Another tax hike is coming to McHenry and Kane counties. Just hours after Illinois Democrats approved more than $800 million in new taxes, another tax increase backed by Governor JB Pritzker moved forward in northeastern Illinois. The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) has approved a new 0.25% sales tax increase that will take effect August 1 and directly affect residents and businesses in McHenry and Kane counties, along with Cook, DuPage, Lake, and Will counties. The new tax is expected to generate more than $500 million annually for the region’s transit system. I voted NO because Illinois families and small businesses are already facing higher costs for groceries, housing, utilities, and everyday necessities. We cannot continue balancing government budgets on the backs of taxpayers. Taxpayers in McHenry and Kane counties deserve responsible budgeting, spending discipline, and policies that make Illinois more affordable—not a constant stream of higher taxes. #McHenryCounty #KaneCounty #ILPolitics #TaxpayersFirst

The warnings were ignored. The opportunity is slipping away. Governor Pritzker should call a special session and pass the bipartisan Bears stadium agreement before Illinois loses the home team. #IllinoisPolitics #ILSenateGOP #ChicagoBears

Notice the clock that’s 4:30 AM. When you’re embarrassed by your budget, which includes over $800 million in new taxes and $600 million in pork, you wait until 1:00 AM to bring it up for a vote. We did work out a deal in the Senate to keep the Bears in Illinois and passed it out of the Senate at 3:30 AM. However, for whatever reason, House Democrats and the Governor blocked the vote in the House. So, the Bears are back to talking with Indiana. 🤷🏼‍♂️ #IllinoisPolitics #ILSenateGOP

Another terrible budget from Illinois Democrats. Over $1 billion in new taxes and fees. Hundreds of millions in pork projects. Very little for our district. No meaningful property tax relief. Nothing to jumpstart our economy. And still no deal to keep the Bears in Illinois. Illinois doesn’t have a revenue problem. It has a spending problem. #IllinoisPolitics #ILSenateGOP

Well, it’s 9:45 PM on Saturday night, hour 14 in the capital. They’ve already passed a couple of tax increases, and just gave us the initial draft of a 3,600-page budget that has to be voted on by tomorrow. You’ve got to love the transparency of this ruling party. 🤷🏼‍♂️ #IllinoisPolitics #WorkingForYou #ILSenateGOP

Everyone agrees we need to support veterans, seniors, children, and those facing mental health challenges. The question isn’t whether to help—it’s whether we’re getting results. Before creating new programs or spending more taxpayer dollars, let’s make sure existing programs are delivering measurable outcomes for the people who need them most. Compassion requires accountability. #WorkingForYou #SenatorSyverson #ILSenate

Governor Pritzker's proposed spending plan is the largest budget proposal in state history at a whopping $55.2 BILLION and it relies on hundreds of millions in revenue from statutory changes that are not yet in effect. Republicans will continue to prioritize policies that promote economic growth, reduce government costs, and protect our most vulnerable citizens. No gimmicks and no tax hikes — Illinoisans deserve a responsible state budget.

Let's deliver JOY once again to local senior citizens this Valentine's Day. I am coordinating with Rep. Jeff Keicher and Chairman Joe Chiarelli on our Valentines for Seniors Card Drive. And we need your help! For the fifth year in a row, we hope to deliver on your behalf, your homemade or store-bought Valentines to the residents of nursing homes, rehab and long-term care facilities in our communities. Last year, we delivered thousands and thousands of smiles – let's do it again!

I’m saddened to hear of the passing of my former colleague, State Representative Charles “Chuck” Jefferson. He served the Rockford community for many years as a community activist, County Board Member, and legislator. He will be missed by many.

#NewProfilePic New session is underway. I’m committed to continuing to fight for working families, lowering taxes, cutting government red tape and reducing spending in Springfield.

We just closed out another great year, and I want to share a glimpse of 2024 with a video recap highlighting many of the community events we participated in throughout the 35th District. My team and I have been fortunate to engage with the community by celebrating milestone events, participating in community expos and fairs, and most importantly connecting directly with our constituents. It remains an honor and a privilege to serve as your State Senator. My team and I are energized and ready for an even more impactful 2025.

We lost a local giant this morning with the passing of former State Rep Ron Wait, who served from 1995 to 2011.  His impact on Boone County and the region was immeasurable. His kindness and generosity touched almost every life in Boone County. I had the privilege of his friendship and working with him for over 40 years, it’s a sad day. Our sincere condolences go out to the Wait family during this difficult time.

What an inspiring morning, working with a team of volunteers to positively impact more than 250 families by providing Thanksgiving turkeys and trimmings. Senator Syverson partnered with Meridian, YouthCare, HealthChoice Illinois, Christian Life Schools, City First Church, and the Northern Illinois Food Bank to provide turkeys 🦃 for the distribution of Thanksgiving meals.

BELL SCHOOL ROAD PROJECT: County and State leaders and staff of the Winnebago County Highway Department proudly cut the ribbon Tuesday morning to commemorate the completion of its Bell School Road Infrastructure Improvement Project! The total length of the improvements is .98 miles, including Bell School Road from Argus Drive to 500 feet north of Guilford Road, and Guilford Road, 700 feet west of the intersection. Highlights of the project include: * Widening Bell School Road from 2 to 3 lanes * New traffic signals & turn lanes * New shared-use path from Argus Drive to Guilford Road * New asphalt surface * New curb & gutter and storm sewer The County was able to complete this $4 million project thanks to two grants from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, secured by Senator Dave Syverson and Rep. Joe Sosnowski.

State Senator Dave Syverson is asking local residents to honor family members or friends who are veterans as part of a memorial display in the Illinois State Capitol from November 11th - 25th! The tribute honors the brave men and women who have served their country, preserving their stories and sacrifices for future generations. Families are asked to submit a photo and written story (max: 250 words) along with the following information: name, military branch, and conflict served. “This is an opportunity to pay tribute to the legacies and sacrifices of these brave men and women who served our nation,” said Senator Syverson. “Send us photos and stories of loved ones who served as veterans to be displayed on the first floor of the State Capitol.” Submissions should be emailed to veteransday@sgop.ilga.gov by November 8th. #ILSenGOP

Proud to have received the 2024 Friend of Agriculture Award this morning. This award is given to Legislators who go above and beyond in support if Illinois farming and agribusiness. We owe a great deal to our family farmers and the impact they play on our economy and in providing the world with quality food and fuel.