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Graduated income tax amendment passes 73-44-1

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Illinois

* Rep. Andre Thapedi (D-Chicago) did not vote (he voted earlier in the day, but did not vote on a bill immediately after the “fair tax” rollcall). Otherwise, all HDems voted for it. Here’s the roll call…

Reps. Yingling and Carroll, who had resisted voting for the measure, both voted for it today.

* The governor is holding a press conference. Check the live coverage post for updates…

What: Gov. Pritzker and lawmakers to speak about the Fair Tax constitutional amendment.
Where: Illinois State Capitol, Governor’s Office, Springfield
When: After the House vote has concluded.

The matter will be sent to the voters next year. Scott Kennedy has more on how that’ll work. Click here.

I will put react on our live coverage post.

posted by Rich Miller
Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:28 pm

Comments

Huge win for Pritzker, and very necessary for the state. Congratulations and much thanks to Democrats who stuck together to take this very tough vote.

Now on to the budget, capital bill and sports betting–marijuana maybe, too.

Comment by Grandson of Man Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:33 pm
That IPI propaganda touting Yingling and Carroll’s “courage” apparently wasn’t good enough to even secure their votes.

Might want to fill that think-tank with higher octane.

Comment by wordslinger Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:36 pm
3 1/2 hours of “debate” couldn’t stop it. Nice with for JB.

Comment by Former State Worker Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:39 pm
I can spend somebody else’s money on somebody else. And if I spend somebody else’s money on somebody else, I’m not concerned about how much it is, and I’m not concerned about what I get.

Comment by Donnie Elgin Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:40 pm
Simply put, Good

Comment by Nick Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:44 pm
–I can spend somebody else’s money on somebody else. And if I spend somebody else’s money on somebody else, I’m not concerned about how much it is, and I’m not concerned about what I get.–

Caution, philosopher at work.

Give us a heads up at the first sign that any of the “no” votes pushes away from the gubmint trough.

Comment by wordslinger Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:47 pm
Big win for JB.

Comment by Wensicia Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:47 pm
Where was Thapedi

Comment by Minion Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:50 pm
This is a big day. A huge win for JB and the dems.

Man, a lot of money is going to be spent on that ballot measure.

Comment by Montrose Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:50 pm
So this tax hike if approved by the voters will raise 3.5 billion dollars in annual revenue from the top 3 percent of Illinois residents.

Democrats have proposed 12 billion in additional spending

Who do you think will pay for that?

Comment by Lucky Pierre Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:52 pm
Now that’s on the 2020 ballot, it’s time for the commercial avalanche to *really* start.

Comment by Fax Machine Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:52 pm
Props to Rep Kalish for stepping up in showing empathy toward Rep Martwick during Kalish’s allotted five minutes. It wasn’t a “kumbaya” moment, but it stood out in the midst of a lot of predictable rhetoric. To a self-admitted amateur like me just starting to study Springfield politics, something tells me such simple empathy in public political discourse is not common.

Comment by It Doesn’t Have to Be This Way Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:55 pm
So now let’s also put a constitutional question to cap property taxes like California did. My income taxes staying roughly the same won’t matter when the FOID is increased 1000%, gas tax doubled, property taxes increase by $500/annually ($7k currently), implement a $.5/plastic bag tax, double my car registration & driver’s license fees.

The Chinese have a word for this sort of torture….ling chi a.k.a, “death by a thousand cuts.”

I’m a 30 year-old, graduate school educated, married, moderate leaning person. Wife is college educated and we have a 2 year old child. Roughly $150k in pre-tax income, but this state is changing before our eyes and not in a good way. In the next 3 years or less, we will be part of the Illinois exodus and I will never, ever live in Illinois again.

Comment by Romeo Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:58 pm
Where’s the concern for the middle class at the gas pump in Illinois?

Comment by Steve Monday, May 27, 19 @ 4:59 pm
Bye Romeo

Comment by Demoralized Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:01 pm
To the Post,

Big win for the think big folks.

Stock falls for Yingling and Carroll. A real head scratcher to the end.

I’m going to be very fascinated, as I think and know the tact of the ILGOP, IPI, and the GOP Caucuses have yet to make a numeric or fundamental case that makes the 97% not seeing an increase a negative… to putting in the ballot just the taxing change from the flat tax that is a winning argument.

I’d go about it differently, but what I know of what I see and hear is a regional anger and a trying to make the taxing a class discussion, with the GOP choosing the wealthy(?)

The goal is 59% or less.

It’s possible, 60% is a heavy number.

The trick is 41% thinking a fair tax isn’t fair… and so far the rationale is a winning one.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:02 pm
I don’t like it, but it had to be done and I will reluctantly support it in 2020. Oh and based on proposed rates I may see a small decrease in income tax.

Comment by 95th resident Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:04 pm
Huge win for Democrats and Pritzker. This was brought in part by Republicans and Rauner, who relentlessly attacked Madigan instead of governing. Of course no Republican voted for the fair tax, since the party is 100% for the richest to not pay more than everyone else. It ought to be fun in 2020, painting the ILGOP as the party of the plutocrats.

Comment by Grandson of Man Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:05 pm
Illinoisans will decide now. What will the rhetoric be if the ballot initiative succeeds? If the people want it they will say so. And if it passes and those opposed want to take their ball and go home so be it.

Comment by Demoralized Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:09 pm
The Scott Kennedy post about down-ballot drop off is fascinating. The IL Constitution reads as follows:

== A proposed amendment shall become effective as the amendment provides if approved by either three-fifths of those voting on the question or a majority of those voting in the election. ==

Vote the entire ballot.

Comment by Hamlet's Ghost Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:09 pm
Bad News Blaine wants the money from this all in his district, but refused to vote aye.

Comment by Precinct Captain Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:10 pm
We fight so hard everyday to help the middle class workers. How do we stop the majority party from further destroying our great state that is heading down a morally bankrupt path by just raising taxes just one more time?Just a question.

Comment by 51 state Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:17 pm
===raising taxes just one more time?Just a question.====

Yeah, this is the ignorance of what I think.

Only the top 3%, of those making over $250K are getting this increase.

So you support the wealthy? Just a question.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:20 pm
Just the CA was passed today? Not the rate bill?

Comment by Perrid Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:23 pm
It was great to see Democrats sticking together and with the governor on this very tough vote. That draws a sharp contrast between the two parties and is a smart answer to the ILGOP’s unanimous opposition. Votes like this could put wind in the political sails.

Many thanks to Reps. Yingling and Carroll, and everyone else who will now bring the opportunity to reform taxes by giving breaks to middle and lower incomes instead of big cuts or an unfair flat tax hike. We do need reform, but the wealthiest must help out.

Comment by Grandson of Man Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:26 pm
Those Southern, Eastern and Western Illinois GOPers certainly do like tax dollars when its coming to their state universities, and they sure didn’t like budget cuts when it all but shut down their universities and slashed hundreds of jobs.

To here them today, it’s like they want the schools closed.

Comment by Michelle Flaherty Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:30 pm
===To here them today, it’s like they want the schools closed.===

If the Raunerites’ votes in the 99th GA are any indication, they want their universities closed… just passively.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:32 pm
Need a coalition of No votes and undervote on CA to defeat.

Comment by Donnie Elgin Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:32 pm
== Now that’s on the 2020 ballot, it’s time for the commercial avalanche to *really* start. ==

The commercial avalanche will be staggering, however I think the Dems need to focus on turnout and getting voters to vote the entire ballot (especially SJRCA-1) which means ground game, early voting and vote by mail.

Comment by Hamlet's Ghost Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:32 pm
“We fight so hard everyday to help the middle class workers”

Fair tax opponents don’t fight so hard to help the middle class. They just voted against tax breaks for the vast majority of Illinoisans and for every middle class worker, if $250,000 a year and above is not middle class.

For graduated tax opponents it’s all about keeping the system rigged in favor of the wealthiest and leaving those who can less-afford it to continue bearing the burdens of the state.

Comment by Grandson of Man Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:38 pm
I think over time if anyone thinks this won’t eventually tax the middle class once the wealthy leave the state they are only kidding themselves .

Comment by 51 state Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:39 pm
By the time this gets to the voters they will be so fed up with all the other tax increases it won’t pass
The state can only take so much.
Something will have to give

Comment by Nicky Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:43 pm
===I think over time if anyone thinks this won’t eventually tax the middle class once the wealthy leave the state…===

Hmm.

When is that happening.

It appears it’s not the wealthy leaving Illinois, it’s those not as wealthy.

What else do you have that’s not drivel boiler-plate silly?

I say that, unless you can “predict” this wealthy 3% exodus at a more pinpoint framing… lol

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:44 pm
I watched most of the debate today. Points made by those in favor or not in favor were heard. I was disappointed in what Rep. Durkin said in his comments. This I see as not being a leader, but being childish in the position he is in. His supporting the Rauner agenda is what helped put the republicans in the position they’re in today. I seen him as just criticizing the other party. Fair game I guess, but doesn’t make him look like a leader, that his party so desperately needs.

Comment by Boat captain Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:46 pm
===By the time this gets to the voters they will be so fed up with all the other tax increases it won’t pass
The state can only take so much.===

Any idea how the fair tax amendment has polled in the past?

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:47 pm
I’m a little surprised that two voters didn’t take a walk. Only 71 were needed. BPIA went yard and cleared the bases.

Comment by wordslinger Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:49 pm
I think it could have gotten some support from the minority’s side if their would have been pension reform (constitutional amendment) that puts all workers in a 401k style program.

Comment by 51 state Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:54 pm
===I think it could have gotten some support from the minority’s side if their would have been pension reform (constitutional amendment)…===

LOL, You really are on message, must have that playbook at the ready.

What is owed, is already owed. The ILSC made that quite clear.

Can pension reform, on its merits, get 71 and 36.

Without your ask… they got 71 and 36.

Please, keep up, stop the willful ignorance, or skip ahead in the drivel to more fun talking points that aren’t as easy to mock.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 5:59 pm
What I meant to say was if we change the constitution about pensions; then ILSC magistrates should be on our side to fix the out of control pension liabilities.

Comment by 51 state Monday, May 27, 19 @ 6:04 pm
Why do so many GOP politicians fear the will of the voter? Why not have the voters decide? To me our elected leaders should want the voter to chime in. GOP, get a grip.

Comment by Truthteller Monday, May 27, 19 @ 6:05 pm
I’d like to thank former Governor Rauner and GOP leader Durkin for their assistance in getting this passed. If not for them hurting the GOP brand like they did there would not have been enough Democrats today to get this bill passed. Now the do nothing party can sit on the sidelines and criticize the majority without offering any alternative ideas and continue to be shills for the rich.

Comment by The Dude Abides Monday, May 27, 19 @ 6:05 pm
===What I meant to say was if we change the constitution about pensions; then ILSC magistrates should be on our side to fix the out of control pension liabilities.===

Yeah, ‘bout that…

The pesky US Constitution, the contract clause, and how that goes into the last ruling.

What else ya got?

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 6:09 pm
You’re not getting your 51st state 51. Perhaps you should pick one of the other 49 to live in. I suggest Alabama.

Comment by Cheryl44 Monday, May 27, 19 @ 6:14 pm
Unarguably a huge win for team JB and think big. Many attempts over the years to change our tax system and now it will be in the hands of voters. Now the real work begins and it will likely be an epic battle between the left and the right in the midst of our most contentious presidential election maybe ever. It puts the Democrats and those in favor of a fair tax in a very good position.

Comment by Shytown Monday, May 27, 19 @ 6:33 pm
Point of historical information:

House GOP Leader Jim Durkin: “For more than 30 years, the House Democrats and Speaker Madigan have controlled the finances of our state.”

Illinois partisan leadership since 1989 (30 years ago)
Governors
1989-2003– Jim Thompson, Jim Edgar, and George Ryan, Republicans.
2003-2015– Rod Blagojevich and Pat Quinn, Democrats.
2015-2019– Bruce Rauner, Republican.
Senate majorities
1989-1993– Democratic.
1993-2003– Republican.
2003-present– Democratic.
House majorities
1989-1995– Democratic.
1995-1997– Republican.
1997-present– Democratic.

Charlie Wheeler

Comment by Charlie Wheeler Monday, May 27, 19 @ 6:34 pm
===House GOP Leader Jim Durkin: “For more than 30 years, the House Democrats and Speaker Madigan have controlled the finances of our state.”===

Republican Rep. Jim Durkin was once a committee chairman… for Speaker Michael J. Madigan… over other members… of the majority… Democratic caucus.

So… there’s that I guess too.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 6:41 pm
==House GOP Leader Jim Durkin: “For more than 30 years, the House Democrats and Speaker Madigan have controlled the finances of our state.”==

What’s that called again, when you repeat something over and over that you know not to be true?

The Big something-something?

How’s that working out for you, anyway? Getting a lot of traction, making a lot of progress with it?

I’ve been convinced for a long time that a great many incumbent Republicans are very happy in their minority status; no heavy lifting of responsibility or accountability, get some staff, some office space, good health insurance, and the checks hit the bank accounts like clockwork.

Comment by wordslinger Monday, May 27, 19 @ 7:00 pm
Looking at our very recent history, Bruce Rauner made $333 million in his first three years as governor and wanted to lower property taxes by “local control,” local governments stripping union rights. That was the height of unfairness, and he was soundly defeated. Now we have a chance to lower property taxes by having the wealthy pay a higher state income tax, which is fair due to decades-long low state rates on the rich.

Comment by Grandson of Man Monday, May 27, 19 @ 7:06 pm
I was the one who just sent the recent response at 7:11 pm

Comment by Gary from Chicagoland Monday, May 27, 19 @ 7:13 pm
===In addition the progressive tax rates for income less than $250000 are very small savings compared to flat rate today.===

… but it’s a savings, of at least not an increase… for 97% of folks.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 7:14 pm
Not a good prescription for what ails us…easy to spend other peoples $$$$$

Comment by Elliott Ness Monday, May 27, 19 @ 7:24 pm
Gary at 7:11:
You’re absolutely correct, the top rates should have been larger and covered a wider group, and the excess used solely to pay down the debt, which would in time lower property tax rates.

Comment by Stuntman Bob's Brother Monday, May 27, 19 @ 7:33 pm
This additional money is necessary to cover up and subsidize the negative economic activity caused by the powerful and highly lucrative liquor warehouseman and casino licensees. We don’t even require liquor Warehosemen to disclose their financial results like the casino industry is.

Comment by Al Monday, May 27, 19 @ 7:50 pm
-“This plan will not work. Do we need tax reform? You bet we do. This isn’t the way to do it,” state Rep. Steve Reick, R-Woodstock, said. “We need a global review of our entire tax system … with an operating system that tracks our economy, that doesn’t create class envy and class warfare and take money from those who are the most productive in our society. We need a tax system that tracks our economy.”

Where does a productive resident of this reps district start. “Global Review” What the hell is that. “An operating system that tracks our economy” Read that in an Econ book somewhere.
“Class envy and doesn’t take money from those who are most productive” THE BEST STATEMENT OF ALL. THE REPUBLICANS FINALLY STATE THAT THEY WANT LOW TAXES FOR THE VERY RICH IN OUR STATE AND SOCIETY. Reading this why would anyone who is “productive” but doesn’t make $250,000 and more per year vote for a republican, WHY???

Comment by Popeye Monday, May 27, 19 @ 7:51 pm
How it polled I the past
What difference does that make
They wouldn’t have been subjected to all the new taxes coming our way yet

Comment by Nicky Monday, May 27, 19 @ 7:54 pm
Now it’s on the ballot. 5 no votes from our house.

Comment by Tim Monday, May 27, 19 @ 7:59 pm
===How it polled I the past
What difference does that make
They wouldn’t have been subjected to all the new taxes coming our way yet===

It’s a baseline.

It’s also the baseline the GOP will be fighting while…

“fighting for the 3%”

That’s one thing the GOP will face; the party of the wealthy, saving the 3%…

Facing that kind of talk, kind of advertising, touting 97% won’t see a raise.

It’s important to know what one faces.

Making it a GOP-Dem thing could be the biggest help against the 60% from happening. That isn’t an easy threshold.

How much damage, in turnout, POTUS will be might be the difference.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 8:04 pm
Rep. Reick wants a system that doesn’t create “class warfare.” Yet Illinois currently has one of the most regressive state and local tax systems in the country. Isn’t it class warfare when the working poor pay an effective tax rate several times higher than the most affluent residents? The graduated income tax would make that system slightly less regressive.

Comment by anon2 Monday, May 27, 19 @ 8:06 pm
After reading Scott Kennedy’s very interesting article, I would guess that the undervote percentage will be closer to the Victim’s Bill of Rights vote of 8% than anything else. Just looking at the constitutional amendment votes since 2008, it seems there is more undervoting for drier and boring issues, Concon and pension benefits, and less undervoting for more appealing issues, the Crime Victim’s Bill of Rights. Taxes are usually dry and boring, but there will be so much attention on this vote that it will encourage people not to undervote.

Comment by Three Dimensional Checkers Monday, May 27, 19 @ 8:08 pm
–“We need a global review of our entire tax system … with an operating system that tracks our economy, that doesn’t create class envy and class warfare and take money from those who are the most productive in our society. We need a tax system that tracks our economy.”–

Somebody ordered the Big Word Salad.

Yet all that razzle-dazzle, hocus-pocus, dominocus fails to even hint at:

Who pays what?

Comment by wordslinger Monday, May 27, 19 @ 8:12 pm
Didn’t hear any of the R’s complaining about how the rich already got a huge tax break from 45’s tax bill. Time for them to pay their share in Illinois.

Comment by jimbo26 Monday, May 27, 19 @ 8:38 pm
Yes, this bill will hit hard. If the Democrats want a class war, li say the wealthy should give them a class war. They can continue to rack up wins for a while at the ballot box but their constituents will lose in long term.

It’s easy to vote to spend someone else’s money. But, it’s equally easy to stop giving away money to causes that help the “middle class”, hiring kids for summer work who really don’t add anything to the business and spending extra money wastefully on matters that support the middle class.

At the end of the day, the state may take more, but I, and others in my position, are not going to get hurt. After all, we’re taking all the risk. The young and the middle class will be the ones who bear the brunt of this bill.

Changing my name to DuPage No Longer Moderate.

Comment by DuPage Moderate Monday, May 27, 19 @ 9:39 pm
So it is a “class war”?

Seems like one group of people want to pay Illinois’ bills and one doesn’t.

So welcher class versus fiscally sound practice.

Comment by JS Mill Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:00 pm
JS Mill- Voters will get to decide. Are you against democracy? Or do you only care about the 1%?

Comment by Illinois Resident Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:08 pm
Welcher? Give me a break a regressive income and sales taxes and to a somewhat less degree property taxes. The welchers are the only group that have seen an increase in income.

Comment by Not a Billionaire Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:10 pm
–Yes, this bill will hit hard.–

Yeah, it’s not a bill, it’s a proposed Constitutional amendment. It will be on the ballot in Nov. 2020.

–If the Democrats want a class war, li say the wealthy should give them a class war.–

Lot of “class war” going around for quite some time, since graduated income taxes are pretty standard in Western democracies, the United States, and 34 U.S. states.

–It’s easy to vote to spend someone else’s money.–

And the lamest canned talking point of so many. All taxation, everywhere, forever, has been a decision on who pays what. It’s not a new thing.

Comment by wordslinger Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:13 pm
DuPage Moderate - It sounds like you despise paying income tax. You probably also agree with companies like Amazon paying $0 in federal taxes.

Comment by Illinois Resident Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:13 pm
Some of these poor me comments are comical. If you make enough money where this will affect you, you should be grateful that you are in that position. Time to start contributing more in tax revenue. The gravy train is over.

Comment by Illinois Resident Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:17 pm
Illinois was already last in fiscal stability and first in population loss, but I’m sure people will start flicking here now.

Comment by Good luck with that Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:20 pm
Having this on the ballot in Nov 2020 seems like a good way to find out where candidates truly stand

Comment by Hamlet's Ghost Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:23 pm
Illinois Resident:

I think the tax code is an abomination and the fact that companies like Amazon, etc. don’t pay any taxes is borderline criminal.

But, it doesn’t change the fact that this proposal will hurt the middle class. The federal tax “relief” provided no relief and this amendment, if passed, will hit even harder. Couple that with a litany of other taxes and soon to be LaSalle Street/Chicago taxes and its time to seriously look at how we spend our money. We’re certainly not going to take the same risk and work just as hard for less money, so someone else is going to be forced to take the hit. And you guessed it, it will not be people negatively impacted by this proposed amendment.

And “Welchers”, give me a break. It sure as hell wasn’t the high earners who got us into this mess. Not sure why the responsibility to solve the problem is falling on their shoulders. Also not sure who they became the villains here.

How many pension concessions have the unions made? That the real problem here isn’t it? Welchers, please.

And make no mistake, this is 100% a class war. It has worked wonderfully for the Dems in the past. We’ll see if it works going forward.

Comment by DuPage Not So Moderate Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:25 pm
DuPage asks, “How many pension concessions have the unions made?”

Shouldn’t the question be why have privately held companies kept workers’ wages artificially low?

Ever since the 401k scheme was passed non-union workers’ income has been relatively stagnant. If it weren’t for unions the middle class would be even worse off.

Comment by Anono Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:30 pm
DuPage says, “It’s easy to vote to spend someone else’s money.” Many other presumably conservative commenters echoed that sentiment….

All of which fails to acknowledge that 30+ years of Republican and Democratic Governors, Houses and Senates already have spent other people’s money.

They spent middle class workers’ pension funds by underfunding and shorting those funds in order to pay for other things.

That bill is due.

Comment by Anono Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:32 pm
“Why do so many GOP politicians fear the will of the voter? Why not have the voters decide? To me our elected leaders should want the voter to chime in. GOP, get a grip.”

Substitute GOP for Democrats and toss in fair redistricting reform, and watch the smirks evaporate from the faces of the gloaters here. Democrats, get a grip. Let the voters also decide on fair redistricting reform.

That was fun.

Comment by Louis G. Atsaves Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:34 pm
Dupage Not So Moderate - It seems you are being a bit hyperbolic. So very rich folks will pay a little bit more state tax if the referendum passes by a 60% vote count. Federal taxes are progressive. What is the problem?

Comment by Illinois Resident Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:35 pm
Oh - Louis G Atsaves -

Explain how all those petitions to get things on the ballot Rauner supported and all those millions to run on it were wasted by having petitions that couldn’t meet constitutional muster.

Or was that the feature, not the bug, Counselor… you know, get the names, just not the amendment.

Find 71 and 36, Counselor.

Pritzker has now eclipsed Rauner in successfully getting a political policy to be voted on to change the constitution.

Keep reminding us all how Rauner failed, and how this administration gets things passed.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:40 pm
The ballot measure may or may not pass but let me be the first to predict a bright side to the vote today. Congressmen Casten and Underwood will soon be looking for a job. Republicans and right thinking dems are going to vote against the amendment and against these two in districts that were drawn to be Republican.

Comment by The Bright Side Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:48 pm
===…and against these two in districts that were drawn to be Republican.===

With POTUS actually on the ballot in the collar counties, tough to see a GOP win in those districts.

Healthcare and abortion rights will still be hot topics with POTUS

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, May 27, 19 @ 10:53 pm
Democratic discipline is noteworthy

Also the success or failure of the referendum will hinge on turnout. Hard core GOP typically has high % turnout.

Can the Dems use this to mobilize high % turnout? If yes, Dems win big in 2020, at all levels.

Comment by Hamlet's Ghost Monday, May 27, 19 @ 11:20 pm
Looks like the Reitz kid is following JB to an early exodus from the House. Anyone hear what his appointment will be following his election loss?

Comment by Blue Dog Dem Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 2:46 am
Thank you for the marriage penalty, Democrats.

Comment by Waukegan Ice Cream Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 4:30 am
“How many pension concessions have the unions made?”

The unions were cut by their so-called political allies, Democrats, at least twice, through Tier 1 and 2 reform. Ask Pat Quinn how that worked out. Unions were willing to make concessions on pensions a few years ago, but Democrats instead passed unconstitutional Tier 1 without passing the unions’ back-up plan.

Class warfare is right wing multimillionaires and billionaires and their propaganda outlets like the IPI trying to bust unions and supporting cuts to the most vulnerable, while their income skyrockets and they cry phony tears of persecution.

Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 5:33 am
This enshrines a tax penalty for being married. There couldn’t be a worse tax policy. Marriages that raise children reduce the dependency of social services which reduce state expenditures.

And we want to disincentive marriages?

Comment by Matt Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 6:09 am
===This enshrines a tax penalty for being married.===

It doesn’t.

The rates, if implemented, only 3% will see an increase in their taxes.

Only those making over $250K will see taxes increase.

Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 6:32 am
@Blue dog dem

I’m pretty sure JB ran on the fair tax issue. He won and it’s a huge accomplishment and win for his first term. The issue also seems popular with a majority of voters. Let the people decide.

Also it’s interesting that all the dems voted together as a unified caucus when they didn’t even need more than 71 votes. Kudos to all do them for standing together.

Comment by Dr. GreenThumb Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 6:42 am
It’s not fair for a married couple who each make $80,000 to pay more than two singles who make the same amount.

Comment by Matt Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 7:06 am
===It’s not fair for a married couple who each make $80,000 to pay more than two singles who make the same amount===

They will still not pay more than the current flat tax.

You realize that, right?

Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 7:09 am
==It’s not fair for a married couple who each make $80,000==

Under the CA, you can both make $130K and only $10K will be taxed at the higher rate.

Comment by Jocko Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 7:52 am
=JS Mill- Voters will get to decide. Are you against democracy? Or do you only care about the 1%?=

Umm, I support the progressive tax.

=toss in fair redistricting reform=

Sure. And what will change?? Yep, sure is fun.

Comment by JS Mill Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 7:58 am
==That was fun.==

Only for victims like you.

Comment by Demoralized Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 8:02 am
A married couple making $80,000 each will pay less taxes than the current flat rate for this initial teaser rate. The rates will likely change

What won’t change is the marriage penalty that they’re being forced to pay because they’re married. Why are we taxing productive aspects of our society?

Comment by Matt Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 8:07 am
Mr. Atsaves - Democrats are for fair redistricting.

Nationally.

Let’s see the multitude of red states go first since they are the ones which are so gerrymandered the Courts keep ordering them to remap.

Comment by Anono Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 8:08 am
==The rates will likely change==

Do you have a crystal ball…or simply revert to “But, but, but…” when you’re wrong?

Comment by Jocko Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 8:10 am
===A married couple making $80,000 each will pay less taxes than the current flat rate for this initial teaser rate. The rates will likely change===

Really? When?

What GA and governor, after changing the taxing plan will then vote *again*, this time, to raise the rates?

With your clairvoyance you should move to Vegas, LOL

===What won’t change is the marriage penalty that they’re being forced to pay because they’re married. Why are we taxing productive aspects of our society?===

Here’s what you typed before that utter ignorance;

“A married couple making $80,000 each will pay less taxes than the current flat rate…”

That is a fact.

Everything else is pure speculation ignoring the political.

Also, how many times has the income tax been raised…

Rich had a whole thing about it.

Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 8:11 am
Funny how Louis didn’t mention the overwhelming support for the millionaires surcharge.

Just an oversight I am sure. /s

Comment by JS Mill Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 8:26 am
–Democrats have proposed 12 billion in additional spending–

What orifice did you pull that out of? Please explain how a proposed $38.7B GRF budget represents $12B in proposed new spending.

Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 8:33 am
Batten down the hatches as we watch tax after tax and fee after fee increase.

What a sorry state this has become. Feel for our children and grandchildren.

Comment by Pick a Name Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 8:55 am
–Feel for our children and grandchildren.–

Surprisingly late appearance by Mrs. Lovejoy.

What has changed, exactly, that prompts your deep and sincere concern for the children?

Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 8:58 am
=Where’s the concern for the middle class at the gas pump in Illinois?=

It’s a free market - buy less gasoline.

=What a sorry state this has become. Feel for our children and grandchildren.=
Yes- decades of debt, caused mostly by inadequate revenues at both state and national levels, will be paid by our children and grandchildren.

Comment by Joe Procol Haram Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 9:01 am
I think you know the answer to your question Word, unless you have no children living in Illinois.

Comment by Pick a Name Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 9:03 am
The wailing and gnashing of teeth
of the wealthy “welcher” class. (Love it, hat tip)
I’m all about the class war.
And for the record
I don’t envy you
I pity you
The 3% are pathetic parasites
living high on corporate welfare
EDGE
TIF’s
Fat Cats
Bloated Ticks
Greedy
Selfish
All Proven
By how they acted with Rauner “not in charge”.

JB just governed right around you
Republicans welchers
are feckless.

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 9:04 am
–Democrats have proposed 12 billion in additional spending–

Remember that the deadbeat caucus includes paying down debt as “additional spending”.

Comment by Deadbeat Conservative Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 9:05 am
==What a sorry state this has become.==

You might want to hold off (or pace yourself) on the wailing and gnashing of teeth. The CA won’t be on the ballot for another 18 months.

Comment by Jocko Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 9:07 am
–I think you know the answer to your question Word,–

I don’t. Please, don’t hide your light under a bushel.

–unless you have no children living in Illinois.–

I do. Oh no, am I bad father?

What is it about the possibility of a graduated income tax in the state that causes you to fear for the children?

Because such a tax system has been in place in Western democracies, the United States and most U.S. states for some time.

Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 9:20 am
=The 3% are pathetic parasites=

With a large percentage of them living in and around Chicago and voting for Democrats. In fact the success or failure of this CA likely rests in the hands of that group.

Demonizing people solely on the basis of their income is probably not the best strategy.

Comment by Pundent Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 9:39 am
Demonizing people solely on the basis of their income is probably not the best strategy.

Nope
Shaming is totally working
nothing else has worked
to make the
3% wake the frack up
and realize that the
97% are not eating
their lies and excuses anymore.
Nope
shaming
is absolutely
impactful agitation.
It’s perfect application of what is know as
Point of Agitation- That point which forces the moral choice.

Comment by Honeybear Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 11:29 am
==Congressmen Casten and Underwood will soon be looking for a job. Republicans and right thinking dems are going to vote against the amendment and against these two in districts that were drawn to be Republican.==

That’s interesting. Right now Casten and Underwood are working to restore pre2018 SALT deductions. So by your logic people who don’t want to pay more in taxes would vote against people who are working to reduce taxes. Hmmm.

Comment by Da Big Bad Wolf Tuesday, May 28, 19 @ 2:14 pm