Illinois lawmakers have taken the first step toward eliminating the office of Lieutenant Governor with a proposed amendment to the state Constitution, which estimates show could save one point six million dollars.
The lieutenant governor doesn't actually have to do much. The Constitution vaguely says whoever holds the office "shall perform the duties ... delegated to him by the Governor."
This year, the Lt. Gov. is actually a "her," Evelyn Sanguinetti. She led a local government consolidation task force.
Of course, Sanguinetti's major constitutionally-prescribed duty is to be ready to take the place of the governor, should Bruce Rauner resign, die or be impeached.
"We're on a lifeboat. We can't keep everything."
That's Rep. Jack Franks, a Marengo Democrat who voted in favor nixing the office.
Without a "lite gov," the Attorney General would be next in line.
Currently, that's Lisa Madigan - a Democrat, and daughter of Republican Gov. Rauner's political nemesis, House Speaker Michael Madigan.
