(MARION, IL) — Williamson County’s Democratic chairman wants Republican State Rep. Dave Severin of Benton to step down because he left Springfield on April 6 to avoid two votes. Cody R. Moake cited an article in The Southern Illinois where Severin left to avoid the votes on nurses and medical positions at state prisons and a “lifeline” budget proposal. Severin told the newspaper he felt pressure to vote a certain way by the Republican Party. Moake released a statement saying while he didn’t vote for Severin, he expects from him and everyone in the 117th District should expect from him to represent the best interest of the district on every issued that comes to a vote. Moake also said if Severin is too much of a coward to stand up for what’s right, he should step down and the Republican Party should find someone who will keep our best interest in mind and take those tough votes. Severin says “Williamson County Democrats are still trying to adjust to life without a Madigan enabler in office so I can understand their frustration. With that said, their calls for my resignation are bizarre, at best.” Severin released a statement to the media last night stating since he has been in Springfield, he has seen the political games being played by Speaker Mike Madigan nearly every day. Severin says what was omitted from the previous reporting is the fact that prior to the bill being called, the administration informed me that they would rescind the corrections nurses’ layoffs and go back to the negotiating table, thanks to the urging of a number of my colleagues and me. Severin added knowing this fact ahead of time gave him the peace of mind he needed to know that the bill would not be necessary and was in fact yet another attempt by Speaker Madigan to drive a wedge between Severin and his constituents for political purposes. Negotiations are continuing as we speak and Severin encourage both sides to stay at the table until a deal is reached.