Pritzker unveils budget plans amid $3 billion deficit

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is set to deliver his budget address amidst a projected $3 billion deficit, emphasizing that he will not propose tax increases to balance the budget. Despite this commitment, Republican lawmakers express skepticism, citing significant increases in state spending during his tenure. Mayor Brandon Johnson is advocating for more state funding for education and the Chicago Transit Authority, which is facing fiscal challenges as pandemic aid runs out. Pritzker has called for budget tightening among state agencies and suggested potential rollbacks of ineffective programs to manage the deficit. A recent poll indicates that Pritzker's favorability is split, with many voters concerned about high taxes and state governance. The budget proposal will be closely scrutinized as it seeks to address the financial realities without imposing additional burdens on taxpayers.