Chicago City Wire

Republican political strategist Chris Robling rages at the way Springfield can’t seem to get out if its own way.

“Raising taxes makes things worse for everyone except union supporters,” Robling told Chicago City Wire. "(Former House Speaker Mike) Madigan and company should be dramatically cutting our spending, just like all the Illinois families have done.”

The way Robling sees it talk of another tax is the last thing the state needs given all its ongoing struggles. But with House members currently meeting for the first time in roughly eight months, Republican leaders worry talk of yet another hike will be among the first topics broached given the state faces a $4 billion budget shortfall.

“If we can’t meet expenses, they should be cutting the state workforce in all non-security activities immediately,” he said. 

“I think the progressive tax was always a last-ditch effort and by last-ditch effort I mean we are going to cease to be,” he said. “We’re looking at major insolvency because they’ve never taken responsibility for their actions. Not only will the edifice collapse but in addition, all of us are going to be stuck on the other size with a bastardized version of government that will result from the rationalizing of the court-appointed master that comes in to take over.”