IL rep: As if Bears ‘had a plan to rob the bank’ before considering Indiana

(The Center Square) – The Illinois state rep whose district includes Soldier Field says the Chicago Bears are bluffing by suggesting a move to Northwest Indiana, but Indiana Gov. Mike Braun says the Bears recognize his state’s pro-business climate.

Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren announced in an open letter Dec. 17 that the National Football League team had expanded its search for a new stadium site to include Northwest Indiana.

The Bears currently play near the Lake Michigan shoreline at Soldier Field, in the district represented by state Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago.

“I think the Bears are bluffing. I think that this is once again a point of leverage for them, but I could see this ending pretty badly,” Buckner told The Center Square.

In a social media post, Indiana Gov. Mike Braun said the Bears would deliver a major economic boost to the Hoosier State.

“The Chicago Bears recognize Indiana’s pro-business climate, and I am ready to work with them to build a ...