Chicago City Wire

Jan Schakowsky, a longstanding U.S. Congress member representing Illinois’ 9th district, has shared her perspectives on recent political developments through a series of tweets. Schakowsky, who succeeded Sidney R. Yates in 1999 and has been an active voice in Congress since then, expressed her views on tax contributions by undocumented individuals, her decision to boycott a presidential address, and her critique of proposed economic policies.

On March 3, 2025, Schakowsky highlighted the financial contributions made by undocumented individuals who pay taxes without eligibility for benefits. She emphasized the strength these contributions add to the economy while maintaining that "the privacy of all tax returns is protected by federal law." In her statement, she declared opposition to efforts by "Trump and his cronies" to potentially misuse this information. "When undocumented individuals pay taxes, they are paying into a system without becoming eligible for benefits."

The following day, March 4, 2025, Schakowsky announced her intention not to attend Donald Trump's joint address that evening. She cited feedback from numerous constituents urging resistance as a reason for her decision. "I have heard from thousands of constituents who want me to resist."

In another tweet dated March 5, 2025, Schakowsky criticized President Trump's claims about improving life for Americans. She contended that the primary beneficiaries would be billionaires receiving substantial tax breaks at the expense of programs essential to working families. "Tonight, President Trump will claim he is making life better for all Americans."