There must be some room for compromise

To my state lawmakers, Sullivan and McConchie:

I am a resident of Libertyville and registered Republican, and I voted for both of you in your most recent elections. My note to you is spurred by today's front-page editorial in the Daily Herald.

I agree with the opinion of the editorial board. Enough is enough. While I agree with what Gov. Rauner is trying to accomplish, the current stalemate is hurting those that are most in need of government support and damaging our state for the long-term. I understand that Michael Madigan's actions in the state are criminal, at least in spirit if not under the law, and that with his distorted view of service to the people of Illinois, meaningful compromise unlikely.

His abuse of power during his Illinois reign is one of the most compelling arguments for term limits in public office.

That being said, as the leaders of our state, it is time for the individual members of the House and Senate to send messages to all party leaders and reach out to reasonable colleagues on the other side of the aisle to resolve the budget impasse.

I understand the political realities - at least as much as anyone can when looking at the state of Illinois - but you personally can take steps to rise above concerns with re-election, preferred assignments and party unity and be a force for getting the State moving again.

I am not suggesting accepting the absurd budget that Mr. Madigan has proposed, but there must be places where compromise is possible.

To date, both sides have retreated to their side of the sandbox and refused to speak to each other. The stalemate is childish, an embarrassment to our state and most importantly, hurting those that can least afford further difficulty.

Patrick Schwartz

Libertyville