Gov. Pat Quinn: Tough Governor's Day at the Illinois State Fair

Hundreds of unionized state workers picket outside the main entrance to the Illinois State Fairgrounds Wednesday, which was Governor’s Day, a traditional day of Democratic unity. The show of force was directed entirely at Gov. Pat Quinn for wanting to gut public-employee pensions and close state facilities that could mean thousands of state layoffs. (reporting and photo by Dave McKinney)

Chicago Sun-Times Springfield Bureau Chief Dave McKinney has the story from the fair; read McKinney’s report HERE.

Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon at the Illinois State Fair (photo and reporting below by Dave McKinney)

Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon drew boos from angry union protesters when introducing Gov. Pat Quinn at Governor’s Day Wednesday at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield. Known for his long speeches, Quinn spent only two minutes talking at the rally. But his words were drowned out by hundreds of union members upset by his plans to cut back pension benefits, close state facilities and lay off thousands of workers. Chicago Sun-Times Springfield Bureau Chief Dave McKinney has the story from the fair; read McKinney’s report HERE.