My Statement on the FY27 State Budget
I voted NO on the Fiscal Year 2027 state budget. This budget spends $55.9 billion, the largest budget in Illinois history. It also includes nearly $800 million in new taxes and fees.
Illinois does not have a revenue problem. The problem is with spending. Since Governor Pritzker took office, state spending has increased by nearly 40% while taxpayers continue to hear the same excuses and see the same results.
This is what’s in the new budget:
• Nearly $800 million in new taxes and fees.
• At least $220 million in pork projects and political earmarks.
• Approximately $410 million in spending on illegal immigrant programs and services.
• No meaningful property tax relief.
• No increase in the Local Government Distributive Fund, leaving communities with the same 6.47% share they received last year.
The people I represent expect government to focus on public safety, affordability, and responsible spending. Instead, Illinois Democrats have produced another record-breaking budget and simply handed taxpayers the bill.
The process was just as disappointing as the product. Republicans were largely shut out of negotiations, leaving millions of Illinois residents without the voice of their elected representative during budget discussions.
Illinois families have already absorbed 57 tax and fee increases under Governor Pritzker, costing taxpayers more than $77 billion. This budget continues that trend. Taxpayers deserve better stewardship of their money than what was delivered today. That is why I voted NO.
Gov. Pritzker Provides Lip Service on Public Safety
As a police officer, I have spent nearly two decades seeing firsthand what happens when public safety takes a back seat. This year alone, Illinois families have watched tragedy after tragedy unfold, including the murder of Chicago Police Officer John Bartholomew and other heartbreaking crimes that have impacted communities across our state.
Despite these warning signs, Governor Pritzker and Illinois Democrats refused to pursue meaningful SAFE-T Act reforms during the spring legislative session.
Illinois families deserve leaders who are willing to address problems and put public safety first. I will continue pushing for common-sense reforms that support law enforcement, protect victims, and help make our communities safer.
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Special Visitor at the Capitol
Great to meet Rheed Kiel during his visit to the Illinois Capitol last week.
Rheed is from Chatham and recently graduated from Western Illinois University, where he studied Emergency Management and Criminal Justice. He hopes to pursue a career in law enforcement, and I always appreciate the opportunity to meet young people who are willing to step up and serve their communities.
As a police officer, I know how important it is to have dedicated individuals entering the profession with a heart for public service. Rheed has already taken important steps toward that goal, and I wish him the very best as he continues his education and prepares for a career in law enforcement.
Thank you to State Representative Mike Coffey for bringing Rheed to Springfield (and State Representative Dennis Tipsword for joining us in this photo). It was great meeting you, Rheed, and I look forward to seeing where your future takes you!
Retaining Experienced Investigators
I was proud to sponsor HB2270 to help retain experienced investigators serving under the Secretary of State’s office.
This legislation is about fairness, consistency, and recognizing the value of experienced law enforcement professionals who still have the ability and desire to serve. Raising the service age from 60 to 65 helps keep skilled investigators on the job at a time when experience and institutional knowledge matter more than ever.
I appreciate State Senator Li Arellano, Jr for advancing this bill in the Senate and helping move this common-sense legislation forward!
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