Watered-down campaign limits vetoed by governor

From press release

A campaign finance bill that drew opposition from virtually every major reform organization in Illinois was vetoed by Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn (D) Aug. 27.

Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno (R-Lemont) applauded Quinn’s decision, saying the flaws in House Bill 7 were too great to overcome. Leader Radogno commended Quinn’s veto in the face of tremendous pressure by some to enact a bill that would “maintain the status quo.”

She is encouraged by the total veto—which was pushed by the Senate Republican Caucus and most major reform groups—saying it is a welcome opportunity to get campaign finance reform done right in Illinois. House Bill 7 was panned by the media, good government groups and many lawmakers, who felt it was appropriate to move forward and work on a better bill.

“This is a strong step in the right direction,” Radogno said. “The people of Illinois want reform that will restore their faith in state government. They want lawmakers to show them that we are serious about limiting the influence of money on our political process. House Bill 7 fell seriously short of accomplishing that.”

Quinn emphasized his desire to make 2009 the “year of reform in the Land of Lincoln.” He explained he thought it was best to go back to the drawing board to work on a law that will govern campaigns for generations, when it comes to campaign finances and conduct.

House Bill 7 had been pushed through the process by majority Democrats, despite the objections of the Illinois Reform Commission, the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform and Change Illinois. Senate Republicans joined the public watchdog groups in opposing the loophole-laden measure, saying the high contribution limits and broad definitions in the bill would blunt its effectiveness.

“Now, we have an opportunity to do this right,” Radogno said. “The previous bill wasn’t negotiated with all parties; good government is inclusive and takes into account everyone’s point of view. I am looking forward to bringing all the parties together to develop what I hope is a comprehensive proposal that will limit political contributions and open the process up to the public. We need to make sure we don’t waste this opportunity.”