South Central Reporter

Illinois freshmen state Rep. Blaine Wilhour (R-Effingham) says the escalating federal corruption probe into numerous Democratic Illinois politicians screams for change in Springfield.

“When you have a party that is so entrenched, in such dominant control, you’re going to get that," Wilhour told the South Central Reporter. “There’s too much power in the hands of one political party in Springfield and that breeds corruption.”

Federal agents recently conducted raids on the home and offices of state Sen. Martin Sandoval (D-Chicago) amid reports that he is suspected of using his influence to steer business to at least one company in exchange for kickbacks.

Illinois state Sen. Martin Sandoval (D-Chicago) | https://senatormartinsandoval.com

“It’s really troubling considering Sen. Sandoval is still chairman of the powerful Transportation Senate Committee and was kind of the point man on this capital bill,” Wilhour said. “It makes you wonder with these capital expenditures how much nefarious behavior was going, how much pay for play did we have going on. Illinois is notorious for that.”

Sandoval is the latest state lawmaker or political operative with close ties to House Speaker Mike Madigan to recently come under investigation. Four months ago, federal agents raided the home Chicago Ald. Marty Quinn’s brother, Kevin Quinn, a one-time political aide of Madigan’s who was ousted after allegations of sexual harassment.

“I mean, the political process loses credibility every time one of these things happens,” Wilhour said. “People have zero confidence in Springfield’s ability to tackle big issues. The process is just so corrupt.”

Wilhour argues that much of the blame falls squarely at the feet of Democrats.

“The Democratic Party specifically is way too powerful in Springfield,” Wilhour said. “God bless the feds for getting in and following this trail wherever it leads. It all makes you wonder where state officials are on all this stuff.”