Some Illinois Republicans are criticizing Governor Pat Quinn for his handling of two appointees. The state Senators say he used a legal loophole to gain time to get the officials confirmed.
Quinn faced a deadline Friday to re-appoint Julie Hamos as director of the Department of Healthcare and Family Services. He was also scheduled to appoint Manny Flores as head of the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Quinn withdrew the nominations and then immediately resubmitted them, effectively resetting the clock.
State Senator Darin LaHood says the move is "unprecedented" in modern times.
"And really what it is, is it's a sneaky abuse of power and there's no explanation for it, whatsoever, from anybody. And to hold nobody accountable is ridiculous," LaHood said.
Quinn told reporters that Senate President John Cullerton requested the procedural maneuver to gain more time. Cullerton's spokeswoman confirmed the two discussed using the procedure.