Pritzker ad fact check: Illinois only paid bills on time because of federal aid

By Dylan Sharkey

02/17/2022

Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s newest campaign ad credits him for paying the state’s bills on time. The commercial fails to mention the influx of federal stimulus for the COVID-19 pandemic that kept Illinois’ finances afloat.

TAGS: budget, federal aid, JB Pritzker

Pritzker ad fact check: No, the governor has never balanced a state budget

By Dylan Sharkey

02/11/2022

In one of his first re-election political TV ads, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker takes credit for passing a balanced budget. Budget documents tell a different story, showing a deficit instead of the reported surplus.

TAGS: budget, COVID-19, federal aid, JB Pritzker

$14B in federal COVID-19 stimulus propped up Illinois’ budget

By Dylan Sharkey

02/09/2022

Despite claims Illinois’ budget was “balanced,” a closer look shows federal stimulus money propped it up. Only long-term reform on pensions, taxes, health care and school district consolidation can balance state finances and end 21 years of deficits.

TAGS: budget, COVID-19, federal aid, JB Pritzker

Beyond degrees: Empowering Illinoisans through career-first education

Published June 3, 2025 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The best path to empowerment and success, especially for poor people, is work. Work allows us to prosper while providing dignity, upward mobility, the means to support ourselves and create value for others. It’s how we become thriving members of our community. Central to this process is our education...

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Beyond degrees: Empowering Illinoisans through career-first education

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Allan Luzbetak

Process for unionizing non-state workers raises red flags

CBS Chicago: Illinois’ highest-paid superintendent receives $400K per year to oversee 1,200 students