David Friess (right) | Contributed photo
David Friess (right) | Contributed photo
Republican state House candidate David Friess argues there’s a fundamental reason why a package of ethics reform changes now being proposed by Democratic lawmakers falls short of assuring Springfield will undergo the change it needs.
“Real ethics reform will never take place as long as Mike Madigan is speaker of the House,” Friess told the SE Illinois News. “He will never allow legislation to proceed if it limits his power and influence.”
With longtime House Speaker Mike With Madigan (D-Chicago) now embroiled in a still developing federal corruption probe involving utility giant ComEd and a pay-for-play scheme, some Democrat lawmakers are pushing an array of reform measures they tout as ways to change the culture in Springfield. Topping the list of proposals are measures that would ban legislators from becoming lobbyists, require greater financial disclosures, establish a censure process, make the legislative inspector general more independent, and institute term limits.
“That is why this election is so critical,” added Friess, who is running against incumbent state Rep. Nathan Reitz (D-Steeleville) in the 116th District. “Voters have the choice to send my opponent who will vote for Madigan to Springfield, or make a clean break from the history of corruption by joining our campaign. I will never vote for Madigan for Speaker.”
Friess warns the rot has become so bad in Springfield the issue of reform can wait no longer.
“I don't think formally addressing ethics reform can wait until after the November election and that it should be addressed in a special session as soon as possible,” he said. “Unfortunately, the governor is beholden to Madigan and will never call for a special session to address the corruption in Springfield.”
In Friess’ mind, when it comes to Madigan, Gov. J.B. Prtizker's bias has clearly revealed itself over the life of his latest scandal.
“At a minimum, I believe the governor should have immediately requested Madigan to step down as Speaker,” he said. “In addition, the governor should seek the removal of Mike Madigan as the chairman of the four political campaign funds he controls. If Madigan lost his speakership and his ability to direct campaign funds, he would immediately lose power and influence in the state legislature."
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