State Representative Ryan Spain (il) | Representative Ryan Spain (R) 73rd District Deputy Republican Leader
State Representative Ryan Spain (il) | Representative Ryan Spain (R) 73rd District Deputy Republican Leader
Illinois House Republican Leader Tony McCombie has announced her leadership team for the 104th General Assembly. McCombie stated, "My leadership team is built to provide a strategic advantage on how to achieve our shared objectives of creating a stronger Illinois without adding to the burdens on Illinois families." She emphasized that her selections include colleagues from across the state, ensuring diverse representation.
The leadership team includes Deputy Minority Leaders Rep. Norine Hammond and Rep. Ryan Spain. Assistant Minority Leaders are Reps. CD Davidsmeyer, John Cabello, Dan Ugaste, Patrick Windhorst (who also serves as Floor Leader), Brad Stephens, Jackie Haas, and Amy Elik. The Conference Chair is Rep. Jeff Keicher.
Rep. Ryan Spain expressed his gratitude for being part of the leadership team: “Serving as a Deputy Leader is an honor and I value the trust Leader McCombie has in me to work beside her to advocate for our state’s future.” Spain will also serve on the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) as co-chairman, where he aims to ensure that rules align with legislative intent.
In legal news, former Speaker Michael Madigan concluded his testimony in his defense during a trial involving allegations of federal racketeering linked to ComEd and his political network. The prosecution presented wiretap evidence suggesting discussions about influence peddling schemes between Madigan and his associate Mike McClain.
On fiscal matters, concerns have arisen over Illinois' projected $3.2 billion budget deficit for FY26 due to stagnant job creation and increasing expenditures in pensions and Medicaid. Fiscal experts anticipate potential tax increases or budget cuts as solutions.
Chicago's credit rating was downgraded by Standard & Poor’s from 'BBB+' to 'BBB', bringing it closer to 'junk bond' status. This downgrade may lead to higher borrowing costs for the city and potential tax hikes.
Rep. Spain is hosting a Medicare 101 Seminar for seniors on February 11th at the Rock Falls Chamber of Commerce with experts from SHIP providing guidance on Medicare coverage options.