GOV. THOMPSON SERVED ILLINOIS WITH DISTINCTION

James R. Thompson woke up this morning as a private citizen. For the 5,114 days before, he woke up as governor of Illinois. He was the nation's most senior governor and the longest-serving in Illinois history before he left office at noon Monday. The trust placed in him by Illinois citizens for 14 years reflects grandly on a talented public servant and his unique political career. Thompson served with distinction and accolades being heaped on him with his departure from office are well-deserved.

A label is difficult to attach to Thompson's years of service because his accomplishments were wide-ranging. He was tough on crime, having increased the state's prison capacity by 10,000 beds and fought for the establishment of more formidable felony penalties. He was aggressive in "bricks and mortar" issues, having championed massive highway projects, the establishment of civic centers, the renovation of state fairgrounds and construction at public colleges and universities. While occasionally criticized for his travels (there were two dozen foreign trips during his tenure), Thompson made Illinois a significant player in the fight among states for economic development opportunities; his efforts led to a diversification in the state's economy.

Thompson was a highly visible governor, not only because of his bear-like physical stature, but because he did not shy away from the national limelight. He was a confidant of two Republican presidents in the 1980s, was often mentioned for national candidacies and was held in high regard by other of the nation's state chief executives.

The state is not without its problems as the new governor, Jim Edgar, begins his term. Like many states, Illinois faces growing revenue pressure from a general economic slowdown; to balance the state's budget, and keep his pledge not to raise taxes, the new governor will need to trim hundreds of millions of dollars from next year's fiscal plan. Edgar used Monday's inaugural addressed to also vow an overhaul of the state's educational system. There is a lot of work to do.

But those problems are now behind Thompson, though it is a sure bet Edgar will seek his counsel from time to time. Thompson said he had fun serving as governor of Illinois and it seems reasonable that 14 years in a high pressure job would have to have some satisfaction as payment. Thompson didn't have to serve four terms to prove his dedication to the state of Illinois ... but the people of the state should be glad he did.