Governor sticks by Adams

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Human Services said it had no evidence that two highly paid ex-employees did any work other than acting as chauffeurs, a position that contradicts earlier statements by former Secretary Carol Adams.

Adams, recently appointed by Gov. Pat Quinn to an international trade post, claimed the two men did more than drive her and her chief of staff when lawmakers questioned her about the matter two years ago. However, she refused to prove it by releasing examples of the men’s work.

Now, after another request from The Associated Press, Adams’ agency said there was nothing to release. No work products exist.

Adams won’t talk. Asked about the situation Wednesday, Quinn said he was unaware of the situation.

Quinn named Adams to head the state’s African trade office starting in January, despite the controversy over her use of drivers and his promise last spring to “fumigate” state government of former Gov. Rod Blagojevich appointees.