Brian Kasal, president of the Northside Republicans, said Democratic policies have made retirement in Illinois unaffordable because of high taxes, pension mismanagement and regulation, according to a statement he made to Chicago City Wire.
“The high cost of retiring in Illinois stems from years of Democratic policies that have shaped the state’s finances,” said Kasal. “Steep taxes, unfunded pension promises, and strict regulations have made living expenses soar and pushed retirees to move elsewhere. Ongoing one-party dominance has brought fiscal mismanagement, with seniors bearing the consequences. Residents deserve leadership committed to affordability, financial stability, and the chance to retire with dignity.”
According to Newsbreak, Illinois has been ranked among the 10 worst U.S. states for retirement by a CareScout study. The state placed near the bottom nationally because of poor scores in affordability, quality of life, and healthcare factors important to retirees. Analysts indicate that high living costs and tax burdens, including some of the nation’s highest property and gas taxes, contribute to its low ranking. WalletHub’s broader retirement rankings also reflect Illinois’ poor performance in overall retirement friendliness, particularly concerning tax-related and cost-of-living measures.
The Illinois Policy Institute reported that the state faces significant economic challenges, with job creation lagging behind most other states. The state’s unemployment rate stands at 5%, which is the third highest in the U.S., an increase from 4.6% when Governor JB Pritzker assumed office. Illinois ranks 43rd in total job growth and 44th in private-sector job growth. Wage growth has been the fourth slowest nationwide since December 2018, with average wages at $33.63 per hour, placing Illinois 28th nationally.
Kasal, a resident of Chicago’s 43rd Ward, was appointed president of Chicago’s Northside Republican Club in 2021. According to the organization’s website, he is “focused on boosting Republican voter turnout, growing the Party’s membership, and communicating the Party’s positions on issues that matter to Chicago Northside voters.”
