Edgar Compromise On Hold as Chicago Crisis Lingers

By Lonnie Harp

Illinois lawmakers, hamstrung by the ongoing Chicago school-finance drama, decided last week to postpone talks about a proposed compromise until after Gov. Jim Edgar announces his re-election bid.

Observers said Democrats would not mind allowing the Republican Governor's announcement, expected this week, to be colored by the same cloud that has enveloped lawmakers all fall.

In that spirit, top Democrats decided last week that the legislature should put off consideration of a compromise finance plan offered late last month by Mr. Edgar and...