Trenches of Democracy

Among reporters, Kass has the corner on the combine. He proudly confirms it in tomorrow’s editorial. If you can’t wait, click here.

“What do you call that Illinois political class that’s not committed to any party, they simply want to make money off the taxpayers?” Fitzgerald said. “You know what to call them.”

What?

“The Illinois Combine,” Fitzgerald said. “The bipartisan Illinois political combine. And all these guys being mentioned, they’re part of it.” (read more)

Tags: Clout, Combine, Illinois, Kass, Levine, politics, Tribune

The stakes Monday are high. County officials threaten dire consequences if they don’t get all those new tax dollars. Stroger — incredibly — wants you to think any such consequences are your fault, not his.

Baloney. Stroger has no one to blame but himself and his arrogance. Remember, he has created the crisis that threatens county services — including health care for poor citizens. Taxpayers should be outraged by Stroger’s inaction and the risks he has invited. Taxpayers don’t, though, have a duty to sacrifice more millions for him to squander:…

(read more)

Tags: Stroger, Tribune