As Governor J.B. Pritzker defended Illinois’ sanctuary state policies in Washington, D.C., his immigration agenda has reportedly cost the state billions. Critics argue that his policies restrict cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, affecting cases involving serious offenders.
In 2021, Pritzker signed a law canceling county ICE detention contracts and empowered the Attorney General to penalize police departments assisting federal officials. He also established the taxpayer-funded Welcoming Illinois office to extend benefits for undocumented immigrants.
State Senator Jil Tracy criticized Pritzker’s actions, stating that they reflect political ambition rather than accountability to Illinois residents.
Meanwhile, former House Speaker Michael Madigan was sentenced on June 13 to seven and a half years in prison and fined $2.5 million for corruption. Madigan faced charges of racketeering, bribery, wire fraud, and extortion after being indicted in 2022 following federal investigations.
The case highlighted a political operation likened to an organized crime syndicate, revealing deals with utility company ComEd for legislative favors in exchange for jobs and contracts benefiting Madigan’s allies.
Despite Madigan’s conviction, no ethics reforms targeting the General Assembly have been enacted since his indictment. Senate Republicans have proposed measures for independent oversight but face opposition from Democratic leaders.
Additionally, Illinois Democrats approved a new tax on online sports bets set to begin July 1. The tax requires sportsbooks to pay $0.25 per wager up to 20 million bets annually and $0.50 thereafter. FanDuel plans to impose a $0.50 fee per wager starting September 1 following last year’s tax increase on operators.
