South Central Reporter

Jason Plummer, senator for Illinois' 55th District, expressed concerns about state funds being used to subsidize entertainment. He said that these funds are small compared to the money supporting activist organizations and contributing to government bloat.

"Just a friendly reminder, your taxes are being raised and long-term debt is increasing so that Governor JB Pritzker and the Democrats in Springfield can subsidize NASCAR and the PGA," said Plummer, State Senator 55th District (R), according to Facebook. "And, by the way, these two subsidies are drops in the bucket compared to the billions of your tax dollars going to fund activist organizations, political insiders, and government bloat. Oh, and to the pensioners out there, even with the Governor's INCREASE of 40% in the state budget...the Democrats still decided to make the minimally required pension contribution. But, trust them, they're looking out for you."

According to The Center Square, the upcoming 2025 NASCAR Chicago Street Race marks the third annual event in a three-year agreement between the State of Illinois and NASCAR. This initiative aims to bring racing events to Chicago. The fiscal year 2026 budget includes a $5 million allocation to assist the city with costs for the races scheduled on July 5 and 6. Additionally, $1 million is allocated for the 2026 Presidents Cup golf tournament at Medinah Country Club. Sen. Don DeWitte questioned the necessity of subsidies if the races generate significant economic benefits, while Sen. Elgie Sims (D-Chicago) described these events as investments in tourism and state promotion.

Screenshot of State Senator Jason Plummer's June 18 Facebook post. | State Senator Jason Plummer's Facebook page

Capitol Fax reported that $5 million has been appropriated from the General Revenue Fund to the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for NASCAR Events and Entertainment LLC, or as much as needed. This amount is less than the $7 million allocated in fiscal year 2025 for capital improvements and operating expenses. Governor J.B. Pritzker commented on this appropriation by stating that since he took office, the tourism budget has increased, generating revenue that exceeds investments made by the tourism office. "I’m proud of the work we’ve done, and we’re going to continue to make investments there," Pritzker said.

The NASCAR Cup Series first arrived in Illinois in 2022 with the Enjoy Illinois 300 at World Wide Technology Raceway. The sold-out race attracted an estimated 83,000 fans and generated a minimum economic impact of $60 million, according to a June 3, 2022 news release from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

Senator Plummer has represented Illinois’ 55th Senate District since his election in 2018. He focuses on serving Southern Illinois as a conservative voice for constituents he says have been overlooked by lawmakers in Springfield.