Metro East Sun

Illinois House candidate Amy Elik (R-Alton) considers her opponent's silence at this critical juncture in Springfield quite revealing. 

Amid the cries for ethics reform spurred by multiple scandals swirling around House Speaker Mike Madigan (D-Chicago) and his associates, many in the Democratic Party – including state Rep. Monica Bristow (D-Alton) – have remained quiet on the subject.

“Representative Bristow’s continued silence on reform speaks volumes,” 111th District challenger Elik said in a press release. “It’s time for Monica Bristow to step forward and reject the corrupt practices occurring in Springfield and those surrounding Speaker Madigan’s way of doing business, starting with calling for Madigan’s resignation.”

Illinois state Rep. Monica Bristow (D-Alton )

Following revelations over the past few months of "magic lobby lists," “pay-to-play” schemes, ghost payrolling and sexual harassment allegations, the latest report claims that a “powerful former Springfield lobbyist and close friend of House Speaker Madigan” had knowledge of the cover-up of a "rape in Champaign."

Through it all, Elik marvels at how Bristow has barely uttered a word.

“When controversy surrounds Speaker Madigan, Rep. Bristow often chooses avoidance and silence,” Elik said. “We all want to know: Where is Monica Bristow and what is her stance on Michael Madigan continuing in his role as Speaker? Does she have faith in his continued leadership?”

Foster Township Trustee Elik has made cleaning up corruption in Springfield part of her platform. Prior to her present position, Elik served on the board of St. Mary’s Catholic School in Alton.

The 111th District includes parts or all Alton, Bethalto, East Alton, Edwardsville, Elsah, Godfrey, Granite City, Hartford, Madison, Pontoon Beach, Roxana, South Roxana and Wood River.