Politicians on both sides of the aisle are reacting to Governor JB Pritzker’s state budget proposal and his State of the State address on Wednesday.  Republicans have called out the governor for what they consider to be excessive spending, while Democrats are calling for making the governor’s proposals reality. 

Republican State Representative Brad Halbrook of Shelbyville says he views this year’s budget proposal as another instance of property tax increases as opposed to other methods of reform.

As for state senators, Springfield-based Steve McClure believes Governor Pritzker has the wrong priorities and accused him of deflecting blame for the state’s fiscal challenges on President Donald Trump.

From the Democratic side, Representative Jehan Gordon-Booth from Peoria described the budget as one that would help communities and lead to brighter futures for Illinoisans.  State Senator Celina Villanueva, who is from Chicago, praised the plan for addressing what she views as top priorities but acknowledged that it is only a first step. 

The full budget proposal can be read here.  Lawmakers and Governor Pritzker will have to come to an agreement on a spending plan by the end of May.