Rauner and Ives appeared more eager to reform state finances and lure employers. They understand that Illinois needs more taxpayers. That said, their ability to strategize is hamstrung by the fact that Democrats have an iron grip on the legislature. Ives said she believes she’d be able to cut deals on spending issues. She also believes she could win support to shift new government employees to a 401(k)-style retirement plan, which would provide some relief to the pension crisis. Rauner is gambling on two federal court cases that would loosen the power of unions and make Illinois more friendly and flexible to business.