Peoria Standard

Lawmakers have returned to Springfield for the fall Veto Session, which will span two weeks. The session is taking place amidst the ongoing federal corruption trial of former House Speaker Michael Madigan. Despite this significant legal proceeding, Illinois Democrats have not shown any inclination towards reforming state government.

State Representative Ryan Spain voiced his concerns during a radio interview, emphasizing public dissatisfaction with current governance in Illinois. He stated, “The people are fed up and frustrated with the way business is done in Illinois. The verdicts that have already been handed down in the previous federal trials linked to Madigan are sending a message to the leaders of Illinois that something has to change. The way of doing business in Illinois through a pattern of corruption can no longer be tolerated. It’s time for the Governor and Illinois Democrats who control state government to hear the message from the people and clean up our state.”

Spain's comments reflect a growing call among some lawmakers for ethical reforms within the state's political system.