By Maria Hickey, KWMU
Collinsville, Ill. – Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich is blasting Republicans for not supporting his $3.2 billion proposal for capital projects in the state.
The Democrat says building new highways, bridges and schools - and fixing old ones - will provide 230,000 jobs in the state.
During a visit to Collinsville Monday, Blagojevich said he wants to work with Republicans, but hasn't gotten cooperation.
If our Republican friends want to stick it to a Democratic governor, by the way, they do it all the time anyway, why change now? But don't do it on this bill. This bill is too important to the people of our state."
During his speech, the governor did not address how the state would pay for the projects. He did say southwest Illinois would gain 18,000 jobs if the capital projects plan passes.
Republicans have expressed skepticism over funding, including Blagojevich's proposal to legalize keno gambling.