Metro East Sun

Michael Babcock said Illinoisans are not leaving the state because they want to go, but because they feel they must.

Responding to the recent Illinois Policy report titled  “Illinois Loses Title of the 5th Largest State to Pennsylvania,” which revealed Census Bureau data showing a decline of 33,700 people from 2016 to 2017, the Republican House candidate from Bethalto said citizens are exiting the state because they can’t afford to stay.

“They have lost trust in our Illinois politicians and have had enough of the politics-as-usual,” Babcock said. “House Speaker Michael Madigan's failed leadership and out-of-touch policies have left Illinois residents with no other choice but to seek employment opportunities elsewhere."

Babcock is vying for the seat held by Rep. Daniel Beiser (D-Alton), who is not seeking re-election in 111th District that includes Alton and Wood River in Madison County.

“Unfortunately, I know a lot of people that have left Illinois and the list continuously gets longer,” Babcock said.  “I've spoken with several residents in and around the Riverbend area who have told me they are severely contemplating moving away from Illinois in fear that the career politicians will push this state into further job loss and higher taxes.”

Babcock said the only hope for Illinois is replacing incumbents. 

“We have to come to the conclusion that this state has a spending problem,” Babcock said. “The longer we deny the facts and don't send folks to Springfield who will make difficult but necessary budgetary votes, the longer we can expect to see more of the same and the harder it will be to turn our state around for the good.”

If elected, Babcock said he will listen to his constituents' concerns.

“I need to find out what businesses and families are needing in our area and I promise to have a good ear and ask the hard questions,” Babcock said. “I will build upon the positives of our area and do my best at reducing the negatives.”

He said he will bring the leadership qualities to Springfield that he has gained through running his own insurance business and helping reduce taxes within Wood River Township.

“Best of all, I will stand up against Chicago and make sure that my vote is against Mike Madigan for speaker of Illinois' House of Representatives,” Babcock said.