Senate lawmakers chose to delay voting on an amendment that would allow Illinois’ income tax structure to go from flat to progressive.

Polling of likely voters shows why some Democratic Illinois House members could regret voting for the governor’s graduated income tax.

Ultimately, the state’s spending and debt habits mean Pritzker’s plan will be a bridge to higher taxes for the middle class. Pritzker and state lawmakers should instead pursue sensible spending reforms that don’t require declaring open season on Illinois taxpayers.

Despite already shouldering one of the nation’s highest total tax burdens, middle-class Illinoisans would be exposed to extra income taxes under language proposed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

Without reform, Illinois’ pension problem will continue to force tax hikes while crowding out the core services residents need.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker is calling his $3.4 billion tax hike “fair,” but his plan comes with a hefty penalty for some Illinoisans who choose to tie the knot.