South West Illinois News

Ed McLean, Chairman of the Monroe County Republicans, has criticized Governor JB Pritzker for what he describes as leading Illinois into a financial crisis. McLean said that Pritzker's plans involve increasing the burden on taxpayers rather than reducing unnecessary spending. He made these remarks to SW Illinois News on February 20.

"Without federal bailouts to lean on, Gov. JB Pritzker's financial failures are finally catching up to him," said McLean. "Instead of taking responsibility, he's gearing up to squeeze every last cent from hardworking Illinoisans while keeping wasteful programs for illegal migrants intact. Trump has always championed fiscal discipline, cutting reckless government spending rather than passing the buck to taxpayers. Illinois can't afford to keep paying for Pritzker's poor decisions."

According to Capitol News Illinois, the state is facing a projected $3.2 billion revenue shortfall for fiscal year 2026 due to the expiration of federal pandemic aid and stagnant tax revenues. Governor Pritzker presented his seventh budget on February 19 amidst economic challenges and uncertainties regarding future federal funding. Capitol News reports that Republican lawmakers are suggesting cuts in aid for undocumented residents as a cost-reduction measure, noting that such expenses have reached $558 million this fiscal year.

The Washington Post reported in November that then-President-elect Donald Trump's administration was considering strategies to reduce federal funds to Chicago and other Democratic-led cities if they did not cooperate with deportation efforts. Advisers suggested using federal pressure, including withholding funds, to encourage municipalities to work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Trump had promised mass deportations during his campaign but faced opposition from Democratic mayors in sanctuary cities who pledged to protect immigrants. The potential legal and political conflicts over these measures could intensify since many sanctuary cities depend significantly on federal support for essential services.

McLean was first elected Chairman in 2016 and has since been an advocate for conservative values within the Republican Party, focusing primarily on strengthening Monroe County. A retired engineer and business leader, McLean resides with his wife on a small horse farm in rural Monroe County. He is also actively involved in civic and fraternal organizations, having been a member of the Masonic Shriners for 44 years and participating in the Rotary Club since 1987.