State Week: Recent Episodes
Sean Crawford, Hannah Meisel, Charles N. Wheeler III
An analysis of the week in Illinois politics and government from the NPR Illinois Statehouse bureau.
House Speaker Emanual "Chris" Welch spoke to several media outlets this week, saying he was sorry for his actions and issued an apology.
Former Rep. Harry Benton (D-Plainfield) resigned this summer after sexual harassment allegations came to light. But the Illinois House Speaker, Emanuel "Chris" Welch, is facing criticism for how he handled the the situation.
The president again reiterated his allegations that elections are vulnerable to being stolen, but some see allegations as a bigger threat.
A pair of Illinois House Democrats were in the spotlight this week for different reasons.
On this episode, we talk about the controversy surrounding data center development and efforts to enact guardrails at the state level. Lawmakers left Springfield pledging to work on legislation that could address concerns over power usage, utility costs and more.
The team didn't get what it wanted from Illinois lawmakers. But that doesn't necessarily mean the issue won't be reworked and reconsidered.
Illinois lawmakers passed a budget and a flurry of other legislation in the final session days. But the Chicago Bears request for help with a new stadium was left on the table.
The Illinois General Assembly is scheduled to end its spring session Sunday. But there are a lot of issues left to consider.
With about a week left before adjournment, legislation is advancing at the Illinois statehouse.
The Illinois Accountability Commission issued its final report into Operation Midway Blitz.
A major piece of legislation made it through the Illinois House this week. But more changes are expected as the state tries to prevent the NFL team from building a new stadium in Indiana.
The decision comes nearly three years after their convictions on charges that involved what prosecutors called a bribery scheme involving ex-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.
While there always complaints over property taxes, legislators have rarely tried to tackle the issue.
The centers are considered the backbone of the internet, providing processing power for technology like AI and cloud computing. But they are also controversial.
A plan to create more equity among campuses is running into opposition from the state's flagship university.
Gov. JB Pritzker appeared before a congressional committee this week. Things got testy between the Democratic governor and Republican House members over sanctuary policies.
Lawmakers approved a budget and finished their spring session. But they might be coming back sooner than expected.
It's a difficult task ahead as the state's general assembly is set to adjourn its spring session at the end of the month.
Concerns over federal funding and the direction of the economy make this an especially challenging year for lawmakers.
Concerns over federal funding and the direction of the economy make this an especially challenging year for lawmakers.
Despite high profile scandals, lawmakers seem to be in no hurry to pass new ethics reforms.
From funding freezes to visa terminations, higher education is a focus of the Trump Administration.
The governor signed a trade memorandum with the U.K. this week, which follows on the heels of a visit to Mexico that also included an agreement.
President Trump announced his long-awaited plan for foreign tariffs. The decision has been criticized by Democrats, businesses and economists. It comes on the heels of an election this week that raised concerns for Republicans.
Durbin, 80, was already facing calls to step aside when his term ends. Now many progressives are turning up the heat. As for his plans, Durbin has only said he will make a decision "soon."
Education at all levels is facing more scrutiny from the Trump Administration. We discuss what it could mean.
The threat of tariffs and federal spending cuts is shaking governments, businesses and the economy.
It's difficult to budget for another year when there is little clarity on what the Trump Administration will do.
The Governor's budget plan would raise spending amid concerns over the future of federal funds.
We discuss the federal trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan wrapping up and President Trump's decision to issue a pardon to Rod Blagojevich.
The Department of Justice is suing the State of Illinois, along with Chicago and Cook County, over "sanctuary laws" that limit cooperation with immigration authorities.
The week began with immigration raids in Chicago and a federal funding freeze. It ended with the governor saying Donald Trump is unfit to be president.
From deportation raids to withholding federal funding, many have concerns over what the new administration will mean for the state.
The Indiana House Speaker has introduced a plan to create a bi-state commission to look at bringing some Illinois counties into his state.
In a surprise move, the former Illinois House Speaker decided to testify in his own defense in his corruption trial.
The State Week panel discusses the assault weapons ban challenge, updates the Bears stadium planning, talks state flag designs, and more.
After weeks of testimony, the prosecution could soon rest in the racketeering and conspiracy case against the former Illinois House Speaker and his close advisor.
As Illinois nears the halfway point of the fiscal year, there are dark clouds forming in the state's financial picture.
We discuss some of the legislation that made it through over the two week session and what lies ahead.
The state's majority party is considering ways to strengthen laws ahead of Trump's potential policy changes.
Democrats held onto seats in congress and the Illinois General Assembly. But Republicans found reason for hope.
Along with the race for president, there are many other decisions for voters in the state.
Madigan is accused of racketeering and bribery during his time as Illinois House Speaker.
Our panel talks about the role Midwest states will play in choosing the next president.
The long-awaited trial of the former Illinois House Speaker is getting underway in federal court.
Massey, an unarmed Black woman, was shot and killed in her home by a former deputy this summer. The case has put more focus on police hiring and training.
A dire financial picture will test Mayor Brandon Johnson and could lead to requests for help from the state.
Many colleges and universities are dealing with financial concerns amid enrollment worries.
The Chicago Tribune's Ray Long joins the panel to discuss a series on those who have betrayed the public's trust.
Chicago is playing host the Democratic National Convention for the first time since 1996.
The state's GOP is energized with new leadership following the national convention in Milwaukee.
Illinois' governor said this week he fully expects Joe Biden will be the nominee of the Democratic Party.
In this special State Week episode, we discuss the problems facing the news industry and what the future may hold.
This week marked two years since the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Roe v. Wade. In that time, Illinois has become a safe haven for abortions and women's health procedures.
Party Chair Don Tracy announced he will leave the job he's held for more than three years.
Lawmakers wrapped up the spring session this week, sending a new budget to the governor.
Lawmakers had a tentative deal Friday on a spending plan, paving the way for the spring session to end as early as this weekend.
The Pritzker Administration is trying to push through different revenue plans in the final weeks of the session. If those are unsuccessful, a letter to agency directors says there could be about $800 million less to spend.
The NFL team's effort to get a new stadium seems to be getting sacked by the governor's office and other state officials. Also a central Illinois prison could be re-built near Joliet, raising concerns in the community that's housed the facility.
Will lawmakers agree to put public money toward the stadium project? Also, the governor said a state pension law that lowered benefits may need to be revisited.
A U.S. Supreme Court decision in an Indiana case could impact the prosecutions in Illinois and elsewhere.
A new director, additional funding and hiring more workers at Illinois' child welfare agency.
A boy's murder is shining a spotlight on how a state panel handles domestic violence cases.
Our panel discusses the referendum, Chicago's migrant situation and a new revenue estimate for state government.
In Illinois judicial and legislative contests, the lack of competition is the highest it has been in at least 20 years.
The former president is appealing a court decision that he should be removed from the primary ballot.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker unveiled his nearly $53 billion budget this week. But not everyone is on board.
Tim Mapes was found guilty last year of lying to a grand jury investigating Michael Madigan and others.
On the heels of Chicago approving a phase out of the lower wage, advocates want to end it statewide.
While Illinois election officials decided against an effort to remove the former president based on the U.S. Constitution's 14th Amendment, he faces other legal challenges.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson continue to spar over efforts to find housing for migrants who have arrived in Illinois.
Illinois lawmakers will have a light session schedule until the March primary election is over. They are scheduled to wrap up work in May.
We recap the first week of 2024, including how many assault weapon owners in Illinois registered the weapons under a new law.
It was a tumultuous year in Illinois government and politics. The state also repeatedly made national headlines.
Former longtime Chicago Alderman Ed Burke was convicted this week on charges that included racketeering and attempted extortion. It's the latest in a string of convictions in Illinois' long history with public corruption.
State leaders say landing the plant in Manteno boosts Illinois' role in the electric vehicle ecosystem.
On this episode, we talk about the governor giving a thumbs down to a measure that would have lifted the state's ban on nuclear power plant construction. We also discuss Chicago's efforts to deal with a growing migrant population.
Tim Mapes, who was Chief of Staff to former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, faces several years in prison. Listen to our panel discussion.
Both Democrats and Republicans held their annual rallies. The differences in the parties was on display.
The state's highest court handed down a decision Friday that keeps the state's ban on the sale of assault weapons and large capacity magazines in place. But a federal challenge remains. Also, the trial for the one-time Chief of Staff to former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan began this week.
Our panel breaks down a contract with the state's largest public employee union, the governor's push for clean energy and an audit of the Illinois Department of Employment Security that found lack of controls led to massive amount of fraud and overpayments during the pandemic.
On this episode, we speak with reporters from ProPublica’s Local Reporting Network in partnership with Lee Enterprises and Capitol News Illinois.
Last year's Highland Park 4th of July parade was the scene of a mass shooting that left seven dead and injured dozens. State lawmakers responded with an assault weapons ban. Court challenges to the law continue.
The governor, who has touted the president and put his own ambitions on hold, held a fundraiser for Biden during his visit to Chicago. Biden heaped praise on Pritzker saying he "helped me more than anybody in America get elected last time."
The Pritzker Administration is limiting enrollment as a way to hold down costs. But is there a political price?
A law signed this week is believed to be the first in the nation prohibiting book bans at school and public libraries.
From early childhood to higher education, the new spending plan provides more resources.
Our panel discusses how a new spending plan made it through the Illinois legislature, an update on the Chicago Bears' efforts to move to the suburbs and Republicans in the state begin lining up behind presidential hopefuls.
Illinois lawmakers and the governor reached agreement on a new spending plan for the fiscal year starting July 1. Also, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued a scathing report on clergy sex abuse within the Catholic church.
The Illinois legislature has missed its scheduled adjournment date. So what happens next?
Revenue estimates have dropped in recent weeks, which could mean many groups seeking additional funding will wind up disappointed. They'll know soon as state lawmakers have set May 19 as their spring adjournment date.
The former CEO of Commonwealth Edison and three former lobbyists for the utility were found guilty this week in what prosecutors described as a bribery scheme to gain favor with ex-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.
Deliberations have begun in the bribery trial of four former Commonwealth Edison officials.
Illinois, especially under the Pritzker Administration, has become a haven for abortion and tilted more left on many other social issues.
Fidel Marquez is a former Commonwealth Edison executive turned government informant. His testimony dominated the federal trial of four other former ComEd officials during the week.
Both sides in the debate over cash bail argued before the Illinois Supreme Court this week. We also talk with a reporter about a series that uncovered abuse and neglect at the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in Anna.
The four individuals will stand trial for an alleged scheme that has become the biggest Illinois political scandal since the Blagojevich Administration.
Lori Lightfoot was rejected by voters Tuesday, becoming the first Chicago mayor to be denied a second term in four decades.
The Florida Republican governor attended a police sponsored event in the suburbs. His visit became a topic in Chicago's mayoral race days before the election.
Gov. JB Pritzker delivered a combined State of the State/Budget Address this week that focused heavily on increased funding for education and social services. The nearly $50 billion spending plan brought criticism from Republicans. They raised concerns about costs of new programs, like an expansion of child care services and making preschool available to all kids over the next four years. Still, with Democrats holding supermajorities in the General Assembly, Pritzker is likely to get his way this spring.
Gov. JB Pritzker will deliver his next budget proposal on Wednesday, Feb. 15. Pritzker has priorities, but he'll need to balance costs with what is expected to be a revenue slowdown. Also, a number of candidates are vying to be the leader of the state's largest city. Lori Lightfoot is trying to become the first woman re-elected to the job. Meanwhile, one of the perceived frontrunners, Paul Vallas, now faces questions over his residency.
This week, Gov. JB Pritzker announced the COVID-19 public health emergency will officially end May 11, the same day a national proclamation will expire. Our panel provides some context to the historic decision.
After Gov. JB Pritzker signed a prohibition on the sale of assault style guns and large capacity magazines, numerous sheriffs publicly stated they view the new law as unconstitutional and they don't plan to enforce it. Our State Week panel discusses the situation.
The measure gained more support after a deadly mass shooting in Highland Park last summer.
It was a good year for Democrats. Not so much for Republicans. We look back on the year in Illinois government and politics.
Illinois lawmakers could soon vote on a measure that would ban what are often referred to as assault weapons and raise the minimum age for legally owning a gun to 21.
The Illinois Republican State Central Committee met this month. While party leadership — including state chair Don Tracy — remain in place, there are different opinions in the ranks regarding the future direction of the party.
The changes were approved along party lines, as only Democrats offered support. Republicans argued the effort failed to fully address problems with the original law.
Illinois has made a big turnaround when it comes to its budget. Bills are being paid on time and the state has even socked some money away in its rainy day fund. But the future remains cloudy as national and international issues could impact revenue. And, don't forget about pension debt.
Enough voters backed the change to the Illinois Constitution, which will guarantee a right to collective bargaining.
Illinois state government will stay in Democratic hands. Gov. JB Pritzker and other statewide candidates swept Republicans on election night. The Democrats also increased their legislative supermajority. As for the Illinois GOP, the results set off a chain reaction.
Many of the campaigns are continuing their negative approach in the final days before the election.
Many of the campaigns are continuing their negative approach in the final days before the election.
Many of the campaigns are continuing their negative approach in the final days before the election.
Many of the campaigns are continuing their negative approach in the final days before the election.
With less than two weeks to go before the election, our panel looks at the latest poll numbers. Which way are voters leaning and how do they feel about the direction of the state?
There have been a pair of televised debates featuring the two major party candidates for Illinois governor, with the latest coming this week. While both J.B. Pritzker and Darren Bailey argued and criticized each other, did voters learn anything new?
There have been a pair of televised debates featuring the two major party candidates for Illinois governor, with the latest coming this week. While both J.B. Pritzker and Darren Bailey argued and criticized each other, did voters learn anything new?
There have been a pair of televised debates featuring the two major party candidates for Illinois governor, with the latest coming this week. While both J.B. Pritzker and Darren Bailey argued and criticized each other, did voters learn anything new?
Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan faces a new conspiracy count as part of the federal racketeering and bribery investigation against him.
Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan faces a new conspiracy count as part of the federal racketeering and bribery investigation against him.
Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan faces a new conspiracy count as part of the federal racketeering and bribery investigation against him.
Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan faces a new conspiracy count as part of the federal racketeering and bribery investigation against him.
Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan faces a new conspiracy count as part of the federal racketeering and bribery investigation against him.
Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan faces a new conspiracy count as part of the federal racketeering and bribery investigation against him.
Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker stood on the stage with Republican Illinois Senator Darren Bailey in the first televised debate between the two this election season. They strongly disagreed on many subjects. But did voters learn anything?
Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker stood on the stage with Republican Illinois Senator Darren Bailey in the first televised debate between the two this election season. They strongly disagreed on many subjects. But did voters learn anything?
Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker stood on the stage with Republican Illinois Senator Darren Bailey in the first televised debate between the two this election season. They strongly disagreed on many subjects. But did voters learn anything?
As the calendar moves into October, the election is just a handful of weeks away. New polling results this week continue to show incumbent Democrat Gov. J.B. Pritzker with a solid lead over Republican challenger Darren Bailey.
As the calendar moves into October, the election is just a handful of weeks away. New polling results this week continue to show incumbent Democrat Gov. J.B. Pritzker with a solid lead over Republican challenger Darren Bailey.
As the calendar moves into October, the election is just a handful of weeks away. New polling results this week continue to show incumbent Democrat Gov. J.B. Pritzker with a solid lead over Republican challenger Darren Bailey.
With the fall election nearing, many have raised questions about the validity of the electoral process. That includes making sure those casting a ballot are eligible. We hear from Illinois election authorities about how they make sure voter rolls are accurate and how citizens can make sure their ballots are counted.
With the fall election nearing, many have raised questions about the validity of the electoral process. That includes making sure those casting a ballot are eligible. We hear from Illinois election authorities about how they make sure voter rolls are accurate and how citizens can make sure their ballots are counted.
With the fall election nearing, many have raised questions about the validity of the electoral process. That includes making sure those casting a ballot are eligible. We hear from Illinois election authorities about how they make sure voter rolls are accurate and how citizens can make sure their ballots are counted.
Our panel offers a primer on the law, how it came about and what it will do. We also examine the GOP messaging that surrounds the law and how Democrats have failed to fully explain the changes to the public.
Our panel offers a primer on the law, how it came about and what it will do. We also examine the GOP messaging that surrounds the law and how Democrats have failed to fully explain the changes to the public.
Our panel offers a primer on the law, how it came about and what it will do. We also examine the GOP messaging that surrounds the law and how Democrats have failed to fully explain the changes to the public.
A new investigative collaboration between Capitol News Illinois, Lee Enterprises Midwest and ProPublica has found hundreds of reports of abuse inside the Choate Mental Health and Development Center in Anna, Illinois.
A new investigative collaboration between Capitol News Illinois, Lee Enterprises Midwest and ProPublica has found hundreds of reports of abuse inside the Choate Mental Health and Development Center in Anna, Illinois.
A new investigative collaboration between Capitol News Illinois, Lee Enterprises Midwest and ProPublica has found hundreds of reports of abuse inside the Choate Mental Health and Development Center in Anna, Illinois.
Darren Bailey received a $1 million contribution to his campaign from conservative businessman Richard Uihlein. But a new poll also shows Bailey and other GOP candidates running statewide way behind their Democratic opponents. We talk about it and contests for the Illinois Supreme Court.
The candidates for Illinois governor and U.S. Senate each discussed renewable energy at a agriculture roundtable event this week. Illinois has made strides toward cleaner energy, but even supporters admit it will take time. Meanwhile, Republicans warn the state is trying to move too quickly at a cost to residents.
The past week saw both Democrats and Republicans host their annual party events during the Illinois State Fair in Springfield.
Another week brought more scrutiny to social media messages from Republican gubernatorial nominee Darren Bailey and his wife, Cindy. Some of what has come to light attacks Islam, LGBTQ rights and more. This follows the candidate doubling down on previous remarks that compared abortion to the Holocaust. Meanwhile, a judge issued a contempt order for another agency in the Pritzker administration. This one is critical of healthcare offered to those incarcerated in state prisons.
A Facebook video from 2017 has resurfaced in this year's race for Illinois governor. Republican nominee Darren Bailey was discussing abortion in the video and compared it to lives lost due to Nazi atrocities. We discuss the political fallout.
Our panel discusses a fight for chairmanship of the Democratic Party of Illinois, Google's plans for the Thompson Center and efforts to bring a major political convention to the state.
It should be no surprise that the billionaire Democrat Pritzker has more money available than Republican Darren Bailey. But the size of his advantage raised some eyebrows this week.
There is speculation Illinois' governor is mulling a White House bid in 2024. Our panel weighs in.
The ability of the shooter to obtain weapons raises concerns over how existing laws work. Meanwhile, the calls for stricter gun control continue.
The court decision overturning Roe v. Wade won't stop abortions in the state. It remains legal in Illinois. But abortion rights supporters are eyeing additional moves to protect access.
The former president will appear in western Illinois at a rally for Congresswoman Mary Miller. It's likely to give her campaign a boost. Will Trump also make an endorsement in the governor's race?
Republican State Senator Darren Bailey has moved ahead in recent polling in his effort to gain his party's gubernatorial nomination
There was another debate this week in the race to be the Republican nominee for governor. But this marked the first time all candidates participated. Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin was the target of most attacks from his rivals as the election inches closer.We also discuss new reporting from the Better Government Association into the state's child welfare agency.
The tragedy in Uvalde, Texas this week shook the nation and once again thrust the issue of guns into the campaign spotlight. While Illinois has more restrictive gun laws than many states, politicians in both parties are weighing in on what they say is needed to prevent mass shootings. Not surprisingly, there is plenty of disagreement.
Early voting kicked off in many parts of Illinois this week. Meanwhile, the campaigns have stepped up their efforts, especially in the race for the Republican gubernatorial nomination.
Another week and another audit critical of a state agency. This time it focused on the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. The audit found continuing problems at DCFS. Also, the GOP gubernatorial hopeful Richard Irvin held a news conference this week. But he didn't like the questions from reporters.
When a leaked draft copy of a U.S. Supreme Court opinion became public this week, it created a firestorm. The long standing decision in Roe v. Wade, which ensured the right to an abortion, is apparently close to being overturned. What does that mean for Illinois, which has some of the more progressive abortion access laws in the country? And will it be the issue most on voters' minds?
Illinois voters will have a new experience this year. The primary election has been moved until late June. Races are starting to heat up. But is the public paying attention?
Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Illinois' next budget into law this week, even though it's more than two months until it takes effect. Moody's Investor Service also upgraded Illinois' credit rating, the third upgrade the state has been given in the past year. Moody's and Standard and Poor's issued upgrades previously. We also discuss the latest election related news.
Lawmakers made an early departure from the statehouse after wrapping up the spring session. Before doing so, they passed a new budget, anti-crime legislation and more. We discuss it on this episode.
Democrats in control of state government were racing to approve a budget and public safety legislation, among other items, before their self-imposed adjournment deadline passed. The budget plan included several tax relief proposals, which will be heavily touted during the upcoming campaigns.
Both parties are pointing fingers on the issue of crime as election year messaging ramps up. Republicans have continued to criticize criminal justice legislation Democrats approved last year. Meanwhile, the Democratic Governors Association issued an attack ad against GOP gubernatorial candidate Richard Irvin, targeting some of the clients he represented as a defense attorney. And statehouse Democrats have also unveiled a new anti-crime package in the final days of the spring legislative session.
The Illinois Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund has racked up a $4.5 billion in debt. Democrats this week voted to pay off a chunk of what's owed through the use of federal pandemic aid funds. But Republicans say there's still a large hole that will need to be filled, most likely through borrowing and paying interest for several years.
The end of the period where candidates file petitions brings us closer to the final ballot lineup. The primary is set for June and candidates are picking up the pace in efforts to introduce themselves to voters and get their message across. We'll discuss the governor's race and more.
Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was arraigned on bribery and racketeering charges this week. He entered a not guilty plea. We discuss what's next for the case. And, candidates are filing their paperwork to run for office. The filing is later than past years because the primary election has been moved to June.
The bombshell news dropped Wednesday that former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was indicted on federal racketeering and bribery charges. While reaction poured in, Madigan denied wrongdoing. Now that he faces charges, another chapter is being written in the story of the longest serving legislative leader.
Illinois' indoor mask mandate will end on Monday, February 28, in most locations. But a court battle continues over the governor's authority to issue such orders. The attorney leading the charge against masking has announced he will run for Illinois Attorney General as a Republican. And, the debate over masks results in drama on the Illinois House floor.
Our panel tries to bring clarity over the legal fight regarding masks in Illinois schools.
A judge's decision created confusion around COVID-19 mitigations in schools. Meanwhile, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced he will lift the state's indoor mask mandate at the end of the month in most locations, except schools, health care settings and congregate care facilities. All of this happening as COVID numbers continue to fall.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker outlined his budget proposal for the next fiscal year. During his speech, the governor touted an improved financial outlook. Pritzker wants to use some of the projected windfall for temporary tax relief along with additional spending on education and other areas. He also targeted Republican critics. Our panel discusses the governor's plan and reaction to it.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker will deliver a combined budget and state of the state address on Wednesday. Pritzker will likely tout his accomplishments during his first term as prepares to seek re-election. Meanwhile, Republicans are focused on crime as a key issue in the race to unseat Pritzker. Some have already hit the airwaves with their message.
It had been rumored for weeks. Aurora's mayor Richard Irvin announced this week he is entering the race for governor. In launching his bid, he attacked Gov. J.B. Pritzker. But before he could face off against the first term Democrat, Irvin will need to win a crowded Republican primary. Our panel discusses his chances.
After months of speculation about another candidate entering the race for governor, reports are that Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin will launch a bid. It has been rumored that he has support of billionaire Ken Griffin. We talk about the chances for Irvin and a slate of other Republicans on a statewide ticket.
Some big announcements in recent days set the stage for what's expected to be an interesting election year. Longtime Congressman Bobby Rush bows out, likely creating a free-for-all in who will replace him. It also appears a couple of freshmen lawmakers will mount challenges against more established politicians in their party.
It was an historic year in Illinois. Longtime Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was pushed out of his job amid a scandal. The state adopted new laws dealing with criminal justice and energy policy. Democrats approved new political boundaries. And while Illinois rolled out its COVID-19 vaccination program, the pandemic cast a shadow over the entire year.
As more hospitals report ICU beds are filling up, the holidays will likely see additional transmission of the virus as people gather. At the same time, the severity of the rapidly spreading Omicron variant remains unclear.
The primary is still half a year away, but the 2022 Illinois governor's contest is starting to heat up. There were reports this week that Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin is considering a bid. The Republican field already has four candidates who have announced, but there is speculation Irvin would gain financial backing from billionaire Ken Griffin.
COVID-19 transmission is up again, especially after the Thanksgiving holiday. Nearly all of those cases are caused by the Delta variant. Meanwhile, the state's public health department this week announced the newly discovered Omicron variant has been confirmed in Illinois.
Taylorville Republican Rodney Davis has decided to run for a sixth term in congress rather than seek his party's nomination for governor next year. What does that mean for the GOP heading into the election?
Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the newly drawn congressional district map into law this week. That is despite criticism of both this product and another that resets state house and senate districts. Challengers to what Democrats put together will get their day in court next month.
Illinois has seen a massive increase in spending on judicial campaigns. Gov. J.B. Pritzker this week approved prohibiting dark money groups, who don't identify their donors, from making financial contributions in those races.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker has already announced he'll run for another term in 2022. This week, the state's wealthiest resident and hedge fund CEO Ken Griffin added some intrigue when he told Crain's Chicago Business that he will bankroll a challenger. He gave no indication which candidate he'd support. Our panel talks about what that means for the upcoming governor's race and how the trend of record campaign spending is likely to continue.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker headed to Europe this week where he hopes to encourage more green energy investments in Illinois and promote the state's commitment to combat climate change.
Newly drawn political districts approved Thursday have already led one incumbent Republican congressman, Adam Kinzinger, to announce he won't seek another term. We'll also discuss other legislation that made it through the Illinois General Assembly. Host Sean Crawford is joined by Statehouse Editor Hannah Meisel, Professor Emeritus Charlie Wheeler and Chicago Tribune Chief Political Reporter Rick Pearson.
There was a court ruling and more legal challenges to Illinois Democrats' effort at crafting new state legislative and congressional boundaries. Our panel discusses the latest happenings surrounding the once-a-decade redistricting process and why Republicans are likely to wind up on the short end.
Democrats are seeking to add to their partisan edge with the proposed district boundaries, which could help determine congressional control.
We get an update on COVID rates and the Pritzker Administration's efforts to get more state employees vaccinated. The GOP is attacking Democrats on a well tested topics: crime. And a new congressional district could soon be unveiled.
The NFL's Chicago Bears announced this week an agreement to purchase the former Arlington International Racecourse in the northwest suburbs. The decision could potentially lead the team to move away from Soldier Field. Gov. J.B. Pritzker downplayed any rumblings of state financial incentives to keep the Bears in Chicago or help build a new multi-billion dollar facility.
A new vaccine requirement for teachers and health care workers, as well as university employees and students, is now in effect. For those who choose to avoid getting the shots, they will need to be tested weekly. But the testing rollout has been bumpy. Also, some are pushing back on the mandate, with some even going to court.