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* Today is the first Metropolitan Water Reclamation District board meeting since former Rep. Ken Dunkin was appointed by Gov. Bruce Rauner. Rauner called on Dunkin to resign yesterday after Tim Mapes whistleblower Sherri Garrett said Dunkin told her and another woman “I want to take both of you home and see which one will be the naughtiest.” Dunkin had quite the reputation in the House, and not exactly a pristine one, either. From yesterday…
Actually, I think your question is more important now.
— Rich Miller (@capitolfax) June 6, 2018
If there’s an availability I can get to, you bet I’ll be asking.
— Hannah Meisel (@hannahmeisel) June 6, 2018
* Today…
FYI Ken Dunkin just walked into the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District board meeting. Gov. Rauner on Wednesday asked him to resign from board. Hearing he’s fighting it.
— Tina Sfondeles (@TinaSfon) June 7, 2018
Word is that he’s throwing a party for himself after the meeting.
*** UPDATE *** Dunkin talked to reporters today and called Sherri Garrett’s allegations “100 percent baseless.” He said he had talked to Gov. Rauner and that Rauner had asked him to resign, but said “I’m not resigning”…
Ken Dunkin says he talked to Rauner and the governor asked him to resign. He repeatedly called Sherri Garrett's accusations "baseless." pic.twitter.com/FqTfvOgPpV
— Amanda Vinicky (@AmandaVinicky) June 7, 2018
…Adding… Statement from Dr. Shundar Lin, at-large candidate for MWRD…
Mr. Dunkin’s refusal to resign in the face of these grave accusations is an insult to his accusers, taxpayers, and those he claims to represent. It is troubling Mr. Dunkin was even considered for this position. No matter the position, board or elected office, we should aspire to the highest standards and that is what I will bring as a member of the MWRD.
posted by Rich Miller
Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:46 am
Sorry, comments are closed at this time.
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Well that’s completely and totally expected.
Comment by Ron Burgundy Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:50 am
Is it a pocket square party?
Comment by Exclamation Point Deleted Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:51 am
===Word is that he’s throwing a party for himself after the meeting.===
Raunerites…
He’s all yours. Congratulations.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:51 am
===Word is that he’s throwing a party for himself after the meeting.===
Ken Dunkin is his own biggest fan. He’ll probably ask himself for an autograph.
Comment by Cubs in '16 Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:52 am
Ken is president of his fan club.
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:54 am
This is one of the posts I need to learn how to use a .gif for.
Comment by Kyle Hillman Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:54 am
Maybe Obama will make an appearance and tell him to “sit down”.
Comment by Cubs in '16 Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:54 am
Did he walk in with his sleeping bag?
Comment by Michelle Flaherty Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:56 am
“Mr. Paychecks McPocket Square” ain’t going anywhere. He relishes the spotlight. This will be fun to watch but for all the wrong reasons.
Comment by Baggs McCoy Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:56 am
==Ken is president of his fan club.==
Thought that was Maze?
Comment by Lester Holt’s Mustache Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:56 am
==Gov. Rauner on Wednesday asked him to resign from board.==
Bruce should have a serious talk with whoever appointed him. /s
Comment by Jocko Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:57 am
I take it back. It will be a slumber party with his trusty red sleeping bag.
Comment by Exclamation Point Deleted Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:57 am
=he’s throwing a party for himself=
By himself. That way, he’ll be surrounded by the people who love him best.
Comment by Colin O'Scopy Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:58 am
For those reporters who wish to ask Rauner a question. From Article V of the Illinois Constitution:
SECTION 10. GOVERNOR - REMOVALS
The Governor may remove for incompetence, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office any officer who may be appointed by the Governor.
(Source: Illinois Constitution.)
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 10:59 am
=any officer=
I don’t believe the definition of “officer” extends to vacancy appointments to elected offices. But who knows? Worth a shot.
Comment by Colin O'Scopy Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:01 am
360 D,
I think that only applies to officers of the Executive Branch.
Comment by Baggs McCoy Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:03 am
Sad to say that I don’t see how Mr. Dunkin’s loutish behavior rises to the ‘Removal…” stipulations that 360 Degree shared with us. Unless I’m reading it wrong, the malfeasance must occur in the office in which the governor appointed him. Please relieve my angst and tell me if I’m wrong, but it appears the gov’s hands may be tied.
Comment by Violet Seepage Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:06 am
protest. someone please arrange.
Comment by Amalia Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:08 am
They should take away the power of the Governor to appoint to fill MWRD vacancies. A 9 member board can survive with 7 or 8 members until the next election. Vacancies should go unfilled (like for Lieutenant Governor) until the next election
Comment by Grand Avenue Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:11 am
===Word is that he’s throwing a party for himself after the meeting.===
Well he’s still got a lot of Bruce Rauner’s cash in his campaign account so I’d expect it to be a swanky affair.
Comment by 47th Ward Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:13 am
Colin and Baggs,
I don’t know enough about the term officer to answer. It is worth asking the governor’s office for their interpretation. And Violet, I would agree with your interpretation. Dunkin is going to be a millstone on Rauner.
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:14 am
MWRD President Mariyana Spyropoulos just made a statement during the meeting regarding the Dunkin allegations. Dunkin responded by saying they’re baseless and politically motivated. Of course he did.
Comment by TopHatMonocle Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:16 am
With respect to the awkward position that this puts the govenorr in, I am reminded of the folktale that ends with the line “You knew I was a snake when you picked me up.”
Comment by Cog Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:16 am
In Ken Dunkin’s defense, Rauner knew that Dunkin had a history of abusive treatment toward women when he appointed him.
And even if he did not know about this particular incident, according to the victim the incident was properly adjudicated and addressed by Madigan.
To Dunkin, it seems like double jeopardy, and it is a fine argument.
But as i pointed out on another thread, these are extrajudicial proceedings.
Comment by Juvenal Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:20 am
Too bad the District board is so small, otherwise he could start a new Century Club.
Comment by Give Me A Break Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:24 am
It would be interesting to see if MWRD has any sexual harassment training that Dunkin had to go through.
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:27 am
How are harassment complaints handled at MWRD?
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:29 am
It’s another sad, embarrassing day for Illinois. I’m not surprised. How will Rauner put a spin on Dunkin not resigning?
Comment by Flynn's Mom Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:30 am
Of course he won’t step down. He is owed this freebie I’m his mind.
We will find out how serious Rauner was about stepping down based on his actions now. Just waiting for the Rauner Party/GOP outrage statements. I won’t hold my breath.
Comment by JS Mill Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:30 am
I see the law suit coming, it’s rolling round the bend…
Comment by Handicapper Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:31 am
Upon review of Article V, and particularly sections 9 and 10, if I were wearing robes I would find it only applies to Executive Branch appointments, especially given Article V is “Executive.”
Comment by Ron Burgundy Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:32 am
It must be awesome to not have any shame. I’m jealous.
Comment by Ben Gazzara Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:32 am
This is karma in action.
J.B. says: thanks, ken!
Comment by Macbeth Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:37 am
Throwing a party? Reminiscent of Billy Ray Valentine after the Duke boys gave him a sweet job.
Ken always did like the movies.
Comment by Henry Francis Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:54 am
If the accusations are “baseless”, then why did Tim Mapes resign?
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 11:59 am
I mean come on folks, is anyone surprised at Dunkins refusal to do the right thing?
Comment by Board Watcher Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:01 pm
I think a FOIA request of all documents related to Ken Dunkin’s appointment to MWRD would be in order.
Comment by 360 Degree TurnAround Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:01 pm
Whom do you believe, Sherri Garrett or Ken Dunkin?
I’d love to see that question brought to the House floor — Ken would get another “Century Award” from his former colleagues. (100 votes against).
Comment by walker Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:04 pm
Garrett’s name is popping up everywhere, even on the metal detector Kenny D has to walk through. Not a good omen for him.
Comment by Anon Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:07 pm
“I’m not in charge” - Bruce Rauner.
Rauner shoulda put Dunkin up in his apartment in Manhattan with an expense account thru 2020. Would be politically cheaper?
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:08 pm
Best part of the video…George Blakemore.
Comment by view from the cheap seats Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:14 pm
Why should Dunkin listen to Rauner. Remember that Rauner is not in charge.
Comment by Norseman Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:16 pm
We need more women in office and in positions of power at every level, both parties, period.
Comment by Albany Park Patriot Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:25 pm
Rauner did say that he wasn’t in charge and Dunkin decided to prove it.
Comment by Aldyth Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:32 pm
==And Violet, I would agree with your interpretation. Dunkin is going to be a millstone on Rauner.==
Why in the world would either of you think that? Any voter who pays enough attention to state politics to even know who Ken Dunkin is won’t back Rauner anyway. And those willing to back GovJunk at this point either won’t care or will fall in line. Orgs will fall in line too, Rauner got the CoC to back Dunkin even though their rating of him was like 25%. Not a peep was heard from any of the members. Wishful thinking to say dunk is a millstone.
Comment by Lester Holt’s Mustache Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:35 pm
Rauner pinned a donkey on is tail
Comment by Rabid Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:36 pm
Finally, Dunkin is helping the democrats.
Comment by Trapped in the 'burbs Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:37 pm
What will it take for KD to pack it in ? ” I’ll take Manhattan the Bronx and Staten Isle “
Comment by Digger O'Dell Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:43 pm
To the update- that video is priceless and is sure to pay dividends for the Pritzker campaign if they are on their game.
Here is what I really do not understand, the Raunerites and far right like Ives have been all over Madigan (he earned it without a doubt in my opinion) but crickets here. Is this the new consrvativism in the Trump mode? The hypocrisy is obvious to everyone, why not jump on this? Politically it is a winner, but it seems they just cannot do it, including some of the people who regularly comment here.
I am not saying Madigan is handling things well, totally the opposite. He needs to go and that has been true for a long time. This seems like the issue that could force him out. But the GOP just doesn’t seem to be interested in handling business and has it ever been more apparent that Rauner is as ethically corrupt as any politician? He appointed Dunkin, who was ostensibly a self serving member of the ILDP to a cake position and of course there were many issues with him and now he cannot get rid of him? Sheesh, just not in charge at all.
Comment by JS Mill Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:45 pm
“360_Degree_TurnAround@11:59, come on, even if Mapes was innocent (highly unlikely) he would have been “directed” to resign. Don’t be intentionally obtuse.
Comment by Perrid Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 12:49 pm
Digger O’Dell @ 12:43:
Just don’t ask for baubles, bangles and bright, shiny beads; you’ll be laying yourself wide open for another phone call…
Comment by Northsider Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 1:06 pm
@ Northsider 1:06 —
Yes — a Stan Freeberg reference
Comment by Flapdoodle Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 1:16 pm
Happy to see at least one candidate with strong moral ethics, thanks for speaking up Dr. Lin.
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 1:19 pm
=“I want to take both of you home and see which one will be the naughtiest.” Dunkin had quite the reputation in the House, and not exactly a pristine one, either. From yesterday…=
This is the company the “Because Madigan” Raunerites keep.
Comment by Duopoly (Not blocked lately) Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 1:38 pm
MWRD Board of Commissioners are trying to decide what to do with their Executive Director, David St. Piere, who has also been accused of harassment and other shenanigans. He has been placed on leave for now.
Comment by Jbender Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 2:06 pm
Rauner knew of Dunkin’s bad history with women before he gave him his appointment just a few weeks ago. Now he’s asking him to resign. I guess the appointment was a bad decision. This Governor has made a lot of bad decisions.
Comment by The Dude Abides Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 2:11 pm
When is the fundraiser for Dr. Lin? He might be a little busier…
Comment by Ok Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 2:18 pm
Is Ken Dunkin considered part of the Best Team in America?
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 2:28 pm
I used to have Dunkin at the top of my pool for legislators most likely to be next indicted. He should probably just be center square at the MWRD.
Comment by Rasselas Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 2:32 pm
Gov. Rauner’s unholy alliance with this guy is a jacket he’ll have to wear for the election, and deservedly so.
Comment by Stumpy's bunker Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 2:41 pm
Hit me with your best shot!
Fire away!
Comment by Smitty Irving Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 3:02 pm
Kenny is glad his name came up. Puts a big old spotlight on him.
You can see in the video he loves this.
Comment by DuPage Bard Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 3:29 pm
=The hypocrisy is obvious to everyone, why not jump on this? Politically it is a winner, but it seems they just cannot do it, including some of the people who regularly comment here.=
I think they just don’t care (maybe just speaking for myself), especially with the Mapes stuff and foaming at the mouth over Madigan.
The MWRD is just one more board, commission, panel, etc… How many people paid attention to it before the news of the appointment? Plus, the positions are elected and one would assume he’ll be out then at the latest.
If he was still a lawmaker they’d be all over it. If he was part of Rauner’s administration and Rauner could fire him, they’d be all over it. Rauner asked him to resign. That’s the end of the recourse from Rauner’s end. Maybe the board has a way to kick him off, but that’s out of Rauner’s hands.
Comment by m Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 4:02 pm
===that’s out of Rauner’s hands.===
“Bruce Rauner, Governor, That’s Out of Rauner’s Hands.”
Explains the last 3 1/2 years perfectly, and Rauner’s gross negligence too.
Never thought Ken Dunkin was such a big metaphor.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 4:07 pm
=I think they just don’t care (maybe just speaking for myself)=
So, when it comes to sexual harassment, you just don’t care and maybe the rest of the GOP/Raunerite faithful feel the same way.
Makes for a good commercial.
=“Bruce Rauner, Governor, That’s Out of Rauner’s Hands.”
Explains the last 3 1/2 years perfectly, and Rauner’s gross negligence too.
Never thought Ken Dunkin was such a big metaphor.=
Restaurant quality right there.
Comment by JS Mill Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 4:42 pm
The governor could call special session tomorrow to insert language into the act allowing any gubernatorial appointment to be rescinded within 60 days.
If he was serious.
Comment by Yellow Dog Democrat Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 5:11 pm
Was there any reason for Rauner to select Dunkin in the first place, other than quid pro quo payback for his House votes?
Comment by wordslinger Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 5:34 pm
== “What makes Ken Dunkin qualified for the Water Reclamation job?”==
Because Hannah. “Water is Naughty”
Comment by A guy Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 5:43 pm
My partner &I (both female)were at the Capitol lobbying for civilian unions a few years back. We were standing in line to be admitted into the rotunda when Ken Durkin passed by. He stopped and remarked he was all for civil unions- especially for women because he liked watching two women together. The tone and inflection made it clear he was referring to sex. I was shocked he’d be so bold & in front of so many people. We did not complain because we needed every vote to get the civil union bill passed. He’s a lying pig.
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 6:53 pm
^ civil unions- not civilian unions & Ken DUNKIN not Durkin. My anger got the best of me. BTW Ken- you should probably resign now before more of us go on the record.
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 6:56 pm
He’s a Lame Dunkin. Highly doubt he will win a seat on MWRD after his appointed to term ends this year. One more failure for Dunkin’s portfolio.
Comment by Anon221 Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 7:19 pm
Meanwhile, the failure-in-chief giftwrapped JB’s response ads on MJM’s #metoo issues…
Comment by Joe Bidenopolous Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 7:19 pm
Yo - Lester Holt’s Mustache -
You think the Rauner/Trump base is going to be accepting of the “governor’s” appointment of a black man from Chicago who sexually harassed a white woman? If so, let me tell you about this sweet bridge I have for sale….
Comment by Joe Bidenopolous Thursday, Jun 7, 18 @ 7:26 pm
Rauner thought he was less offensive
Comment by Rabid Friday, Jun 8, 18 @ 8:23 am