Governor Pat Quinn gives his sixth State of the State address at noon today in Springfield. It comes in an election year that has Quinn seeking a second full term as governor.
Quinn has spent a lot of time talking about the state's pension problems in recent years. Now, with a bid for re-election on the line, he's turning to more populist issues, like an increase in the minimum wage.
Here's Quinn last month: "When we put more purchasing power in the hands of hard-working people, they're not going to admire the money in the bank vault."
He's expected to renew that call in today's speech. But others, like Republican Sen. Sam McCann, of Carlinville, say Quinn ought to be focusing on improving Illinois' economy overall.
"Let's stop talking about minimum wage, and let's start talking about maximizing wages and salaries and benefits for the people of Illinois," McCann says.
Illinois has one of the highest unemployment rates in the country.
WUIS will broadcast the speech live at noon today. Listen at 91.9 FM or on the Web.
