Dupage Policy Journal

Minority House Leader Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs) doesn’t mince words in expressing what he thinks of Gov. J.B. Pritzker signing off on new map redistricting legislation completely crafted by Democrats.

“As a candidate for office, J.B. Pritzker promised to veto any maps drawn by legislators or politicians,” Durkin said at a recent news conference. “Gov. Pritzker broke that promise, even though yesterday he told reporters he was undecided and hadn't reviewed the maps. Gov. Pritzker you sold out. You sold out independence. You sold out Republicans. You sold out Democrats.”

The legislative maps will now stand for the next ten years. Critics of the governor’s actions say the maps were designed to keep Democrats in power.

“Democrats blocked reforms that ensured an independent commission would be in charge of drawing them,” Durkin said. “But unfortunately speaker Madigan and now Speaker Welch cut backroom deals behind locked doors to pick their voters, entirely circumventing the democratic process and yes, you heard me, Speaker Madigan, this is right out of the playbook.”

In a statement, Pritzker said he is satisfied the maps do what they need to in terms of keeping elections fair and communities adequately represented across the state. Welch has also defended the governor’s actions as a “win for the people of this great state.”

Facing a June 30 deadline, Democrats pushed the maps through both chambers earlier this month following hearings. Had they failed to pass the maps by the end of the month, the state constitution would have called for the creation of an eight-person bipartisan panel to take over the job.

“The Democrats, including Gov. Pritzker ensured as little time as possible would be allowed for public comment,” Durkin added. “The final maps were introduced less than 24 hours before they were called for a vote. They passed it in the eleventh hour, citing an end-of-June deadline that we all know is fake.”

Durkin said Pritzker is a big part of the problem.

"Gov. Pritzker refused to hear the voice of people telling him this was a bad idea and this is a bad map,” he said. “Countless advocacy groups feel the same way. Governor, by signing this bill you've turned your back on millions of Illinoisans who are desperately seeking honesty in government. You turned your back on these people. These advocates showed up asking to be heard participating in a process in an earnest way only to have their concerns completely ignored.”