SE Illinois News

House Republican Floor Leader, State Representative Patrick Windhorst of Metropolis, expressed his opposition to the FY 26 Illinois State Budget, citing a lack of fiscal responsibility by the supermajority Democrats. The budget, which amounts to $55.2 billion, includes $1 billion in new tax hikes, fees, and borrowing.

Windhorst referred to Governor Pritzker's Budget Address from February, where the governor stated that increased spending would require meaningful cuts to state programs. "Sadly, that admonishment was ignored by House and Senate Democrats," Windhorst commented on the budget now awaiting the governor's approval. He added, "To say I’m disappointed would be true, to say I’m surprised would not."

The passage of SB 2510 and HB 1075 has drawn criticism from Windhorst for including what he describes as pork barrel projects and pay raises for politicians amid economic struggles faced by working families. "Working people are tapped out," Windhorst remarked. He emphasized his stance against tax increases and advocated for fiscal restraint and taxpayer relief.

Windhorst criticized the budget plan's reliance on inter-fund transfers and administrative chargebacks while granting Governor Pritzker significant executive authority over spending decisions.