State Representative Ryan Spain issued a statement following Governor JB Pritzker’s State of the State and Budget Address in Springfield. Spain criticized the governor and Democratic lawmakers for what he described as excessive spending and lack of bipartisan cooperation.
“JB Pritzker and Democrats want to gloss over their own actions, which have cost Illinois taxpayers over $16 billion over JB Pritzker’s two terms as Governor,” said Spain. “This is the largest budget in Illinois history. The State Budget has ballooned by 40% under JB Pritzker. Let’s not pretend all Illinois’ problems are new or caused by Washington, D.C.- Democrats have made a mess all on their own.”
Spain also commented on opportunities for collaboration between parties, but expressed concern about current practices. “There are pathways to better outcomes here, but almost all of those pathways involve working together, which is something the Democrats have repeatedly avoided,” said Spain. “When we have worked together, we’ve had better outcomes in settings like the Medicaid Working Group and JCAR. But Democrats are focused on sharpening their rhetoric for campaign season, instead of doing the necessary work to navigate difficult times with support from all counties in the State.”
He outlined priorities for House Republicans moving forward: “House Republicans have a better plan. No new taxes, no more sanctuary state spending, and no more backroom budgeting that shuts the public out of the process. We need transparency, accountability, and policies that prioritize Illinois taxpayers. Illinois families deserve leaders who will fight for them, not burden them with higher taxes to cover up years of fiscal mismanagement.”
Spain was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 73rd House District in 2017 after succeeding David R. Leitch.
Rep. Spain continues to serve constituents in the 73rd District.
