Republican leaders say the only "responsible" way to name a replacement for late Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka is through an appointment by Republican Gov.-elect Bruce Rauner.
Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno and House Republican Leader Jim Durkin released a joint statement Thursday stressing provisions in the Illinois Constitution. Earlier in the day, Gov. Pat Quinn announced he's calling lawmakers to Springfield next month to consider a 2016 special election for comptroller.
Topinka died last week. She had won a second term in November.
Quinn says voters should have a say.
However, Republicans including Gov-elect. Bruce Rauner say a rushed decision for a special election would certainly face costly legal challenges.
In a statement, a Rauner spokesman says any changes should apply to future vacancies so they don't look "overtly political."