Atty. Gen. Jim Ryan has run his gubernatorial bid for the Republican nomination more like a monarch awaiting his coronation than a candidate in a Democratic system.
Ryan has done less to convince Illinois Republican voters that he deserves to represent the party than any politician I can remember. Like lemmings, the party faithful are supposed to follow the attorney general off the political gubernatorial cliff without question and keep their mouths shut while doing so.
The only problem is, Ryan has more questions to answer about possible, serious problems during his tenure as attorney general than anyone I can recall. From Ryan’s mishandling of a litany of issues, it seems he would be better served by keeping a tight lip before the primary–as he has. But unfortunately for Ryan, and fortunately for the people of Illinois, we do not live in a monarchy, and the citizens of our state should know where a man who wants to be governor stands on issues that may impact the future of us all.
While his opponents, Corinne Wood and Patrick O’Malley, have debated each other at every possible chance, the current attorney general dodged such events, except for participating in three carefully orchestrated debates. Ryan simply believes it’s his turn and he’s earned it.
The only thing we know about Ryan is that his management skills in the attorney general’s office have been less than stellar and his willingness to communicate his vision for Illinois is more theory than fact. I believe Ryan’s performance during the primary season has shown his disdain for the electoral process itself. Ryan shows no courage or political conviction that would tell me he deserves to lead the GOP’s effort to maintain control of the governor’s mansion.
