Cat Bill

In the statement of veto, Governor Stevensen expresses his objection for the “Cat Bill” using satire.

The tone of Stevenson’s address is both professional as well as sarcastic. He begins by addressing the Illinois State Senate as “honorable” and ends his letter signing his name following “respectfully”. By beginning and ending with a respectful tone, Stevenson is able to rise above and superior to his legislature by acting in a professional manner. He is also sensible as he addresses concerns from the “Cat Bill.” For example, he addresses the nature of both cats and their owners, stating, “To escort a cat abroad on a leash is against the nature of the cat, and to permit it to venture forth for exercise unattended into a night of new dangers is against the nature of the owner”. By considering the negative effects of this bill upon the citizens of his state, Stevenson is able to effectively address his reasons for vetoing the “Cat Bill.”

Stevenson’s diction disproves the legislative action taken by the Illinois State Senate. Using words with negative connotations, such as “impose,” “imprison,” and “capture,” it is obvious that Stevenson is keeping the concerns of his audience in mind by appealing to the needs of both the citizens of Illinois