ROCKFORD, Ill. — The national “Stop the Billionaire Giveaway” bus tour rolled into Rockford this week, as organizers continued a 24-day campaign protesting proposed budget cuts to key social programs under what they call President Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill.”
Led by advocacy group Fair Share USA, the tour aims to draw attention to federal budget proposals that critics say would slash funding for Medicaid, SNAP, and other vital services while protecting tax breaks for the wealthy.
“So often, what we see from Washington D.C. is that backroom deals get cut without the input and voices of the voters and constituents that they serve,” said Kristen Crowell, Director of Fair Share America.
What Is the ‘Big Beautiful Bill’?
The so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” is a budget package backed by former President Donald Trump that reportedly includes major cuts to federal assistance programs. While exact details remain under negotiation, opponents say the legislation threatens to shift billions of dollars away from working-class families and toward wealthy individuals and corporations.
Crowell and fellow activists warn that the bill would result in deep cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) — programs that many in Rockford and across Illinois rely on for survival.
Chicago and Rockford: Two Key Stops
Rockford marked the 12th stop on the Fair Share USA tour, which began on June 21 and is scheduled to continue through July 14. The bus also visited Chicago earlier the same day, rallying supporters with speeches and informational sessions.
“We’re really trying to shine a light on the stories and the people that will be impacted if this bill would pass,” said Crowell, urging voters to contact their elected officials.
“We want them to look us in the eye and say, ‘No — this is not what we want.’”
The tour is making appearances in key battleground states and communities, hoping to influence congressional votes and spark public conversation.
Local Reaction in Rockford
Residents gathered at the Rockford stop to express their frustration with proposed budget priorities.
Many held signs calling for economic fairness, increased transparency in Washington, and protection of social services they say are already stretched thin. Several community leaders also spoke, highlighting the risks to local healthcare systems, food access, and economic stability if funding is cut.
How to Learn More or Get Involved
The full tour schedule and more details about the initiative are available at Fair Share USA’s official website.
The organization is encouraging residents across Illinois to contact their U.S. senators and representatives, especially those undecided on the budget bill.
Should more Illinois communities join the tour and speak out? Share your thoughts now on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
