from the GOP candidate for State Comptroller:
Bryan Drew Agrees with Susan Mendoza: Illinois Should Opt in to Federal Tax Credit Scholarship
Drew: “Lowering costs for working families is more important than partisan politics or special interest agendas.”
BENTON, IL — Bryan Drew, the Republican candidate for Illinois Comptroller, is calling for Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to join the bipartisan group of elected officials and opt the state of Illinois into the federal tax credit scholarship program for low-income students.
Recently, Democratic Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza penned an op-ed in the Chicago Tribune calling it a “no-brainer” for Illinois to join the program, a sentiment Bryan Drew shares.
“We all know how important it is for children to have access to a quality education to set them up for success in life,” said Drew.
“That’s why I find it so frustrating that Gov. Pritzker and his hand-picked Comptroller candidate, Margaret Croke, remain opposed to opting the state into the federal tax credit scholarship program for low-income students.
“Families are being crushed in Illinois, and these scholarships can be a lifeline for families.”
As part of federal legislation passed last year, the scholarship tax credit program offers a $1,700 tax credit to taxpayers who donate to qualified scholarship-granting organizations that provide funding to eligible students for tutoring, books, exams, classes, and therapies in public, private, or homeschool settings.
Under federal legislation, Illinois taxpayers will be able to receive the donation tax credit even if Illinois does not opt in; however, Illinois students will only be able to benefit from the program if the Governor or legislature opts the state into the program.
“This is Margaret Croke’s chance to prove she’s independent and not just a rubber stamp for the Governor,” said Drew.
“It’s common sense to opt in to this program, it will benefit students and families throughout Illinois. Margaret Croke has stated she stands with JB, which is not what the taxpayers of Illinois need in a comptroller.”
As someone who is not a politician, Bryan Drew has proven his ability to be independent and stand for what he knows to be right, no matter the pressure or the political cost. His values aren’t determined by powerful leaders or political agendas. He will always stand for the people of Illinois and be the strong leader our state deserves in the Comptroller’s office.
About Bryan Drew: Born and raised in the Benton area, Bryan Drew is a small business owner and experienced attorney with 25 years of courtroom experience, including before the Illinois Supreme Court. He has defended citizens across the state, from constitutional rights to taxpayer protections. As Illinois Comptroller, Bryan is focused on affordability, accountability, and transparency. He and his wife, Christen, own Café Bloom. They have four children: three daughters and a son.
