Illinois' largest public employees' union, AFSCME, and Governor Bruce Rauner continue be at odds over a new contract.
But Wednesday Rauner - a Republican - publicly said he will NOT "lockout" union members --- a means of leading to a temporary work stoppage.
"I have no interest in doing a lockout. If I wanted to do a lockout of AFSCME, I'd have already done it. I have absolutely no interest."
A spokesman for AFSCME says Rauner's words don't match his actions. Anders Lindall says Rauner doesn't need to use a "lockout" --- he could force union members to strike by making extreme demands. Lindall points out that as a candidate ... Rauner repeatedly said he would be willing to force a government shutdown.
The governor recently vetoed legislation that would forbid lockouts or strikes ... and require an arbitrator be called if the two sides can't reach terms on a new contract. AFSCME is pressing for an override.
