Dispute over the governor’s appointments

Dispute over the governor’s appointments

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Illinois state senators are considering a measure that would change how the governor appoints state officials. Senate President John Cullerton wants the senate to confirm some of those positions, including the director of the budget office, rather than allow the governor have final say.

Annie Thompson, a spokeswoman for Gov. Pat Quinn, said the governor’s office wouldn’t speculate on why Cullerton wants more power over appointments.

“We are committed to working with the Senate on, you know, whether it’s confirmations that will require Senate approval, or working through the budgeting process,” she said.

A spokesman for President Cullerton refused to say if the measure is directed against Quinn. The bill comes as legislators have expressed frustration with Quinn’s lack of participation in cutting the budget.