East Central Reporter

Governor J.B. Pritzker has proposed a new state budget for Illinois, marking the largest in the state's history. During his address to the Illinois General Assembly, he outlined his spending plan for fiscal year 2026, totaling $55.235 billion. This represents an increase of $1.994 billion from last year's budget, translating to a 3.7% rise in overall spending.

The Governor's plan relies on revenue projections that have not yet been confirmed by the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA). It also includes proposals for increased taxes and other measures requiring legislative approval.

Since taking office in 2019, state spending under Governor Pritzker has seen significant growth. At the start of his tenure, expenditures were at $40.3 billion; they have since risen by $15 billion.

Critics argue that this trend could lead to further financial strain on residents. They claim that if current spending patterns continue, Illinois' budget could grow by $23 billion by 2030—a nearly 60% increase over little more than a decade.

State Representative Chris Miller expressed dissatisfaction with the budget proposal: "This wasn’t the budget speech that ordinary Illinoisans want to hear. They want tax relief, not more spending."

The Governor's administration faces criticism for its approach to managing state finances and its reliance on aggressive financial projections.