SE Illinois News

Illinois state House Rep. candidate David Freiss (R-Red Bud) argues that he couldn’t be more different than the man he’s seeking to replace in Springfield come November.

“I'm running to defeat the graduated income tax, roll back the record-breaking income tax hike from 2017 and balance a budget without gimmicks or additional burdens on Illinois families and businesses,” Friess told the Metro East Sun in assessing his run against incumbent state Rep. Nathan Reitz (D-Steeleville) in the 116th District. “My opponent must believe Illinoisans don't pay enough in taxes.”

Friess bases that evaluation on the way the first-year lawmaker is standing with Democrats in pushing a progressive income tax at a time when the state is already home to the highest overall tax burden in the nation, the second highest property taxes, the highest sales tax burden in the Midwest and has the second highest gas prices in the country.

“High taxes and the state's budget are the biggest issues for the people of our community,” Friess said. “If the state refuses to address taxes and out-of-control spending, families will continue to flee to neighboring states with a lower tax burden and a more business friendly atmosphere.”

Friess says that passing the progressive tax would be like giving longtime Democratic House Speaker Mike Madigan a blank check.

“Speaker Madigan has been in Springfield for over 40 years,” Friess said. “As such, he has amassed more power and influence than any other elected official, and with absolute power comes absolute corruption as we have seen unfold.”

A former member of the U.S. Air Force, Friess won the Republican primary in March with 42 percent of the vote in a crowded field.