SPRINGFIELD (Nov. 6, 2018) – The most expensive gubernatorial race in the nation comes to a close as J.B. Pritzker is elected governor of Illinois. Illinois Policy Institute CEO John Tillman released the following statement:

“J.B. Pritzker’s victory sets the stage for an epic battle between Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and the incoming governor for control of the Democratic Party in Illinois.

“Much like Gov. Rauner, Pritzker will be at the mercy of the most powerful House speaker in U.S. history.

“As the leading taxpayer advocacy organization in the state, the Illinois Policy Institute stands ready to advance policy solutions to the crises facing the incoming governor — crippling state and local pension debt, declining job growth and a growing tax burden that’s fueling record outmigration.

“We also remain committed to preventing the advance of a progressive income tax, which would further harm Illinois’ struggling middle class. Lawmakers have already asked enough of taxpayers with the passage of the largest income tax hike in state history. It’s time for lawmakers to exercise restraint by implementing mechanisms that will fix the state’s budgeting process.

“Illinois has underperformed its potential for far too long, and we take Pritzker at his word that he’s ready to advance policies that will unleash the state’s entrepreneurial spirit. We will continue to be champions of reforms that allow communities and people to flourish, and will partner with the governor to advance these policies whenever possible.

“Illinois has a long road ahead and the next four years will determine if we choose the path to prosperity or the path to ruin. It remains our hope that Illinois’ comeback story starts here.”