Illinois’ sanctuary state policies have created an environment where law-abiding families are left vulnerable, and violent offenders slip through the cracks. Time and again, dangerous individuals who should never have been on our streets have been allowed to remain free, with devastating consequences. These tragedies are not isolated incidents, they are the direct result of failed leadership and reckless policies that put politics ahead of public safety. Leaders in Illinois should allow ICE to do their jobs. 

In a couple of weeks, the Illinois General Assembly will return to Springfield to convene for the annual two-week Veto Session. The session is scheduled for October 14-16 and October 28-30. The Veto Session is generally intended for the legislature to review legislation passed in the spring that has received a total veto or an amendatory veto from the Governor. The legislature can seek to override a Governor’s veto by a 3/5 majority vote in each chamber or vote to accept an amendatory veto. 

Illinois residents can make their voices heard during the legislative process with the General Assembly scheduled to return to Springfield for the annual Fall Veto Session in October. 

Communicating with legislators is one way residents can get involved and stay engaged on current issues pending before the legislature. State lawmakers offer email addresses, district and Springfield office locations, office numbers, and surveys that residents can utilize. In both district and Springfield offices, legislators have dedicated staff that field calls, emails, and meetings with residents to provide critical real-time feedback to elected officials. 

Illinois is known for many things, but one of the most haunting is our state’s reputation for corruption. With four of our last ten governors and our last Speaker of the Illinois House being convicted on criminal charges occurring while in office, our state serves as a cautionary tale for the rest of the United States.

Outside of Illinois’ political corruption, Illinois has a rich history that includes accounts from some of the most famous criminals. One of the most notorious was involving Al Capone, a mastermind and mobster in Chicago, known for running a highly successful criminal enterprise. During his reign, Al Capone allegedly used the Congress Hotel in Chicago, situated on the famous Michigan Avenue, as his criminal headquarters. The building has an iconic history, built in 1893, being classified as “new Chicago,” as it came after the horrific Chicago Fire of 1871. The famous hotel is known as the “Home of Presidents,” as it has served as lodging for several United States presidents, including Grover Cleveland, Theodore Roosevelt, William Taft, and Franklin D. Roosevelt. 

BUDGET/TAXES
Get ready for higher taxes: Gov. Pritzker issues splashy executive order to lay foundation for big tax hike. In “Executive Order 2025-05”, published this week, Gov. Pritzker admitted that Illinois’ economy is going downhill, and issued a text that tried to shift blame to the federal government for Illinois’ longstanding budget woes.

The FY26 budget passed by the Democrat supermajority already included over $1 billion in tax increases, fund sweeps, and other budgetary gimmicks, and was still only barely balanced on paper. Democrats supported and the Governor signed this precariously balanced budget despite multi-year, repeated warnings from credit ratings groups and economists that a recession was on the horizon. Ignoring these warnings will have more of an effect on the FY26 budget than any federal action will. 

Illinoisans deserve steady leadership and straight answers. Instead, Governor JB Pritzker shifts with the political winds, saying one thing when the cameras are on and doing another when the pressure hits. The result is confusion on budgets, mixed signals on public safety and immigration, and a credibility gap that keeps growing. When leaders flip, families pay. 

Dating back centuries, southern Illinois has been home to some of the best hunting and fishing opportunities in the United States. Southern Illinois, in particular, is a region rich in natural resources, beautiful forests, abundant lakes, rivers, and streams, and a plethora of fishing and hunting spots to land a variety of species of fish and wild game.

Early settlers to the area farmed, hunted, and fished the expansive public lands and waterways, taking deer, turkey, waterfowl, and a variety of fish to help feed their families. As the means of production improved, the need to hunt and gather to provide sustenance gave way to more readily available and easily attainable food sources. However, the tradition of hunting and fishing has remained a staple for millions of southern Illinoisans. 

Governor Pritzker is blaming Washington for a crisis he created. Since taking office, he has increased state spending by roughly 40% and just signed the largest budget in Illinois history.

Transparency first. House Republicans have demanded real transparency across agencies and the budget process, including time to review billion-dollar bills and clear accounting of dedicated funds. The current process hides the ball and fails taxpayers. 

Illinois families are already reeling from the nearly $1 billion in tax hikes shoved through by Democrats during the Spring Session in late May. And as Fall has descended upon us and the Halloween season awaits, Democrats once again have your pocketbooks on their radar. No, this isn’t some scary Halloween hoax; it’s daily life in Illinois, the Land of Pumpkin Spice and Tax Hikes that are Not So Nice.

Just a few short months ago, Illinois Democrats worked their ‘magic’ and passed several tax increases. These tax increases directly affected sports betting wagers, hotel and short-term rentals, cell phones, and tobacco products. More tax increases were put on the table and did not pass, but that does not mean those proposals are dead. Not by a long shot. 

Illinois has topped the list of states with the highest property taxes, which comes as no surprise to many Illinois residents. The burden has made Illinois unaffordable for too many families, and particularly weighs heavily on senior citizens and working families. Illinois House Republicans have been vocal about the need for relief and have proposed legislation to bring down costs for families. 

Another week, another bad one for Governor Pritzker. From lying about his past statements to posing with criminals, the Governor continues to prove he’s out of touch with Illinois families.

At a press conference last Monday, Governor Pritzker flat-out denied ever calling Republicans Nazis. But his record tells a different story, and the cameras were rolling.

A few examples: 

When former President Joe Biden took office, he flung the southern border of the United States wide open. During his tenure, millions of illegal immigrants poured into the country, overwhelming local, county, and state government resources and costing taxpayers billions of dollars. Out-of-control illegal immigrant crime also took hold, with horrifying examples of gang activity, carjacking, theft, assault, sexual assault, and murder dominating headlines and disrupting life for American citizens. 

Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site will host their annual candlelight walk event that begins October 3. Due to popularity, the family-fun event has been expanded to three weekends for 2025. Families can now start planning their visits for these weekends: Oct. 3-5, Oct. 10-12, and Oct. 17-19. Event hours each night will be from 5:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. The extra weekend will give visitors more evenings to enjoy the event and everything the historic village has to offer. The candlelight walk reveals several log homes, stores, a tavern, school, gristmill, along with other outbuildings. 

CRIME
The Verdict Is In: SAFE-T Act Is Not Working Two Years Later. When Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the SAFE-T Act into law in February 2021, supporters claimed it would modernize Illinois’ criminal justice system and make incarceration practices more “fair.” The law was rushed through during a lame-duck session and made sweeping changes, putting criminals over victims, imposing unfunded mandates on police officers and counties, and eliminating cash bail.

Two years after the no-cash bail system fully took effect in September 2023, Illinoisans continue to suffer the consequences while criminals walk free. Courts are overwhelmed, police are operating with fewer tools and more unreasonable mandates, all while repeat offenders are cycling in and out of custody. Families are left questioning whether the system is still on their side. Instead of fairness, the law has produced confusion and risk. 

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is a time to honor and remember the courageous men and women who were prisoners of war or remain missing in action. Their sacrifice and bravery are a reminder of the high cost of freedom.

The Illinois House Republicans honor their legacy by renewing our commitment to ensuring they are never forgotten.

The city of Cairo, Illinois, located at the southern tip of the state of Illinois, is a community steeped in rich Civil War history. The community is located at the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers and served a major role in the Union Army’s strategy for victory. Understanding the geographic significance of control of the two rivers, General Ulysses S. Grant commanded forces that controlled the region’s waterways and rail lines. Grant, who was assigned to command the District of Southeast Missouri, occupied Cairo early in the war (circa 1861), using it as a base for western operations for Union forces. 

When Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the SAFE-T Act into law in February 2021, supporters claimed it would modernize Illinois’ criminal justice system and make incarceration practices more “fair.” The law was rushed through during a lame-duck session and made sweeping changes, putting criminals over victims, imposing unfunded mandates on police officers and counties, and eliminating cash bail.

Two years after the no-cash bail system fully took effect in September 2023, Illinoisans continue to suffer the consequences while criminals walk free. Courts are overwhelmed, police are operating with fewer tools and more unreasonable mandates, all while repeat offenders are cycling in and out of custody. Families are left questioning whether the system is still on their side. Instead of fairness, the law has produced confusion and risk. 

Governor Pritzker took to the podium this week to claim that accusations about his use of Nazi rhetoric were “completely false.” When pressed on whether he has ever compared Republicans to Nazis, the Governor snapped back, saying:

“No, I have not. That is completely false. I have never called Republicans Nazis.”

The backtracking is stunning, as if the Governor forgot that his interviews are on camera. His own past remarks tell a very different story:

Illinois House Republicans are advancing legislation to eliminate state income taxes on tips and overtime pay, two forms of compensation that thousands of workers across the state rely on to make ends meet, as part of the Relief for Working Families Bill Package. The initiative, which includes three bills introduced by Representatives Joe Sosnowski, Jennifer Sanalitro, and C.D. Davidsmeyer, reflects a growing effort to ease the financial burden on service industry employees, hourly workers, and anyone whose livelihood depends on long shifts and customer generosity. 

Lincoln-Douglas Debate Square in Freeport, Ill.

Freeport, Illinois – also known as Pretzel City, USA – is a hidden gem in Northwest Illinois that blends small-town charm with rich history and proud traditions. House Republicans are highlighting this unique community not just for its fun nickname, but for everything that makes Freeport a special place to visit, live, and work. 

Why Pretzel City? Freeport earned its title in the late 1800s when German immigrants brought their pretzel-making skills to town. At one point, the city was home to more than a dozen bakeries turning out hand-twisted pretzels. That tradition still lives on today, and you can taste it for yourself at local favorites like Mrs. Mike’s or Union Dairy. 

It was sad news indeed on Sunday afternoon when the state of Illinois learned that former Governor Jim Edgar had passed away after a courageous fight against pancreatic cancer. He was 79.

Governor Edgar served two terms as the state’s chief executive, from 1991 until 1999. Prior to that he was the Secretary of State and had also been a state legislator. 

This Spring, out-of-touch Democrats were fighting to strip educational freedom, hammer schools with unfunded mandates, and enact woke gender policies in our schools. House Republicans fought to empower parents and families - and stopped some of the nonsense.

Minority spokesperson on the House Education Policy Committee Amy Elik (R-Alton) led the fight against the burdensome Homeschool Act. This act would have mandated an unnecessary annual registration scheme for homeschool families.

CRIMINAL LAW
Governor Pritzker Is Having a Bad Month. WGN recently revealed that the Illinois Department of Corrections has not been able to compute recidivism rates since 2022. Put simply, the agency has no idea how many recently released inmates have gone on to commit new crimes. It’s the latest example of mismanagement under the Pritzker Administration and yet another incident on a growing list of blunders.

Since August 3rd, Pritzker has racked up a streak of failures:

This week, Governor Pritzker addressed rising political rhetoric in the country, saying:

“Political violence unfortunately has been ratcheting up in this country. We saw the shootings, the killings in Minnesota. We've seen other political violence occur in other states. And I would just say it’s gotta stop. And I think there are people who are fomenting it in this country. I think the President's rhetoric often foments it.”

That’s an ironic statement coming from the same Governor who once said Republicans “cannot know a moment of peace.” Over the last year, Pritzker has been one of the loudest voices escalating political rhetoric himself. 

24 years ago, on a September morning that seemed like any other, America was forever changed. It’s a day etched into the collective memory of all of us, a day when the world stood still, watching as the unthinkable unfolded. The events of September 11, 2001, shook us to our core, but they also revealed the indomitable spirit of a nation bound together by resilience, courage, and unity.

As we reflect on that day, we honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost—innocent men, women, and children who had no idea their lives would be cut short. They came from all walks of life—business professionals, first responders, and everyday citizens just going about their daily lives. In the face of terror, they became symbols of the devastating cost of hatred but also of the remarkable love that can rise in the aftermath of tragedy.

WGN recently revealed that the Illinois Department of Corrections has not been able to compute recidivism rates since 2022. Put simply, the agency has no idea how many recently released inmates have gone on to commit new crimes. It’s the latest example of mismanagement under the Pritzker Administration and yet another incident on a growing list of blunders.

Since August 3rd, Pritzker has racked up a streak of failures: 

There have been many dark days in the history of the United States, with one of the worst being the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The four coordinated Islamist suicide terrorist missions killed nearly 3,000 people and injured thousands of others. The attacks forever changed how American leaders shaped and implemented security procedures in all areas of the country going forward.

In deep southern Illinois in the Franklin County city of Benton, an unbelievable story emerged just two days after the attacks. As described in a story written by Jim Muir, now Franklin County Circuit Clerk, and originally published in the Southern Illinoisan, a series of unexplainable events unfolded after Benton High School Athletic Director Don Smith contacted local businessman Dave Severin. Smith was seeking 40 small flags to place at the school’s football field as a patriotic gesture for Friday night’s football game. 

Governor Pritzker recently took aim at the federal government over the potential deployment of the National Guard, declaring: “If you hurt my people, nothing will stop me, not time or political circumstance, from making sure you face justice under our constitutional rule of law.”

But Illinois families are asking: why doesn’t he show the same resolve toward the violent criminals roaming free under his own SAFE-T Act? Instead of protecting law-abiding citizens, his soft-on-crime policies let offenders walk, only to strike again.

First responders are the backbone of public safety. They are the first ones there when we need them most, working under extreme conditions to save lives, restore order, and provide immediate care. These individuals often work long hours, put themselves in dangerous situations, and deal with high-stress environments to ensure the safety and well-being of others. 

Illinois House Republicans’ public policy priorities mostly center around defending taxpayers, strengthening local economies, and preserving traditional values. However, another dimension of our caucus members’ work involves supporting outdoor traditions and investing in the next generation of Illinois sportsmen and sportswomen.

Through their involvement in the Illinois Sportsmen’s caucus, a bipartisan group of lawmakers that promotes hunting, fishing, conservation, and recreational activities, House Republicans are helping preserve that part of Illinois’ proud heritage. 

Gov. JB Pritzker continues to wage a war of words with the federal government and President Donald Trump. The latest kerfuffle involves Trump’s plan to send the National Guard into Chicago to fight crime and make communities safer. There is no love lost between Trump and Pritzker, who is exploring a run for the Presidency in 2028. And despite the President’s offer to help save lives and bring law and order to town, Pritzker has rebuffed him at every turn. Politics over safety, and soundbites over common sense, that’s the environment created in Illinois under Pritzker’s leadership.

As summer winds down and the kids head back to school, it’s the perfect time to find a quiet moment with a good book. State Representative Amy Grant is sharing a few of her favorite recent reads—each offering a unique window into American life, history, and the challenges we continue to face as a nation. 

Whether you're looking to be inspired, informed, or deeply moved, this list has something for everyone.

CORRUPTION
Convicted ex-Speaker Madigan files appeal to put off prison deadline. Michael J. Madigan, the former speaker of the Illinois House and longtime chair of the Illinois Democratic Party, has been convicted of a series of federal criminal offenses that centered on bribery, corruption, and influence-peddling. Madigan is scheduled to begin serving a 7.5-year prison sentence on October 13, 2025.

Governor JB Pritzker appeared on national television once again this past weekend, joining Face the Nation and Meet the Press for a round of interviews that brought about more questions than answers. While the Governor attempted to project confidence and control, his remarks revealed a troubling pattern: downplaying violent crime, contradicting his own immigration policies, and defending one of the most gerrymandered congressional maps in the country. 

State Representative Kevin Schmidt was sworn into office in 2023 to represent the 114th House District in Illinois. Rep. Schmidt has a mindset of cutting costs, lowering taxes, and lowering the cost of living so families can get ahead, not just get by. He understands the struggles in his district and stays involved in the community by volunteering his time in local organizations and by donating money to local causes. What many people don’t know is Rep. Schmidt has been donating his legislative pay raise to local food pantries across his district.

Since taking office in 2019, Governor JB Pritzker has drastically expanded rights and benefits for illegal immigrants, while ignoring Illinoisans in the process. During his tenure, he has allowed non-citizens to obtain driver’s licenses, strengthened the TRUST Act (Illinois’ sanctuary state law), allowed undocumented children to have access to a free public education, offered healthcare benefits and free housing to those here illegally, required state agencies to expand their services to include non-citizens, and other high-cost projects that divert resources from Illinoisans. 

The State of Illinois has been notorious in recent years for delays in processing applications and renewals for several professionals who require state professional licensing. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) oversees licenses for over 100 professions.

IDFPR is responsible for licensing and regulating more than 1.2 million professionals. These professionals represent a wide breadth of occupations, including medical practitioners, barbers and hair stylists, pharmacists, engineers, architects, geologists, roofing contractors, accountants, and many more.

Labor Day officially became a federal holiday in 1894, and it is traditionally observed on the first Monday in September. While Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers and was created by the federal labor movement, it also symbolizes the end of summer for many Americans and includes a three-day weekend celebrated with parties, parades, and athletic events.

In the late 1800s, many Americans were working 12 hours a day, seven days per week and often in low paying and physically demanding jobs. Young children were working in farms, factories and mines, with often unsafe conditions. With workers and labor unions pushing back against these working conditions, organized strikes and rallies were held and those became more prominent and vocal.