Sangamon Sun

Based on her “integrity” and “good sense” in what the publication termed a challenging position, the Chicago Sun-Times Illinois recently endorsed State Comptroller Leslie Geissler Munger for re-election next month.

"Munger has run the office of comptroller with integrity since (Gov. Bruce) Rauner appointed her to the job 16 months ago,” the newspaper said. “She was thrown into a tough spot, given that our state has no budget, more bills to pay than money to pay them, and thousands of vendors all but begging to be paid before they go under. Those vendors include dozens of social-service agencies that care for the disabled, the poor and the elderly.”

Munger has unwaveringly communicated the message that the state must pass a balanced budget to continue functioning. She instructed all elected state-level officials to wait for their paycheck just like every other unpaid vendor forced to undergo delayed reimbursement.

“That works fine for us,” the newspaper said. Munger also made clear her intent to create reforms and streamline the system to save money.

“Best we can tell, Munger has used good sense and followed the rules, paying certain bills first as required by court orders, paying other bills promptly so as not to lose out on matching funds, and doling out what’s left with fairness and compassion,” the Chicago Sun-Times said.