This is no longer the Land of Lincoln

Since their election it has been difficult to say which Illinois politician has been more inept in dealing with the matters of the city of Chicago and Illinois. I'm speaking of course of Gov. JB Pritzker and Mayor Lori Lightfoot.

The breaking point appears to be the confluence of the coronavirus and the recent demonstrations/ riots. While citizens begged to allow to open their businesses and go to church under guidelines allowed for other things, they were strictly denied. While tax revenue declined, Pritzker asked for more free money from the federal government not just to assist in covering new expenses, but to help fill the state's bankrupt pension system, which has been out of control for 30 years.

Not to be outdone, Lightfoot allowed demonstrations for the death of George Floyd without permits. As you've then seen, those turned into riots that destroyed property and injured citizens and police. When the President asked if Lightfoot wanted National Guard troops, she told him off with her foul mouth.

In a state that has the worst track record on taxes and people leaving, you would think shoring up business and people in general would be a priority for both of them.

Alas, not so much. And in a city with a high murder rate, you'd think help would be welcome, particularly in the black neighborhoods that are suffering the most.

This state is dead, and the root cause has been who has been politically in control in Chicago and Illinois for the past 70 years.

I'm sorry, President Lincoln. I know this was your home, but you really wouldn't want to be here now.

Richard Francke

Bartlett