Carrie Mendoza, a candidate for lieutenant governor on the Dabrowski-Mendoza ticket, addressed the Lt. Governor Forum at the Freedom Summit, emphasizing that Illinois’ economic struggles necessitate new leadership focused on prioritizing residents.
“Gov. Pritzker constantly makes excuses for his administration’s dismal results,” said Mendoza, Lt. Governor Candidate. “Every state in the nation, red and blue, is operating under the same conditions. It’s Illinois that consistently ranks at the bottom of every economic, financial and demographic statistic that matters. Ted Dabrowski and I promise to work tirelessly to put everyday Illinoisans first.”
Illinois has faced enduring economic and fiscal challenges, including population loss, weak job growth, and high tax burdens compared to other Midwestern states. Analysts have noted that these structural problems predate recent national political shifts, contributing to heightened voter concern over state leadership and performance.
According to recent U.S. Census Bureau estimates, Illinois continues to experience net population decline, with more than 37,000 residents lost in 2023 alone. This trend has persisted for several years, leaving Illinois among the states with the largest domestic out-migration—a metric often cited in debates over state policy and economic competitiveness.
Fiscal analyses by Truth in Accounting routinely rank Illinois near the bottom among U.S. states for financial health, citing pension liabilities and long-term debt as key contributors. Their 2023 Financial State of the States report placed Illinois 49th, underscoring ongoing concerns about budget sustainability.
Mendoza is a conservative policy advocate in Illinois and has been active in statewide reform efforts focused on economic competitiveness, taxation, and government accountability. Her work has emphasized data-driven approaches to improving outcomes for residents and promoting fiscally responsible governance across the state.
