Lake County Gazette

Ken Idstein argues that Springfield has become the antithesis of what it should be.

“I’m running to change the culture in Springfield and ensure state government protects us, instead of preying on us, Idstein told the Lake County Gazette. “That means more accountability, more transparency, and most of all a complete transformation of state government so it serves the people again, instead of the politicians.”

Idstein, who is set to face off against state Rep. Sam Yingling (D-Grayslake) in the 62nd District in November’s general election, recently added the ongoing sexual harassment scandal now gripping Springfield and threatening the political empire of longtime House Speaker Mike Madigan (D-Chicago) only adds to his motivation.  

Rep. Sam Yingling

“Week after week, more women come forward to shine a light on the culture of sexual harassment and bullying they have faced in the course of their work for the State of Illinois,” he said. “Many of these women suffered at the hands of Speaker Madigan’s top allies, including Sherri Garrett, who was harassed for years by Madigan’s Chief of Staff Tim Mapes. Yet, politicians remain silent.”

Idstein added he only needs to look at Yingling to get an idea of why that might be.

“Yingling has received $1.4 million from Madigan,” he said. “He is beholden to Madigan and the broke political culture so he can’t stand up for us. One-hundred-and-nine days ago, I asked Sam Yingling to join me in calling for Speaker Madigan’s resignation. Yingling’s response: silence. Since then, four of Madigan’s top aides have been fired or forced to resign from their positions due to their involvement in sexual harassment scandals. Still, Yingling stands by Madigan and silently props up this culture.”

Beyond Madigan’s resignation, Idstein said he is also in favor of installing an independent Legislative Inspector General, and enacting reforms that would empower victims of harassment and assault, such as House Bill 4840.

 “I’m running to change the culture in Springfield, added Idstein, insisting that he would be free to do so because he would not be reliant on Madigan or his allies to fund any of his campaign efforts.