A newspaper has identified more politicians who used their influence to get students into the University of Illinois.

Several lawmakers backed applicants whose relatives donated to campaigns or represented groups that regularly contributed, among other things

The first report of the so-called clout list was in 2009. It was comprised of politically-connected students favored by lawmakers and trustees. The university has since implemented reforms and hired a new president.

About one-quarter of the 800 students who received preferential treatment from 2005 to 2009.

The list of politicians includes House Republican leader Tom Cross and Senate President John Cullerton.

Both deny wrongdoing, saying they simply made calls to check on the status of good students.