Carbondale Reporter

State Representative Paul Jacobs of Pomona has expressed strong opposition to Governor Pritzker's Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal. The proposed budget, delivered during a joint session of the House and Senate, marks a record in spending, with an increase of $2 billion compared to the previous year.

Jacobs, who is part of the House Higher Education Appropriations Committee, emphasized the need for a balanced budget crafted through an appropriations process based on existing revenues. He criticized the exclusion of Republican members from budget discussions and highlighted that Democrats have relied heavily on federal COVID funds. "As a member of the House Higher Education Appropriations Committee, I believe we need an actual appropriations process where we meet and craft a balanced budget based on existing revenues," stated Rep. Jacobs.

The annual budget address serves as a starting point for negotiations on state spending priorities. Jacobs believes these priorities are misaligned with what Illinois needs. He expressed willingness to collaborate with Democrats to establish more practical budgeting practices: "I am still ready to roll up my sleeves and work with the majority party to help bring common-sense budgeting to the process in Illinois."

Furthermore, Jacobs criticized Governor Pritzker's remarks about President Trump during his address. He described Pritzker's comments comparing Trump to Nazi Germany as inappropriate for state government discourse: "The Governor needs to leave his national political rhetoric for his Sunday morning TV interviews."

Representative Paul Jacobs represents Illinois' 118th District, which includes parts of Alexander, Jackson, Pulaski, Union, and Williamson Counties.