Do citizens share responsibility for a system that has allowed corruption to flourish?
Citizens definitely share responsibility for the current political culture in Illinois. We, as citizens, are accountable because we have the power to vote officials in and out of office. The ultimate “term-limit” is an election; no one is forcing us to continue to re-elect the same people every election. Moreover, citizens and citizen groups can and should put pressure on elected officials to change laws and, even more importantly, to adopt regular practices which contribute to the development of our political culture. We can help bring about change through our schools, the political parties, citizen groups/lobbies, and our voting practices. As already indicated, change in the political culture can begin with statutory changes, but needs to extend to daily behavior. In addition, the news media can play a very important role in highlighting unethical practices, highlighting the agenda of reform groups and helping to foster and develop needed changes in our political culture.
