Any Republican that attended the 97th General Assembly's opening ceremonies Wednesday was thoroughly disgusted with the hypocrisy and hyperbole expressed in both the Illinois House and Senate during their chambers' leadership nomination speeches. There were no surprises as to the winners, as House Democratic majorities voted in House Speaker Mike Madigan for his 18th term as House leader and the Democratic Senate majority voted in Senate President John J. Cullerton for his second term.
So why all the kissing up? Why have a nomination speech and three seconds, all pouring more and more flattery while nominating? Why blatatently mislead Illinoisans as to accomplishments and cover up of failure?
Some have suggested that the Republicans' negative reaction to the Democrats' speeches is expected because Republicans are bitter, sore losers and devoured sour grapes. Listen to Clayborner's over-the-top nomination speech and tell us what you think. Are Clayborn's comments no big deal, or over-the-top and repulsive?
