As Illinois Republicans remain in a huge minority, leadership adjustments are made.
Jim Durkin, R-Western Springs, stated he wouldn’t pursue leadership after last week’s election. Tony McCombie will head the House GOP caucus for the next two years.
She discussed how Republicans would stay relevant in the incoming General Assembly, which starts Jan. 11.
McCombie said Wednesday, “I’ll do what I do now.” ” I have bipartisan friends. I tried to build ties and friendships, and you may not know me, but I’m honest and straightforward, and I’ll continue that with my colleagues across the aisle.
Downers Grove Republican state Sen. John Curran will lead the Republicans in the chamber, where they are in the minority. He replaces Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods.
Curran stated that as the minority leader, he will balance the supermajority.
“We must engage inside this process to push for reduced taxes and relief for the people of Illinois, and with that constant message, we will offer a better product and a better result,” Curran told The Center Square.
House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, and Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, will lead the Democrats.
J.B. Pritzker gave himself and Democrats $140 million. In the primary and general elections, conservative millionaires gave the Republicans tens of millions. McCombie says the party must improve.
Also read: Congressional Republicans Have Cornered Themselves over Social Security’s Finances
McCombie said the GOP can’t depend on a few megadonors. Agreed Curran.
Curran: “We must diversify our fundraising activities by attracting more modest contributions. We’re outspent 4-to-5 to 1 in races. Not sustainable. It’s bad for Illinois and for public policy in the capital.”