So proposes Illinois State Representative Bill Mitchell…a Republican!
The bill, filed by State Rep. Bill Mitchell of Decatur Tuesday, would “enact legislation dividing Illinois and Cook County into separate states” because county residents “hold different and firmly seated views” on “politics, society, and economics” from people in the rest of the state. The bill’s supporters point to higher tax rates and strict gun laws in the Chicago area and contend that the northern county is out of step with its Illinois neighbors.
“These liberal policies are an insult to the traditional values of downstate families,” Mitchell told the Decatur Tribune. “When I talk to constituents, one of the biggest things I hear is ‘Chicago should be its own state . . . .Our voters’ voices were drowned out by Chicago.”
Of course, this would mean that the Demo☭rats will get two more Senators and would also retain its delegation in the House. I cannot blame this State Representative from acting to protect his constituents’ best interests. And think of the advertising potential!
Tags: 51st State, Bill Mitchell, Chicago
