Dupage Policy Journal

Republican state House candidate Laura Hois wants to know what took Gov. J.B. Pritzker so long.

“Those counties that have had a low number of coronavirus cases should have been moved to the next phase a while ago,” Hois, who is running against incumbent state Rep. Anne Stava-Murray (D-Naperville) in the 81st District, told the DuPage Policy Journal of the governor now allowing portions of the state to move to Phase 4 of his five-phase Restore Illinois Plan.

In Phase 4, businesses can operate with fewer restrictions and gatherings of up to 50 people and indoor serving at restaurants and bars are now allowed. In addition, movie theaters, performing arts center, zoos and museums can reopen on a limited basis.

“The rate has slowed in harder-hit counties, so yes, the time is right to move forward to Phase 4,” Hois added. “It is unfair and the science tells us that you shouldn't treat the rest of the state the same as downtown Chicago. Businesses, health facilities and public service agencies are complying with social-distancing rules and following cleanliness guidelines to enhance customer safety and minimize risks going forward.”

Hois, a Downers Grove resident, points out that the way Pritzker has handled the virus is more restrictive than even other Democratic governors, many of whom have proved to be willing to move toward fewer restrictions at a much faster pace.

“He, along with (House Speaker Mike) Madigan, allowed the fair maps amendment deadline to expire by delaying the resumption of general session, then driving through the approval of vote by mail over Republicans’ objections,” she said. “All of this has been done to give the politicians in power an unfair advantage at the upcoming Nov. 3 election. Illinoisans deserve better.”

Hois argues things have deteriorated to the point where voters essentially need to be ready to take matters in their own hands.

“Our state government should have done more to support businesses by revoking onerous regulations and removing the progressive tax from the ballot,” she said. “Now, voters must defeat the proposed progressive income tax increase by voting ‘No’ and voting for reform-minded leaders to go to Springfield. Preventing more tax hikes and changing out the political leadership are the first steps toward a rebounding small business economy.”