Gov. Quinn Delivers State Of The State Address

By aaroncynic in News on Feb 1, 2012 8:20PM

Governor Pat Quinn gave his “State of the State” speech today to the Illinois General Assembly, stressing the idea that despite its massive problems, “Illinois is moving forward.” After making sure to highlight the criminal activity of both former governors Ryan and Blagojevich and our dire economic straits, Quinn touted his last three years as Governor as fulfilling his promise to “restore integrity to Illinois government.”

The Governor’s speech trumpeted many of the existing programs which are meant to address some of the State’s larger problems. Quinn highlighted investments in public transportation projects, the Illinois Jobs Now! Plan, and reforms to the unemployment insurance system. He also announced new investments in technology, including a $6 million competition to build high speed broadband in neighborhoods across the state.

Quinn however, did not delve deep into the deep fiscal depression Illinois remains in. While he did say the state needs Medicaid and public pension reform, he didn’t mention just how Illinois will address the estimated $21 billion in unpaid bills or the current budget deficit his own office faces. The governor only said he would “have more to say about these serious matters during my budget address three weeks from today.”

Both Mayor Emanuel’s office and The Illinois Hospital Association released statements lauding Governor Quinn for his efforts this past year. The IHA said they “commend Governor Quinn for his focus on the importance of creating jobs and growing the state’s economy,” while Emanuel’s office touted the $1 billion investment in the CTA Red Line and changes made at McCormick Place to keep it “competitive with Orlando and Las Vegas as a convention destination.”