Democrats are moving out of Chicago and into the Illinois prairies. Additionally, the work of many passionate patriots has laid the groundwork for change.

Perhaps this is why GOP leaders recently got together at Denny's farm.

PLANO (AP) - Key Illinois Republican Party leaders met at House Speaker Dennis Hastert's Kendall County home Saturday to discuss the party's future, State GOP Chairman Andy McKenna said.

In addition to Hastert and McKenna, State Sen. Frank Watson (Super-minority Leader) and State Rep. Tom Cross (Minority Leader) also were at the private meeting, McKenna said.

"This is not an unusual meeting," he said. "We get together from time to time to talk about everything from broad ideas to tactical issues ... we're always trying to stay in touch."

McKenna said the attendees discussed where the party is headed, but he declined to provide any specifics, including who all the attendees were or how long the meeting lasted.

Telephone messages left for Watson, Cross and a Hastert spokesman were not immediately returned Saturday.

Political observers said talking points among state Republicans have lately included how to hone a clear message following last month's election when Democrats won every statewide race.

The party has also taken a hit with Hastert losing the job of speaker - which he held continuously longer than any other Republican - when Democrats won control of the U.S. House.

John Jackson, a political science professor at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, said the Republicans who gathered at Hastert's Plano home likely discussed "how they get a farm club that will start winning again."

"Right now, they don't have much in the pipe line," he said.

These are just a few reasons why we need to keep working hard for change.

jdl

Thanks for jumping on board with this exciting campaign Jimmi!

Looking forward to seeing you guys at the next staff meeting.

DeKalb Dems are having their training that night also... so I'm gonna call you and have the Chairwoman meet with you along the way.

Take care,
John Laesch

As a candidate for U.S. Congress in Illinois 14th, I have not yet entered the "All Stars Race."

My good friend, Dr. David Gill (www.gill2006.com) is one of the candidates up for election.

Doc Gill is an E.R. Physician in Clinton, IL and an advocate for a Single-Payer National Healthcare Program.

He would be an important counter balance to Dr. Frist - who can determine health from a video.

Respectfully,
John Laesch

Jerry,

Thanks for your help today!

We are working our way towards the "$300K DCCC Bar of approval."

cheers,
jdl

Thanks for the "nod."

Raisin,

You write beautifully!

I appreciate your commitment to Democracy and your support of this campaign.

jdl