GOP targets Democrats who voted 'yes' on Illinois budget

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Illinois House Republicans are launching automated phone calls blasting Democrats who voted for a state spending plan they say would lead to a $7 billion budget deficit.

The House GOP's campaign organization is starting the so-called "robocalls" Thursday to voters in seven legislative districts where Republicans hope to unseat incumbents in November.

The recording accuses lawmakers of siding with House Speaker Michael Madigan "to increase Illinois' debt by $7 billion and force record high income tax rates."

Democrats on Wednesday approved the spending plan hours after it was introduced.

They say it's an "insurance policy" that ensures domestic violence shelters, schools and other programs will have money to stay open.

The targeted lawmakers are Reps. Michelle Mussman, Sam Yingling, Andy Skoog, Kate Cloonen, Dan Beiser, John Bradley and Brandon Phelps.