Ted Dabrowski, a gubernatorial candidate for Illinois, has expressed concerns about rising business costs outpacing sales growth. He advocates for lower taxes and reduced regulatory and labor costs to enhance competitiveness.
“A prominent business owner told me about his difficulty of operating here in Illinois,” said Dabrowski. “His sales are growing but he’s having a hard time making money because his costs are rising faster. We have to make Illinois more attractive to businesses by cutting taxes and lowering regulatory and labor costs.”
According to Homer Glen’s official community profile, the area is experiencing active commercial development along three primary corridors: 143rd Street, 159th Street, and Bell Road. The 143rd/Bell Business District encompasses over 710,500 square feet of retail space. Additionally, the State of Illinois provides a central “Business” portal that consolidates registration, licensing, and expansion resources for employers across the state.
The Tax Foundation’s profile on Illinois indicates that the state ranks 38th overall on the 2026 State Tax Competitiveness Index. This index evaluates major tax categories affecting business and investment decisions. The profile also highlights Illinois’ state and local tax burden at 12.9%, offering insight into how total taxes compare with income in the state.
Illinois’ minimum wage law establishes a statewide minimum of $15.00 per hour for workers aged 18 and older starting January 1, 2025. It also specifies overtime requirements after a 40-hour workweek. The Illinois Department of Labor’s FAQ provides additional details often referenced by employers, including a $14.50 rate for certain new hires over 18 during their first 90 days and a $13.00 youth rate under specific conditions.
Dabrowski is known as a conservative policy researcher and advocate for business-minded reforms who has previously sought the governorship of Illinois. He formerly served as president of Wirepoints, a data-focused public policy organization, and was vice president of policy at the Illinois Policy Institute. His background in banking and finance informs his discussions on budgets, taxes, and job growth. Dabrowski’s campaign emphasizes economic competitiveness, accountability, and practical reforms.
