On June 19, 2025, an article by Ted Dabrowski and John Klingner discusses the economic difficulties facing Illinois, attributing them to a significant outflow of wealthy taxpayers and an increase in less affluent residents, including illegal immigrants. This situation is contributing to the state's declining economic vitality.
1. Wealth Displacement: Political leaders in Illinois are criticized for driving wealthy taxpayers out of the state while allowing a large influx of illegal immigrants, which has negative fiscal implications.
2. Outmigration Statistics: In 2022, Illinois lost approximately 156,000 taxpayers who earned an average of $124,000, while only 111,000 new taxpayers moved in, earning an average of $86,000. The difference of $38,000 per person between those leaving and those arriving is notable and is worsening compared to previous years.
3. Impact on Tax Revenue: The outmigration has led to substantial revenue losses. In 2022, almost $10 billion in potential tax income was lost due to residents leaving the state.
4. Population Replacement: The increase in population attributed to illegal immigration is substantial, reportedly rising from 25,000 international immigrants per year to over 113,000 in 2024 due to changes in border policies. This influx seemingly replaces departing wealthier residents.
5. Economic Decline: Illinois is experiencing poor job creation and high unemployment rates, with economic growth ranked as the fourth worst in the United States since 2019. These factors are compounded by a declining population of tax contributors.
6. Call for Political Change: The authors suggest that the situation will persist until Illinois voters elect new lawmakers who prioritize the needs of residents over current policies.
The article presents a dire view of Illinois’ economic landscape, stressing the effects of wealthy taxpayers leaving and the state's increasing reliance on less affluent individuals, including illegal immigrants. The authors argue that significant changes in governance are necessary to reverse these trends and to restore economic stability in Illinois.
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