Gov. Bruce Rauner says he hopes lawmakers don't just focus on overriding vetoes when they return to Springfield for a brief session next week and instead work on trying to end an epic budget impasse. The Republican governor says he wants to meet with legislative leaders Monday to discuss how to proceed, but Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan hasn't responded. Madigan's spokesman didn't immediately respond to calls for comment.
Illinois hasn't had a budget in more than 16 months. It's unclear how much progress the governor and leaders can make because ruling Democrats remain at odds with Rauner's call to pass business friendly, union-weakening legislation.
Rauner used his vast wealth to help Republicans unseat four House Democrats on Tuesday. He says it's now time to focus on the state's future.
