Dupage Policy Journal

State Republican House candidate Michael Camerer (R-Bartlett) feels the most important change that can come to Springfield has to be from within.

“After two decades of fiscal mismanagement in Illinois, it would not make sense to wipe the slate clean and start over without making changes to the issues that have caused the problems to begin with,” Camerer, who is challenging incumbent Diane Pappas (D-Itasca) in the 45th District, told the DuPage Policy Journal. “We need sustainable reforms that protect the next generation and create financial security for workers, homeowners and retirees.”

The issue of a federal bailout was recently raised after lawmakers sent a letter to members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation making it known they plan to seek a $41 billion state bailout stemming from damages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the letter, Harmon fixated on an Illinois Institute of Government report that forecasts the state could lose as much as $14 billion in revenues over the next year given the ongoing crisis. 

Among the requests, Harmon indicated he is seeking upward of $10 billion for the state’s long-troubled pension plans.

Camerer fears it would only lead to more of the same.

“I have always said that if you keep doing what you’re doing, you’ll keep getting what you’re getting,” he said. “If Illinois never lives under a truly balanced budget, we will never find the state really getting out of debt. Secondly, Illinois will never see pension debt coming under control without pension reform. The burden of a pension system out of control is reflected in property tax bills being among the highest in the nation.”

Through it all, Camerer sees one constant variable in all the state’s struggles.

“It is estimated that corruption costs taxpayers $550 million annually,” he said. “I believe that corruption has contributed to the financial problems that Illinois currently faces. I will put an end to our state’s history of corruption by supporting reform. My pledge to the voters of our district is that I will lead a new generation of ethical leadership in Springfield, no excuses and no exceptions.”