Lake County Gazette

Republican House candidate Ken Idstein argues Rep. Sam Yingling (D-Greyslake) and House Speaker Mike Madigan are more than just joined at the hip.

“My opponent, Rep. Yingling, won’t do anything without Madigan’s approval,” Idstein, who is running against Yingling for the 62nd House District seat in November’s general election, posted on Facebook. “Madigan has given Yingling $1.5 million, the most money of any candidate for state representative. It’s no wonder our property taxes continue to skyrocket and Yingling remains silent despite story after story from women coming out and accusing high ranking members of Madigan’s political team of harassment.”

Madigan recently spoke out on the issue, writing in a Chicago Tribune op-ed that he hasn’t done as much as he should about the sexual harassment scandal in Springfield.

Rep. Ted Yingling

The longtime House Speaker is facing rising criticism as several of his closest associates have become ensnared in the controversy, including former Madigan Chief of Staff Tim Mapes, who is accused of bullying and harassment by a female coworker.

While he’s not surprised Yingling has continued to support Madigan through it, Idstein assures voters things will be different once he arrives in Springfield.

“I am not beholden to Madigan, (Gov. Bruce) Rauner, or anyone else,” he said. “I am running to represent you and to save our home.”

The 62nd District includes parts of Avon, Fremont, Grant, Lake Villa, Warren and Wauconda.