Say What?
The government’s recent bailouts of major auto companies (including GM and Chrysler) were controversial, to say the least. But to some DC politicians, they’re also apparently confusing. Watch Harry Reid’s claim that the bailouts “probably saved Ford”—which didn’t take any bailouts—by clicking here.
Shopping Without Price Tags
Paris Hilton may be able to shop without looking at price tags, but the state of Illinois doesn’t have that luxury—particularly when it already has $4.7 billion in unpaid bills. Even so, state legislators receive precious little information on how much the laws they’re approving will save or cost taxpayers. You can learn more (and what we can do about it) here.
Pay Day!
Cha-ching: Illinois state representatives and senators earn a base salary of $67,8361, which is the fifth highest in the country. Adding insult to injury, the latest Institute study reveals that higher-paid legislatures may actually correlate with higher state budget deficits. Click here to learn more.
Live in Chicago? Take Our Traffic-Stopping New Poll
Every weekday, Chicago’s Loop is a hotbed of traffic—not to mention traffic guards. Do these city employees improve public safety? Or are they causing more harm than good? Vote in our latest poll, available here.
Don’t Roll Those Eyes…
If you’re an especially emotive person, you might want to avoid Elmhurst public meetings: In the future, your facial expressions could just get you booted. Brian Costin reports on a potential ban on eye-rolling and sighing in village meetings here.
In Case You Missed It
Institute CEO John Tillman appeared on Fox News Chicago this week to discuss the state budget with State Representative Lou Lang. You can watch the debate here. Tomorrow, John will be on Fox Business at 9:15 am to discuss the City of Chicago using leftover Olympic money to secure stimulus funding.
Two Institute Events Next Week!
Don’t forget to RSVP for our two exciting events next week: Rules for Radicals on Thursday, July 29, and the Breakfast of Champions on Friday, July 30.