Gov. Pat Quinn is reviewing Attorney General Lisa Madigan's guidance on succession plans following Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka's death. (Photo courtesy Facebook/IOCI Media Services)
By The Associated Press
CHICAGO – Gov.-elect Bruce Rauner says legal analysis shows he can appoint a full-term replacement for the late Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka when he takes office in January.
Topinka died last week. The Republican had won a second term.
Attorney General Lisa Madigan issued legal analysis of succession plans Monday saying outgoing Gov. Pat Quinn can name a successor until Jan. 12 when current terms end and newly-elected officials are sworn in. After that Rauner should appoint someone. However, Madigan adds that voters should have a say in choosing a replacement in 2016.
In a statement, Rauner's spokesman Mike Schrimpf raised legal questions about the timing of the special election for a constitutional officer. He says Rauner's team has conducted its own legal analysis.
A spokesman says Quinn is reviewing Madigan's guidance.
Cullerton wants special election
Senate President John Cullerton says there should be an “immediate'' lawmaker special session to make plans for a 2016 election to replace late Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka.
House Speaker Michael Madigan's spokesman says Rauner and Quinn should work together on succession plans.
House Republican Leader Jim Durkin says the Constitution makes it clear Rauner will appoint a full term comptroller in 2015.
