Peoria Standard

Darin LaHood, the representative for Illinois' 16th Congressional District, has expressed concerns over the sustainability of far-left policies in light of the state's budget deficit.

"Illinois is facing a massive budget deficit, and enabling far-left policies like this is unsustainable and unacceptable," said Darin M. Lahood, U.S. Representative, according to Facebook. "It is time for Illinois leadership to step up and put the needs of Illinois families and tax paying citizens first."

According to a report from Fox 32 shared by LaHood on Facebook, the Illinois Policy Institute estimates that Illinois will spend $2.5 billion on immigrants by the end of 2025. This figure includes $1.6 billion allocated for healthcare programs targeting immigrants. Since 2023, the state has dedicated $478 million annually to the Welcoming with Dignity Initiative, which supports migrant welcome centers, resettlement services, and rental and food assistance.

Screenshot of U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood's June 16 Facebook post | U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood's Facebook page

A February audit from the Office of the Auditor General highlighted significant cost overruns in Illinois’ healthcare programs for immigrants. The audit revealed that actual costs for adults aged 42 to 54 reached $224 million—84% higher than the estimated $68 million. Healthcare costs for immigrant adults aged 55 to 64 amounted to $223.1 million, nearly four times the projected $58.4 million. Additionally, spending on immigrant seniors aged 65 and older exceeded estimates, costing $412.3 million compared to a projection of $224 million.

Spending on undocumented immigrants is set to continue into the fiscal year 2026 but at a reduced rate. According to an ABC7 report, the state's $55.2 billion budget excludes healthcare for noncitizen adults aged 42 to 64—a cut expected to save Illinois $330 million—but includes a $110 million program for immigrant seniors.

LaHood has represented Illinois since 2015, initially serving in the 18th Congressional District until redistricting led him to represent constituents of the 16th District. His political career includes four years in the state senate from 2011-2015 and more than nine years as a state and federal prosecutor, including work as an Assistant US Attorney with the Department of Justice in Las Vegas, Nevada.

LaHood holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Loras College and a Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois-Chicago John Marshall Law School. He resides with his wife in Peoria.