With Time Running Out, Unknowns Loom Over Statehouse
House Speaker Chris Welch, Gov. JB Pritzker, and Senate President Don Harmon, announce a budget deal in 2022. (Photo: Chicago Tribune)
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“I don’t know anything, do you know anything?” came the response from a well-connected House Democrat Tuesday.
It matched most of the conversations we had with more than two dozen lawmakers, lobbyists, and insiders as we wait for word on the most contentious issues.
There was a lot of speculation among lawmakers and insiders we spoke to that budget talks had gotten off-kilter after what was perceived as progress over the weekend. But other Democrats say it has just been radio silence on the budget front for a few days.
[Tuesday] was quiet, which means everyday will just be more crazy,” quipped one lobbyist.
“Honestly, I am hearing nothing,” said another member.
We’re told member initiatives remain part of the budget, but only for Democratic members. Democratic senators would receive $3 million for projects in their districts while Democratic House members would receive $1 million each.
Other members were more optimistic.
“Quiet usually means the real work is getting done behind closed doors,” said another House Democrat.
For now, though, most of the principals in the negotiations aren’t saying a word about the status of the negotiations.
