Grundy Reporter

Governor J.B. Pritzker's budget address has sparked varied reactions, with Senate Republicans criticizing the proposed $55.4 billion spending plan as unrealistic and burdensome for taxpayers. This proposal represents a 37% increase in state spending since Pritzker assumed office, which surpasses the growth of average family incomes.

Recently, the Governor's budget office projected a $3.2 billion deficit, yet Pritzker claims to have "found" over $2 billion in additional revenue without an official economic report to substantiate this claim. Critics have labeled this as "fuzzy math" and are calling for transparency.

The budget includes tax hikes on businesses that could affect consumers and revives a progressive tax plan that may ease future income tax increases if revenue projections fall short. Republicans argue that Pritzker's spending should not be at the expense of hardworking Illinoisans.

Senate Republicans have urged the Governor to stop spending over $1 billion annually on free healthcare and other programs for noncitizens, advocating instead for prioritizing struggling Illinois families. Although Pritzker proposes cutting $400 million from these programs, skepticism remains high among Republicans who demand accountability.

Economic issues continue to be significant concerns. Since 2019, Illinois has lost nearly 60,000 jobs and now ranks third-highest in unemployment rates nationally. In 2024 alone, manufacturing layoffs increased by 25%, with over 13,000 notices issued—figures critics say demonstrate why more government spending is not the solution.

The absence of property tax relief in the Governor’s speech was notable. State Senator Sue Rezin expressed disappointment, noting that Pritzker seems more focused on expanding government than addressing pressing resident concerns.

Additionally, some described the speech as resembling a campaign pitch aimed at national attention rather than offering a serious plan to address Illinois' challenges.