Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s record $55.2 billion budget for 2026 relies on more than $1.55 billion in newly increased revenue estimates to cover cost. That optimism collides with state agencies’ and experts’ sober predictions, meaning taxpayers are again at risk?
Illinois ranks 44th in the country on entrepreneurship and economic growth, which stops people from getting ahead.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson secured approval for his $830 million borrowing plan but can no longer use the money to benefit his cronies at the Chicago Teachers Union. The city just grew its nearly $41 billion in debt.
A new report from the Tax Foundation shows the typical Illinois taxpayer will save big thanks to the constitutional protections of Illinois’ flat tax. Some state lawmakers want to take that protection away.
House Bill 3014 and Senate Bill 1546 would tie Illinois’ spending growth to GDP growth, potentially saving billions of dollars as the state needs to live within its means.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s 2026 budget includes record spending, cuts to economic development and overreliance on short-term revenue tricks—including a cleverly hidden tax hike, leaving significant work for the state to reach financial stability.
A new bill would repeal an outdated Illinois business tax. The franchise tax is tough to calculate, most businesses don’t owe it and it generates little revenue in a state that already hits businesses hard with other taxes.
Mayor Brandon Johnson asked to borrow $830 million one day after the city’s credit rating dipping to near-junk status. He would have broad discretion over how to spend the money – including on his friends at the Chicago Teachers Union.
Illinois and other states with sanctuary cities saw large influxes of international migrants in recent years. But historical data shows the new arrivals may soon move out for the same reasons other residents have.
Illinoisans pay the second-highest gas taxes in the nation at more than $0.84 per gallon. Only California charges its drivers more.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker invoked a fairy tale about magic beans and a giant during his annual state of the state and budget address. Too bad he forgot to take an ax to the giant, record-setting budget he has grown by $16.7 billion since taking office.
Nearly 2 million Illinoisans, with around half in Cook County, relied on federal food assistance in October 2024, marking a 12% increase in five years.