As has already been largely reported Debbie Halvorson was taken off as chairman of the state senate's rules committee.
The Crete Democrat, who is the state senate majority leader, is running against Martin Ozinga III for the 11th Congressional District seat. Obviosly, Ozinga's campaign is making lemonade with the news, arguing that for years Halvorson has followed the lead of Gov. Rod Blagojevich and Senate President Emil Jones. This removal is evidence that those relationships are hurting the campaign, according to Ozinga's folks.
Halvorson responded to several media outlets that she has broken step with Jones recently on a number of issues, including recall
Halvorson was replaced in the chairmanship by Democrat Ricky Hendon of Chicago.
A few notes that really haven't been reported elsewhere: Hendon also voted for recall, but Hendon also was the one who gaveled the session to a close, as Republicans were calling for a vote on the house version. Because of legislative procedures, Halvorson's the one on record as making that adjournment, even though her campaign says she didn't have anything to do with it.
Expect a more comprehensive story in tomorrow's paper.
I'll save my opinion, but what's yours?
Patrick Ferrell, is a staff reporter for The Herald News in Joliet. and the Sun Times News Group. Patrick covers education and politics. When he’s not ranting about something, Patrick can usually be found watching a race or careening down a ski slope. He resides in Will County with his wife, Laura, and the couple’s Portuguese water dog, Oscar, and bloodhound named Duke.
Has she been taken of the committee because she asked to be removed?
Halvorson did not ask to be removed. It was Jones' decision. See today's print story for more.
In her words, "I was surprised. I did not ask for it."