Rauner delivers his budget address Wednesday. (WJBC File photo)
By Dave Dahl/Illinois Radio Network
SPRINGFIELD – When he was before the legislature for the State of the State message, Gov. Bruce Rauner announced he wants legislators to approve his entire agenda – not just part of it. And there are reports he has taken an intimidating tone to the lawmakers behind closed doors.
What kind of negotiating is this?
“The problem that exists is in our state,” State Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) said, “and I think Gov. Rauner is providing tremendous, necessary, needed leadership that we just haven’t had.”
Approve everything the governor asks for? “Realistically, that’s not going to happen,” said State Sen. Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill). “Legislating and governing is about compromise. It’s about finding common ground.”
It would appear that the new governor will find lawmakers from both parties warm to his ideas, and lawmakers from both parties uncomfortable.
“I think he’s in the governing business,” said Barickman.
The budget address is Wednesday.​
