought by Sinclair.
Comment by TinyDancer(FKASue) Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:51 am
“Reform” is not a requirement.
Comment by Ajjacksson Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:51 am
===Except every other budget has required horse trading and bipartisan compromise. Every single one had these trade offs===
No. Good try thou.
Again, no trade off can occur for a required element. Something required, that has no leverage for a want.
===Reform is a requirement.===
Nope. Sorry.
Find “reforms” in any budget, accounting, or transactional glossary for making a budget.
You can’t. Your ignorance on this has been noted time and time again. The rest of the drivel filling that is just sad spin.
===Are you trying to argue this was the first time supposed non budget issues were negotiated as part of a budget?===
Keep up. Required elements are not up for horse trading. It never ever works that way. A required element “revenue”, an accounting vocabulary and recognized term was required.
===Are you also saying pensions, workmans comp etc. have nothing to do with the budget?===
No matter any of all changes to any possible savings or changes, they would never overtake the requirement of revenue. Math tells me so. Rauner’s own math told me so.
===Do you really think now that the budget is over the reforms will be negotiated in good faith?
That is what the Speaker told us. I am sure you believe him.===
We’ll see. I dunno.
I do know we needed a budget with revenues covering the cost.
Rauner vetoed a budget.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:52 am
From the Uncommon Knowledge interview:
Bruce Rauner: You know what? We’re going to get it done. Peter, the reason we’re going to succeed is the biggest changes we’re driving have nothing to do with the General Assembly, nothing to do with any votes inside Springfield. What we’ve done, I signed an executive order my first month in office. I said, “If you’re in a union in my administrator and you don’t want to be, you don’t have to be, and you don’t have to pay any of the dues,” We got sued. We’re in Federal Court. We are heading with that lawsuit to the US Supreme Court this September. Nothing to do with any of the budget. Nothing to do with any of the reform agenda in the legislature. We are going to be in front of the Supreme Court, and there is more than a 90% odds that we win that case.
Those first two sentences sum up the Rauner/IPI/Liberty Justice strategy. Illinois is a tool, nothing more, and Rauner is going to make sure he uses it until it breaks. People like Andersson stand in his way and he will remind them what happens to “problems” unless the People of Illinois “veto” Rauner.
http://www.hoover.org/research/budget-crisis-land-lincoln
Comment by Anon221 Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:55 am
So a former Breitbart writer is Rauner’s CoS?
LOL, tell me again how it’s so hard and unfair to connect Rauner to Trump.
Comment by Arsenal Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 9:59 am
Dear Illinois,
If I can’t have you, nobody will.
Love,
Bruce
Comment by TinyDancer(FKASue) Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:01 am
You “dunno” if the Speaker will follow through on his commitment to work cooperatively and professionally on the reforms he agrees are necessary. If you haven’t figured that out by now you are not paying attention.
Why don’t you believe the Speaker? I thought everything was the Governor’s fault.
No pension reform is required in either Chicago or the state even though Moody’s pegs the unfunded liability for the state at 250 billion?
Even the Speaker admits they are unsustainable.
You actually believe the new revenues will cover the cost of this budget?
Nothing has been done to change the long term trajectory of the state or encourage any private sector job creation.
And I am the one who is willfully ignorant?
Comment by Lucky Pierre Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:04 am
What are you all complaining about? She’s perfect because she “loves liberty”! How can that be bad? Amirite?
Comment by Jibba Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:05 am
Good. God. and I don’t mean that in a god is good way. the IPI has done some pretty out there things recently. now the show is invited into the people’s structure. ok, then. you own it.
Comment by Amalia Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:05 am
LP
Rauners reforms won’t help anyone but him. How can you talk about term limits without mentioning campaign finance reform?
Comment by Real Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:08 am
Campaign finance reform will help more than any reform Rauner talks about. As long as he can buy elections is his main concern and why you support someone like that is beyond me.
Comment by Real Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:10 am
===You “dunno” if the Speaker will follow through on his commitment to work cooperatively and professionally on the reforms he agrees are necessary.===
No. I don’t know. Saying I know either way isn’t truthful.
===If you haven’t figured that out by now you are not paying attention.===
Madigan has a long record of cooperative work in advancing legislation… with required structured roll calls. Rauner has a … limited… history.
===Why don’t you believe the Speaker? I thought everything was the Governor’s fault.===
Saying I don’t know also identifies the “new” normal with a staff shakeup by Rauner. I dunno how any dynamic will play out yet. If you do, that’s not very truthful.
===pension reform is required in either Chicago or the state even though Moody’s pegs the unfunded liability for the state at 250 billion?===
… but not required in the budgetary process. So there’s that.
===You actually believe the new revenues will cover the cost of this budget?===
Then Rauner should again hold up the state and say that it’s unconstitutional, and stop funding to his agencies. Why won’t Rauner?
===Nothing has been done to change the long term trajectory of the state or encourage any private sector job creation.
And I am the one who is willfully ignorant?===
When it comes to a budget, yes, willfull ignorance.
The idea(s) of reform outside the budgetary requirements? Ignoring 60 and 30 as you do says more than I can, lol
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:12 am
IPI=Rauner. Rauner=IPI. Add in a dash of Breitbart and you have “Pure Raunerism”.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:15 am
The most amusing fantasy is that Goldberg chose to leave. Is that why his assistant got canned on the same day?
Comment by Daniel Plainview Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:19 am
===pension reform is required in either Chicago or the state even though Moody’s pegs the unfunded liability for the state at 250 billion?===
… but not required in the budgetary process. So there’s that.
Moody’s disagrees with you Oswego Willy. I guess this is not part of a personal agenda after all.
“So far, the plan appears to lack concrete measures that will materially improve Illinois’ long-term capacity to address its unfunded pension liabilities”
https://www.moodys.com/research/Moodys-Places-Illinois-GO-and-Related-Ratings-Under-Review-for–PR_904088987
It appears the Speaker will not accept reality when confronted by a Republican Governor.
He will have to confront reality from a ratings agency like Moody’s.
Comment by Lucky Pierre Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:38 am
Hey LP…
List your specific reforms. Give me a real estimate of how much they will save (no magic beans, please!). Convince me, and I’ll help them pass. But don’t hold the state budget hostage as a “horse trade” for a bunch of politically motivated nonsense. There! That’s how to get bipartisan reform! Next lesson?
Comment by Jibba Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:40 am
=Rauner wanted the tax hike as long as he got the reforms Illinois needs to compete with our neighbors in the Midwest.=
Why do we want to “compete” when we are already ringing their collective bells? Go check latest GDP numbers.
We are leading. You need to catch up.
Comment by JS Mill Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:41 am
===Moody’s disagrees with you Oswego Willy. I guess this is not part of a personal agenda after all.
“So far, the plan appears to lack concrete measures that will materially improve Illinois’ long-term capacity to address its unfunded pension liabilities”===
lol…
Rauner told me… and you… not to listen to Moody’s.
If you’d like, I’ll show you where.
So, are you saying Rauner is wrong too… or…
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:42 am
Wow thanks JS Mill for explaining that Illinois is the biggest state in the Midwest.
I guess we don’t have to be competitive after all despite the fact we lead the nation in outward migration.
Do you own an ostrich farm?
Comment by Lucky Pierre Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:44 am
Illinois Policy Institute = State Policy Network = Americans for Prosperity = ALEC = Koch Brothers = Franklin Center for Government and Public Integrity = Rauner
Promoters of failed laissez-faire policies and trickle down economics in New Jersey, Louisiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, and in the Koch brothers home state of Kansas.
Basically it’s a make the wealthy richer reverse pyramid scheme
Comment by Chicago 20 Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:45 am
===Nothing has been done to change the long term trajectory of the state or encourage any private sector job creation.–
LP- Rauner had 2 1/2 years to invigorate/staff empower DCEO, HIS agency charged with private sector job creation and stimulating the economy.
Did he do this? No he drained and starved DCEO.
All to create a P3 public private partnership. To siphon off funds in a non FIOA way
Intersect Illinois never got 501c3 status to operate as a P3
Operating Illegally!
But look at the corporate welfare in EDGE alone
Rauner is a master of corruption
It is a husk
Comment by Promachoi Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:48 am
The one thing no informed person in good conscience can deny is that until now, Rauner has had an excellent staff headed by Z. and then Goldberg–far better than Quinn’s. They have been organized, coordinated (very much unlike Quinn’s), hard-working, and responsive to agencies, with results not ideology in the forefront.
Comment by Quiet Sage Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:51 am
Would it be correct to assume that with the appointment of Rasmussen, the Koch/ALEC/IPI/Rauner/Brietbart control over the Illinois Governor’s Office is now complete? If so, do Republicans in Illinois see this as an effective strategy going forward? I see is as in indication that there will be no FY2019 budget, leading to a Republican loss of the Executive in 2019.
Comment by Robert J Hironimus-Wendt Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 10:53 am
Long Live Princess Perfidy
Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 11:03 am
Chicago 20
Illinois has the highest middle class tax burden in the US
Brought to you by the Illinois Democrstic Machine who are ignoring the highest property and sales taxes in America
Who is to blame for that reverse pyramid again?
Comment by Lucky Pierre Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 11:09 am
OW. I feel you republican angst. I left the party years ago. You can do the same.
Comment by Generic Drone Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 11:11 am
“If you think that raising taxes is all that is need for prosperity you are sadly mistaken.”
Fortunately, he explicitly said otherwise.
– MrJM
Comment by @MisterJayEm Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 11:12 am
OW you can be the new 2/5
Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 11:13 am
She’s like the Steve Bannon of the state, except doesn’t look like Steve Bannon.
Comment by Winnin' Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 11:13 am
“Rauner wanted the money, he just didn’t want the blame.”
It makes complete sense. I agree with the comment.
Now hopefully Rauner will drop any public pretenses that he’s not at war, and any phony posturing that he wants unity.
The phony working class clothing, props and affectations can go too, now, but I’m not counting on it. Plenty of working class conservatives to keep foolin’.
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 11:14 am
It is a *very* rare day when I agree with Prof H-W, but he makes an excellent point at 10:53.
Comment by Flapdoodle Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 11:20 am
LP - “Illinois has the highest middle class tax burden in the US”
Glad to see that you support an Illinois progressive income tax Lucky.
Comment by Chicago 20 Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 11:24 am
- Generic Drone -, Honeybear -…
I’m with Edgar, I’m with the likes of Kasich, McCain, Graham…
… I’m with the “Brave 15″, “The Perfect 10″… I’m with Sen. Righter.
The GOP isn’t my religion, but I do owe it to the 15, the 10, Sen. Righter… Gov. Edgar… to be there as one of those refusing Raunerism to get to the “Reagan 80% Rule”
Raunerism has never been about the Reagan Rule.
Thanks to you both. I get it, I do.
There are still some left that need to know that doing what’s right, people like me will have their back in the GOP.
Fair?
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 11:29 am
This is awesome. Any time you force staff to read management style books it’s a sure sign that the manager has no idea what they are doing. It’s a sign that they want it their way or else. Perfect for fascism. It’s all campaigning now.
With no achievements, campaigning can be a challenge
Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 11:52 am
=Do you own an ostrich farm?=
No, but I hear they taste great.
What I can do is read economic data unlike you and the rest of the Raunerites.
Economically, we are outpacing our neighbors. So, not only are we “competitive” but we are winning.
But I guess you have to look for something to complain about. FYI- it isn’t a population competition. If it was, Nevada and Arizona would be crushing California. But, it isn’t. California is crushing it economically with one of the highest tax structures in the nation.
Math is not your friend.
Comment by JS Mill Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 1:04 pm
Curl-
=I highly doubt that Rauner and the ILGOP will primary every HRO member who voted for the tax hike=
I agree, They took the arrows for the Governor, why would he want damage loyal soldiers?
Comment by GOP Extremist Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 1:04 pm
–Rauner wanted the tax hike as long as he got the reforms…
Uh huh.
Strange then, that Rauner used none of the enormous powers of his office or political machine to defeat the override vote.
Rauner could have put a brick on the bill for sixty days. For two full months, Rauner could have barnstormed the state, sicced the troncs, Proft and IPI and rained down a multi-million-dollar media campaign against the override.
Sixty days — that’s a full 20 days more than your typical Old Testament style wrath.
But he didn’t do any of that.
Instead he issued a public plea to lawmakers to stay in town in anticipation of a veto override vote.
Dude, that is the same as an explicit request to override his veto.
LP, when your position is completely outside the realm of facts or reason, perhaps you should give it another think.
Or maybe you’re just piddlin’ on our shoes and tellin’ us it’s rainin’.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 2:44 pm
I feel like Rauner is turning into Colonel Kurtz in Apocalypse Now. Just living in his fairgrounds house rambling on about Madigan, Madigan Madigan.
Comment by don the legend Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 2:50 pm
=Or maybe you’re just piddlin’ on our shoes and tellin’ us it’s rainin’.=
Pretty sure it is that one….
Comment by JS Mill Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 2:57 pm
So, I wonder if they will all opt out of the state pension and benefits they (IPI) think should be slashed?
Comment by FormerDownstateHack Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 3:50 pm
Did the stationary nut pen his own resignation
Comment by Rabid Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 4:59 pm
“Rauner signals war with new chief of staff”
Harbingers of more veto overrides?
Comment by Huh? Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 6:10 pm
–”Rauner signals war with new chief of staff”–
Strange headline. The last two years were peace?
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jul 11, 17 @ 6:12 pm