Illinois State Sen. Liandro Arellano Jr. said the state should pursue ‘less government and more economic growth and opportunity in Illinois.’ The comments were made as part of ongoing discussions about the state’s fiscal pressures, which are influenced by economic expansion lagging behind national trends.
The topic is significant for residents and lawmakers as Illinois continues to face challenges related to revenue growth, budget planning, and overall economic performance. Arellano’s statement followed local development activity at the Gateway Project site in Dixon, where officials announced more businesses are expected to open.
“One way to improve tax revenue without raising tax rates? Grow your economy,” Arellano wrote in a social media post. “The State of Illinois has not chosen to follow a good economic path, and so trails the nation every year in growth. That has meant billions less of tax revenue. We must embrace a path of less government and more economic growth and opportunity in Illinois.’
Illinois real gross domestic product (GDP) has grown just 7.9% since 2019, below the national average of 17.6% during the same period. The state ranked 46th in the nation for real GDP growth over that timeframe. Illinois also posted slower per capita personal income growth than the national average and all neighboring states, according to an analysis by Illinois Policy Institute.
Illinois state tax collections have increased 46% since 2019, while personal income growth for residents has lagged the nation. High combined state and local tax burdens have been cited among factors driving businesses and residents to leave Illinois. The state has lost billions in adjusted gross income through net moves. National comparisons show Illinois trailing in key economic performance metrics over multiple years, according to another report from Illinois Policy Institute.
Arellano previously served as mayor of Dixon from 2015 to 2023, where he focused on economic development and fiscal challenges, according to the Illinois General Assembly. The Republican was also sworn in as state senator for the 37th District, which includes parts of 12 counties. He is a father of five and a military veteran, according to his official biography. Arellano was elected to the Illinois Senate in 2025, replacing Win Stoller.
