Lake County Gazette

Martin McLaughlin, a House Representative from Illinois, has called for state leaders to lower taxes and spending to encourage residents to remain in the state. He made this statement on the social media platform X.

"Only the governor, spendacrats and their media lackeys would celebrate the taking from Illinois families," said Martin J. Mclaughlin, State Representative from Illinois. "How disgusting. We need less spending lower taxes (revenues) and we need more residents to stay in Illinois. Return to reasonable."

Illinois is currently experiencing fluctuating state revenues and intense debate over taxation and spending. Governor JB Pritzker recently proposed a record $55.1 billion budget aimed at addressing rising deficits following previous surpluses. Lawmakers are divided on issues such as tax increases, spending cuts, and funding for social services and programs for noncitizens. This fiscal debate reflects post-pandemic pressures and the challenge of balancing new taxes with sustainable services, according to Capitol News Illinois.

The Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability reports that the state collected a record $54 billion in total revenue for fiscal year 2025, primarily due to higher personal income tax receipts. Despite this increase, budget projections for 2026 anticipate a shortfall, prompting legislators to include $700 million in new or increased taxes within the new budget package.

Illinois has been experiencing significant out-migration trends. IRS data indicates a net loss of approximately 86,700 residents and nearly $10 billion in adjusted gross income due to people leaving the state in 2022. This continues a five-year pattern of population decline and tax base erosion, raising concerns among state leaders about long-term fiscal stability, as reported by Illinois Policy.

McLaughlin is a Republican representing Illinois’ 52nd District in the House of Representatives since 2021. Prior to this role, he served eight years as president of Barrington Hills. He is known for his focus on property tax reform, business support, and transparency in government.