Rockford Sun

Last week, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced his intention to seek a third term in office. Illinois does not impose term limits on governors, making Pritzker the first since the 1980s to pursue a third term. Pritzker was first elected in 2018 and has served as governor since 2019. During his tenure, state spending increased by nearly $15 billion, approximately a 40 percent rise over six years.

Under Pritzker's administration, Illinois currently experiences one of the highest tax burdens in the nation and high unemployment rates in the Midwest. He has also directed billions of dollars toward funding for illegal immigrants.

In other developments, Senate Bill 19, recently signed into law by Governor Pritzker, has drawn criticism from Illinois Republicans. They argue that it weakens oversight of the Prisoner Review Board (PRB) and endangers public safety. The bill extends PRB member terms from six to eight years. Republicans express concern that this shields gubernatorial appointees from accountability when more thorough vetting is needed.

The PRB determines whether individuals convicted of serious offenses should be granted release. Under Pritzker's administration, the board approved more releases than previous governors, including cases involving convicted murderers. An incident last year where a parolee released by the board killed two people shortly after his release has intensified Republican criticism.

State Senator Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) commented on SB 19 stating it complicates efforts for the PRB to keep violent criminals off streets and reduces accountability for its members.

With the spring legislative session concluded, members of the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus will engage with constituents through summer outreach events across their districts. These events include town halls and forums aimed at discussing issues such as tax relief, public safety, education accountability, and government transparency.

Illinois residents are encouraged to participate in these events to share ideas and concerns with their local Republican senators.

For more information about these events: https://senatordavesyverson.com/events/