Today, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker shared his State of the State address. This annual speech is usually about the state budget, but Pritzker took a broader approach, discussing Illinois and national matters.
He began by referencing John Peter Altgeld, an Illinois governor from 1893 to 1897 who was a key figure in the Progressive movement. Altgeld pushed for laws that enhanced workplace safety, protected child workers, and invested in education. He was notable for appointing women to significant roles despite them not being able to vote yet.
Pritzker highlighted Altgeld’s focus on important issues, like healthcare and election laws, during his own State of the State address in 1895. He emphasized Altgeld’s belief that everyone, regardless of gender, should have equal opportunities.
In his address, Pritzker expressed concern about the current administration, particularly how Illinois taxpayers contribute more to the federal government than they receive back. He stated that the Trump administration has cost the state around $8.4 billion, money that belongs to Illinoisans. He pointed out the challenges this creates, as states must balance their budgets annually, unlike the federal government.
Despite these challenges, Pritzker shared some positive economic news. Over the past eight years, Illinois has balanced its budget and made significant investments in education and job creation. Illinois’s GDP reached over $1.2 trillion, up from $881 billion when he started.
Looking forward, Pritzker addressed the rising costs of housing, electricity, and healthcare. He proposed reducing housing costs through fewer regulations and promising to tackle high electricity prices by investing in renewable energy. Additionally, he announced that Illinois had successfully eliminated $1 billion in medical debt for over 500,000 residents, a significant step toward easing financial burdens.
Pritzker warned that the benefits of economic growth often end up with a small group, while middle-class Americans face rising costs. He urged industry leaders to help ease these pressures on their workers and customers.
He also discussed the troubling actions of federal agents in Chicago. Pritzker termed their interventions as authoritarian and recalled historical events, such as the Pullman Strike of 1894, where federal troops were sent to quell protests, resulting in violence.
Throughout his speech, Pritzker emphasized the power of community and love for one’s neighbors as crucial tools against rising authoritarianism. He called on all Illinoisans to strive for empathy and kindness in their communities, reminding them that love for the country can manifest in everyday acts of courage.
In this pivotal moment, Pritzker is rallying Illinoisans to focus on empathy over division, urging citizens to foster a more supportive and inclusive society.
For more on the state’s initiatives, check out this report about debt relief in Illinois.
