A highlight of the day was normally taciturn House Speaker Mike Madigan leading the crowd in some call & response questions. After the break, Madigan's speech as transcribed by Capitol Fax. I support the union cause; I also worry that this show of strength will encourage Madigan to resist any appearance of compromise with Rauner, and leave us all in limbo until November at the earliest.
Thank you for being here. Thank you for all the support that you’ve given to President Cullerton and myself in this epic struggle with Gov. Rauner.
I would like to ask all of you some questions. Tell me how you feel.
Gov. Rauner wants to change workers’ compensation. How do you feel?
Gov. Rauner wants to change collective bargaining. How do you feel?
Gov. Rauner wants to change the prevailing wage. How do you feel?
Gov. Rauner wants to use the government to lower wages. How do you feel?
Gov. Rauner wants to use the government to lower the standard of living. How do you feel?
Gov. Rauner in workers’ compensation wants to send injured workers to the emergency room. How do you feel?
Gov. Rauner wants to send injured workers to welfare. How do you feel?
Here’s the last question. Gov. Rauner wants Illinois to go right to work. How do you feel?
Thank you!
Rauner will leave us all in limbo until November (and probably beyond) no matter the number of demonstrators. A retired SIUC professor has cogently argued that what he has done so far represents grounds for impeachment. However, I don't see Union lawyers pursuing this course of action so be prepared for another 2017 budget stalemate.
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