Illinois counties to vote on forming new state without Chicago
Out of Illinois' 102 counties, 33 have already voted in favor of exploring separation from Chicago, and 11 more are set to vote on the idea in the upcoming midterm election.
TL;DR
- 33 Illinois counties have held non-binding referendums expressing interest in creating a new state separate from Chicago.
- 11 more counties are scheduled to vote on similar measures in the upcoming midterm election.
- The movement is led by Illinois Separation, which states all 33 counties that have voted were in favor of separation.
- Residents in these counties criticize Chicago's high crime rates, Democratic leadership, and influence on state politics.
- Governor JB Pritzker has dismissed the secession movement as a 'stunt' and stated it 'is not going to happen.'
- For separation to occur, it would require approval from the Illinois state legislature and the US Congress.
- Supporters cite the historical formation of West Virginia and Maine as precedents for their cause.
- A previous mock-secessionist effort in the 1960s and 70s, the 'Republic of Forgottonia,' drew attention to neglect and led to improvements.