The Senate trial of Rod Blagojevich began at 12 noon Monday, and some are already saying that the Governor will be toast by Friday.  With an approval rating of 7% (way too high) and his decision not to show up in Springfield to fight the charges leveled at him, the Gov will certainly be shown the door – probably by unanimous vote.

Elvis Presley’s “Jailhouse Rock”

Recently I asked in this newsletter what Elvis song was most appropriate for this Governor who is a big Elvis fan.  The second most nominated tune was “Hound Dog” – but the often mentioned, runaway winner was “Jailhouse Rock!”

Income Tax Increase/Survey

Democrat legislative leaders are thinking about raising the state income tax to address the state’s budget mess.  Lately, this is why Blago says he is being removed from office.  He says, “it’s all about raising the Illinois income tax before Memorial Day.”  (My next newsletter will include a survey asking for your opinion on this topic and others.)

Pat Quinn Shining His Shoes

Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn is busily shining his shoes to get ready to take office and hit the ground running.  Look for his fellow Democrat, statewide office holders to cooperate and not talk about running against him for Governor in 2010 until the honeymoon is over.  It’s likely to be a “free-for-all” after that, however.  And then there’s the US Senate race, too.

Federal Stimulus/Capital Plans

A much delayed capital construction plan for Illinois will certainly be put in place this session – likely in conjunction with a federal plan.  Transportation will get a big bang, but it is sewer and water projects that are most crucial to many small-town, central Illinois communities having a brighter future.  By my count that would require a $20 Billion investment statewide!  How, when, and by whom will this be paid for remains the question!?

Rutherford/Righter/Brady

Congrats to my Senator Dan Rutherford and Senator Dale Righter upon their appointments to Republican State Senate Leadership positions.  (Dale was my seatmate in the House before moving on to the Senate.)  Keep an eye on these two rising Republican stars along with my friend Bill Brady who recently raised significant cash for a race for Governor.

General Assembly Scholarships

I have eight, one-year tuition scholarships to award for next school year to students attending Illinois’ state-run universities.  Applications are now available from my Morton office.  The scholarships may be used for both undergraduate and post-graduate studies.  Application deadline is April 3^rd!

House GOP “Retreat”

That probably wasn’t the best choice of words for our Republican House Caucus meeting in Bloomington last week.  Even though we took a broadside in November’s election and are now outnumbered 70 to 48 by Democrats, I (we) will continue to fight for common sense, effective and conservative government in Illinois.

Congrats Morton Marching Band

What a great experience for the Morton Marching Band to perform in the Presidential Inaugural Parade in D.C.  Great job guys and gals!  I’m proud to have been a band member at MHS, too!

Home Schooler’s Debate/Bethel Girl Scouts

In recent days I got to see other examples of why our future is still bright, when I served as a judge during a debate tournament for home-schooled children from five states – and spoke to girl scouts at Bethel Lutheran School.  The debaters were skillful and the girl scouts so full of energy and promise.  Yes, our children are our future – and it looks good!

St. Pat’s/Eureka 4-H

I will attend the Community Leader Breakfast at St. Patricks School in Washington this week, and will speak to the Eureka Teamsters 4-H Club a few days later.  I’m sure they’ll have lots to questions about jobs in government given today’s current events.  Thanks to Zack Spahn and Rita Schwind for inviting me.

Chambers of Commerce

Tazewell County Chambers of Commerce will have an event at the East Peoria Embassy Suites on Thursday, and the Morton Chamber Annual Gala will be on Saturday evening.  See you there in support of our job providers!

Your Comments . . . .

Your thoughts and comments on topics of the day are always welcome and greatly appreciated.  It’s an honor and a privilege to represent the good people of my district in Springfield.