After Topinka, who will keep Illinois politicians honest?

Illinois government still is experiencing a void where the late Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka's frank voice used to be. Reboot Illinois' Madeleine Doubek wonders whether any other politicians will be able to bring the same honest rhetoric to Illinois politics.



Doubek writes:

In the aftermath of the death of Judy Baar Topinka, this question gnaws at me. I suspect the answer is no, not really. I strongly suspect all of us will suffer as a result.



Sure, politics, particularly nationally, is as hyper-partisan and hyperbolic as ever, but much of that seems staged and stunt-like.



Topinka was called a "truth teller" at her memorial service last week and that was the truth. We need truth tellers in Illinois government, politics and in public service, but modern-day campaigns and plain old fear seem to have snuffed out the blunt speakers.



Topinka was beloved because she was genuine. Anyone who met her could sense she was real and plain-speaking. She was unafraid of sharing unpopular views.

Read why Doubek worries Illinois doesn't have another such truth-teller waiting in the wings at Reboot Illinois.



Even as Illinoisans remember Topinka's career, another politician is just starting his time of public service. Gov.-elect Bruce Rauner has deviated from inauguration tradition to host an inauguration concert to ring in his administration. Headlining the concert will be country music singer Toby Keith and Chicago blues legend Buddy Guy. Check out all the details and learn more about these performers at Reboot Illinois.



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