Dissatisfaction with governance, crime, and taxes fuels a movement in rural Illinois to form a new state, separating from urban Chicago.
Amidst growing frustration over varying political and economic issues, 33 counties in Illinois have backed a separatist movement seeking to split from Chicago and establish "New Illinois", Daily Mail reported.
Residents of rural Illinois have expressed discontent with their association with Chicago, described by many as crime-infested and financially troubled, resulting in a staggering $3.2 billion deficit for the state.
This sentiment has contributed to Illinois' significant population decline, with the state losing 83,839 residents in 2023 alone, marking its tenth consecutive year of population loss.
The separatist movement, symbolically named "Leave Illinois without moving," argues that the creation of "New Illinois" would allow them to evade the socio-economic issues they attribute to Chicago and its governance.
The chairman of New Illinois State, G.H. Merritt, has been vocal about the state's fiscal issues, frequently criticizing the management of Illinois' finances. He attributes the outmigration from Illinois to the high taxes and dangers within Chicago, asserting that businesses and residents are fleeing to more stable environments.
G.H. Merritt stated, "Illinois will soon 'crash and burn' due to the progressive tax-and-spend policies of Chicago's political elite. A lot of businesses have left the state. They leave Chicago because it's dangerous, and the taxes are too high. Over the course of a few years, we've lost a million residents."
While the idea of a new state has resonated with many, it faces significant obstacles, notably needing approval from both the state legislature and Congress. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has succinctly expressed his opposition, emphasizing the unity of the state despite internal disagreements. "We're one state," he affirmed, opposing the notion that parts of Illinois should seek to expel others.
The movement's challenges extend beyond legislative hurdles. Critics warn that separating Chicago and its economically potent surrounding counties could financially debilitate the proposed New Illinois, pointing out the economic contributions these areas bring to the state as a whole.
This issue is not unique to Illinois but reflects a broader national trend where rural areas feel overwhelmed by urban political dominance. Similarly, similar sentiments have been observed in other states, highlighting a common rural-urban disconnect across the United States.
Furthermore, even neighboring states have commented on the situation, with Indiana Republican House Speaker Todd Huston suggesting, "Instead of seceding and creating a 51st state, they should just join us."
Moreover, the persistence of the separatist agenda showcases the depth of regional discontent in Illinois. As the movement continues to gain traction, with Staunton, a small city of 5,000 residents, considering its options, the future remains uncertain.
Both critics and proponents alike will be watching closely, knowing the implications are significant not just for Illinois, but as a precedent for other divisions across the country.
In conclusion, the push for "New Illinois" exemplifies the significant regional divisions within the state, powered by frustrations over crime, governance, and economic disparities. With strong opinions on both sides of the issue, the discussion is set to continue as residents and officials navigate the complexities of state politics and identity.
