Pantagraph.com | News | Blagojevich, lawmakers in line for another pay boost

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

Pacman wrote on Aug 30, 2007 1:48 PM:

" This is the guy, who when he came into office, began by saying he was going to straighten out the states spending issues. He then cut the “overhead” by elimination many state jobs, some political (which were largely refilled by his appointees) some through attrition. Many employees have gone without any pay increases since Rodney became governor. It just shows his arrogance, Rod came from the “Empowered” the “Franchised” class, he therefore deserves this as a birth right and that’s just the way it is. The term “Ethics” shouldn’t been uttered in the same sentence. "

An Idea wrote on Aug 30, 2007 11:53 AM:

" Let's all rally together and get Blago elected governor of the STATE of Chicago...the rest of us would all be a lot happier if Chicago had no ability to influence us. "

recall??? wrote on Aug 30, 2007 9:13 AM:

" How in the heck do you get Reps and Senators to recall a Governor for a 10% pay increase..when they just got 13%???? And Don't tell me that this is a Democrat thing..how many Republicans will refuse their increases? When you look at it..these aren't CEO or Pro Athlete salaries..but the principle of self pay raises stinks. I'd rather see it tied to Cost Of Living or the average salary of the citizens "

disappointed again wrote on Aug 28, 2007 10:51 PM:

" Gee, what a surprise, a lawmaker voting themselves a raise! Must be nice to keep giving yourself a raise. Let them vote in raise, but do not make the raises effective until after the next election. Then, they might be forced to actually earn it. "

No raise here wrote on Aug 28, 2007 12:17 PM:

" Nice...he cuts funding for where I work which uses that funding to pay employees so he can get a raise he doesn't deserve...thanks Rod...I'll tell my kids to ask YOU to pay for the groceries. "

moonie wrote on Aug 27, 2007 5:32 PM:

" thanks again to the VOTERS of illinois, for giving us a government that gives it self raise in pay, that we the people can only dream of. "

pacman wrote on Aug 27, 2007 10:13 AM:

" They couldn't agree on a budget but had the ability to agree to take some more money? Be very afraid, these are the same folks who will be revisiting the states constution next year. "

uncle guido wrote on Aug 26, 2007 2:21 PM:

" Thank you democrats, happens every time! "

Land of Lincoln wrote on Aug 24, 2007 3:08 PM:

" I wish I could afford to put up a billboard along highways entering the state that say," Welcome to the Land of Lincoln, the last honest politician to grace this god foresaken state...and we're still talking about him!" "

Give yourslef a raise?? wrote on Aug 23, 2007 8:50 AM:

" Give me a break, people should not have the power to give themsleves raises. Another government body should be appointed to evaluate and increase their salary. This is the silliest thing I have ever heard. "

Uncle Andy wrote on Aug 22, 2007 8:20 PM:

" It's understandable that lawmakers should want more money. It's very expensive for all of them to fly down from Chicago. We should move the capital up there since that's where all of the lawmakers live and all of the taxpayers money goes. Oh, no wait... then a Daley would be governor. How about we split into two different states? Downstaters wouldn't have as much money, but we wouldn't need as much either. I vote for the Chief to be the first governor of South Illinois! "

What about The Gov? wrote on Aug 22, 2007 11:35 AM:

" First off, he is too good to live in Springfield but not too good to waste taxpayers $ flying back and back to his home in Chicago. Secondly, I too would love to know what Judy T thinks / people are getting what they voted for - A man that is concerned about his hairdo and NOT getting it messed up - wasting taxpayers $ flying back and forth and then can't work out a budget? What does that tell the Democrats from IL? It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that one out. "

To 'Truth to Power' wrote on Aug 22, 2007 11:31 AM:

" You sure hit the nail on the head. Where r they? Yoo hoo! What happened to your tongues and fingers? "

Blagojevich wrote on Aug 21, 2007 3:00 PM:

" Let's get some legislation to declare Chicago as its own state. Then he can just stay there forever those of us....considered "Southerners" can have a gov who cares about the entire state and not just the Chicago machine and lining his own pockets. "

To: Hal E. Burton wrote on Aug 20, 2007 8:27 PM:

" I would run for office, but I don't have enough money to campaign! "

This is a joke ha!!! wrote on Aug 18, 2007 6:37 PM:

" I am glad i din't vote for s this idiot. you must be kidding an other pay hike, when there is people outhere that can bearly pay for there food. you make me sick. if your work is so "HARD'" why the hell did you ruan for that office get out!!!!!! and let someone with brains run the office.pretty soon I'll be on food stamps because of you I can't afford my antirejection meds. had a kidney transplanted and can't afford to pay for my insurance anymore and you are getting a pay hike please. have my own business and I pay over 100k per year in taxes so guess who is making your pay check. well no more I am going to move to a different state where the coruptions is not as open at least. shame on you !!!!!!! "

been there wrote on Aug 18, 2007 10:08 AM:

" Have we had enough yet? How much more are we going to take? Next election cycle, they ALL have to go. They need to be called public servants AGAIN. "

To well deserved wrote on Aug 18, 2007 9:37 AM:

" Listen .... we deserve those salaries for all the hard work we put in concerning why we didn't have to pay New Orleans home owners for damage from their hurricane ! That's a lot more the our Gov & Emil have done ! At least we figured out a way to pay for our huge pay checks without hurting Illinois taxpayers ! SOOOOOO There ! "

don't blame me... wrote on Aug 18, 2007 8:45 AM:

" I did NOT vote for this guy.....And I love how someone is crying over his low salary. Listen, these politicians do not run for governor for the money, and they certainly know what their compensation will be before running. Blago has crossed the line, and honestly I think the man is Manic. God help this state and all of the wonderful, ordinary people trying to make a living and raise a family.... "

Truth To Power wrote on Aug 18, 2007 8:22 AM:

" Hey, what did you think they were going to do? Did you ever hear the fable of the frog and the scorpion? What I want to know is, where are the usual left wing bashers on this board? If it were the GOP doing this, this thread would be 500 posts long by now, with the usual pseudo-intellectual drivel of JD, The Imbecillic Fachna, BN Cynic, Lil' Jimma Owens, Happy Cynic, did I leave any mother's basement dwellers out?... oh and speaking of.... did I mention JD? YoooooHooo, where are you folks. Hey, Psst, a couple of Republicans voted for this, too! "

Shane on the Voters wrote on Aug 18, 2007 7:29 AM:

" Remembar last November when it took all of 15 minutes to declare our current governor the winner? Every day we see letters to the editor ratting on Bush. Where is the outcry on this scandalous Governor? He spent 12 million to get re-elected and did nothing but put down Judy Topinka. By the way... I really would like to know what she is thinking...now! "

GCJR wrote on Aug 18, 2007 3:01 AM:

" WOW!!! What a generous state I live in to be able to keep money from disabled workers and line the pockets of politicians. No one asks and no one seems to care for workers who were disabled on the job as to how they are going to survive and meet their obligations with no income until this budget is passed. When you have a pit full of rattlesnakes, it matters not which one you choose, the same outcome awaits you, "you are gonna get bit". I am ashamed of the politics in Illinois. But being disabled and unable to work and support myself, due to injuries from my job, I am stuck here til I die, and thank God I am gonna be cremated and now want my ashes spread in Springfield so I can see firsthand the corruption and how it comes about. It will be too late for me, but maybe I can infect some politicians and make their nights a living hell as they have done to me in this life. At least I can go to my oven knowing I did not vote for this crooked *#@!!!! "

IDOC Worker wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:22 PM:

" I think, with 111 comments, the topics of the childish actions of the governor and lawmakers are covered. The un-neccessary pay increases, given the fact, they can't get the job done, is covered. The fact that this is a true education of all voters and it will show at the next ellection, is covered. The thing I would hope that AFSCME addresses next is the arrogance and ignorance that the Corrections Director expresses daily. Director Walker, Let me be the first to tell you, The Department of Corrections is NOT "gooder than it's ever been". In fact, in words that you can comprehend, IT'S WORSER THAN IT'S EVER BEEN. You need staff, and you need organization in your department. Your problem is you have a large number of peoploticians in charge, but none of them know what they are doing. Cut your Executive staff numbers, put more officers, seargents, Lieutenants, and "Captains" into the facilities, reduce the numbers of Chief of Security positions to match the needs of the facilities, and use one Warden per facility who is competent enough to make common sense descisions as to the daily operations of the facility. Just a thought... "

love the picture wrote on Aug 17, 2007 4:42 PM:

" You gotta love the picture of "Evil" Emil Jones and his buddy on this web page. If you didn't know better you'd swear they were just a couple of jokers out to have a nice time at the Fair. "

hilarious wrote on Aug 17, 2007 4:29 PM:

" Blago. says he signed the pay raise bill because, thats was a priority for the lawmakers. He goes on to say, if he gives them (and himself) a payraise, the assembly would work with him on his "priorities." I wonder if my boss would buy a line of BS like that? Here's me Monday morning, "excuse me sir, if you give me a 13% pay raise I will try to be a better employee for you." Here is my boss about 2 seconds after I am done making my request, "Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha. Get back to work or your fired." "

Well Deserved! wrote on Aug 17, 2007 3:58 PM:

" Uh, I brought SF into it because I am an employee. And I see how much we pay people to sit on their duff, go to meetings, and pretend to work. Most people in BN would be shocked to know how much the average "professional" level employee is paid at SF. And forget about management. There are several hundred, maybe a thousand SF employees in BN that make more than the Governor makes. Now THAT is an outrage! "

What makes wrote on Aug 17, 2007 3:43 PM:

" this situation even worse, is the arrogance and pleasure blago exhibits while taking this state down the toilet. "

Abe wrote on Aug 17, 2007 3:13 PM:

" where do we find the articles of impeachment. re: process for the people for impeachment of due course for incompetent or illegal activities of those elected or awarded position in The State of Illinois. Maybe some attorney may know this...or maybe too much of a conflict of interest? "

Front Page of Evening Paper wrote on Aug 17, 2007 2:44 PM:

" "Governor's Day at State Fair a Flop." LOL "

Why wrote on Aug 17, 2007 2:06 PM:

" is there always someone......that has to drag State Farm into every issue on the Pantagraph Website? If you are so jealous, why don't you get an application and see if you can get hired? No other state employees will get that kind of raise. In fact, I'm not certain that there will be any raises at all!! "

Shocked & Disgusted wrote on Aug 17, 2007 1:32 PM:

" I am shocked that our public officials would even consider a pay raise considering they have yet to pass a budget. Where are they going to get the money? Oh, I know maybe we can open a gambling boat on every lake and river in the State of Illinois. This is disgusting that the Governor is asking for $20,000.00. I must admit I don't know what his salary is but I would think that a modest 4-7% increase would be compensation for a mess this state is in now. I wish I can screw up at my job as much as our state officials have and still get an increase in pay. I would like to VOTE the whole cast out of office and start from scratch. "

M wrote on Aug 17, 2007 1:23 PM:

" Anyone read CBS on line Headline: Obama Vows To Clean Up Washington Lobbying. Maybe the Senator needs to start in his home state. "

Well Deserved! wrote on Aug 17, 2007 1:20 PM:

" I think this raise is well deserved. The Governor and the members of the state legislature have worked hard this year on the people's business. I bet most of the people posting here, including 90% of you State Farmer's make more than the new $65,000 salary of the lawmakers. And don't lie, if you could vote yourself a pay raise, you would. There are starting salaries at State Farm higher than that, and all you have to do is show up, go to meetings, and pretend you're actually getting work done. Hypocrites! "

A Mom wrote on Aug 17, 2007 1:17 PM:

" Do you really want to make a difference? Google Illinois governor and send your thoughts to the office in Chicago! "

a bribe wrote on Aug 17, 2007 1:11 PM:

" Blago's remarks make this pay raise seem like a bribe to the legislators to get them to consider his vision for Illinois. Scandalous, immoral, illegal... just standard operating procedure in Springfield. "

JRD wrote on Aug 17, 2007 1:02 PM:

" And I thought George Ryan was an “in your face guy.” He doesn’t hold a candle to this egotistical nut! His latest attempt to revive his healthcare “plan” is clearly in violation of the Illinois constitution. Isn’t violating the constitution an impeachable offense? Come on legislators! This last salary boost should be enough incentive to go after this nut. It’s time to go back to work! "

down stater wrote on Aug 17, 2007 12:40 PM:

" The problem with politicians is that "THEY" get to vote on pay raises for themselves. I wish my employer would let me and my co-workers vote ourselves a raise. We need the recall referendum in Illinois. This would give the voters an avenue to remove irresponsible elected officials. How many times have Illinoians had to endure crooked and incompetant politicians that vote against the will of the people for special interest and favored groups to pad their own pocket books. Its time for a change in Illinois. "

TJA wrote on Aug 17, 2007 12:31 PM:

" I would think that Illinois would be upset if either party behaved as he did. The problem is politics in general.. they only look out for number one and their croonies. you need to get an Illinoisian that is there for the STATE and not for himself of Chicago. "

PLEASE PEOPLE!!! wrote on Aug 17, 2007 12:21 PM:

" If you can take the time to read these blogs, you should have the time to e-mail your elected officials. The officials for the B/N district are Rep. Dan Brady his email is dan@rep-danbrady.com or Senator Bill Brady at billbrady@senatorbillbrady.com. PLEASE DO NOT WAIT, E-mail them and DEMAND they add a "recall election amendment" into our constitution NOW! Please don't wait, if you do GOD ONLY knows what "Hot Rod" will pull next. "

Gary wrote on Aug 17, 2007 12:14 PM:

" Unbelievable!!!! He and his team mates are saying "since your stupid enough to elect me, your stupid enough take what I do to you" and believe me he is doing it! "

Nathan wrote on Aug 17, 2007 12:01 PM:

" Can he really do this? For bills to be paid out, they have to be in the budget. WE HAVE NO BUDGET. The legislature puts together the budget and the governer signs off on it. I know I ain't the brightest crayon in the box, but I don't think he can do this...yet. "

to to winners wrote on Aug 17, 2007 11:56 AM:

" Well duh........It was merely a joke about blago and jones. With a jab about Durbin who I feel is another IL crook. I don't think Durbin is doing us any favors in Washington. "

If you think... wrote on Aug 17, 2007 11:55 AM:

" this Demo has done such a great job With our State...Just wait till one is elected President of our Country. Just wait...Vote for Demo and see the same thing happen in 08 and beyond. "

Fed Up wrote on Aug 17, 2007 11:18 AM:

" I feel Blagojavich is egotistical, unethical, and possibly demented. He and other shady politicians in this state work for us--the taxpayers. This baby boomer retired grandmother is ready for legislation NOW to remove him and others from office. Let's give the unscrupulous politicians the pay raise they deserve--YOU'RE FIRED! "

teacher wrote on Aug 17, 2007 11:10 AM:

" It would be nice if lawmakers were fined for every day they go beyond the deadline. Teachers are held accountable, why aren't legislators? "

Kay wrote on Aug 17, 2007 11:02 AM:

" I've been saying it for a long time. Well, at least, since smoking bans (segregation, discrimination, facism) became such a popular thing. Kinda like communist trials of years ago. Government does not care about the people, trampling on American's rights, or the financial state of their State. They do care about controlling our money, our thoughts, our actions, OUR LIFES. I've written several of them, several times, and it does no good besides killing a tree to provide the paper I get a response on. All they care about is their pet projects--fix my roads but I don't care about the roads elsewhere. And they keep raising taxes, tax this, tax that. Over tax tobacco which is just as WRONG as the smoking bans. "

Replican wrote on Aug 17, 2007 10:55 AM:

" What can I say! "

mike fitzgerald wrote on Aug 17, 2007 10:37 AM:

" lets see if our elected officials from the local area accept this pay increase or if they turn it down because it is the correct, ethical thing to do. that should tell us where their allegiance lies. "

to to winners... wrote on Aug 17, 2007 10:31 AM:

" This is the State government, not the Federal, genius. "

Tracy wrote on Aug 17, 2007 10:26 AM:

" I cannot stand this guy....typical democrat. YUCK. "

nothappywblago wrote on Aug 17, 2007 10:08 AM:

" Need to pass recall! "

LittleMac wrote on Aug 17, 2007 10:07 AM:

" My only wish is that the Pantagraph would initiate a 'provide your own caption' for the photos accompanying their articles. What fun that would be. "

Gary RainH2O Ameren wrote on Aug 17, 2007 10:05 AM:

" They deserve a huge raise. Look at what they've done for my company's profits this year! "

I Want to be Gov wrote on Aug 17, 2007 10:04 AM:

" It would really be nice to know the structure of Ill politics that permitted Blago to rise to this position. Is it only cream that rises to the top? "

RIDICULOUS wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:47 AM:

" I am glad that our elected officials can give thereselves pay raises and let our elderly suffer. I guess enjoy the Mexican lifestyle grandma and grandpa because our goverment just don't care about you anymore. All they basically have to say is "Thanks for all you have done now get out of my country". "

BooHoo wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:29 AM:

" Everybody is crying about the Democrats pay raise at least they are telling you about it instead of stealing it from under the table Mr. Ryan. "

wtf? wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:26 AM:

" you still havent approved the damn budget that is affecting the children's education yet you get another pay raise......you should if anything have pay docked for all of the flights to and from chicago since you aren't staying in the govenor's mansion like you should be. this is why most people hate democrats. i am neither one or a republican...i see both sides and people hate democrats and this just encourages that even more by having stunts like this incompetant govenor. even his own party has people against this rediculous changes. i miss govenor edgard!!!! "

to winners... wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:21 AM:

" I heard Dick Durbin was handing out the ribbons... "

to Illinoisan wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:10 AM:

" My Dad used to say a lot of things too which I wondered about. But every word has been proven to be true. Hopefully we have a lot of people that have grown in wisdom because of years spent on this earth in the voting booths. And yes I would like a recall (they did in it California) and for Chicago to become their own state. Then we can be Republican and they can be as Democratic as they want. Of course they won't have any money to take from the Republican party then. "

BN Cynic wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:07 AM:

" "Waiting for "BN Cynic"", don't look at me. I voted Green. Blago is a joke. "

To Heady Lamarr wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:06 AM:

" That's Hedly! And I think I have seen Blago in a jacket that says "GOV" on the back. "

The Future Politician From Ford Co. wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:06 AM:

" But maybe we, the voters, need to speak up a little more about the quality of our lawmakers and adjust the amount accordingly. I don’t feel that any, and I say any, elected official serving (yes serving) his/her constituents should be able to get rich off of the taxes they pay. Government positions are Honorable but not lucrative. Examples? A preacher, teachers, Librarians, Counselors, etc. In some cases two of those are government regulated and financed. Did they get raises? This increase in pay is preposterous! We need the greed out of Politics. We need Accountability back in politics. Also, I don’t get paid to travel to work everyday, and I don’t want to pay for some worthless big-city democrat to fly to work everyday because he forgot that there’s more to this state than Chicago. We have a large portion of the biggest industry in Illinois, United States, and the World (Agriculture). Be aware of who your voting for next election, ask questions, and see if they are there to make money or a difference. Ok, I’m off my Soap box. "

And guys wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:01 AM:

" I think this is just an example of what both Hillary and Obama could also do. So get everyone you know informed and rushed to the voting booth in 2008. Why you ask? Check their past. And check their party's past. And remember why Condi, black person that she is, will not join their party where she really would like to be because of what they are supposed to stand for and don't. The truth will give you all the answers you need to know. You think Bush is bad. Elect Hillary or Obama or both and see how your taxes are raised, how your rights are compromised so we can be more socialistic. She even wants a college for politicians (to brainwash them?). In fact I wonder if only Democrats can go there? We really do need to take our country and our state back - from he grasps of the Democrats before it gets worse. "

to:Hal E. Burton wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:01 AM:

" you said " If you people think serving in Springfield is such an overpaid, underworked job, why aren't you running for office? " First I don't know how to campaign to people buried in a cemetery. Second we're outnumbered by the freeloaders voting and living in Chicago and illegal immigrants. If we had a democrat the likes of emil jones in my district I WOULD run. The problem is Chicago politics not downstate. "

winners wrote on Aug 17, 2007 8:48 AM:

" Blogo and Emil Jones both won the blue ribbon at the fair for being the most incompetent! "

Illinoisian wrote on Aug 17, 2007 8:46 AM:

" It would be interesting to do some research to determine how the rest Illinois would fare without having the Chicago infrastructure and political machine to support. My Dad used to say way back in the 60's that Illinois should "secede" from Chicago and form it's own "downstate" representation and let Chicago pay for itself. I think I understand now why he said that... "

Ridiculous wrote on Aug 17, 2007 8:37 AM:

" This just isn't a cost of living increase, but a self 'promotion' The raises should be tied to cost of living..anything more should go to the voters "

Heady Lamarr wrote on Aug 17, 2007 8:13 AM:

" "HEY, I didn't get a Harumph out of you!!" "We have to protect our phoney-baloney jobs!!" "Here's a doo-hickey for you!" "

Tell it like it is ! wrote on Aug 17, 2007 7:54 AM:

" These poor lawmakers deserve a break. Anybody that can take on the tough job of trying to figure out a way to pay the state of Illinois bills and come up with the GREAT results to date ... surely deserves some sort of reward ! Take our hard working Gov. for example. Here's a man that sacrifices for the people and asks little in return. Sometimes he has to be in his office 3-4 times a month, sometimes spending 3-4 hours a day doing his best to find ways to finance MORE social programs. God knows we can never have enough of those ! So please before we ridicule these hard working lawmakers try and use a little compassion ! After all what's a lousy 13 % increase to a sound financial solution that these hard worker's have given us, why if they were in the private sector there is no telling how much they could receive for doing such a good job ! "

Get them out wrote on Aug 17, 2007 7:45 AM:

" The state is in debt, and these "people" who are supposed to represent us give theirselves a stinking pay raise!!!!! TERM LIMITS!!!!! Of course this is after they blow $30K a day in special session!!!!!! "

TJA wrote on Aug 17, 2007 7:37 AM:

" I moved out of IL a long time ago. I hated Chicago then and hate it even more now. Texas does not have state taxes either. Make it a road trip, go to Springfield let them know you mean business!! Do no let this chicago cr## get by with this any longer. Open up you can of Whoop @$$. "

Just too funny! wrote on Aug 17, 2007 7:20 AM:

" Funny how this year a very good friend on mine who is on disability and the only income she has, only got a $23 dollar raise. Speaking of hair, what he pays his hair dresser for a sitting is $43.00 less than my friend get for a whole month. She is 100% disabled and unable to do for herself. Yet this jerk get a $20,000 a year raise. This just plain is wrong! I demand a raise for the disabled, too as they deserve it way more than Springfield does! "

Vols wrote on Aug 17, 2007 7:13 AM:

" Two hundred and thirty some years ago, this country's founding fathers were volunteers in creating our form of government. What would they think about Rodney? I'm sure they had agendas too, but at least they had no intent of sticking it to ya! Taxation without Representation...It seems we have come full circle! Tea Party time in Illinois? Perhaps a Corn Party to shuck our governor and his pocket filling associates. I'll volunteer for that! "

Amazing wrote on Aug 17, 2007 7:11 AM:

" How they can't agree on anything except giving themselves a pay raise! "

joe wrote on Aug 17, 2007 7:03 AM:

" And you thought the republicans were bad! Now I KNOW WHY THE DEMS ARE PUSHING SO HARD FOR GUN CONTROL. "

unreal wrote on Aug 17, 2007 7:00 AM:

" we are all struggling to make it and these guys make their own rules. scam "

Crazy: wrote on Aug 17, 2007 6:59 AM:

" These pay raises are the craziest thing I have heard. How can they sleep at night?? I am furious. "

to : me wrote on Aug 17, 2007 6:50 AM:

" You and the other howlers who are posting will not see change. Most voters ( only ones who really count ) think their " very own " legislator is not corrupt or incompetant. The incumbnant usually always wins so the merry go round keeps on spinning. Not untill all of the " bums are thrown out " will meaningful change occur and this dear posters will not happen ! "

To "Me" wrote on Aug 17, 2007 6:45 AM:

" Your right about remembering at poll time. I know I'm taking names. "

ONLY IN AMERICA- wrote on Aug 17, 2007 6:42 AM:

" ALMOST A 10% PAY RAISE- CAN'T GET A BUDGET- DON'T DESERVE THE PAY THEY WERE GETTING..... LIBERAL DEMOCRAT'S IN CHARGE- THE DUMBING OF AMERICA CONTINUES !!!!! THANKS ROD'O "

IMPEACH ROD wrote on Aug 17, 2007 6:36 AM:

" Is this possible? If not, it should be. This guy is a clown. "

The law makers wrote on Aug 17, 2007 5:55 AM:

" think everyone will conplain about the raises for awhile, and like everything else, we will move on to something else to complain about. They think they have it all figured out. "

Wake up wrote on Aug 17, 2007 4:45 AM:

" Rod, Emil, your pay raises are just another betrayal of taxpayers and an obvious waste of money. Remember the money grubbing slimy guys when you vote them out. "

Disgusted wrote on Aug 17, 2007 4:38 AM:

" I know it's a sin but I'm envious of Bama Yankee. I've been trying to get out of this fascist state for years. Until then, if no one in my voting district (Sen., Rep.) pushes for recall legislation they don't get my vote!! I hope others will do the same. If elected officials won't act to ensure that morons like Rod will have consequences to face when they don't act in the best interest of the people of this state, then they NEED to be replaced! I wonder if Rod's insurance program will cover the ulcer he's giving me? "

jimmy b. wrote on Aug 17, 2007 3:32 AM:

" TO: "Voice of Reason"...thank you, you are right on the "money"!!! An Illinois Recall along with term limits needs to start---NOW. "

You can all~~ wrote on Aug 17, 2007 3:23 AM:

" write your comments and whine but what good will it do? None of these jerks will read it!! I'm sick of this government taking our money and never giving anything in return. When are they going to give us a raise in SS?? They haven't a clue what it is like trying to survive off the crappy pay we get in SS. Everybody is hurting financially and they don't give a sh** if we starve or our bills are paid. As long as they get more cash in a** what do they care!! All politicians suck and Illinois is going down the toilet fast. I didn't vote for pretty boy so I can gripe; and I didn't vote for Judy either!! When the choices were as bad as they were I chose not to vote!! I hope they all rot in he**!!!!! "

OGS Say No to Blago wrote on Aug 17, 2007 1:39 AM:

" No raise...you are fired ! And take your $400 haircut with you. Get out! Don't let the dor hit you in your ars on the way out Blago yago dope-o. Crook! "

He deserves it. wrote on Aug 17, 2007 12:57 AM:

" He outlawed smoking in public places so I think he deserves more. I don't care if they close the schools (they are to dangerous) and who needs hospitals, only smokers ever get sick. I also like the minimum wage hike(which doesn't include retail or resturant workers that is a large percentage of American workers). This man deserves a medal for showing how awsome fascism is. My fellow smoking-ban freinds where are you in our hour of need? Good job Rod. "

Birgs wrote on Aug 16, 2007 11:52 PM:

" I recall a sorrowful Tuesday night several years ago when Supt. Vallas lost the Primary to Blago. Little did I know it would get THIS bad... "

Bama Yankee wrote on Aug 16, 2007 11:17 PM:

" I can't begin to express how satisfied I am that I bailed out of the state of Chicago...er.. Illinois. I don't have to pay state income tax, my property tax is less than most people's summer electric bill and my governor isn't soaking the taxpayers by flying back and forth half the length of the state to conduct the business he was elected to do. If the citizens of Illinois don't have sense enough to push for a recall amendment to their constitution, and use it, then they deserve whatever their elected officials shove down their throats. Sign me: Former Illinois resident! "

That picture wrote on Aug 16, 2007 10:38 PM:

" should be captioned "wanted" or better yet, posted on a milk carton with "have you seen these men? If so, don't tell anyone where they're buried." "

reader wrote on Aug 16, 2007 10:35 PM:

" Wishing them the worst. "

me wrote on Aug 16, 2007 10:33 PM:

" The people will remember them at the polls. "

reader wrote on Aug 16, 2007 10:32 PM:

" This goes to show why no one trusts the government ,all they are concerned about is how much money they can get from us the tax payer. "

yay! wrote on Aug 16, 2007 9:51 PM:

" Lets make Chicago a "district" like Washington D.C. and watch as it goes down the tubes. We can salvage the rest of the state sans the idiot politicians that come from there. I know, this would never work, but us "regular folk" downstate are sick of propping up crap we never use, CTA? who cares! under performing Chicago public schools? who cares! let them sort it out. "

moonie wrote on Aug 16, 2007 9:38 PM:

" just another day, the RICH get RICHER and the rest of have to pay, thanks ROD and all the OTHERS WE ELECTED. "

Who . . . wrote on Aug 16, 2007 9:29 PM:

" Took the photo of the two rodeo clowns? When did the rodeo come to to Illinois? "

HA HAAHHAHAHAHA!! wrote on Aug 16, 2007 9:15 PM:

" Dems wanted him and you got him. And you'll vote another democrat in next time. "

To: Citizens of Illinois wrote on Aug 16, 2007 9:06 PM:

" Send a letter to Brady or Brady's. Get real guy, these guys are in this together for raises, penisons and trips. The best way to deal with this is to get the broom ready at election time. "

Just a S IL Wallflower wrote on Aug 16, 2007 9:03 PM:

" A slap in the face, that's what the latest raise is to all of us! However, I must point out the facts: the legislators haven't received a raise in 6 years, so do the math: with the first raise they voted in, it's less than 2% a year, but with this latest raise it's a 2.67% raise (13.6% / 6 years = 2.67% per year). Not bad if you can get it, I sure didn't! State employees get whatever the union negotiates, and the legislature has to approve it, and they always do, because it's a contract. The most important point is that with the State of Illinois' financial situation, they can't get anything done except approving a raise for themselves, but that's on the Gov because he signed it! It was his "

Yogi wrote on Aug 16, 2007 8:58 PM:

" Hey Yogi Bear (Gov)...that's ONE way to pay for that $600 haircut...give yourself a raise!!! "

Fed up wrote on Aug 16, 2007 8:51 PM:

" It seems to me that any other normal person with a normal job who consistently didn't show up for work, wouldn't follow the existing policies and procedures and then didn't complete the work on time would be fired. Am I right? Then why the heck is this jerk still in office? Instead of a pay increase, why doesn't he pay back the taxpayers what he's taken in expenses for housing alone? I'm sure that would help the budget somewhat. "

#### wrote on Aug 16, 2007 8:41 PM:

" Wow! Lawmakers and Teachers are the only ones I know that can do a horrible job and not lose their job and get a raise. They will answer in the end. If they had a conscience it might bother them that they are stealing from those of us that WORK!!! "

Citizens of Illinois wrote on Aug 16, 2007 8:36 PM:

" Please take a quit moment and write to Senator Brady about stopping this crazy person from further damage to this state. Tell him you insist in passing the "recall law". I am a republican voter who felt the Ryan was a major embarrassment to the entire government body. The only difference between Ryan and this idiot is the fact that Ryan is now locked up behind bars. Here is Senator Brady's email address billbrady@senatorbillbrady.com "

They're looting the treasury, folks wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:58 PM:

" It's what some of us have been saying for a long time- this gang is brazenly looting the treasury of the state of Illinois, returning nothing but circus entertainment. This government of ours long ago ceased to be worth anything. "

to: MIG TIG wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:55 PM:

" Your comments are as preposterous as the news that Blago and the other ignoble politicians are getting another raise. Even the salary of a governor PALES in comparison with what he could make outside government. We're talking $100,000 or so vs. millions. Most politicians these days were filthy rich before running for office- they are attracted by the POWER that comes with the office. We could pay them NOTHING and you'd probably get the same crooked bunch. Of course an ordinary person with only the public interest in mind needs a little something to get by. "

Rod wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:46 PM:

" I sure didn't vote for this sorry sucker. I knew he wouldn't be a good leader, but I had no idea it would be this bad. $,$$$ dollar flights back & forth to Springfield. Didn't he say that he would go to Springfield when he ran for election? Instead he lied and stays in Chicago and charges us for giving him a job? Maybe he should be on trial instead of Peggy Ann Milton! "

Just a Thought wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:33 PM:

" Not exactly "State Farm" money, but Blagos making a nice chunk of change for being such an arrogant, incompetent dweeb. About $171,000 more than he deserves. "

matt wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:28 PM:

" the least they could do is buy us dinner before they stick it to us "

moonie wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:23 PM:

" and this is why we elected them. i would kill for a pay increase of this size, really any, would help. "

No, all politicians wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:17 PM:

" are crooks! "

Voice of Reason wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:16 PM:

" Nice pic of Tweedledum and Tweedledee (Blago and Jones). Two of the most inept, me-first politicians in Illinois history. That says a lot. Those of us over 50 remember Paul Powell, George Ryan, Otto Koerner, Dan Walker and William Stratton. A real Hall of Shame!! I wonder how many teachers, state employees, firemen or policemen or any one in public service got a raise any where close to 9.4% !!!! Just asking. "

To Mr. Blag wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:04 PM:

" By the way Mr. Blag, my husband hasn't had a raise on his job in 2 years!! And most of us get a little tiny raise that isn't enough to do anything with. That is disgusting! "

To Mrs. wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:02 PM:

" The next person in could be even more deceitful! But, what goes around comes around. And to think that he has children that he is raising. How can he do what he does and feel good about how he is raising his children! "

LT wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:59 PM:

" Where were all you whiners on the last election day? You knew this was coming. "

Just wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:58 PM:

" Disgusting. "

to poor me wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:48 PM:

" I agree with you totally. Our gov has robbed the state workers, our schools and state pension funds, that is what he has done. And he wants more more, he deserves to be in jail with Ryan. "

to: all politicians wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:48 PM:

" So are you running for office? I didn't think so. "

all politicians wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:26 PM:

" are scum. we the people need to run the government, not these idiots. "

What??!!! wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:24 PM:

" So, the same governor that charges the tax payers so he can fly to Springfield also gets a raise. The government of the people, by the people and for the people has changed to the government of the government, by the government and for the government while we just sit and take it? I am from out of state and don't mind saying Illinois rep for crooked state government is certainly living up to it's billing. I am now registered to vote here and will do so accordingly. One vote? It has to start somewhere and we need a state government that is going to look out for the welfare of our schools and our people instead of lining their own pockets. I for one am not going to stand by and let this happen without at least trying. People of Illinois need to speak up and let them know we are done with this. Otherwise, we only have ourselves to blame. "

poor Me wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:18 PM:

" amazing how he and the "lawmakers" can give themselves a 13 percent pay increase but the "average Joe" state worker maybe, maybe, sees a 2 percent and that is a big maybe!! Many state employees have had their wages "frozen" for the past 4 years - what has our governor done that deserves a 13 percent increase??? "

realevergreen wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:14 PM:

" The governor must be all hair and no brains. "

realevergreen wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:03 PM:

" The only raise they need is a free trip to another state, but it's one way. We would be better off if they never came back. "

Hal E. Burton wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:02 PM:

" If you people think serving in Springfield is such an overpaid, underworked job, why aren't you running for office? "

Waiting for "BN Cynic". wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:00 PM:

" I'm sure she has some insightful comments to be left here. "

Tom Terrific wrote on Aug 16, 2007 5:45 PM:

" I need a cost of living pay increase as well. "

Back to the basics wrote on Aug 16, 2007 5:44 PM:

" Don't you think that if our officials are elected on a yearly salary that there would be no such thing as overtime pay. It's not like they are on a 40 hour week. "

Amendment wrote on Aug 16, 2007 5:31 PM:

" It's time to amend the state constitution: lawmakers and the governor get a cost of living increase every three to four years, but any pay raise above that must be approved by the voters. I also recommend we amend the constitution so there is no overtime pay or other perks for work done during the summer. If they can't get their work done on time, they need to stay late and finish it. "

hmm wrote on Aug 16, 2007 5:27 PM:

" They couldn't get their jobs done, and now they get more money? Wow . . . "

MRS. wrote on Aug 16, 2007 5:26 PM:

" We can't take 3 more years of this. The most die-hard liberal pc quack can see the writing on the wall. Bush has just a little over a year left to destroy the country; this nut has 3 years to finish off the state. If we survive that long. They aren't even trying to hide it any more. Lord, we need someone to run that at least will start out honest. In time he/she will become as greedy as the bunch we have now but for a little while we ill be better off if there is even a state to run in when these nuts get through!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

Jackpot wrote on Aug 16, 2007 5:22 PM:

" Congratulations on your new pay raise ! Im really happy for you ! A few extra dollars can sure help out these days, especially around back to school time ! "

The Joker wrote on Aug 16, 2007 5:07 PM:

" And I thought I was crazy! This guy just don't get it! "

Screw this. wrote on Aug 16, 2007 5:06 PM:

" ARE YOU SERIOUS, give me raise, idiots we elected "

MIG TIG wrote on Aug 16, 2007 5:02 PM:

" All of you who complain about the poor quality of leaders we have in Springfield should be pleased by the pay raises. If we are consistently getting bad people in elected office, then one way to encourage better qualified people to run is to increase the compensation. You'll have your chance to vote out everyone in state office soon enough. However, let the blubbering and whining begin. "

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