“I am optimistic that legislators from both sides of the aisle will work together and negotiate a budget that works for all of Illinois’ families,” Costa Howard said. “After years of financial destruction, it’s time to begin the work of rebuilding and repairing our state. I am committed to working with my fellow lawmakers, both Democrats and Republicans, to find innovative solutions to improve Illinois’ fiscal health and craft a budget that meaningfully addresses the financial challenges that lie ahead.”
Costa Howard said her background as a small business owner and court-appointed guardian ad litem for vulnerable people gives her a unique perspective on the state budget process. “I am eager to put my experience and expertise to work to protect middle-class families, small businesses, and services for the state’s most vulnerable, including the elderly, children in need, people with disabilities, and our veterans,” she said. “It’s my priority to control state spending while making the critical investments in education, services for seniors and MAP grants for local college students that our communities need.”