Statement from Governor Rod R. Blagojevich

CHICAGO - I would like to send my sincere congratulations to our new Senate President, State Senator John Cullerton, and our new Republican Leader of the Senate, State Senator Christine Radogno. I look forward to working with them both in finding ways to help solve some of the biggest problems facing our state today.

Senators Cullerton and Radogno will be stepping into some big shoes but I am confident they will be able to build on the legacy left behind by their predecessors.  I am also assured that under their leadership, they will embrace the principle of cooperation and work together with me to help pass meaningful and substantive legislation that will better the lives of Illinois' residents.

I would particularly like to congratulate Sen. Radogno on becoming the first woman picked to be an Illinois legislative leader.  She has shattered a glass ceiling for women in this state. She has become a trendsetter and will hopefully inspire and open the door for more women to reach greater heights in their careers.