The Quad Cities are a case study in how the Land of Lincoln is lagging behind its neighbors.

St. Clair and Madison counties saw combined population losses of more than 1,600 people due to out-migration to other states.

The communities in the Quad Cities are nearly identical, but Illinoisans are fleeing to Iowa’s side from the Land of Lincoln’s side, showing just how severe Illinois’ out-migration crisis is.

Illinois is one of four states in the entire U.S. to have fewer private sector jobs today compared to the turn of the century. The Land of Lincoln needs pro-growth reforms to allow the state’s private sector to rise again.

Illinois municipalities that are tired of seeing their manufacturing base hollowed out can take action to end the exodus.