NW Illinois News

Ted Dabrowski, a candidate for governor of Illinois, has highlighted property taxes as a significant factor driving residents out of the state. He pledged to implement structural reforms to lower these rates, referencing Rockford and other Illinois metropolitan areas that rank among the nation's highest in property tax burdens. Dabrowski made this statement at the Freeport Lincoln Day Dinner.

"Punishingly-high property taxes are making Illinois unaffordable and driving residents out," said Dabrowski, Illinois Gubernatorial Candidate. "Five of Illinois' metro areas are in the nation's top 10 for the highest property tax rates. Rockford metro area residents pay the highest property tax rates in the country. As governor, I will focus on enacting the structural reforms that can finally bring property taxes down."

The Freeport Lincoln Day Dinner is an annual fundraiser organized by the Stephenson County Republican Party in Freeport. Typically held at the Eagles Club on West Galena Avenue, the event attracts county activists, elected officials, and statewide candidates who gather to rally supporters and discuss policy priorities ahead of election cycles. The dinner features keynote speakers and requires ticketed entry, serving as a key grassroots forum for the Stephenson County Republican Central Committee and surrounding GOP organizations.

Dabrowski is a Republican candidate for governor of Illinois with a background as a policy analyst focused on Illinois' economy and government. He previously served as vice president of policy at the Illinois Policy Institute and worked internationally in finance for Citibank. He launched his gubernatorial bid for 2026 in September 2025 with an emphasis on affordability, taxes, education, and public safety. His campaign underscores proposals for structural reforms aimed at reducing cost burdens for families and businesses across the state.