From the Kankakee Daily Journal (Editorial):

Editorial: Time for reform
11/16/2007

As George Ryan starts his prison sentence, followers of Illinois history know he follows in the footsteps of Dan Walker and Otto Kerner, former governors who were also convicted.

Now, the key question -- is Gov. Rod Blagojevich next?

Blagojevich is under serious federal investigation. The most likely link is fundraiser and friend Antonin "Tony" Rezko, now under indictment and charged with soliciting contributions in return for guaranteeing a firm business with the state pension system.

Blagojevich has yet to be indicted for anything. In a quote given to the Associated Press, he drew a clear "right and wrong" distinction between his actions and those of Ryan.

Yet, it is ironic that Blagojevich, and close ally Senate President Emil Jones, are the two roadblocks to a new state law that would end "pay to play" by restricting political donations from state contractors.

Our view is that such a law ought to be passed, soon, and it ought to be followed up with further reforms. Illinois remains one of the most lax states in the nation when it comes to funding politics.

* Donations from gambling interests ought to be barred.

* Unused campaign donations ought to be given back at the end of a campaign, or given to charity. No more stockpiling of money.

* Donations given to one campaign should not be shifted to another. Our system now runs too much money through the Big Four (House and Senate leaders of both parties). The result is a concentration of power and a stranglehold of ideas. We're seeing it now.

* Donations from outside political districts ought to be restricted. Chicago cash should not be poured into downstate.

Of course, no restriction can apply to taste or dignity. What Blagojevich did in the last campaign with the "What's she thinking?" ads was reprehensible. Judy Baar Topinka, a dedicated public servant, was mudballed. It wasn't the first negative campaign, but it was one of the worst.

So some reform is needed. But the best reform of all might be a more informed electorate demanding a higher-toned campaign.