By Bob Bradley

Once again a budget for Illinois has not been passed by the state deadline. And once again state legislators will have to meet during the summer to work out a budget. In the meantime all those in the state who need to know what the budget will include have to wait wondering what funding, if any, they will get for next year.

While this situation has played out many times in the past this scenario will be even testier with both sides planning to spend millions in advertising defending their positions and demonizing the other side. If only they would pool that money and make a lump-sum payment on the state’s debt.

The situation seems to be strikingly similar to two groups of elementary school children arguing before the start of a kickball game. One side says if they don’t get up first, then they are taking the ball and leaving. The other side says if they don’t get up first, then they are just going home. No room for compromise, it’s my way or nothing.

For those who contend that major spending cuts without revenue enhancements is the path to the state’s economic recovery then some perspective should be gained from the recent experiences of Greece or Kansas. Ask the residents of either place how the economy is currently after severe austerity programs were implemented. Probably not going to hear a lot of positive comments.

For those who argue that revenue enhancements are the path to progress without meaningful spending cuts then just consider what happened in Illinois not too long ago. Income tax rates went up and no sizable dent was made to the state’s debt load.

So please legislators and governor take to heart the value of compromise, and serve Illinois residents rather than your party or re-election hopes.

Bob Bradley is a professor emeritus from Illinois State University where he primarily taught law-related courses in the political science department for 30 years. He did a weekly-segment for WJBC on politics and law for more than a decade. He also co-hosted a live- radio show from the Democratic and Republican national conventions in 2008, and reported live from the 2012 Republican convention. Currently, he serves on several community boards, does volunteer work, enjoys golf and fishing, and likes landscaping and bird-watching. He is married to the love of his life, Reenie, and has one daughter, Erin.

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