(The Center Square)–Illinois taxpayers still don’t know how much of their money will be spent by the state of Illinois next fiscal year or whether they’ll be charged higher taxes to pay for it.
Saturday is the deadline for legislators to approve the annual spending plan that begins July 1. Wednesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker explained what he would veto if it’s included.
“I’ve been opposed to any taxes. They’re broad based, or that would affect working families in this budget,” Pritzker told reporters.
Thursday, state Sen. Andrew Chesney, R-Freeport, said the governor isn’t being genuine.
“Well, is that the same governor that said he was not going to support a gerrymandered map? I think that’s the same, governor,” Chesney said during a news conference. “So I think the governor has a political interest in trying to fight for the taxpayers because his interest is in presidential politics, not state politics.”
It’s been speculated for years Pritzker is aiming for higher office, including efforts to vie to be former Vice President Kamala Harris’ vice presidential candidate during the 2024 election cycle.
While Illinois could approve a $54 billion spending plan as the governor proposed in February, that’s just state taxpayer money. The state could get an additional $75.5 billion in federal tax funds.
But, that could change with the Trump administration possibly freezing funds for states, including spending for non-citizen health care. Gov. J.B. Pritzker criticized that and other potential funding freezes.
“[President] Donald Trump, frankly, doesn’t give a darn about working people, about folks who are vulnerable in our society and only wants to give a massive tax cut to the wealthiest people in the country,” Pritzker said Wednesday.
State Rep. Adam Niemerg, R-Dieterich, said Trump is trying to reign in what he called bad policy of higher ed indoctrination, men in women’s sports and poor spending decisions by Illinois Democrats.
“You think Trump’s going to sit there and say, well, yeah, you guys keep, you know, invading girls safe spaces and running all these boys in these track meets and keep pushing this woke radical agenda, keep putting [diversity, equity and inclusion] in every, every bill that we see and also support illegal immigrants over the citizens of this great state of Illinois,” he said. “Of course, if I’m him, I’m going to cut that federal funding and he should cut that funding.”
Some speculate the state legislature could approve a budget before Saturday’s deadline, but will have to come back this summer to react to any moves from the Trump administration.
Legislators are set to adjourn May 31.
Three Reasons a Coffee Gift Set From This Christian Company Is Perfect for Christmas
When you’re searching for a Christmas gift that’s meaningful, useful, and rooted in faith, you don’t want to settle for anything generic. This season is filled with noise — mass-produced products, last-minute picks, and trends that fade as quickly as they appear. But one gift stands apart because it blends genuine quality with a message that matters: a coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee.
This small Christian-owned company has become a favorite among believers who want to support faith-driven businesses while giving friends and family something they’ll actually enjoy. Here are three reasons a Promised Grounds Coffee gift set may be the most thoughtful and impactful present you give this year.
1. It’s Truly Delicious Coffee
Too many “gift-worthy” coffees look beautiful in the package but disappoint when the cup is poured. Promised Grounds takes the opposite approach — exceptional taste first, thoughtful presentation second.
Their beans are sourced with care, roasted in small batches, and crafted to bring out a rich, smooth flavor profile that appeals to both casual drinkers and true coffee lovers. Whether someone enjoys bold, dark roasts or lighter, more delicate blends, every sip reflects quality that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the biggest specialty brands.
Simply put: this coffee is good. Really good. Some say it’s absolutely fantastic. If you want a gift that won’t be re-gifted, ignored, or shoved in a cabinet, this is it.
2. It Spreads the Word While Serving a Real Purpose
There are many Christian gifts that are meaningful… but not exactly practical. There are also useful gifts that have nothing to do with faith. Promised Grounds Coffee bridges both worlds beautifully.
Each gift set delivers an encouraging, faith-centered message through its packaging and presentation — a simple but powerful reminder of God’s goodness during the Christmas season. The cups are especially popular and serve as a daily reminder of the blessings from our Lord. At the same time, the product itself is something people will actually use and appreciate every single day.
It’s a gift that uplifts the spirit and fills the mug. A gift that points loved ones toward Scripture while still being part of the normal rhythm of life. And in a culture that increasingly pushes faith to the margins, giving a gift that quietly but confidently honors Christ can make a deeper impact than you might expect.
3. It’s Affordable, Valuable, and Elegantly Presented
Many people want to give something meaningful without breaking their Christmas budget. Promised Grounds Coffee strikes that perfect balance — the sets look and feel premium, but the price remains accessible.
The packaging is classy, clean, and gift-ready, making it ideal for:
- Family members of all ages
- Co-workers or employees
- Church friends or small-group leaders
- Hosts, neighbors, and last-minute gift needs
It’s the kind of gift that feels more expensive than it is — and more thoughtful than most of what you’ll find on store shelves.
The Perfect Blend of Faith, Flavor, and Christmas Cheer
A coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee checks every box: a gift that tastes amazing, conveys your faith, supports a Christian business, and brings daily enjoyment to the person who receives it. In a season when so many gifts are forgotten, this one stands out for all the right reasons.
If you want a Christmas present that reflects your values and delivers genuine joy, Promised Grounds Coffee is the perfect place to start.
Taxpayer funding for “non citizen” healthcare should come with a mandatory prison sentence. There is something seriously deranged about a system that uses the money I pay in taxes to provide free healthcare to illegal aliens, when I can’t afford health insurance for myself thanks to obamacare.
is pritzker losing weight ?