State Senator Andrew S. Chesney | Illinois General Assembly
State Senator Andrew S. Chesney | Illinois General Assembly
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker's recent decision to divert $160 million from the state's Department of Human Services budget towards programs to assist immigrants arriving in Chicago has drawn criticism from State Senator Andrew Chesney. Chesney, a Republican representing Freeport, expressed his displeasure with the decision and called for a reevaluation of priorities.
In a statement released shortly after the announcement, Senator Chesney highlighted his concerns about the impact of the diversion of funds on Illinois taxpayers. He stated, "Governor Pritzker should not be surprised that asylum seekers and illegal immigrants are coming to Illinois by the busload. The word is out that Illinois is a Sanctuary State that offers free healthcare, driver's licenses, housing assistance, and other benefits to non-citizens. These are taxpayer funds that he is diverting, and it's time he reexamined his priorities and worked harder to ensure those who live and pay taxes here are taken care of first."
Senator Chesney also linked the influx of migrants to Chicago to what he perceives as weak border and immigration policies. He criticized the state-level leadership for repeatedly "rolling out the welcome mat for non-citizens." Emphasizing his opposition to using taxpayer funds to address the crisis at the border and in Chicago, Chesney made it clear that he believes such assistance should not be a priority.
The diversion of $160 million from the Department of Human Services budget to aid immigrant programs has sparked a debate about the state's role in handling the migrant crisis. While Governor Pritzker believes in providing support to immigrants arriving in Illinois, Senator Chesney argues that the focus should be on the welfare of the state's residents and taxpayers.
As the issue continues to be a point of contention, it remains to be seen how the funds will be allocated and whether any adjustments will be made to address the concerns raised by Senator Chesney and others who share his views.
To find out more, go to this link: https://senatorchesney.com/senator-andrew-chesney-denounces-pritzker-decision-to-divert-160-million-in-dhs-funds-toward-migrant-crisis/
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