Thursday, March 1, 2018

Despite now claiming to oppose Mike Madigan, both Dan Biss and Chris Kennedy have taken a much different approach when it suited their own ambitions. During his time in state government, Dan Biss accepted contributions from Madigan, voted for him to be Speaker, and even ran his Super PAC. While exploring runs for office, Kennedy has consistently courted Madigan’s support, asking for his help and trying to get Mike Madigan’s blessing before running for governor.

REALITY CHECK:

• Dan Biss is the only candidate on stage who voted for Mike Madigan to be Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives, while accepting nearly $250,000 from the Democratic Party chaired by Madigan, and over $14,000 from Madigan’s account
• Biss also ran Mike Madigan’s Super PAC, Leading Illinois for Tomorrow (LIFT), filling its coffers with millions from Madigan and top allies.
• Chris Kennedy repeatedly asked for Madigan’s help while considering running for office. After deciding not to run for Congress in 1999, Kennedy announced his decision in a letter addressed directly to the Speaker.
• Back in July 2016, Kennedy met with Madigan as he was considering a bid for governor.

###