SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) spoke on the House floor this week to highlight what he described as two sharply different economic visions for the future of Illinois and the nation.
“Today I rise to contrast two very different economic visions: one working to bring jobs back to America — and one that continues to drive jobs out of Illinois,” Halbrook said.
Halbrook pointed to President Trump’s America First trade policies as an effort to strengthen domestic manufacturing and protect American workers. He said tariffs are intended to level the playing field, particularly with China, and encourage companies to bring production and investment back to the United States.
At the same time, Halbrook criticized Illinois’ business climate, citing several major companies that have relocated operations out of state in recent years, including Citadel, Boeing, Caterpillar, TTX, and others.
“While President Trump is fighting to bring jobs back to America, Governor Pritzker is driving jobs out of Illinois,” Halbrook said. “These are major employers. When they leave, jobs and investment go with them.”
Halbrook argued that high property taxes, overregulation, and policies that increase the cost of doing business continue to push employers to other states. He said Illinois should be well-positioned to benefit from renewed American manufacturing because of its workforce and central location — but only if state policies change.
“We need lower taxes, smarter regulation, and a clear message that Illinois is open for business,” Halbrook said.
Halbrook concluded by urging state leaders to adopt policies that make Illinois more competitive and ensure the state can attract new investment as national trade policies aim to restore American industry.
For more information, please contact Rep Halbrook’s office at 217-342-0220 or visit his website RepHalbrook.com.
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State Representative Brad Halbrook, is currently in his 7th term as State Representative in the Illinois General Assembly. Rep. Halbrook’s 107th district includes several communities in the following Central Illinois counties: Macon, Shelby, Christian, Effingham, Montgomery, Cumberland, and Moultrie. Rep. Halbrook dedicates his term in office to pursuing conservative public policy, holding government accountable, and fighting high state and local taxes.