The FY 2026 budget passed by Democrats gives Governor Pritzker unprecedented spending power, including a $100 million slush fund ‘just in case’ the federal government withholds funding from other programs. This means the Governor has the authority to declare a ‘state of emergency’ as he sees fit, with the power to sweep away $100 million from other funds at his discretion.
As listed in the Budget Implementation Bill (BIMP), there are 25 funds available for the Governor to raid, including the State Pheasant Fund, Horse Racing Fund, Cemetery Oversight Licensing and Disciplinary Fund, and Emergency Public Health Fund, just to name a few.
Throughout his tenure, Governor Pritzker has abused his Executive Authority. The Governor issued over 40 COVID-19 disaster proclamations, starting in 2020, and extended his emergency powers for more than three years from when the pandemic started. The state of Illinois was governed by unilateral control and without General Assembly approval during that time.
These 25 funds were created with specific goals and uses in mind, and funded largely by those who participate in related activities. Governor Pritzker should set politics aside, engage in bipartisan conversations, and stop raiding funds to continue his war on the President.
Instead of continuing to fight Washington, it’s time for Governor Pritzker and Illinois Democrats to make an effort to comply with federal policies. It is beyond irresponsible to jeopardize needed grants, programs, and funds due to playing political games. State lawmakers work for all of the citizens of this state, and engaging in weekly shouting matches and standoffs with the federal government is a terrible method of governing.