Why Debbie Halvorson Won't Head IDOT

Governor Pat Quinn on Tuesday said he didn't think former congressman Debbie Halvorson was the right fit to head the Illinois Department of Transportation.

"I like Debbie," Quinn, who appoints the position, said after an event announcing funding for a high speed rail projects. "But I have someone else in mind."

Halvorson, who also attended the event,  has been openly angling for the open job.

"I'm all about transportation," she said today. "I want to be part of the process."

Halvorson made clear her desire after a March meeting with Quinn in Springfield. Current secretary  Gary Hanig announced his retirment from the post and Halvorson told the governor that she'd make a fine replacement.

Other's didn't think so. Following her request, congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. released a scathing statement suggesting that Halvorson was not qualified for the job and shouldn't be considered.

Quinn appears to agree.

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