Wednesday, July 8, 2009
News / Clout City The most popular politician in Illinois
Posted by Mick Dumke on 07.08.09 at 06:49 PM
So that answers that question.
At a press conference this afternoon, Lisa Madigan professed her love for her family, the people of Illinois, and her current gig as state attorney general while announcing that she plans to run for re-election next year—instead of making the high-percentage bid for governor or senator that most of the rest of the world expected.
“I can’t express how honored I am that others would consider me for either of these positions,” she said before a room of supporters and reporters in the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers. “But I know that for now the best way for me to continue serving the people of Illinois is to continue doing the job that I love. And there is plenty to do.”
Upon questioning, Madigan said that she’d solicited advice and opinions from lots of people but ultimately decided that it was best for her family and the state if she tried to remain AG. In other words, she didn’t want to commute to Washington, and the state government is such a mess—in part, some of us would say, because of her father, House speaker Mike Madigan—that it made more sense to wait four years and see what’s up then.
“Life is long,” she said when asked about the possibility that she’ll go for the governor’s mansion down the road. “This is my decision now.”
Fair enough. But the main question I had as I listened to her—one she wasn’t capable of answering herself—was: why, exactly, is she considered the most popular politician in Illinois?
It’s not because of her remarkable public charisma or the way she can inspire a crowd.
“The progress we have made and the work that can still be done have been foremost on my mind…"
Snooze.
"With your continued support, I promise to keep making a difference..."
Snore.
"AG doesn’t always stand for ‘aspiring governor.’”
Well, that’s a little better.
In 2002, during her first campaign for attorney general, opponents and commentators raised questions about Madigan’s limited experience as a practicing lawyer and politician. Many others were openly skeptical of her independence, given the fact that her father traded in favors, twisted arms, and mobilized troops to ensure her victory.
Since then, though, she’s impressed people by not being what many of them feared.
Critics charge—not unfairly—that Madigan hasn’t been aggressive enough in pursuing political corruption or seeking justice for victims of police torture. But most voters appear to notice that she’s young, articulate, energetic, and decent. She’s led those always-popular crackdowns on sex offenders, defective toys, and scam artists. She’s sought better open government laws and sued unscrupulous mortgage lenders. And best of all, she hasn’t been indicted.
“I promise those of you looking for leaders who will restore honesty and integrity to Illinois government, I will continue to fight for you,” Madigan said this afternoon.
That’s not quite the same as promising to be one of those leaders yourself, but around here it’s enough to be freaking golden.
Comments (16)
Showing 1-16 of 16
impressed people? What has she done? This State is the most corrupt in the Union. She has to take part of the blame , because the AG is supposed to police some of the corruption, especially when it comes to consumers. Moat people are scared to go to her with a cpmplaint for fear her father will find out and come after them. She is a tool and is not running, because her father still wants the lime light. mick you are starting to fall for her bull-shit. look at her Committee reports, she has over $3,000,000.00 in her kick from all clout heavy donars.Donars that are a conflict of interest. She like most Dems in the State need to be removed with a new group. not the same old names.
like
dislike
How do we know she is not following the orders from Obama from there last meeting and they want the greek, Gianoulos.
She get's to keep her job prosecuting corruption in the state of IL? She wants no part in the Gov or Sen race because her polling numbers were low, so she doesn't want to fight a losing battle good move on her part.
C'mon, Mick, even the coppers have figured out why lisa ain't giving up that sweet AG gig: http://secondcitycop.blogspot.com/2009/07/not-now-lisa.html It's all about keeping the thieves safe from prosecution.
Coconut, What we need to get rid of are loudmouth,ex-city hacks like you and sewer boy who spew venom and libel and slander others while you try to feather your own nests. Try working for a living, scumbag.
Some of us are tired of the political dynasties that have developed in this state. We question if it is healthy for all of us. Are they still working for us or only for the power?
I have a possible theory it may be called John Harris. Lisa Lisa did not protect the Constitutional right of Citizens . No enforcement of the open meetings laws. Maybe since Former City Budget Director John Harris may open the flood gates,on the scum,that rule this city and State.
Coconate sente l'odore di come il gas di fogna e bagna in esso, con tutta la sporcizia.
Bill, The Democratic/Oufit did get rid of me, the only problem is everyhting I said came true. Madigan, Daley, Joyce, Degnan, Sheehan and Hynes have made this the most corrupt state in the Union at the taxpayers expense. They have drained all the money for themselves and now it has finally caught up with them. The people of Il. want to know why the US Attorney arrest everyone BUT these Mobsters. Good may finally overcome Evil...
Evil, Coconut. Masquerading as a do-gooder, But putting on a show with some ACTUALLY legitimate issues. And COVERING UP for your LOSER Bensenville pet Geils, Saying that there's NOTHING WRONG with raising taxes & increasing government officials' salaries. Hey Coconut, Whether it's Daley or Geils, They're BOTH in the WRONG for raising taxes & increasing government officials' salaries. Or IS it JUST your "I'm Right, You're wrong" attitude?.
"Who is the asshole at the Reader fucking up the RSS feed?" FGFM
Mr. Potty Mouth is long overdue to have his mouth washed out with soap.
"Mr. Potty Mouth is long overdue to have his mouth washed out with soap."
Tell me about it.
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-BjwderhvrM/S6yw…
