Illinois’ next governor says he has recommendations for who should fill the vacant state comptroller position. Republican Comptroller Judy BaarTopinka died Wednesday, a month after winning re-election.
The Illinois constitution says the governor has the power to fill a vacancy in state offices - like comptroller. But Illinois is in transition, until Republican Governor-elect Bruce Rauner takes office next month.
Rauner says the current governor, Democrat Pat Quinn, should appoint Topinka’s chief of staff, Nancy Kimme to fill the position.
"She’d serve well. She’d serve the people well. And then we can take our time and pick the right person to serve out the four-year term starting in January," said Rauner.
Quinn wouldn’t say who he’d appoint to comptroller, saying the state should take time to mourn Judy Baar Topinka’s death.