Illinois voters sent a clear message to the longtime House speaker Nov. 8: “enough.”

Since 1994, members of The People’s Map — which sued to keep a legislative map reform amendment off Illinois’ November ballot — and their employers have given over $6.6 million to Friends of Michael J. Madigan, the Democratic Majority and the Democratic Party of Illinois, which House Speaker Mike Madigan chairs.

Illinoisans don’t vote to make Madigan the speaker of the House. That job belongs to their representatives.

The flexibility to use these large, transportation-related revenue sources for other emergencies is crucial.

Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan’s election to the speaker position in 16 of the last 17 legislative sessions is a testament to the loyalty he demands from his Democratic colleagues.

Madigan rules Illinois with an iron grip. And failure to follow through on a favor can come with dire consequences.

Just as Illinoisans elect state representatives, state representatives elect the speaker of the House every two years. To become the speaker, Madigan just needs a majority vote.