News to Feb. 28

In the article “Lawmaker challenges utilities on rate plan” from Journalstandard.com (http://www.journalstandard.com/articles/2006/02/25/local_news/news01.txt) the author informs the reader that Lisa Madigan is working toward the same goal as the state representative who is the subject of the article. Lisa Dugan, the representative, is trying to block a change in the way Illinoisans buy electricity—a change that could lead to a 20% rate increase. According to the article, Lisa Madigan is working in the same direction, filing a suit against the Illinois Commerce Commission. Although she filed the suit last year, it was dismissed, but she said she plans to appeal in effort to protect consumers.
Regardless of the adverse affects Madigan’s suit might have on the utility companies, she seems to be doing the right thing in terms of her campaign for reelection. Fighting to save voters money is something that will surely please residents of Illinois.

In “Madigan Warns of New Identity Theft Scam,” (http://cbs2chicago.com/topstories/local_story_055082239.html) Madigan’s warning to consumers is explained. She publicized an e-mail scam in which e-mail recipients are told someone has been using their social security number and are prompted to go to a website wherein they are asked to give their social security numbers and/or financial information. This warning is an effort to protect consumers and it publicizes Madigan’s name. The article says not that Madigan’s office has published the warning but that Madigan herself has done so—emphasizing that she herself is the one watching out for Illinois residents.

A political science professor I had said that when voters are deciding who they want in state and local office they ask the question “What have you done for me lately?” It seems from these articles about Madigan that she will have plenty of concrete and specific answers to give to voters.