Don't be quick to jump on Quinn

There is no doubt that disgraced Blagojevich left this state in a mess of corruption and fiscal devastation. He has left us with an $11.5 billion deficit. But, despite all the criticism he is getting, Gov. Pat Quinn is taking a fiscally sound approach in solving this problem - a rare happening in Springfield.

The press reports and everyone is led to believe Gov. Pat Quinn wants a 50 percent increase in personal income tax.

This is a scare tactic and is very misleading.

Since Illinois constitutionally cannot implement a progressive tax, he is asking for an income tax rate change from 3 percent to 4.5 percent, while at the same time increasing the personal exemption.

The effective rate as a result of this strategy results in nowhere near a 50 percent increase in taxes for everyone. It in fact appears to be a very equitable and responsible way to solve this unbelievable mess left by Blagojeivich.

Even with the rate increasing from 3 percent to 4.5 percent, surrounding states have higher rates - Missouri, 1.5 percent to 6 percent,; Kentucky, 2 percent to 6 percent; Indiana, 3.4 percent; Iowa, 0 percent to 8.9 percent (for $63,000 and greater); and Wisconsin, 4.6 percent to 6.7 percent.

Everyone agrees we cannot cut our way out of this mess left by Blago. We could fire the state employees and still have a deficit.

For the press and critics to leave the people with the impression Gov. Quinn is asking for a 50 percent increase in income taxes is wrong. A 50 percent rate increase does not translate into a 50 percent increase in taxes for everyone.

It is time to end the infighting and shell games and pass a responsible budget. His budget proposal may be political suicide for him, but it is a responsible approach and should be given a fair presentation by the press and his critics.

Leo A. Dietrich

Lake Villa