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Gov. Rauner Heads To Facebook To Discuss Budget Agenda

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Gov. Bruce Rauner spent 30 minutes promoting his agenda in a Facebook video.

Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner appeared in another Facebook Live video Tuesday to discuss the budget.

Rauner sat alone at a desk, delivering a version of the pro-business, anti-incumbent talking points he's used for nearly four years.

David Tewksbury studies political communications at the University of Illinois.  He says politicians are always trying to shape the narrative.

"Whoever frames what this issue is about is the one who's probably going to win it, at least as far as the public opinion is concerned," Tewksbury says.

Rauner wants voters to think the budget impasse is the fault of Democrats fighting to hold onto power.  Democrats say Rauner is trying to force radical changes on Illinois.

Illinois has gone more than 17 months without a budget.  However, a combination of court orders and partial spending agreements have kept state government afloat.

Brian Mackey formerly reported on state government and politics for NPR Illinois and a dozen other public radio stations across the state. Before that, he was A&E editor at The State Journal-Register and Statehouse bureau chief for the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin.
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