Amendment would allow Illinoisans to recall state leaders, local politicians

Illinoisans would have the chance to recall state and local politicians under a proposal in Springfield.

A new proposal would let Illinoisans recall state lawmakers and local politicians through petitions. State Rep. Dan Ugaste, R-St. Charles, filed a resolution to amend the Illinois Constitution and give Illinois voters a way to oust state and local leaders.

House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 4 would establish a recall process for state lawmakers and executive officers such as the state attorney general, secretary of state, comptroller and treasurer. Currently it’s only possible to recall the governor.

“This is about holding elected officials accountable to the people who elected them,” Ugaste said.

A similar bill filed by state Rep. La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, applies only to Chicago’s mayor. Ugaste’s bill would extend the same opportunity for voters to recall other local and state leaders, including legislative leaders.

The bill comes on the heels of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s corruption trial wrapping up. Madigan was the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history. As speaker, Madigan’s influence affected the entire state, but only voters in one House district could directly voice their opinion on his influence.

Ugaste’s resolution would give Illinoisans across the state a chance to hold corrupt leaders accountable.

Both Midwestern neighbors Wisconsin and Michigan have recall laws in place for state lawmakers and have had successful recalls. Lawmakers should always support giving voters more opportunities to make their voices heard.