Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has unveiled his $16.6 billion proposed budget for 2026 — a stunning increase from the $10 billion pre-COVID budget.

The problem? The federal COVID relief funds are gone, especially under the Trump administration, and instead of returning to pre-pandemic spending, Johnson plans to keep spending high — while raising taxes on the city’s already struggling business community.

Major corporations have already fled the city, and this budget could be the final push that drives the rest out.

Is this fiscal recklessness or political strategy? Either way, Johnson may be destroying what’s left of Chicago’s business climate.

#BrandonJohnson #ChicagoBudget #ChicagoEconomy #TaxHikes #ChicagoBusiness #FiscalResponsibility #Budget2026 #DonaldTrump #CityPolitics #ChicagoNews #BusinessExodus #PoliticalCommentary