Pritzker, Duckworth blast Trump administration over Head Start funding freeze

ILLINOIS - Two of Illinois' top Democrats are blasting the Trump administration for taking back money earmarked for programs like Head Start. 

What we know:

Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Sen. Tammy Duckworth visited the Two Rivers Head Start program in Elgin on Saturday, saying it is one of hundreds of early learning centers across Illinois losing federal funding.

Head Start programs across the state are facing financial uncertainty due to the funding freeze imposed by the Trump administration. 

Some programs are unsure how they will continue operating, or if they'll be forced to shut down.

What they're saying:

"Donald Trump promised to improve the lives of Americans and instead he is threatening the livelihoods of Illinois’ working families with his illegal funding cuts," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Head Start is a fixture of education in America that enables the neediest families and children to go to preschool. But Donald Trump’s harmful policies threaten to leave these families and kids in the cold. In lockstep with our federal delegation, Illinois is unified in its commitment to fighting against unconstitutional cuts that harm working families."

"Despite running on the promise that he would lower costs for middle-class Americans, Donald Trump’s illegal funding freeze is hurting the same families he swore he’d protect by jeopardizing the Head Start programs so many rely on," said Senator Duckworth. "Trump and his billionaire buddies might be able to weather the chaos this freeze unleashed—and not worry about whether Head Start will be there for their own family tomorrow—but that is a luxury most working parents cannot afford. Donald Trump’s agenda is out of touch, and I’ll continue to work with Governor Pritzker to hold him accountable, repair the damage already done to Illinois families and support Head Start programs throughout our state."

"The day-to-day uncertainty not only impacts our agency but also the families we serve," said Executive Director of Two Rivers Head Start Agency Kelly Neidel. "Since the system freeze, the platform used for fund withdrawals has been displaying various messages, all of which prevent access. This has led to confusion among many individuals who mistakenly believe that receiving a grant means obtaining the full amount upfront. However, that is not the case. Grant funds are disbursed incrementally, requiring recipients to submit documentation of expenses that align with each drawdown request. This process is similar to receiving a paycheck—once the funds are received, they are then used to cover the necessary expenses. Many of the children in our care have faced significant challenges, including foster care or homelessness. Despite these hardships, we provide them with a stable, nurturing environment where they can thrive. Our programs prepare children for kindergarten, ensure they receive three nutritious meals a day, and offer a safe space to grow and learn. Additionally, we support parents by providing reliable childcare and preschool, allowing them to pursue employment or education to build a better future for their families."

What's next:

A federal judge has put a hold on several of Trump’s spending freezes following lawsuits from attorneys general in multiple Democratic-led states.

RELATED: Illinois politicians say federal funding freeze has already caused harm