SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Democratic Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan says he will support a proposal to establish a 2016 special election to replace late Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka.

Lawmakers will convene Thursday in a special session to address the idea. The session was called by Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn, who says he wants voters to help decide who replaces Topinka.

Governor-elect Bruce Rauner intends to name Lincolnshire businesswoman Leslie Munger as a four-year replacement for Topinka after he is sworn into office Monday.

Democratic Senate President John Cullerton backs legislation to create the special election. Madigan originally said the matter was for the executive branch to decide.

GOP lawmakers say the election idea is a purely political move.

 

 

 

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