Editorial: Growing downstate Illinois secessionist movement deserves more than smirks from Chicagoland
- Posted on July 14, 2026
- By Chicago Tribune
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- 1 min read
In brief
Southern Illinois regions are increasingly pursuing separation from the state, with nearly 40% of counties expected to vote on secession measures by November. This growing movement reflects deep political and economic divisions between downstate communities and Chicago's dominance. Rather than dismissing these concerns, state leaders should address the underlying grievances about resource allocation, representation, and regional priorities that fuel this unprecedented secessionist momentum.
Summary auto-generated by AI from the original publisher's content. Editorial standards.
Editorial: Growing downstate Illinois secessionist movement deserves more than smirks from Chicagoland
In November, voters in nearly 40% of Illinois counties likely will have voted to secede from the state.
