Vote with head, not your party

I am stumped as to why the people voted for Gov. Quinn and other Democratic lawmakers when all along they knew they were going to raise taxes. Maybe people want to suffer and depend on big government.

Now many people will find their paychecks smaller and their everyday expenses rising. Gas is now more than $3 a gallon thanks to big government and federal regulations, food prices are continuously rising, and the housing market is still falling.

People will suffer by this 66-percent increase in many different aspects. Jobs will continue to be lost by the increase to corporate tax rates. They say it will be lowered in four years; well, I’ve got a “bridge to nowhere” to sell you if you believe this trash.

The state promised many, many years ago that the tollway would have been paid for in 20 years and here we are 40-plus years later and it’s still not paid for.

The state is in this mess because of its fear to demand that its union pension funds and state representative pensions make concessions. Raising the age limit to retire would be a start. Having each pensioner pay a percentage into their pension could be another way to combat the state’s ailing finances.

I find it appalling that the state is in such a financial mess. Where is the money from tolls, taxes, lottery, etc.? The lottery is only one example of mismanaged funds. How can we as a nation survive the onslaught of federal, state and local governments’ excessive and erratic spending?

Just the other day, Cook County treasurer Maria Pappas was asked to explain why she had a driver and office cleaner incorrectly titled as “project leader” and “analyst,” but said their work was justified.

I believe it’s time for the people to vote with their heads instead of with their political party. Nothing will ever change in Illinois unless the power of the people speaks out. The city of Chicago has been under Democratic rule for way too long.

Gary Meyer

Pingree Grove