Tonia Khouri
Tonia Khouri
Republican candidate Tonia Khouri was appalled that Gov. Bruce Rauner signed legislation forcing taxpayers to fund elective abortions in Illinois.
“I am deeply disappointed with Gov. Rauner’s decision to sign HB40 into law,” Khouri, who is running to replace Rep. Mike Fortner (R-Springfield) in the 49th District, posted on Facebook. Fortner has decided not to seek re-election.
Khouri, a devout Christian and chair of the DuPage County Economic Development Committee, said she finds the new law morally and financially offensive.
“Not only does it offend me, but this bill will result in an estimated 12,000 more abortions per year in Illinois; quite frankly, our state can’t afford the additional $2 million to $21 million needed to administer HB40,” Khouri wrote. "This is another example of our state government’s incompetency to manage our tax dollars effectively so we can truly care for the most vulnerable."
The Chicago Tribune contended that Rauner might have ulterior motives in enacting the legislation.
“By signing the bill, Rauner also could preserve his political appeal to socially moderate suburban women, a key demographic for a Republican to win a statewide race in Illinois,” the paper said.
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