East Central Reporter

Illinois State Representative Chris Miller (R-Charleston) has voiced criticism of Governor J.B. Pritzker’s policies on crime, education, and immigration, highlighting ongoing political tensions in the state.

Miller recently appeared on Newsmax to discuss Illinois issues and express concerns about safety in Chicago. He noted, “I appreciate you bringing me on to let the rest of the country know we have commonsense conservatives in Illinois who are fighting back.” The discussion included President Trump’s proposal to deploy the National Guard to Chicago in response to crime rates.

During a visit to the 2025 Farm Progress Show, Miller reported that he and other farmers were not able to speak with Governor Pritzker about their policy concerns. “I guess he only provides soundbites and not real conversations,” Miller said.

Addressing crime, Miller stated that “JB Pritzker is suffering from TDS and denies crime being an issue in Chicago and across our state while communities are being terrorized by thugs. The SAFE-T Act and Sanctuary City policies make Illinois less safe! He has destroyed safety and security, but President Trump is going to make Illinois safe again because he knows Pritzker and Johnson can’t do the job. Move out of the way JB, the Trump Train is coming!”

Governor Pritzker has publicly rejected claims that there is a need for National Guard deployment in Chicago, calling such proposals an attempt by former President Trump to "manufacture a crisis." Other officials have also argued that crime remains under control despite public perception.

On education policy, Miller criticized state leaders for ending Illinois’ school-choice program. He referenced neighboring states Indiana, Iowa, and Wisconsin as examples where school choice programs remain available. According to a report from Illinois Policy, Illinois lags behind these states after discontinuing its scholarship program.

Miller also highlighted community efforts on Chicago’s West Side aimed at increasing educational options outside traditional public schools (Cortes Investigates). He further criticized what he described as self-serving political motivations among state leaders regarding funding for children with disabilities (Chalkbeat) and support for teacher unions (Illinois Policy).

Miller condemned new legislation signed by Governor Pritzker extending financial aid eligibility to undocumented immigrants. As reported by The Washington Stand, “In a statement, state Rep. Chris Miller (R) argued that ‘this move is top of the list for why Pritzker must be put out of office.’ He continued, ‘While you’re figuring out how to pay $500 electric bills, he quickly signed HB 460 into law giving illegals free college!’ Miller took note of the same trend many Illinois residents seem to be emphasizing, namely, that ‘since Pritzker took office, Illinois citizens have been left behind while illegals get all the handouts they need to feel right at home in Illinois. The governor has betrayed every Illinois citizen with his policies that roll out the red carpet for illegal immigrants.’”

On fiscal matters, Miller accused state leaders of obscuring pension debt figures through accounting practices following publication of a financial report indicating unfunded liabilities increased by $5.7 billion since fiscal year 2022 (Wirepoints).

Governor Pritzker recently signed over 200 new bills into law during this legislative session (NBC Chicago; Gov-Pritzker-Newsroom).

Regarding housing trends in Illinois, home prices have risen nearly 50% since 2018 while inventory remains low due partly to restrictive zoning laws (Illinois Policy).

Miller was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 101st House District in 2023 after succeeding Reggie Phillips.

He encouraged constituents seeking assistance with state agencies or information about district boundaries to contact his Charleston office.