Quinn says he wouldn't opt out of health plan

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn holds his first press conference since being appointed governor yesterday following former Governor Rod Blagojevich's removal from office by the Illinois Senate January 30, 2009 in Springfield, Illinois. The Senate yesterday voted 59-0 to remove Blagojevich from office following an impeachment trial. Blagojevich has been accused by federal authorities of corruption including offering to sell the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by President-elect Barack Obama. (Scott Olson, Getty Images)

CHICAGO (AP) — Gov. Pat Quinn says Illinois should not try to opt out of a national health care plan if one passes in Washington.

The Chicago Democrat says that would be the wrong way to go.

All but one of the seven Republicans running for governor say they would reject a government-run health plan. A provision to let states opt out is being considered in Washington.

Quinn also said Friday that he disagrees with Republican Jim Ryan's call to lower the minimum wage in Illinois by 75 cents. Ryan says that would help make Illinois more competitive economically.

Quinn made his comments at an event where he picked up several endorsements, including one from Chicago alderman Dick Mell, the father-in-law of ousted Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

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