Fighting Corruption

Every day seems to bring more news of corruption and cronyism in Illinois politics. From Rod Blagojevich’s attempt to sell Barack Obama’s senate seat to politicians using their clout to get unqualified students into the University of Illinois, everything in Illinois seems to be rigged against working people without political connections.  Some corporations are even afraid to do business in Illinois due to concerns about procurement ethics in Springfield.

As your state representative, I will fight to make Illinois government work for everyone and not just the politically connected.  I understand the frustrations so many feel as they watch their tax dollars fund the lifestyles of politicians and their friends, and I believe we must fully execute the recommendations of the Illinois Reform Commission.

Illinois’ overly permissive campaign finance laws allow wealthy individuals and organizations to have undue influence on policy.  The campaign finance reform bill that Governor Quinn signed is a good start to put Illinois on the right track to clean elections, but more needs to be done.  I support stricter limits on campaign contributions, particularly from party leaders during the primary process.  Voters should choose their candidates, not politicians in Springfield.

The state procurement process must also be reformed.  Government contracts are frequently awarded to organizations with political connections, rather than going to businesses that will do a better job or cost less money.  “Pay for play” politics must end.  Illinois needs a transparent and independent office of procurement, separate from the political process. Taxpayer money should not line the pockets of Springfield politicians or their friends.

Politicians also abuse the redistricting process to secure their positions or hurt their political opponents.  I support the creation of a non-partisan commission to draw legislative boundaries instead of the General Assembly, and legislation to prohibit incumbency and political affiliation as criteria in the mapping process.