Chicago Mayor Unveils 'Protecting Chicago Budget', Faces Business Criticism

Johnson's budget challenges corporations to contribute more, preventing layoffs and supporting public education. Businesses criticize the new taxes.

, and Administrator

2025 October 19 . 6:03 PM

1 min read

In this image there are some bikes and cars parked in a parking lot and there is a tent, behind the... — In this image there are some bikes and cars parked in a parking lot and there is a tent, behind the tent there are a few other people, a flag post, trees and buildings, in the background of the image there are utility poles with electrical cables on top of it.

Chicago Mayor Unveils 'Protecting Chicago Budget', Faces Business Criticism

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has unveiled his 'Protecting Chicago Budget', drawing criticism from the business community. The budget includes a corporate head tax and a grocery tax, with Johnson defending his proposals as necessary to fund vital services and protect working people.

Johnson's budget proposal includes a tax on corporations with more than 100 employees working in Chicago. This move has been criticized by the business community, but Johnson maintains that larger businesses should contribute more to support the city. The budget also includes an estimated $80 million from a grocery tax, which would cost the average Chicagoan around $50 to $60 a year. Johnson has dubbed his budget the 'Protecting Chicago Budget', emphasizing businesses' role in protecting working people.

In an interview with ABC7 Chicago, Johnson defended his budget, stating that it aims to prevent layoffs and a property tax hike. He also plans to sweep $1 billion in Tax Increment Financing funds, with over half allocated to Chicago Public Schools. Johnson believes his budget challenges larger businesses to contribute more, preventing layoffs and supporting public education in the face of federal cuts.

Mayor Brandon Johnson's 'Protecting Chicago Budget' has sparked debate, with the business community criticizing his corporate tax plans. Despite the criticism, Johnson stands by his budget, arguing that it protects Chicagoans from federal policies and ensures support for public education. As of now, there is no specific information about a candidate opposing Johnson in the next election.