Pols RSVP No to Clout Panel Party

Tribune reports 3 leaders refuse invitation

It seems three of the state's biggest political power brokers weren't all that excited to testify before the University of Illinois clout panel investigating admissions abuses revealed by the Chicago Tribune.

House Speaker Michael Madigan, Senate President John Cullerton and House Republic Leader Tom Cross have all passed on the invitation to appear before the Illinois Admissions Review Commission, their offices told the Tribune.

Chairman Abner Mikva said only two lawmakers have testified about the school's clout-influenced admissions system so far -- Rep. Mike Boland and Sen. Chris Lauzen.

Madigan topped the list of legislators who made admissions inquiries over the last five years. His spokesman told the paper he didn't have much to contribute to the investigation.

"He was only responding to constituent requests," Steve Brown told the Tribune. "That's the only think he would be able to tell them."

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