North Cook News

Katy Dolan Baumer doesn't understand how Springfield continues to rake in tax dollars, but seemingly never has enough money to fix the state's problems.

"Illinois does not have a revenue problem; we have a spending problem," Baumer told the North Cook News. "Like an addict, Democrat lawmakers continue to find ways to spend our residents' hard-earned money and, when they run out, find devious ways of getting more."

Baumer, who is running against incumbent state Rep. Fred Crespo (D-Hoffman Estates) in the 44th House District, sees the proposed progressive income tax as just another way to gouge taxpayers. 

Rep. Fred Crespo (D-Hoffman Estates)

"A progressive income tax is just another devious way to take more money from the residents of the 44th District," she said. "If implemented, a progressive income tax in District 44 will result in, on average, a 20 percent increase in taxes."

Higher taxes may be bringing more money into the state government, but they are also leading to numerous individuals fleeing the state for lower taxes, better job opportunities and more housing options. 

"Who will be left to pay taxes after all of the people who can are pushed to other states?" Baumer asked. "Many lawmakers in our state, and my opponent is one of them, think they can come to the money tree planted in my backyard for more when they run out. Well, the money tree went the way of the emerald ash borer and is no more."

Baumer recommends that instead of a progressive income tax, the state look where they are spending money and find ways to adjust their spending habits. 

"Those adjustments might not need to be permanent; but without them, my home and consequently, our state would fall further into financial disrepair," Baumer said.