Tracy Smodilla, the Republican candidate for the State Senate District 22 seat, criticized the Illinois Supreme Court's ruling on Thursday to keep the Fair Map Amendment off the ballot in November.
“Despite over 500,000 signatures, the people once again have been thwarted by Democratic leaders in Springfield," Smodilla said. "For too long, the citizens of Illinois have been unable to change the system due to the leaders in Springfield who have put protecting power over protecting people.
Tracy Smodilla
| Contributed photo
The decision came through a divided, partisan, 4-3 ruling. The decision is unpopular because of widespread support from both Republican and Democrat voters.
“Today, a muzzle has been placed on the people of this state, and their voices supplanted with judicial fiat," dissenting Judge Robert Thomas wrote in a statement. "The whimper you hear is democracy stifled. I join that muted chorus of dissent."
Smodilla also criticized his opponent, Cristina Castro, for her response to the decision.
“Despite our opponent’s statement that she is upset over the ruling, make no mistake she is benefiting from the gerrymandering the Democratic leadership has fought to protect," Smodilla said. " We need legislators who will pay more than lip service to their constituents.”
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