Andrade Responds to Governor’s Address: We Must Invest in Our People

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Following Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s budget address, state Rep. Jaime Andrade, D-Chicago, released the following statement:

“For too long, families in our state have suffered as critical services have been hollowed out and suspended. While the rich get richer, the middle class has been left behind as the cost of living continues to rise with little to no upkeep in wages. Today is a new day with a new governor and administration that is committed to finding new solutions to the old problems that plague us. We must confront the real challenges facing our communities because they deserve stability and investment.

“When we neglect investing in our people, we deny them a fair shot. Our people deserve livable wages, affordable college, good schools, safe neighborhoods, access to affordable healthcare and a helping hand when they are struggling to make ends meet. If we do not make these investments now, we will bear the long-term financial consequences as income and wealth inequality continues to intensify.

“The state of the state is strong when our people are given opportunities to succeed. I look forward to working with Governor Pritzker on ending the practice of balancing the budget at the detriment of our low-income and middle-class citizens and finally holding the ultra-wealthy and large corporations accountable. I remain committed to working with my colleagues to advocate on behalf of the hardworking families in our communities in future negotiations.”