Governor Pritzker is blaming Washington for a crisis he created in Illinois. Since taking office, he has increased state spending by roughly 40% and just signed the largest budget in Illinois history.
“I’m very disappointed in the Governor’s decision to sign the FY26 budget. The record-breaking $55.2 billion budget that’s filled with gimmicks, revenue sweeps and nearly $1 billion in tax hikes sets Illinois up for failure in FY27. This budget will lead to more financial burdens on working families who are struggling and does not reflect the needs of Illinois residents.”
Rep. Kevin Schmidt
Transparency first. House Republicans have demanded real transparency across agencies and the budget process, including time to review billion-dollar bills and clear accounting of dedicated funds. The current process hides the ball and fails taxpayers.
Agency mismanagement. Shining a light on agencies would help fix services for Illinoisans and target funding where it actually works. Even Senator Andy Manar asked agencies on May 7, 2024 to identify $800 million in collective savings. Not a single cut was presented for public review.
The result. Illinois families were handed a $55.2 billion FY 2026 budget, about $2 billion higher than last year, along with $1 billion in tax hikes and fund sweeps. This showed little restraint and ignored the very “threat to our fiscal condition” the Governor talks about. The so-called “balanced” plan leans on fund sweeps, delayed rainy-day deposits, and cuts to priorities like education, public safety, and property tax relief.
Where to cut, today:
● Migrant spending
○ HBIA elimination noted, but HBIS still funded at $110 million
○ $40 million for Welcome Centers, reduced from $140 million but still significant
○ $40 million for Immigration Integration
○ $35 million for immigrant services such as legal support
● Pork projects
○ “Fund for Illinois’ Future,” a partisan slush fund, receives a $370 million GRF transfer and sweeps from other funds, with a $420 million balance
○ $40 million for Proviso Township High School District 209, in Speaker Welch’s district, for capital improvements and an outdoor sports complex at Proviso West
Bottom line. This crisis did not start in D.C. It is the product of years of unchecked spending, gimmicks, and a closed-door process in Springfield. House Republicans stand ready with concrete cuts and a transparent, line-by-line budget review that protects taxpayers and focuses on core services.
Pritzker’s Spending Spree Continues with Proposed Budget
Last year after the budget address, we reported Governor Pritzker had proposed the largest budget in the state’s history. This year, he has outdone himself – breaking last year’s record….read more.