Just three days remain until the end of Illinois’ budget year. There were no outward signs of progress Wednesday, but Republicans and Democrats say they’re still talking.
Democrats in the Illinois House voted on several of Gov. Bruce Rauner’s priorities, like a property tax freeze. But they were the Democratic versions of those ideas, and Republicans say they don’t go far enough.
That all seemed to be mostly for show. As ever in Springfield, the real action was behind closed doors, where top Republicans and Democrats were meeting.
“We’re still working and meeting and meeting again tomorrow, so that’s all good news.”
Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno. I asked if she was more or less optimistic about the chances of a deal this week.
“Nobody came out swinging, so that’s a good thing.”
Chicago Democrat Christian Mitchell vented his frustration.
"The bottom line is we are dealing with a governor who does not know the difference between compromise and capitulation."
Gov. Bruce Rauner has mostly been quiet during these negotiations. But he issued a statement saying he’d keep lawmakers in special session until a budget is passed.