As I mentioned previously, I have emailed each of the five state legislators who represent McHenry County asking them their position on Governor Pat Quinn’s proposal to raise state income taxes 50%.
So far, only two have shared their positions.
That does not bode well for us taxpayers.
When state representatives and senators are strong advocates of a position, for example, not hiking taxes, they get out in front with that stand.
They are willing to be pinned down.
When they might end up voting for something like a tax hike, they want to
- “consider the issue,”
- “see the details.”
You hear what I would call “weasel words.”
Here are the responses I have received so far:
State Rep. Mike Tryon:
“This was written before he made his announcement, but Mike is a no vote on that and will comment in the next one.”
(Email from legislative assistant Tina Hill. It seems to refer to an attachment, but there was none.)
State Senator Dan Duffy:
“We first need to cut spending, cut all new programs and stop diverting funds before we ever even begin to consider raising taxes or user fees.
“I am completely opposed to raising taxes – especially considering we are in a recession.
“Raising taxes now will kill jobs.”
Still not committing themselves are State Representatives Jack Franks and Mark Beaubien, plus State Senator Pam Althoff, although Althoff did describe Quinn’s proposal as a “1% increase,” according to a Northwest Herald article.
That’s the language those supporting higher income taxes have been using the minimize the extent of such a huge hike to the public.
See
“Joel Weisman Falsely Frames the Income Tax Hike Issue“
and
If you feel strongly about the issue, either pro or con, you might want to contact their offices by phone or email.