East Central Reporter

State Representative Brad Halbrook from Shelbyville expressed his concerns regarding the Governor's State of the State and Budget Address during a press conference. The address was delivered in a joint session.

Halbrook criticized the proposed budget, stating, "The budget the governor presented today will spend over $55 billion, an increase of $2 billion over the previous year—an increase of nearly 40% in state spending since the governor took office six years ago. The proposed budget is filled with pretend cuts, aspirational revenue estimates and budget gimmickry."

He questioned the fiscal responsibility of the current administration, asserting that "history would indicate this governor and his supermajority in both chambers have never shown fiscal restraint, nor have they been willing to cut inefficient or underperforming programs."

Halbrook also highlighted concerns about balancing the budget: "The governor has a constitutional obligation to present and sign a balanced budget—but recent history tells a different story." He recalled last year's legislative session where "Democrats pushed through an unbalanced budget, only to change the rules at 3 a.m. to pass a $1.2 billion tax hike on an unprecedented third vote."

Expressing skepticism about future financial plans, Halbrook remarked, "Make no mistake—this budget is a smoke-and-mirrors scheme designed to justify yet another tax hike on hardworking Illinoisans." He argued that this approach supports "the Democratic agenda that is making Illinois politically uninhabitable," citing ongoing issues such as loss of employers and residents.

He pointed out areas lacking in support: "There is no property tax relief. No regulatory relief. No meaningful support for Illinois families." Halbrook emphasized his belief that Democrats will continue spending without reducing taxes or easing financial burdens amid high inflation.

In response to criticisms from the governor labeling detractors as “backseat bellyachers” promoting “magic bean solutions,” Halbrook countered by questioning, "What kind of fertilizer are you using to grow such enormous 'magic beans'?"