Stop politicians from slipping in ’sham’ reforms

Limiting campaign contributions from individuals, corporations and unions without limiting such support from political parties and legislative leaders is worse than leaving the state’s weak campaign finance laws unchanged.

Approving such a change would be a step backward – not forward – because it would increase the power and influence of legislative and political leaders.

Gov. Pat Quinn and Democratic leaders recognized this – with a little “help” from irate voters – when Quinn vetoed House Bill 7 in August, despite supporting it earlier.

With the bill’s original backers, Senate President John Cullerton and House Speaker Michael Madigan, standing at his side, they pledged to do better. But they haven’t.

With the Legislature convening today for its fall veto session, there is still no agreement between Democratic leaders and campaign finance reform advocates on a bill that would bring meaningful change to Illinois’ sullied campaign system.

Do we really have to remind Cullerton, Madigan and Quinn that one former Illinois governor is serving time and another is awaiting trial on corruption charges related to campaign donations?

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