Watson needs to take care of himself for now

State government just won’t be the same in the future.

But more important than losing state Sen. Frank Watson’s presence among the state’s leaders at the bargaining table is the future health of our long-time representative in Springfield.

Watson made his first visit to Springfield last week after suffering a stroke. Yet his recovery is far from over, with many challenging days, weeks and months ahead.

And while we are losing Watson’s participation in key talks by our governor and legislative leaders, we understand and support his decision to step down from the Senate minority leader post.

Whether you are a Republican or a Democrat, you have to appreciate and be thankful for all that Watson has done for this region – and for the entire state – for close to three decades.

We have seen many, many instances when it was beneficial to have a legislator from right in our own backyard as a central figure in key Illinois issues.

Of course, what sticks out most is when Gov. Rod Blagojevich targeted Vandalia Correctional Center for closure in 2004, after Watson had challenged the governor on the state budget.

But Watson was up to the fight, garnering the support of residents of this region and legislators from all parts of the state to prevent VCC’s closure.

Over the years, Watson has had several opportunities to make runs for governor or lieutenant governor. But he chose to keep the job he had, chose to remain focused on representing the people of our area while also providing leadership on statewide issues.

We don’t question the abilities and experience that Sen. Christine Radogno brings to the post of Senate minority leader. But for everything that Radogno brings to that position, she doesn’t have the background with Fayette County and its residents.

Despite the fact that Watson no longer will serve as one of the Big Four in Springfield, there’s no doubt that he will continue to have the ears of Radogno and other state legislators in the future. He will continue to be recognized as a key player.

For the time being, we’re hopeful that Watson will concentrate on putting his needs before ours.

rb