“The administration’s decision to pull the $500 million bond sale today is a clear indication that officials were concerned that we might pay too much in interest, in large part due to our awful credit rating. Our failure to pass meaningful pension reform, to pay down our large backlog of bills and to live within our means is contributing to this uncertainty in the markets for us. We stand ready to address these issues today–so that we are not forced to pay unnecessarily high interest rates.

Full story on our caucus site here.
At the recent annual gathering of Park District officials from around the state of Illinois, our very own State Representative Ed Sullivan was named the "2012 Outstanding Legislator of the Year" by the Illinois Association of Park Districts for his exemplary dedication to advancing park districts and recreation opportunities for all Illinois citizens.
“Rep. Sullivan’s unwavering support of park districts and the opportunities they provide is unparalleled,” said Peter Murphy, President and CEO of the Illinois Association of Park Districts. “The Illinois Association of Park Districts is proud to honor him as the Outstanding Legislator of the Year.”
Congrats Representative Sullivan. Send him your kudos by visiting his site.

2012 was a busy year for Leader Tom Cross.  From working hard on behalf of his constituents in Plainfield, Shorewood, Joliet, Oswego and Napervillle to working together with his colleagues in Springfield to build a stronger economy, Tom Cross continued to focus on making Illinois a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

In between discussions on the floor of the Illinois House in Springfield and press conferences around the state, there were meetings, awards, events and even private moments shared with staff, visitors, fellow elected officials and his family.  The set of photos below in the slideshow takes you behind the scenes with Leader Tom Cross to see his 2012 in review.

Want to stay on top of what Leader Cross is up to every day?



Our daily news roundup - Called "In the Know Illinois" gives you the three or four items that you *must* know before heading into your morning meetings.   Our staff does a great job of selecting stories for inclusion.

But from time-to-time, we look to enlist a "Guest Host" who helps curate the stories that set the agenda each and every day.  This week, it is Representative Darlene Senger.

Are you a subscriber?  If not, head over here and sign up.  You won't be disappointed.
House GOP Leader Tom Cross issued a statement at the end of the week regarding Fitch's downgrade of Illinois' Bond rating:
“Fitch’s downgrade of our bond rating is embarrassing and may cost the state more money—money that we clearly do not have. How many more times do we have to be downgraded to prompt action in the General Assembly? I have worked and will continue to work with other members in the House and Senate to pass meaningful pension reform.”