From the campaign of Don Tracy:
Tracy: Closure of Three Illinois Power Plants Means Lost Jobs, Higher Costs, and Less Reliable Energy
SPRINGFIELD — Vistra Corp. has issued official notices the upcoming closing of its power plants in Baldwin, Kincaid, and Newton, eliminating 304 jobs across downstate Illinois. In the WARN notices filed with the state, the company cited economic, environmental, and regulatory factors in its decision.
The closures are just the latest example of Illinois falling behind under the policies championed by Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton and Governor J.B. Pritzker.
“These are 304 good-paying jobs that support families, local businesses, and entire communities across downstate Illinois,” Republican US Senate Candidate Don Tracy said.
“It’s also another warning sign that the Illinois Blueprint Juliana Stratton wants to take to Washington is failing the people who build, power, and sustain our economy.”
The closures come as Illinois families face rising utility costs and growing concerns about energy reliability. The loss of major power generation facilities is expected to place additional pressure on energy prices while reducing reliable in-state power production.
“Working families are already paying more for groceries, housing, healthcare, and energy. When Illinois loses reliable power generation, consumers ultimately pay the price through higher utility bills and a less dependable electric grid.”
The announcement additionally stands in sharp contrast to the Pritzker-Stratton administration’s frequent celebration of subsidized business expansions and tax incentive deals.
“Every time Governor Pritzker and Lt. Governor Stratton announce a taxpayer-subsidized expansion, they act as though it erases the much longer list of businesses, jobs, and investments Illinois has lost on their watch. We’re glad when companies choose to stay and grow in Illinois, but a healthy economy shouldn’t require politicians to hand out special deals just to keep employers from leaving.
“You cannot tax, regulate, and mandate your way to prosperity. Illinois needs affordable energy, private-sector growth, and common-sense leadership that makes employers want to invest here not another government-driven ‘blueprint’ that drives jobs, opportunity, and investment out of Illinois.
