Dupage Policy Journal

State Rep. Nicole La Ha (R-Homer Glen) has voiced her concerns over the growing number of residents leaving Illinois, attributing this exodus to high taxes and what she perceives as "out-of-touch public policies." In an effort to reverse this trend, La Ha affirmed the commitment of House Republicans to transform Illinois into a more affordable and secure place for its residents.

“People are leaving Illinois in droves to escape high taxes and out-of-touch public policies,” La Ha said on Facebook. “House Republicans are fighting to make Illinois a more affordable and safe place to live, learn, work, and grow so we can get our state on a better path forward.”

La Ha's concerns echo the findings of U-Haul’s 2023 Growth Index report. The report placed Illinois among the top three states with the highest number of outbound movers, surpassed only by California and Massachusetts. The report indicated that the preferred destinations for these movers were primarily located in the southeast and southwest regions of the United States.

According to WGNTV, Texas retained its position as the most popular state for migration for the second consecutive year and the sixth time in eight years. The U-Haul Growth Index calculates net gains based on one-way U-Haul trucks arriving compared to those departing. Although one-way transactions in 2023 were below peak levels observed during the pandemic, they continued to reflect similar geographical trends. Citing new Census reports, La Ha highlighted that Illinois had lost approximately 33,000 residents since July 2022.

Recently appointed to fill a vacancy in the 82nd State House District following John Egofske's resignation, La Ha expressed gratitude upon her appointment while pledging to prioritize safe neighborhoods, exceptional schools, and lower taxes. Her appointment was announced by House Republican leaders who underscored her dedication towards children's welfare and public safety, according to a previous DuPage Policy Journal report.

La Ha previously served as press secretary for Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods). Her extensive background in public advocacy, active involvement in charitable committees, and the 2018 International Humanitarian Award for exceptional community service are among her notable achievements, according to her website. She was elected to the Village of Homer Glen Board of Trustees in 2021, where she strongly opposed tax increases and played a crucial role in improving the quality of life for residents with disabilities.

La Ha's current term as representative of House District 82 will end on Jan. 8, 2025. The district covers Darien and Lemont in DuPage and Cook counties. Democrat Suzanne Akhras is also listed by Ballotpedia as another candidate running to represent the district.