from The National Pulse:

A movement is gaining traction in several rural counties across states such as Illinois and California to form new states separate from more urbanized, leftist population centers. Conservatives in such areas have noted an exodus from their communities to Republican states and want to follow their lead—while staying put.

In Illinois, the New Illinois State group has proposed creating a new state constitution, advocating to “Leave Illinois Without Moving.” On Election Day, seven rural counties in Illinois voted to consider secession from the state. In Iroquois County, 73 percent of voters supported separation from Cook County, which includes Chicago, housing 40 percent of Illinois’ populace. G.H. Merritt, chairman of the New Illinois State, is hopeful. He believes that Illinois’ fiscal challenges could present a negotiation opportunity.