Will County Gazette

Republican candidate Patty Smith doesn't believe Rep. Stephanie Kifowit (D-Oswego) when she claims she doesn't have a say in revamping the state Constitution.

“So typical of Kifowit, half-truths and avoiding responsibility,” Smith posted on Facebook. “How convenient she would leave out the fact she will be casting a vote on the constitutional amendment to implement a progressive income tax.”

While the Illinois Policy Institute (IPI) points out that voters would need to approve a constitutional amendment before a tax increase can be implemented, lawmakers must first pass legislation for the question to appear on the ballot.

Rep. Stephanie Kifowit

Smith, who is challenging Kifowit for the 84th District seat in November’s general election, laments the proposed legislation would not be what lawmakers claim it is.

“While sold as a tax on the rich, the reality is that higher tax rates under a progressive tax system creep down into lower income levels, harming the very people politicians claim they are helping,” she said.

IPI also warns that the legislation would hit low-wage single taxpayers, and that the state could lose as much as $5.5 billion and 34,500 jobs in the first year.  

“We should be discussing ways to reduce taxes not raising them,” Smith said. “Lying to a constituent is unacceptable. Enough is enough. It’s time to stop sending the same mistakes back to Springfield.”

The 84th House District includes Aurora, Naperville, Oswego and Wheatland.