Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Freedom Caucus has publicly announced its opposition to Governor J.B. Pritzker's bid for a third term, citing his policies as contributors to the increased cost of living for working families in the state. This announcement was made on the social media platform X.

According to the Illinois Freedom Caucus, Pritzker's tax policies are creating financial difficulties for residents, particularly affecting the middle class and small businesses. The caucus argues that high taxation and regulatory measures under Pritzker's administration have exacerbated these challenges. This statement comes amid ongoing discussions in Springfield regarding how to tackle Illinois' population decline and rising living costs.

The Illinois Policy Institute reports that Illinois currently has the second-highest property taxes in the United States. Families are also facing higher utility and gasoline costs due to recent tax hikes. The state's gas tax doubled in 2019 and has continued to increase annually, leading to an average combined state and local gas tax of nearly 78 cents per gallon by 2024. The Freedom Caucus highlights these rising expenses as evidence of the financial burden on working families during Pritzker's tenure.

Data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that Illinois has experienced ten consecutive years of population decline, with over 35,000 residents leaving between July 2022 and July 2023. Analysts suggest that high taxes and escalating living costs are significant factors driving this trend, which is often cited by those relocating out of state. The caucus warns that if current fiscal policies persist, both population decline and economic difficulties may intensify.

The Illinois Freedom Caucus consists of conservative legislators within the Illinois General Assembly who advocate for limited government, lower taxes, and expanded individual freedoms. They regularly release public statements and policy positions concerning legislation impacting families, small businesses, and economic growth in Illinois. According to their official communications, they aim to represent working-class interests while promoting job creation and fiscal responsibility.