Illinois state Rep. Chad Hays won’t seek re-election in 2018
Hays is one of 15 Illinois House Republicans who voted for a permanent income tax hike.
State Rep. Chad Hays, R-Catlin, announced July 3 that he will not seek re-election to his seat in 2018. He was first elected to Illinois House of Representatives in 2010, and has served in the House as assistant minority leader since 2013.
The announcement comes just one day after Hays joined 14 other Illinois House Republicans in voting for a permanent income tax increase. The tax increase, which would impose nearly $5 billion in higher taxes on Illinoisans, raises personal income taxes to 4.95 percent from 3.75 percent, and raises corporate income tax rates to 7 percent from 5.25 percent. The tax hike is part of a full-year budget plan that passed the Illinois House July 2. The state has gone more than two years without a full budget.
Hays cited the “changing political climate” in Springfield in announcing his decision, calling the functionality of the state legislature “simply untenable and counterproductive.”
“Ego, money and power eclipse the desire of well-meaning and honest public servants, and blame, press conferences and talking points have replaced governing,” Hays added in a statement. “Sadly, voices of moderation and reason are increasingly elbowed out by well-financed fringe elements.”
According to the announcement, “at this point” Hays intends to serve out the reminder of his term in office.
Hays represents the 104th District, which includes parts of Champaign and Vermilion counties. He ran unopposed for re-election in 2014 and 2016.