Welcome to Illinois Senate President Don Harmon's legislative website

String of responsible, balanced budgets earns Illinois another credit upgrade

Illinois has earned its 11th credit rating upgrade since 2021, as Moody’s Investors Service cited eight consecutive balanced budgets and responsible fiscal management in raising the state to its highest rating in nearly 15 years. The latest upgrade continues a dramatic reversal in Illinois’ financial trajectory in recent years.

“Eleven credit rating upgrades is a remarkable validation of the responsible, steady approach we have taken to Illinois’ finances,” said Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park). “Eight consecutive balanced budgets have brought stability and predictability back to state government. We’ve paid our bills, built our reserves and reduced debt, all while continuing to invest in the people and priorities that make Illinois stronger. This latest upgrade is another sign that responsible budgeting pays dividends for taxpayers and puts Illinois in a stronger position for whatever challenges come next.”

Higher credit ratings allow Illinois to borrow at lower interest rates, reducing financing costs and saving taxpayer dollars.

In announcing the upgrade, Moody’s pointed to Illinois’ balanced budgets, fiscal management and stronger reserves as reasons for increased confidence in the state’s ability to manage future budget pressures.

Moody’s upgrades Illinois’ credit rating -- Capitol News Illinois

Moody’s upgrades Illinois credit rating -- Crain's Chicago Business

Senate honors legacy of former Gov. Jim Edgar

The Illinois Senate recently hosted former Illinois First Lady Brenda Edgar as we paid homage to her late husband, former Gov. Jim Edgar.

Harmon recalls life, legacy of Barbara Flynn Currie

Illinois Senate President Don Harmon's (D-Oak Park) statement on the passing of former House Majority Leader Barbara Flynn Currie.

“Barbara Flynn Currie was a larger-than-life figure at the Capitol and a giant in Illinois government. She was a leader, a mentor, a fighter and a bit of a character. A pragmatic progressive before such labels existed, she brought preparation and purpose to everything she did.

She was both intellectually intimidating and remarkably kind. In leadership, she was often the one to tell people no. She did it with a smile and a sparkle in her eye. Barbara had that enviable Irish gift: she could tell you to go to hell and make you look forward to the journey.

Immensely intelligent and a joy to be around, she possessed a wit few dared test and arguably none ever bested.

Those who had the privilege to work with her are forever better for having known and experienced the tour de force that was Barbara Flynn Currie.

Her influence will be felt for generations in the leaders she inspired, the trails she blazed and the stronger, more inclusive state she helped build.

We honor her life and legacy. Godspeed, Barbara Flynn Currie.”

Women's Civic Day at the Illinois Capitol

• higher education

It was a pleasure to welcome students from Southern Illinois University’s Paul Simon Public Policy Institute to the Capitol for the recent Women’s Civic Day.
This annual program highlights the important role women play in public service and helps inspire the next generation of leaders to get involved and make a difference.
https://paulsimoninstitute.siu.edu/intiatives/womens-government-day.php

Grateful for the thoughtful conversation and encouraged by the talent and commitment these students bring to Illinois’ future.
Paul Simon Public Policy Institute

Southern Illinois University Carbondale
#WomenInLeadership #NextGeneration