Senate Republicans to Pritzker: Balance Illinois’ Budget Without Tax Hikes on Illinois Families
As Illinois braces for a projected budget deficit of more than $3 billion, Senate Republicans are calling on Governor J.B. Pritzker to commit to balancing the budget without raising taxes on Illinois citizens and businesses.
A recent report from the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB) estimates a $3.16 billion shortfall for the next fiscal year, raising concerns about how the Governor plans to close the budget gap he created.
Since taking office, Governor Pritzker has expanded state spending by more than 30 percent, reaching a record $53 billion in the last fiscal year. Senate Republicans have long criticized the Governor for this dramatic increase in state spending, arguing that he has turned temporary federal aid into long-term financial commitments for the state.
News of this deficit comes just months after Pritzker and his legislative allies raised taxes by nearly $1 billion to fund a budget that included more than $1 billion in healthcare and other benefits for non-citizens.
A recent Chicago Tribune article highlighted the issue and the GOP Senators’ demand for no new tax hikes: –With state facing $3B deficit, GOP senators call on Gov. JB Pritzker to promise no tax hikes.-
Illinoisans across the state have made their position clear—they’re struggling to make ends meet and cannot afford to cover the cost of Governor Pritzker’s budget crisis. Instead of focusing on personal political ambitions, HE/SHE said, the Governor should prioritize the real challenges facing Illinois families and work to restore financial stability in the state.
DeWitte Continues Discussions on the Future of Public Transit in Illinois
As the ranking Republican on the Senate Transportation Committee, I attended several meetings over the past few months to discuss Illinois’ public transit systems— its financial challenges, and how service and governance can be improved in the future.
Last week in Springfield, I sat down with Kirk Dillard, Chairman of the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) to continue our conversation on the best solutions to address public transit challenges.
Here in the suburbs, public transportation is a vital need for those who use Metra to get to and from work or rely on the PACE bus system. As discussions continue into proposed public transit reforms, I am particularly focused on ensuring that any changes to the system do not dilute suburban voices on the governing board.
It has been widely reported that the Illinois transit systems are facing a $730 million fiscal cliff in 2026. There is a proposal on the table to consolidate the RTA, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra, and PACE into one entity overseen by one 18-member board with voting membership as follows:
- 5 members appointed by Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson
- 5 members appointed by Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle
- 1 member from each of the collar counties (total of 5)
- 3 members appointed by Governor JB Pritzker
As you can see, this make-up of appointed positions hands simple majority voting power to Chicago and Cook County and would allow them to make decisions that benefit Chicagoans at the expense of riders in the suburbs. There is an obvious need for continued discussion and negotiation regarding what form the new structure will take in order to maintain legitimate and fair representation from all six counties in the service region. The collar counties provide more than 40% of the revenue that is used to fund the RTA, and the ultimate reconfiguration must treat Chicago, Cook County, and suburban riders equally.
Veto Session Begins
Lawmakers convened in Springfield for the start of the fall Veto Session on November 12. For me, the week began with a meeting of the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR).
The first week of the Veto Session concluded without substantial floor action. However, Senate Republicans did come together to hold a press conference calling on Governor Pritzker to commit to not raising taxes to cover a looming $3.16 billion budget deficit.
Senate lawmakers also came together to recognize veterans as part of their annual Veterans Day recognition floor tribute. Meanwhile, members of the Senate Executive Committee met to discuss a bill to ban carbon sequestration injections near sole-source aquifers. Senate Bill 3968, which would have banned the controversial practice, was held in the Committee without a vote.
This week, state legislators will gather once more at the state Capitol for the last three scheduled days of the Veto Session beginning November 19.
Veterans Memorial Returns to Capitol
The Veterans Memorial Display has returned to the Illinois State Capitol and is now open for visitors. Thank you to those from the 33rd District who submitted entries for their beloved veterans.
Hosted by the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus, this annual tribute honors the service and sacrifice of veterans with an exhibit running from November 11 through November 25. The display is located in the south hall on the first floor of the Capitol building.
The memorial includes a large electronic display featuring veterans’ photos and stories, alongside a message wall where visitors can leave notes of gratitude. This meaningful tribute offers the public a chance to pay their respects and reflect on the bravery of Illinois veterans.
The public can also view the tributes showcased on the Display online.
Federal Court Ruling Finds Illinois’ Assault Weapons Ban Unconstitutional
A federal judge in East St. Louis recently ruled that the state’s assault weapons ban is unconstitutional.
In 2023, Illinois enacted a ban on the sale and possession of certain semi-automatic firearms and high-capacity magazines. The legislation faced immediate legal challenges, with gun owners and gun rights advocacy groups arguing it infringed on constitutional rights. On November 8, Judge Stephen P. McGlynn ruled the state’s ban unconstitutional, granting an injunction to plaintiffs.
The judge stayed the injunction for 30 days, and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed an appeal that same night. And so, the Democrats’ continued efforts to subvert the constitutional rights of responsible, law-abiding gun owners in this state continues.
Click here to access the official injunction ruling.