Gov. Pat Quinn says he didn't travel Illinois encouraging lawmakers to uphold his veto against raising electric rates to pay to modernize the state's power grid because he's concerned they'll override him.

He said Tuesday it was democracy in action and his duty to rally people to the cause.

Lawmakers have cautiously predicted they'll be able to override Quinn's veto when they return to work this month in Springfield. The measure didn't pass initially with a veto-proof majority. Supporters need 71 House votes and 36 Senate votes to be successful.

The governor followed through on a promise to veto the measure last month, calling it a "nightmare" for consumers.

Supporters say the money is needed to finance a "Smart Grid" and give Commonwealth Edison and Ameren money for basic infrastructure.