Quinn Set To Sign Campaign Finance Reform Bill

By Marcus Gilmer in News on Oct 31, 2009 4:15PM

Even as the bill cutting free rides for seniors went down in flames, it seems the state legislature did manage to pass something as they sent the campaign finance reform bill to Gov. Quinn who is expected to sign it into law. Of course, the bill didn't come easy. While Democrats pushed the bill through, state Republicans have insisted that the bill doesn't go far enough in limiting donations. The bill, which passed by a 36-22 margin in the senate, marks the first time in the state's history limits have been imposed on campaign donations. For those late to the issue, the Tribune explains:

Candidates could get up to $5,000 each for the primary and general elections from individuals, $10,000 from corporations and unions, and $50,000 from political action committees.

The disagreement centered on the four legislative leaders and how best to control their influence on individual lawmakers through the use of campaign money. The bill awaiting Quinn's signature provides limits for primary races. Legislative and political party leaders combined would be restricted to giving $200,000 to a statewide candidate, $125,000 to a state Senate candidate, and $75,000 to a state House candidate.

There would be no such limits for the fall general election, however. House Speaker Michael Madigan of Chicago also serves as state Democratic chairman, and he could devote unlimited party campaign resources to highly competitive contests.

Quinn called the bill "a workable framework" while Madigan dismissed criticism, saying, "My view is a political party exists to support its candidates in the general election."