Like so many Illinoisans working in a stagnant state economy, state lawmakers will not receive pay raises this year. But House Speaker Mike Madigan and Senate President John Cullerton will still receive bonuses in excess of $25,000.

For years Illinois politicians have used borrowing and budgeting gimmicks to give the false appearance of balanced budget.

As legislative leaders attempt to play games long seen in Springfield, Rauner remains resolute on breaking the status quo.

House Speaker Mike Madigan wants tax hikes before any reforms pass. Of course, if there are tax hikes, there will not be reform.

The broken state budget proposed by House Speaker Mike Madigan includes spending on wine production, mosquito abatement and a student newspaper.

If Madigan wants borrowing, tax hikes or some combination of the two, he should present his wish list to Illinois taxpayers.