Chicago City Wire

Ammie Kessem, the Republican candidate for the 19th House District, recently posted a Facebook video criticizing the political quid pro quo that allegedly keeps longtime House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) in power.

Her opponent, Rep. Robert Martwick (D-Chicago) and Madigan “are two sides of the same fraudulent coin,” Kessem posted on Facebook. “Our property taxes go up, they continue to get paid and rake in more profits for their business as property tax appeals lawyers. Martwick gets $30,000 from Madigan, re-elects him as Speaker, and their little game plays on.”

The 3-minute video, which was paid for by the Get Illinois Right PAC, begins by stating that despite only having a 21-percent approval rating, Madigan continues to retain the speakership.

Rep. Robert Martwick

The video then outlines a process where candidates tell constituents things they want to hear but once elected, they follow Madigan’s agenda. Madigan funds their campaigns and, in return, they vote him in as Speaker of the House and then vote for his rules on how the House works and what bills are voted on.

“You see, Madigan spends a lot of time promoting candidates and all the good things they say they’re going to do but, after they win, he only invests in ensuring they will grow his power,” the voiceover states. “He knows what you want to hear in campaigns and he makes sure you hear it from those who’ll rotate right back to him once they’re in office.”

Kessem then says the same process happens with Martwick. He claims to be bipartisan, despite backing Madigan’s agenda as debt and property taxes keep increasing. He has also said he will vote for Madigan again.

“I am the only candidate in this race who will be an independent voice for you and stand up for our community,” Kessem said. “It’s time for new leadership.”

The 19th House District includes parts of Chicago, Elmwood Park, Harwood Heights, Leyden, Norridge, Norwood Park and River Grove.