Dupage Policy Journal

House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) is extending warm wishes to Argonne National Laboratory as it celebrates its 75th anniversary.

“Happy 75th anniversary to Argonne National Laboratory, which I have the privilege of representing in my legislative district,” Durkin said in a video posted to YouTube. “In the last 75 years, Argonne has achieved milestones in scientific research development and is one of the country’s largest laboratories, making breakthroughs in science, energy, environment and national security.”

Durkin joined state Sen. John Curran (R-Lemont) in congratulating the lab as a difference-maker in his community.

“My district is proud to be the home of Argonne Lab,” Curran said in a video posted to YouTube. “Because Argonne is one of the region's largest employers, you have a direct role in this area’s economic success by providing quality jobs to a workforce over 3,400," Curran said. "This valuable staff does critical work to advance nuclear energy solutions by tackling key challenges in the fields of science, energy, the environment and national security.”

Curran’s tribute didn’t end there.

“You have a distinguished history and I couldn’t be prouder that Argonne’s notable achievements have occurred in the 41st District,” he said. “Argonne continues to be a leader for making impactful innovations to our nation. It is a distinct pleasure to have Argonne National Labs in Illinois, and especially in the 41st District.

Meanwhile, Durkin is also lashing out at Gov. J.B. Pritzker over what he sees as him misleading voters about redistricting legislative maps.

“J.B. Pritzker promised to veto any maps drawn by legislators or politicians, but with no fanfare Gov. Pritzker broke that promise and signed the legislative maps, even though yesterday he told reporters he was undecided and hadn't reviewed the maps,” Durkin said in a video posted to YouTube. “Gov. Pritzker, you sold out. You sold out independents, you sold out Republicans and you sold out Democrats to the partisan Democrat Machine, which has destroyed Illinois. And Governor, not only did you sell out, but you lied.”