Sangamon Sun

Rep. Mike Murphy (R-Springfield) said Republicans’ primary motivation for pushing their Reimagine Illinois plan is simple as it is necessary.

“We have lost our way,” Murphy said at a press conference in March held to introduce the Republican-driven plan. “It’s time to refind our way and that will come with Reimagine Illinois. We need a new actionable policy initiative to reshape our state for the better.”

In bringing together GOP members across the state to facilitate, Murphy said the goal was to make sure the plan encompassed a comprehensive framework of proposals that would resonate across all boundaries.

“There are four common sense areas, ending the culture of corruption, fiscal leadership to grow jobs, growing jobs and opportunities for families and ensuring public safety,” he said. “These are not just talking points. We have legislation to back up these platforms.”

Murphy said he knows from experience things can better.

“Illinois used to be a powerhouse,” he said. “I remember when I was a child, we were not only a powerhouse in the Midwest but the entire nation.”