Peoria Standard

Following the signing of the Fiscal Year 2026 Illinois budget by Governor Pritzker, Deputy House Minority Leader Ryan Spain expressed concerns over the $55.2 billion budget. The new budget increases state spending by $2 billion compared to last year and includes $1 billion in tax hikes.

Spain criticized the process, stating, “The FY 26 state budget package was passed in the middle of the night after Democrats once again conspired behind closed doors. Their process was so opaque, the Democrats presenting the budget bills couldn’t even answer more than a dozen questions." He questioned how Illinois residents could trust government spending when transparency is lacking.

He attributed Illinois' financial issues to "years and years of financial malfeasance at the hands of the Democratic majority," citing gerrymandering as a factor that allows Democrats to maintain control. Spain accused Democrats of violating House Rules to pass what he described as "the largest spending plan in state history."

Spain further criticized elements of the budget, claiming it diverts funds from essential areas like property tax relief and road funds while increasing legislators' pay by 5%. He argued that this approach "doubles down on years of failed economic strategy" and warned it could lead to future tax hikes.

In his statement, Spain concluded, “The people of the state of Illinois deserve better from their government.”