Term limits were once a key component of GOP plans to dismantle Illinois’ corrupt political machine, but Republicans in Springfield have thrown in the towel on this reform.

A bill that would apply term limits to legislative leaders in the Illinois House and Senate cleared a major hurdle May 19, and is scheduled for a second reading May 22.

The Senate on Inauguration Day took action to limit the power of its legislative leaders. Meanwhile, House Democrats re-elected Mike Madigan as House speaker, ensuring he will become the longest-tenured legislative leader in modern American history.

More than 60 percent of Illinois’ state legislative races in 2016 will be uncontested.

Madigan is the longest-serving House speaker in Illinois history and one of the longest-serving state House speakers in United States history.

The defiance of certain Democrats in the General Assembly shows House Speaker Mike Madigan’s stranglehold on power is weakening.