By Illinois Radio Network

SPRINGFIELD – Almost 75 percent of people who live in Illinois say they have zero confidence in state government, according to a new poll.

Gallup asked 500 Illinoisans if they have confidence in their state’s “government in general.” An overwhelming 74 percent said no.

State Rep. Tom Bennett, R-Pontiac, says the only people who may be surprised by that are lawmakers in Springfield who want to keep trudging down the same road.

“We’re spending millions of dollars more than we bring in every day. It’s almost like it’s not real in some ways,” Bennett said of the lack of awareness at the Illinois Capitol. “It’s going to come to a head one day.”

Bennett said people across Illinois aren’t surprised by the lack of faith. He said he hears it in conversations at restaurants, barber shops, and any time he speaks to anyone in his hometown of Pontiac about taxes.

Gallup says Illinois’ history of corruption is partly to blame for the lack of confidence. But the poll said so is the state’s budget mess.

Southern Illinois State Rep. Dave Severin, R-Marion, said Illinois has earned its reputation.

“Look at our track record,” Severin said. “Look at what we’ve done in the past and where we’re at. People all over the state are hurting. There are people with needs and we haven’t done a good job of addressing those things.”

Gallup’s poll says politics doesn’t play a part. Voters of all stripes have no faith in Illinois state government.

North Dakota tops the Gallup poll. More than 80 percent of voters in North Dakota say they have confidence in their government.