Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is once again heading to Springfield this week, renewing his push for increased state funding for the city despite ongoing criticism from Republican lawmakers who say suburban and downstate taxpayers shouldn’t be forced to foot the bill for the City’s poor financial decisions.

At a news conference last week, Johnson announced his plan to meet with Governor Pritzker, House Speaker Chris Welch, and Senate President Don Harmon. He is expected to continue lobbying the General Assembly for additional funding to support Chicago’s public schools, transit systems, and other city priorities.

Senate Republicans argue that Johnson’s return to Springfield is a political distraction from the real issues facing his city. Instead of tackling problems at home, they argue, the mayor is trying to shift the burden to the rest of the state.

Senate Republicans say that taxpayers should not be left to once again bail out Chicago for years of financial mismanagement. Rather, the Mayor should focus on implementing real reforms instead of asking overtaxed Illinoisans to take on additional burdens that benefit only Chicago.