Blagojevich, legislative leaders meet on budget

By The Associated Press

CHICAGO – Senate Republican Leader Frank Watson says little progress was made during a meeting with Governor Rod Blagojevich and top legislative leaders about the state budget.

Watson says there was more “finger-pointing” and “dysfunction.”

Blagojevich called Thursday’s meeting with top legislative leaders to talk about fixing a state budget that he says is $2 billion out of whack and passing a massive public works program.

House Speaker Michael Madigan’s surrogate – Majority Leader Barbara Flynn Currie – left before the other three leaders.

Currie accused Blagojevich of manufacturing a crisis and says it’s his job to deal with the budget lawmakers sent him last weekend.

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Blagojevich’s office says they want to meet again with leaders next week.