55-0!

The IL Governor's changes to the ethics bill got slapped down by the Senate. Why in the world this roll call had to require a call from Obama to put it in motion is beyond me. Far be it from me to question these world class politicians. Of course, this quick response had more to do with giving Obama something positive to point to in Chicago politics than it did with anything else.

There are still loopholes for determined fundraisers. Money can go to political groups, which can then funnel it back to state officials and there are no restrictions on donations to lawmakers, who are influential in the contract process. The bill focused on donations to state officials that dole out the contracts (Gov, Lt Gov, AG, Sec of State, Treasurer, Comptroller).

A Senate committee immediately advanced a bill that would address the Governor's proposals, but did not Blago's late additions prevent this tiny first step from going forward.