© 2024 NPR Illinois
The Capital's Community & News Service
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Why Hold Fair Without Budget? Gov Won't Say

Bruce Rauner
Brian Mackey
/
WUIS
Gov. Bruce Rauner speaks to fairgoers at his tent on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

Governor Bruce Rauner officially opened the Illinois State Fair Friday morning. But there is still no state budget in place, and Rauner would not say how Illinois is paying for the fair.

There were all the trappings of the usual fair grand opening: politicians, a Lincoln impersonator, a ribbon cutting.

But an impasse between Rauner, a Republican, and Democratic majorities in the legislature means Illinois has no legal authority to pay for the fair. Rauner, however, refused to answer questions about that — or anything else.

Bruce Rauner
Credit Brian Mackey / WUIS
/
WUIS
Gov. Bruce Rauner walks away from reporters after cutting the ribbon to open the 2015 Illinois State Fair.

“You would be the first governor in 30 years not to (take questions from reporters) if you don’t," a reporter said. “Is that what you want in the middle of a crisis? Seriously? If you’re opening a party, shouldn’t you talk about the state budget when there’s not one?"

“Today’s to celebrate," Rauner said. "Today’s to celebrate."

“I asked about the fair," another reporter said. "Why is it important with no budget?"

“This is all about celebrating the great state of Illinois and all that makes us proud. This is out to celebrate all the people of the state," Rauner said.

As the fair goes on, many state contractors — including groups that care for people with mental disabilities — say the lack of a budget could force them out of business.

Bruce Rauner
Credit Brian Mackey / WUIS
/
WUIS
Gov. Bruce Rauner officially opened the Illinois State Fair on Friday, Aug. 14, 2015.

Brian Mackey formerly reported on state government and politics for NPR Illinois and a dozen other public radio stations across the state. Before that, he was A&E editor at The State Journal-Register and Statehouse bureau chief for the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin.
Related Stories