South West Illinois News

Ed McLean, Chairman of Monroe County Republicans, said Governor JB Pritzker's revenue projections have exacerbated Illinois' financial crisis. McLean pointed to the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability's (COGFA) more conservative estimates, which reveal a $737 million shortfall. McLean made these remarks to SW Illinois News on March 12.

"Gov. JB Pritzker's overly optimistic revenue estimates ignore Illinois' deepening financial crisis, as COGFA's lower projections expose a $737 million gap," said McLean. "His refusal to rein in spending while relying on shaky numbers only worsens the state's economic instability. Instead of making tough but necessary budget cuts, he continues down an unsustainable path. Without a course correction, Illinois will face either devastating service reductions or burdensome tax hikes on struggling residents."

According to Capitol News Illinois, state lawmakers have projected lower revenues for fiscal year 2026 than those proposed by Governor Pritzker. The bipartisan COGFA estimated $54.2 billion in revenue, which is $1.2 billion less than Pritzker’s $55.5 billion plan. Even with adjustments in the governor’s proposed budget, the gap remains at $737 million. Republicans have criticized Pritzker’s optimistic projections and are calling for spending cuts or tax increases as solutions. The commission has expressed caution regarding economic risks and future tax revenues.

Capitol News Illinois also reported that Illinois faces 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 amid economic slowdowns and uncertainty over future federal funding. Republican lawmakers have suggested cutting aid for undocumented residents to reduce costs, which allegedly reached $558 million during this fiscal year alone.

The Washington Post reported in November that then President-elect Trump's administration was considering measures to cut federal funds to Chicago and other Democratic-led cities if they refused to assist with deportations of undocumented immigrants. Advisers recommended using federal pressure, such as withholding funds, to encourage municipalities to cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Trump had promised mass deportations during his campaign but faced resistance from Democratic mayors in sanctuary cities who vowed to protect immigrants.

McLean became Chairman in 2016 and has been an advocate for the conservative values of the Republican Party since then. His primary focus is on strengthening Monroe County as a community. A retired engineer and business leader, McLean resides with his wife on a small horse farm in rural Monroe County and is active in civic organizations like the Mason Shriner Organization and Rotary Club.