Some thoughts on the Constitutional Convention vote
Having traveled to most sections of Illinois at one time or another camapaigning for a “Yes” vote, I had a great opportunity to meet many of decent the people of Illinois from across the political spectrum. Regardless of the outcome, that part of the campaign has been a real pleasure.
As we (John Bambenek and I) traveled the state debating many of the spokespersons for the “Alliance for the Status Quo,” we noticed that in virtually every case, the room would move in our direction. This was an indicator of just how much better our argument was than the “No” side.
Another indicator that we were on the right track is just how many newspapers across the state, most of which were against a convention in 1988, seemed to understand that nothing else is going to break the stranglehold of the Illinois Political Class. Illinois needs a “dynamic changing event,” and banging your head against the Democrat/Republican wall isn’t going to provide that opportunity.
I could go on at length about the issue, but at the end of the day, nothing happens in American politics with out money. In a battle between the $1.3-1.8 million in the coffers of the defenders of the status quo against a smattering of groups who couldn’t raise more than a few tens of thousands, ad 61-39 loss isn’t that bad.
I remain convinced that if we were on a level playing field financially, the Convention would have passed. Our arguments were just that much better.
In closing, let me again say how much of a pleasure it was talking to the 1000s of Illinois citizens over the last 1-2 years. I thank you all for the opportunity.
On to the next big thing.
