Governor Quinn Statement on Passage of Special Election Legislation

SPRINGFIELD - Governor Pat Quinn today issued the following statement regarding successful passage of legislation he advocated that will allow voters to fill the statewide position of Illinois Comptroller. A special election will give voters the opportunity to choose their Comptroller in the next statewide election on Nov. 8, 2016.

"Today's action by the Illinois General Assembly is a victory for democracy in Illinois.

"This legislation keeps the power to choose statewide elected officials where it belongs - with the people.

"The late Judy Baar Topinka was a woman of the people. She understood that government officials must be accountable and responsive to Illinois citizens. This legislation gives voters the opportunity to select someone to follow Judy's example of public service.

"I thank Speaker Madigan, President Cullerton and those who worked with us in good faith to pass this measure. I will sign it into law to ensure that the will of the people remains the law of the land through the most powerful tool of democracy - the voting booth."