PEORIA, Ill. – Reactions to Governor Pritzker’s budget address by Peoria-area lawmakers were mostly divided along party lines.
Governor J.B. Pritzker unveiled his plans for a $56 billion spending plan for fiscal year 27 on Wednesday.
Democrats in the area spoke about concerns from Washington D.C. that could have a ripple effect on the state’s budget.
State Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth (D-Peoria) urged lawmakers to prioritize and strengthen support for school funding, child care, health care, and other services that residents depend on. She says it’s needed because “the stakes are high,” claiming that the White House and Washington will be “antagonistic toward our state and its people.”
“Through a human-centered lens, we’re going to fight for every Illinoisan. I look forward to reviewing the governor’s proposal in detail, and getting to work on a plan that reflects the very best of Illinois,” Gordon-Booth said.
State Sen. Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) warned about “inconsistent federal policies” that could affect the budget. But he was “pleased” to see improvements for housing affordability and education as part of the budget plans.
It was a different tone from State Rep. Ryan Spain (R-Peoria). He blamed the state’s problems on Democrats, not from Washington.
“JB Pritzker and Democrats want to gloss over their own actions, which have cost Illinois taxpayers over $16 billion over JB Pritzker’s two terms as Governor,” said Spain. “This is the largest budget in Illinois history. The State Budget has ballooned by 40% under JB Pritzker,” Spain said.
Spain says Republicans have a better plan that includes no new taxes or sanctuary state spending.
State Sen. Li Arellano (R-Dixon) says the budget highlights the flaws of the Pritzker administration, with more taxes and spending, adding the state trails the country in economic growth.
Arellano does say he was “encouraged” to see movement towards growing nuclear energy in the state, as well as removing barriers in building homes.
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