Chambana Sun

Erika Ramsey, chairman of the Vermilion County Republicans, criticized Governor JB Pritzker for his financial management of Illinois. Ramsey said that Pritzker has led the state into a financial crisis by imposing additional burdens on taxpayers instead of addressing wasteful spending. She made these remarks to Chambana Sun on February 25.

"Gov. JB Pritzker has recklessly driven Illinois off a fiscal cliff, and now he expects taxpayers to break his fall," said Ramsey, Chairwoman. "His past refusal to cut wasteful programs, like those funding illegal migrants, proves he has no interest in fixing the problem—only in making citizens pay for it. Trump has consistently pushed for responsible government spending, ensuring Americans don't foot the bill for failed leadership. Illinois deserves a leader who puts its legal residents first."

According to Capitol News Illinois, the state is facing a projected $3.2 billion revenue shortfall for fiscal year 2026 as federal pandemic aid diminishes and tax revenues remain stagnant. Governor Pritzker presented his seventh budget on February 19 amid economic challenges and uncertainty regarding future federal funding. Republican lawmakers have proposed reducing aid for undocumented residents as a cost-cutting measure, noting that such expenses have reached $558 million this fiscal year. Additionally, former President Trump's efforts to reduce federal funding to Illinois have contributed to budget uncertainties, particularly after his administration temporarily halted disbursements.

The Washington Post reported in November that the Trump administration was considering cutting federal funds to Chicago and other Democratic-led cities if they did not assist with deportations of undocumented immigrants. Advisers suggested using federal pressure, such as withholding funds, to encourage municipalities to cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Trump had promised mass deportations during his campaign but faced resistance from Democratic mayors in sanctuary cities who pledged to protect immigrants. Legal and political conflicts over these measures could intensify, as many sanctuary cities depend heavily on federal support for essential services.

Ramsey, a resident of Westville, was first elected as chairman of the Vermilion County Republicans in 2022. According to the organization’s website, she is "focused on boosting Republican voter turnout, growing the Party’s membership, and communicating the Party’s positions on issues that matter to Vermilion County voters."