Southern Illinois News

Lawmakers could come together when it is based on supporting a new leader, according to state Rep. Deanne Mazzochi (R-Elmhurst), who notes that Illinois House Republicans are asking their Democrat colleagues whom they will back for speaker of the House – Mike Madigan or state Rep. Stephanie Kifowit.

Kifowit called for Madigan's resignation after the deferred prosecution agreement in the ComEd scandal named him by position. She is a firm believer in ethical decisions to restore the Speaker's office.

“I remain committed to Leader (Jim) Durkin unless there’s a viable option other than Speaker Madigan from the Democratic side that has the potential to move Illinois in a new direction,” state Rep. Grant Wehrli (R-Naperville) told by WSIL-TV. 

Voting across partisan lines for the seat of the Speaker has occurred.

“You had Republicans vote for Mike Madigan back in the day to work together and to signify that we want to work together for unity for our state way back in the history books,” Kifowit added. 

Lawmakers could come together when it is based on supporting a new leader, according to state Rep. Deanne Mazzochi (R-Elmhurst). According to Mazzochi, Republicans and Democrats alike must come together against corruption.

Kofowit does not approve of the use of her campaign for Republicans' political gain.

“I believe in democracy and I believe in having more people at the table in any kind of election, such as speaker or whatnot,” Kifowit said. “That just brings a robust discussion and an avenue for change that I think we all can believe in for the 102nd General Assembly.”

A range of events could happen before representatives place their votes in January. Democrats could come forward to announce their campaign.

“He has to recruit new blood, new soldiers to give him that yes vote to guarantee his spot,” Batinick said.