Rep. Brady: Special session, election ‘waste of taxpayer dollars’

Posted on December 18, 2014

State Rep. Dan Brady doesn't like the governor's decision to call lawmakers back to Springfield. (WJBC file photo)

By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – State Rep. Dan Brady (R-Bloomington) was surprised by Gov. Pat Quinn's move to call lawmakers back to Springfield to consider a 2016 special election to replace late Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka.

Brady expected something to come up in the spring legislative session.

"It's political," said Brady. "It's the majority party's attempt to have an opportunity to have a potential Democratic candidate for the office of comptroller."

Quinn said voters need a chance to weigh in on the decision.

"I view it as one, something that's not needed," said Brady. "Not only the special session, but also the special election. I see both being a waste of taxpayer dollars."

Brady believed Gov-elect Bruce Rauner should name Topinka's permanent successor. He added concern over voter turnout in a special election.

Quinn said the special session will be held Jan. 8.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].

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