State Representative Dan Ugaste (IL) | Representative Dan Ugaste (R) 65th District
State Representative Dan Ugaste (IL) | Representative Dan Ugaste (R) 65th District
Democrats in Illinois Pass Election Law Changes, Republicans Express Discontent
This week, Democrats passed legislation changing Illinois election law, sparking criticism from Republicans. The amendment to SB 2412 favored political advantages for Democrats and limited the Republican Party's ability to fill office vacancies. It also included non-binding questions on the ballot to boost Democrat voter turnout. House Republican lawmakers voted "present" in protest, emphasizing the need for transparency and public understanding.
House Republican Leader Tony McCombie stated, "Serious legislators should want to give time for the public to understand the impact on our state." The bill, labeled the "Katie Stuart Protection Act," eliminates the practice of allowing local party organizations to appoint candidates in uncontested legislative races. Governor JB Pritzker swiftly signed the bill into law after Senate approval, despite admitting he had not fully reviewed the details.
Deputy Republican Leader Ryan Spain criticized the Democrats, stating, "The Democratic Majority has the ability to put real questions on the ballot, such as Fair Maps and critically needed Ethics Reform; but today they chose to play games." State Rep. Blaine Wilhour accused Democrats of limiting voter choices, particularly regarding property tax referendums.
Alerts Sign-up