Springfield, IL … State Representative Michael McAuliffe (R-Chicago) supports the Illinois Senate’s overwhelming vote to convict Democrat Governor Rod Blagojevich for abuse of power and federal corruption charges. Immediately after the vote, Blagojevich was removed from office.

“Rod Blagojevich has not only embarrassed the State of Illinois, but failed to work for the very people who elected him,” said McAuliffe. “From day one of the General Assembly’s investigation and trial, Blagojevich has not taken the process seriously. Instead of facing his accusers and pleading his case of innocence, he ran to New York to be interviewed by The View and Larry King Live. At the 11^th hour, he attempted to save his neck while accusing the Senate of running a kangaroo court.”

The impeachable offenses considered by the Senate during the week-long trial included attempting to sell the vacant U.S. Senate seat of President Obama for personal gain; attempting to withhold state money for Children’s Memorial Hospital for a campaign contribution; expanding the state’s healthcare system without legislative approval; bribing the Chicago Tribune Company; and using state deals to get campaign contributions.

McAuliffe said he is ready to move on from the impeachment and get to work on other serious state issues. Continue reading »

Springfield, IL … State Representative Michael McAuliffe (R-Chicago) took the oath of office for his seventh term in the Illinois House of Representatives today amongst the company of family and friends.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to represent the residents of the 20th district. It is a great feeling knowing that I have so much support from my district. I look forward to tackling issues that will benefit Illinois residents,” said McAuliffe.

McAuliffe said he looks forward to working on issues that will help veterans, senior citizens, families and property owners during the 96th General Assembly.

“I hope that we can put aside political beliefs and work together to positively impact residents of the Chicagoland area and the entire state. I will continue to work aggressively on issues that matter to families,” McAuliffe said. Continue reading »

Springfield, IL …Today, in a historic move, the Illinois House of Representatives voted nearly unanimously to impeach embattled Democrat Governor Rod Blagojevich.  State Representative Michael McAuliffe (R-Chicago), voted in favor of impeachment.

“This is very a sad day for the State of Illinois, but I am hopeful that the action we took will allow us to begin the healing process,” said McAuliffe. Continue reading »