STATEMENT FROM REPRESENTATIVE BRAD HALBROOK on the DOE's Termination of Taxpayer-Funded Financial Assistance for the Grain Belt Express.
July 24, 2025

Today’s announcement from the U.S. Department of Energy is a major victory for landowners, family farms, and rural communities across central Illinois. For years, residents in the path of the proposed Grain Belt Express project—spanning nearly a dozen mid-Illinois counties—have been fighting to protect their private property rights from a government-backed land grab.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 26, 2025
Contact: Brad Halbrook

217.717.2780

[email protected]

Gov. Pritzker Launches Reelection Bid – But Illinoisans Are Asking: Will Pritzker 3.0 Be Any Better Than 1.0 and 2.0?

Statement from State Representative Brad Halbrook:

Governor JB Pritzker just announced his bid for a third term, promising to “Keep Illinois Moving Forward.” But after nearly seven years of heavy-handed policies, out-of-control spending, and a steady stream of misleading claims, Illinoisans aren’t buying it.

Illinois House Democrats Reject Transparency and Fairness with New House Rules  

Springfield, IL – At the beginning of each new General Assembly, the Illinois House of Representatives debates and adopts the Rules that govern the chamber’s operations. Today, Illinois House Democrats, who hold a supermajority, voted to maintain the status quo, rejecting critical Republican calls for transparency, equity, and fairness in the legislative process.  

These Rules continue to deny over 4 million Illinoisans represented by House Republicans a fair voice in the legislature. Instead of adopting changes to promote open debate and representative democracy, House Democrats opted to preserve a system that stifles meaningful participation.  

Sworn In at the State Capitol: A Commitment to Illinois Families

Today, as the 104th General Assembly begins, I had the honor of taking the Oath of Office alongside my colleagues Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich), Blaine Wilhour (R-Beecher City), Chris Miller (R-Hindsboro), and Marty McLaughlin (R-Barrington Hills). While many participated in the ceremony at the University of Illinois at Springfield, we chose to take our oaths at the Illinois State Capitol. This decision was intentional, as the Capitol is not only the heart of state governance but also the place where many of Illinois’ problems begin—and where solutions must be crafted.

Don't look now, but Governor Pritzker is preparing another tax hike!

Today, we’re diving into a critical issue that impacts all of us: the Illinois’ budget. The Governor and his administration have boasted about financial progress—balanced budgets, a rainy day fund, and paying down unpaid bills. But if things are as stable as they claim, why are we facing a projected $23 billion deficit over the next five years? In this video, we’ll break down the numbers, examine the state’s spending trends, and discuss what these budget projections mean for the future of Illinois taxpayers. Stick around, because understanding this issue is key to securing a sustainable financial path for our state.

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Caution...Millionaires Tax Ahead...Property Tax Relief...No So Fast

This week, we're tackling some hard truths and breaking down stories that reveal just how differently the rules seem to apply depending on who you are in Illinois.

In our latest Inside Track video, we're exposing the double standards that exist for the elite while the rest of us are left to play by the rules. It’s a tough conversation, but it’s one we need to have.

Meanwhile, the news doesn’t get any better on the ground. Just recently, there was an alarming incident at the Rivian manufacturing plant where electric vehicles caught fire—an issue that raises serious questions about safety and oversight. And let’s not overlook the ongoing tragedy of Chicago, now being called the murder capital of the country, where violent crime continues to skyrocket.

On top of that, there’s a new development that might leave you scratching your head: the creation of a Drag Queen Political Action Committee. Yes, you read that right. This will be one of the many topics we'll discuss on this week’s Illinois Freedom Caucus Roundtable livestream.

As always, I urge you to stay informed and share these updates with those around you. The more we know, the better equipped we are to demand accountability and change.

Thank you for your unwavering support.

The Truth about what the "Democrats Deliver" on this week's "Inside Track"

"Hey everyone, welcome back! Today, we're diving into something every Illinoisan needs to know about. Whether you’re born and raised here or new to the Prairie State, there's a lot happening that could impact your daily life. From policy changes to local developments, I’m here to break it all down for you—quickly and clearly.

The Cost of Illegal Immigration & More on this weeks "Inside Track"

Welcome to this week's episode of Inside Track! Today, we're tackling a pressing issue: the cost of illegal immigration. This topic is crucial as it has the potential to shape the future of our state significantly

Constitutional Amendments & More

on this weeks "Inside Track"

"Welcome to this week's episode of Inside Track! Today, we're diving into a hot topic: Governor Pritzker's proposal to amend the Illinois Constitution by introducing three advisory Constitutional Amendments on the November 5th ballot. This is an important issue that could significantly impact our state's future.

To learn more and share your thoughts, visit this link: https://www.bradhalbrook.com/constitutional_amendments. Don't forget to leave your feedback! Let's get started."

Drivers License For All on This Weeks "Inside Track"

For nearly 11 years, illegal aliens in Illinois have been able to obtain a temporary visitor drivers license, allowing them to legally drive within the state. However, on July 1st, a significant change took place.