Ted Dabrowski, a Republican candidate in the Illinois gubernatorial primary, expressed concerns about state policies creating disadvantages for border communities compared to neighboring states.
“Illinois’ lack of competitiveness is particularly harmful to the residents of border areas because people and businesses can easily buy goods and even move right across the border,” said Dabrowski. “Just across the Mississippi River, residents of Missouri pay the nation’s 28th-highest property taxes. Illinoisans pay the highest. Missourians pay the 31st-highest gas taxes.”
According to Dabrowski, who made these remarks during an interview with Will Bauer on St. Louis Public Radio, economic challenges in Illinois are affecting daily decisions for residents near state borders. He explained that individuals and companies often choose to relocate or conduct business in other states due to policy differences.
Dabrowski highlighted border areas as regions where Illinois residents face direct comparisons with neighboring states. He noted that ease of access across state lines allows for quick shifts in purchasing and residency behaviors, presenting this as a key area for policy reform to retain local populations and economic activity.
During the radio interview, Dabrowski addressed property and gas tax structures in the context of cross-border impacts. He cited examples from Missouri to illustrate how Illinois policies might encourage outward migration. His remarks aimed to underscore opportunities for change that could strengthen Illinois’s position relative to its neighbors.
Dabrowski previously served as president of Wirepoints, a policy research organization focused on state fiscal issues. His campaign emphasizes economic competitiveness, public safety, and education policies.
