New Illinois is a nonprofit organization focused on educating residents about a constitutional process that would allow the creation of a new state separate from the current State of Illinois. According to the organization’s leaders, the effort is centered on representation rather than political party affiliation. They argue that residents living outside the Chicago metropolitan area often feel their concerns receive less attention than those of Cook County and its surrounding suburbs.
During the conversation, Merritt and Barker described what they see as a long-standing divide between urban and rural Illinois. They pointed to differences in priorities between densely populated areas and smaller communities, particularly regarding agriculture, infrastructure, taxation, and economic development. While acknowledging that political differences often overlap with the discussion, they emphasized that their focus is on government representation rather than partisan politics.
The group traces many of today’s challenges to changes in legislative representation that occurred following court rulings in the 1960s. Members of New Illinois believe those changes concentrated political influence in larger population centers, leaving rural communities with less influence over statewide decisions.
Economic concerns also play a major role in the movement’s message. Barker and Merritt highlighted issues such as taxes, business regulations, population loss, and government debt as reasons why many residents have become interested in the organization’s efforts. They contend that a separate state government would have the opportunity to adopt policies better suited to the needs of communities outside the Chicago area.
Despite skepticism from some observers who question whether such a proposal could ever become a reality, New Illinois leaders remain optimistic. They note that the concept of creating new states through constitutional processes already exists within the framework of the United States government. The organization views its role primarily as educational, helping residents understand the legal process involved and encouraging civic engagement.
Support for the broader state separation concept has continued to grow in many parts of Illinois. Merritt discussed the work of a separate but allied organization, Illinois Separation Referendum, which has successfully placed advisory questions on county ballots across the state. In numerous counties, voters have expressed support for exploring the possibility of greater separation from Chicago’s political influence.
New Illinois is also taking steps to prepare for what a future state could look like. The organization has established committees focused on government structure and constitutional development, seeking to create a framework that supporters believe would better reflect the interests of residents in rural and small-town Illinois.
Throughout the discussion, both guests emphasized that their goal is not to conflict with Chicago but rather what they view as a more balanced system of representation. They envision a future where different regions of Illinois can pursue policies that align more closely with the needs and priorities of their respective populations.
For residents interested in learning more about the organization, you can visit their website, newillinoisstate.org. The group encourages citizens to research the issue, ask questions, and become involved in discussions about the future of representation and governance in Illinois.
Whether one agrees with the proposal or not, the conversation highlights a growing discussion taking place across many parts of the state. As questions about representation, economic development, and local control continue to shape public debate, organizations like New Illinois are ensuring those conversations remain part of Illinois’ political landscape.
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