An editorial from the self-proclaimed "progressive" newspaper, the Chicago Sun-Times, highlights the malign influence of Emil Jones, Barack Obama's mentor in the Illinois State Senate, who allowed the president-elect to attach his name to various pieces of legislation, so as to create the appearance of a track record. Writes the S-T:

"Illinois' legislators convene in Springfield on Wednesday, likely their last session this year.

"It's easy to anticipate what will be on the agenda: bickering, recriminations and politicking.

"It's also easy to anticipate what won't be: a desperately needed construction bill that would create jobs and rebuild roads, bridges, schools and mass transit across Illinois."  [....]

"The only glimmer of hope is Jones' retirement. With the loss of Blagojevich's key ally, there's a chance the Senate and House may start working together again. That will depend, of course, on who takes Jones' place. The Senate Democrats will make that decision in the coming weeks.

Here's hoping for an Illinois miracle."