From the campaign of State Rep. Maerty McLaughlin:
McLaughlin Challenges Governor: “Decide Public or Private Owned. Stop being Bear Polar Get This Deal Across the Goal Line”
BARRINGTON, IL — Following Governor Pritzker’s remarks regarding the Chicago Bears earlier this week, State Representative Martin McLaughlin is challenging the governor to stop the political back-and-forth and get serious about keeping the Chicago Bears in Illinois.
“Just two weeks ago, the governor discussed a publicly funded, owned, and operated stadium. This week, he said he wanted a privately financed stadium. Which is it? You can’t be Bear-polar on this issue Governor. Pick one! How in the world are you supposed to negotiate a business deal when the starting positions are polar opposites?”
McLaughlin continued, “Governor, if you want to get this deal done, get the right people in the room. Your administration’s approach has been an obstacle to meaningful progress. We need to move from obstruction to cooperation, from political theater to practical solutions, and from campaign talking points to a real business deal.”
“Putting a bunch of politicians in a room, especially during a campaign season when too many people are focused on the bright lights and the headlines, isn’t going to get this across the finish line. The framework is already there. It’s called House Bill 5797 — the Taxpayer Investment Protection Act.”
McLaughlin’s proposal provides a path forward built around three principles:
- Protect Illinois taxpayers. No taxpayer-funded stadium. The Bears should privately finance their stadium.
- Keep the Bears in Illinois. Build a deal that protects taxpayers while giving the team a viable path to remain in our state.
- Put Illinois to work where we excel. The state can focus on transportation, roads, and infrastructure that support the broader economic development surrounding the project.
“Governor, you don’t have to agree with me on everything. But when a workable framework is already on the table, leadership means being willing to work together. Take the idea, build on it, and get it done. I’m not interested in who gets the credit. I’m interested in protecting taxpayers and keeping the Bears in Illinois.”
McLaughlin concluded, “This should not be a Republican-versus-Democrat issue. It should be an Illinois issue. Let’s stop talking past one another, bring the right people together, and get the ball across the goal line. Results, not rhetoric. Protect taxpayers. Keep the Bears in Illinois.
