Southern Illinois News

Blaine Wilhour, a House Representative from Illinois, said that Governor JB Pritzker's policies contrast sharply with those that fostered economic growth during President Donald Trump's administration. This statement was made on the social media platform X.

"Bizarro World for Gov. Pritzker: You should be asking Donald Trump how he delivered the best economy for working Americans in a generation—rising wages (especially for minorities), energy dominance, and affordable utilities," said Blaine Jacob Wilhour, Illinois State Representative for 110th District. "Exact opposite of your regime. Sit this one out."

Illinois' economic policy has concentrated on infrastructure investment, increasing the minimum wage, and promoting green energy. However, the state continues to trail behind national and Midwest trends in job growth and population gains, as reported by the Civic Federation. The analysis indicates that Illinois is grappling with persistent high tax burdens and slower economic momentum, which reflects broader debates over fiscal strategy in the post-pandemic recovery period.

According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security, Illinois added 14,800 payroll jobs in March 2025, reaching a record high of 6.17 million. Nonfarm employment increased by 0.8% compared to the previous year. The state's unemployment rate stood at 4.8% in February 2025, slightly above the national average, while wage growth in major counties ranged from 3.4% to 6.5% year-over-year.

During the Trump administration, Illinois experienced stronger job growth and lower unemployment than under Governor Pritzker's tenure. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that private-sector jobs decreased by approximately 1,900 between 2019 and 2024, while public-sector roles increased by 11,500. Under Pritzker's leadership, job gains have primarily occurred in government positions, underscoring an imbalance between public and private employment sectors.

According to sources including the Illinois General Assembly and Wikipedia, Blaine Wilhour is a Republican who has represented the 110th District in the Illinois House since 2019 after serving in the 107th District. Wilhour is a former Army National Guard member and farm business owner who focuses on agriculture, education, and fiscal policy while serving on key appropriations and energy committees.