MACOMB -- Two politicians seeking statewide offices in the 2014 elections spoke to McDonough County Democrats on Aug. 25.
Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon is running for Comptroller, and State Sen. Mike Frerichs seeks the state Treasurer position.
Both promised to improve the efficiencies and transparency of the respective offices. But when asked about pension issues in separate interviews, they differed.
Simon expressed concern, and mentioned the notorious attempt by Chicago CEOs to lobby groups to lower the bond ratings in Illinois -- costing taxpayers more to borrow, presumably in an attempt to spur legislators to take away pension benefits from retirees.
She said whatever is developed by the legislators working on pension issues likely will be challenged in court, and state officials must go on from there. "We have to make up our mind to pay" what is owed, she said.
Frerichs said he supports SB2, negotiated with the unions. Union members and retirees have criticized this measure, which failed to become law, and would diminish promised benefits.
Simon was more open and knowledgable on the pension issues than Frerichs, who is obviously following the DINO party line on taking away benefits. (DINOs are Democrats in name only.)
It will take real leadership to reform the tax structure in Illinois so this rich state can meet its obligations.
Experts have shown that the money is there in the untaxed income of the rich and tax loopholes. Who will champion that cause so ordinary voters understand it remains to be seen.
Both of these politicians want to be on the state's leadership team, and presumably move up the political ladder, so their ideas and knowledge matter.
-- Elaine Hopkins
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