Metro East Sun

Don Moore says the key to solving Illinois’ lingering out-migration problem lies in instituting an immovable system.

“We’ve got to get taxes down no matter what,” Moore, the Troy Republican running against Rep. Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) in the Republican primary in the 108th District, told the Metro East Sun. “It’s the only way forward from this out-migration and losing productive, taxpaying millennials to other states.”

The issue of out-migration resurfaced after a recent Census Bureau study found Illinois has now slipped to the nation’s sixth largest state, failing behind Pennsylvania as the state’s out-migration problems show few signs of abating.

In all, 33,700 people left Illinois during a yearlong period commencing in July 2016, and from July 2016 to July 2017, nearly 115,000 residents left the state on net for other states. Over the last seven years, that number swells to almost 643,000.

The Illinois Policy Institute reports the new dip in numbers represents the worst decline of any other state and the third-worst decline across the country in terms of percentages.

Researchers also noted that at a time when neighboring states are experiencing population growth, Illinois’ decline represents the fourth straight year the state has trended downward in that category.

“There’s so much fat, we could easily cut 15 percent of our state budget without residents feeling any of it, other than knowing their taxes have been lowered,” Moore said. “Politicians feel cutting taxes can lead to them not being re-elected. I say, ‘damn re-election.’ I see the waste and it’s time to do the right thing for the state and taxpayers.”

Born and raised in Illinois, Moore brought his family back to Illinois after he left the military in 2011. The Troy resident said he now feels an obligation for helping the state get back on course.

“I feel an obligation based on my many experiences,” he said. “I feel my knowledge and conservative mindset could really help make a difference. I’m here to help, I’m not concerned about a future in politics.”

The 108th House District includes parts of Clinton, Madison, St. Clair and Washington counties.