Kane County Reporter

Former Republican Senate candidate Jeanette Ward said Illinois dwindling population speaks volumes about its overall direction.

"I think it loudly sends the message our policies are all wrong, and more people are waking up to that fact," Ward told the Kane County Reporter. "I think the fact we stand to lose as many as two congressional seats speak volumes about that."

Illinois stands as one of the states where residents are looking to distance themselves as swiftly as they can. Studies from two of the country's largest moving companies reported that upward of 60% of interstate moves serviced by them on behalf of Illinois residents were of the outbound variety.

With high taxes and job-related reasons ranking as the most significant factors many listed for deciding to move out of Illinois, U-Haul researchers also found that the state now ranks second-to-last in the country for inbound moves. The trend means the state is experiencing its most extraordinary outmigration levels in 2020 since World War II.

"Just like families have to do, Springfield needs to take a hard look at its finances and come up with a way to cut spending and taxes," Ward said. "Right now, we have the highest overall tax rate in the country, and I don't think that appeals to anyone."

Ward fears things will worsen before they get better unless Springfield gets its act together when it comes to taxes and becomes a more business-friendly state.

"Right now, nothing is being done, and the supermajority of Democrats are all going in the same direction," she said. "It amazes me, but we continue to do the same stuff that led to the problems. I worry if Illinois will ever be the same place again given all the damage being inflicted."