East Central Reporter

State Representative Chris Miller has introduced House Resolution 0960, aiming to stop state incentives for Gotion, a company with connections to China. The legislation seeks to prevent taxpayer funds from supporting corporations owned by foreign countries.

Miller criticized Governor J.B. Pritzker's support for Gotion, stating, "Our governor is doing more for a foreign company in Illinois that has ties to the Chinese Communist Party than he is for Illinois citizens." He added that Pritzker's deal would transfer $536 million in taxpayer incentives to Chinese stakeholders.

Governor Pritzker responded by labeling critics of the Gotion EV Plant expansion as "xenophobes" and "MAGA Republicans." He argued that current policies drive businesses away, necessitating efforts to attract companies like Gotion with taxpayer financing.

Concerns about China's influence have been echoed by top Democrats. U.S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi expressed worries over China's strategic goals, saying, "The goal of the CCP has become clear: to displace U.S. and other competitors, especially in tomorrow’s strategic industries."

Critics argue that the deal poses a security threat and was made without transparency or local input.