Dear friend,
Last month, we celebrated the National Day of Prayer. It was wonderful to see so many people praying across Illinois. Please join me in continuing to pray for our Great State of Illinois. Also, please feel free to reply to this email with questions or concerns, I read every response.
You Spoke—Here’s What You Told Me About Tax Relief Priorities
Thank you to everyone who took a moment to share their thoughts on where tax relief is needed most. As I continue working on ways to ease the financial burden on Illinois families, your input helps shape the direction of my efforts.
An overwhelming 75.6% of you said property taxes are causing the most strain on your household.
Here’s the full breakdown of what you told me:
- Property Taxes: 75.6%
- Personal Income Taxes: 13.1%
- Sales Taxes: 11.3%
Property taxes are a consistent concern across our region, and I believe families shouldn’t have to choose between staying in their homes and affording everyday necessities. I’m committed to bringing common-sense solutions to the table that reduce this burden while still funding the services our communities rely on.
Please keep sharing your feedback—your voice matters in shaping our work in Springfield.
Governor Pritzker Signs Biggest Government Spending Plan in State History
Today, Governor Pritzker signed the largest government spending plan in Illinois history into law — and it’s hardworking families who are being asked to pay for it. In just six years, he has massively expanded spending to more than $55 billion—a nearly 40% increase and the fastest, most dramatic expansion in Illinois history.
During the session, his allies tried to push through new taxes that would hit families where it hurts, including a $1.50 delivery tax on essentials like groceries and diapers, a service tax on everyday needs like haircuts and home repairs, and a mom-and-pop tax on digital ads that would punish small businesses trying to stay afloat. We stopped these tax hikes for now, but make no mistake, they’ll be back. Because these taxes aren’t about better services, they’re about making Illinois families pay for out-of-control government spending.
Illinois deserves a government that lives within its means, not one that keeps coming back for more. If you agree, click here to sign my petition. Please share this with your family and friends and encourage them to sign too. Every signature helps us send a stronger message and fight back against higher taxes.
Thank you to everyone who joined us at our open houses in Dwight, Pontiac, and El Paso!
It was a full day of great conversations, helpful questions, and meaningful connections. I’m grateful to Representatives Jason Bunting and Dennis Tipsword for teaming up with me, and to everyone who took the time to stop by and chat about the issues that matter most.
We’re always here to help, and I hope you’ll continue to reach out with questions, ideas, or concerns.
Illinois Invests in Library Technology to Support Underserved Communities
The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is awarding more than $1 million in technology grants to 88 public libraries across the state. The funding, administered through the Illinois State Library, will help libraries in underserved communities improve technology access and services.
Eligible libraries will receive either $27,500 or $12,500, based on the population they serve. To qualify, libraries must operate in areas with a low tax base relative to their service population. This year’s recipients follow 113 libraries that received similar grants last year.
Libraries can use the funds to upgrade hardware and software, expand online resources, purchase digital devices, improve Wi-Fi and internet access, ensure website accessibility, and add adaptive technologies and patron self-checkout systems. The goal is to bridge the digital divide and enhance library services where the need is greatest.
All 88 libraries have been notified of their eligibility and are working with the State Library to complete applications. Projects may begin as early as June 28, 2025, and grant funds must be spent within two years.
The following libraries in the 53rd District received grants: Pontiac Public Library, Paxton Carnegie Library, Henry Public Library, Filger Public Library, Clifton Public Library, and Leepertown Township Public Library.
Madigan Sentenced: 7 ½ Years, $2.5 Million Fine for Public Corruption
Once the most powerful politician in Illinois, former House Speaker Michael Madigan was sentenced this week to 7½ years in federal prison and a $2.5 million fine for corruption—a stunning fall for a man who ruled state politics like a mob boss, controlling government, rewarding allies, punishing opponents, and building one of the most formidable political machines in the country.
Madigan was indicted in 2022 after years of federal investigations. Prosecutors charged him with racketeering, bribery, wire fraud, and extortion for orchestrating a scheme in which he traded official favors for personal and political gain. At the heart of the case was a series of deals involving utility giant ComEd, which prosecutors said secured favorable legislation in exchange for funneling no-work jobs and contracts to Madigan’s allies.
The trial revealed a political operation run like an organized crime syndicate—one that blurred the lines between public service and personal power. Madigan was ultimately convicted on all major counts, ending a career that shaped state government for half a century.
But while Madigan faces justice, the system that enabled him remains intact. Not a single ethics reform targeting the General Assembly has passed since his indictment. While Senate Republicans have introduced measures calling for independent oversight and tighter revolving-door laws, Democratic leaders have blocked action. Without meaningful reform, Madigan’s conviction may serve as a warning—but not the fix Illinois still desperately needs.
Pritzker Defends His Sanctuary State Agenda While Illinoisans Pay the Price
As Governor J.B. Pritzker traveled to Washington, D.C., to testify on Illinois’ sanctuary state policies, his immigration agenda has cost Illinois citizens billions of dollars. While Gov. Pritzker claims he’s simply following existing law, in reality he has pushed policies that dramatically limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement—even in cases involving repeat offenders, violent criminals, and known gang members.
In 2021, Gov. Pritzker signed legislation forcing counties to cancel long-standing ICE detention contracts, weakening the state’s ability to detain and deport dangerous individuals. He also empowered the Attorney General to investigate and penalize police departments that assist federal immigration officials, sending a chilling message to law enforcement across Illinois.
Beyond enforcement, Gov. Pritzker created the taxpayer-funded Welcoming Illinois office to expand benefits for undocumented immigrants, including free healthcare—costing billions at a time when working families are struggling with inflation, rising taxes, and public safety concerns.
The testimony wasn’t just about immigration policy—it was about a governor more focused on currying favor in Washington than protecting the people of Illinois. Residents deserve leadership rooted in accountability, not political ambition.
Celebrating the grand opening of the new DMV center in Lacon, IL — bringing better service closer to home!
