Pols need some ‘skin in the game’

Pols need some ‘skin in the game’

“Skin in the game” is a phrase I have heard several times with respect to the current public employee pension underfunding in Illinois. Politicians have been quick to suggest sacrifices from local school districts, current retirees, and working employees.

Not surprisingly, I have heard nothing about “skin” for politicians who are responsible for the underfunding in the first place. I suggest a new tax in Illinois that almost everyone would favor: a 50 percent tax on all political advertising and campaign spending in our state with proceeds to reduce the pension liability.

Just think, there would be 50 percent fewer TV commercials, campaign signs littering our neighborhoods, and annoying evening phone calls and our politicians would have some “skin in the game.”

Gerald Wojtko

Glen Ellyn