By AP/KWMU
Springfield, Ill. – The top Republican in the Illinois Senate, Frank Watson, says his fellow Republicans will again seek an alliance with the Speaker of the Illinois House, Democrat Michael Madigan.
Watson says it's a way to strengthen the GOP's voice in the 2005 legislative session.
Watson and Madigan have both clashed with Democratic Governor Rod Blagojevich, and Watson thinks that can translate to more influence for his conservative caucus, especially on the state budget.
Watson said Madigan and Republicans have already had meetings about the budget and hope to avoid another overtime session. Watson blames the governor and Democratic Senate President Emil Jones for not corralling spending and using too many one-time budget fixes that create shortfalls in future years.