As the sexual harassment allegations plaguing House Speaker Mike Madigan's (D-Chicago) office continues to simmer, Doug Jameson has become more determined in his resolve to shake things up in Springfield.
"It’s clear we need new leadership, but it’s just as obvious Mike Madigan has no plans of going anywhere anytime soon,” Jameson told the Metro East Sun. “It just makes me more determined to be one of the at least nine House seats that flip in November ... to be part of the coalition to vote him out of power.”
The latest Madigan controversy centers on reports allies of his sought to retaliate against Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago) for raising questions about his handling of sexual harassment allegations made against an aide.
Doug Jameson
Soon after Cassidy publicly questioned Madigan’s handling of the situation, she claims she was forced to resign from her part-time job in Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart’s office.
While Madigan has steadfastly denied having any involvement in any such actions and is now calling for a watchdog group to oversee the ongoing sexual harassment investigation, Jameson said the scenario is emblematic of the way Madigan has long operated in the shadows.
“I think this is another example of how there needs to more transparency in government and how Madigan needs to come clean on everything or have voters clean house for him,” said Jameson, a Belleville Republican challenging Rep. Jay Hoffman (D-Swansea) in the 113th District.
Jameson also points an accusatory finger at Hoffman, who he argues essentially serves as a rubber stamp to Madigan.
“That’s why he was tapped as his assistant leader, so he can work for him instead of the people of the district,” he said.
The 113th House District includes all or parts of Belleville, Swansea, Fairview Heights, Washington Park, Fairmont City, Caseyville, Madison and Granite City.
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