Topinka to have knee surgery

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka is scheduled to have knee replacement surgery Thursday, her spokesman said.

Topinka, a Riverside Republican, has been seen walking with a cane, which she apparently isn't fond of.

“That cane made her crazy,” spokesman Brad Hahn said.

Topinka will be out of the comptroller's office for at least two weeks, depending on how rehab goes, but will be in touch with staff, Hahn said.

“We have to see how the rehabilitation works,” he said.

Topinka, 67, began her first term as comptroller in January. She previously served as state treasurer from 1995 to 2007, leaving the office after an unsuccessful run for governor against Rod Blagojevich.

Hahn said Topinka has had an infection in her knee for several years.