Joe Sosnowski, Republican State Representative for Illinois’ 69th District, said Governor JB Pritzker and the Democratic supermajority in Springfield are pursuing policies that raise costs for residents through increased spending.
“The policies of this governor and the supermajority from Springfield continues to be one of driving up costs and more spending,” said Sosnowski.
According to Sosnowski, during a press conference in Springfield, the event addressed affordability issues impacting Illinois families and highlighted policies from Governor Pritzker and the Democratic supermajority. House Republicans presented legislation aimed at supporting working families and seniors in retaining more of their earnings.
Illinois state spending has risen by more than $15 billion since Governor Pritzker assumed office in 2019, marking a 38% increase. This expansion included doubling the gasoline excise tax from 19 cents to 38 cents per gallon with annual inflation adjustments. The fiscal year 2026 budget reached $55.2 billion, up $2 billion from the prior year.
State and local tax collections in Illinois stand at 11% of gross state product, ranking ninth highest nationally and 16% above the U.S. average. This results in $14 billion more in collections than if aligned with the national average. Per capita taxes in Illinois are $8,639, compared to the national figure of $7,109.
Homeowners in Chicago experienced a record median property tax bill increase of 16.7% in 2025, raising the typical residential bill to $4,457—the largest jump in at least 30 years. This shift resulted from declining commercial property values transferring more burden to residents, coupled with higher levies from local governments including Chicago Public Schools, adding $469.4 million more in city taxes. Cook County’s total property taxes climbed by $871.8 million to nearly $19.2 billion—a 4.8% rise exceeding inflation.
Sosnowski has represented the 69th District in the Illinois House since his election in 2010, covering parts of Winnebago, Boone, and McHenry Counties. He earned a degree in English from Northern Illinois University after graduating from Glenbard North High School and resides in Rockford with his wife and four children.
