Metro East Sun

Illinois House Republicans have expressed strong opposition to proposals from progressive groups that aim to increase taxes by $6 billion, impacting families and businesses across the state. During a press conference at the Capitol, Deputy Republican Leader Norine Hammond, alongside Assistant Republican Leaders C.D. Davidsmeyer and Amy Elik, criticized the proposed tax hikes as "outrageous and unacceptable."

According to Rep. Hammond, the proposals from the Illinois Revenue Alliance, dubbed the "Tax-and-Spend Alliance," would impose $6 billion in new taxes to fund healthcare benefits for illegal immigrants and other spending programs. Hammond emphasized, "These tax hikes would further damage our economy and drive up the cost of living for Illinois families."

One of the proposals, which Hammond finds particularly concerning, involves reducing the Estate Tax exemption from $4 million to $2 million. Hammond argued, "Our family farmers are struggling enough already. They shouldn’t have to sell the family farm just to pay this unfair tax."

Rep. Amy Elik highlighted the need for state agencies to propose budget cuts rather than increasing taxes. She pointed out that Illinois residents are already facing high property taxes and living costs, stating, "We cannot accept ANY tax increases. Our seniors are suffering under the weight of crushing property tax bills."

Meanwhile, Governor JB Pritzker is under scrutiny for his political activities and rhetoric, which some Republicans perceive as inflammatory. At a recent speech, Pritzker made remarks such as, "Bullies respond to one thing, and one thing only, a punch in the face," and called for mass protests and disruption against Republicans.

Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer condemned Pritzker’s comments, urging him to apologize and focus on working towards a balanced budget rather than pursuing presidential aspirations. Davidsmeyer stated, "Governor Pritzker, do the job you were elected to do, not the job you so desperately want in Washington, D.C."