* A quick roundup to start your day…

* Despite Federal Indictment, Michael Madigan Still Bringing in Campaign Cash as Ward Committeeman: According to state records organized by Reform for Illinois’ Sunshine Database, the 13th Ward Democratic Organization (Madigan is listed as the political party committee’s chair and treasurer) has been raking in the dough, and has more than $2.7 million cash on hand.

* Governor Pritzker talks campaign trail, state finances and Darren Bailey: Governor Pritzker joins Capitol Connection to discuss the campaign trail, his re-election bid and his opponent Darren Bailey. […] The interview aired on Capitol Connection Sunday morning. This is the unedited version of the interview.

* 21st state Senate opponents divided on ‘right to unionize’ constitutional amendment: As a co-sponsor of “right to unionize” legislation in the state senate, Democrat Laura Ellman is clear about her support for adding Amendment 1 to the Illinois Constitution. Republican Kathleen Murray is equally clear about her opposition

* Illinois Governor’s race gaining attention on national stage: Monday night Hawaii’s former congresswoman stopped in Illinois to stump for Republican candidate Darren Bailey. “He is a farmer who cares for his community, he cares for his people, he cares for his future for his grandkids- just like every one of you,” Tulsi Gabbard said to a crowd of Republican voters.

* Republican candidate for 92nd district provides info on campaign: Watt says there were no other Republicans on the ballot, so he decided to fill the gap to give Gordon-Booth an opponent. “I just disagree with her policies, and I feel like you can either just disagree, or do something about it, so I decided to do something about it,” he says. The family pastor adds that his campaign revolves around three ideals: parents rights, pro-life, and affordable living.

* With one week left, Illinois gubernatorial candidates continue campaign: Pritzker’s campaign preempted Gabbard’s visit to Glen Ellyn Monday evening with a statement calling Gabbard a “conspiracy theorist,” “virulently anti-LGBTQ” and a “Russian apologist.”Gabbard has said the Democrat’s “woke” ideology goes too far and distracts from real issues.

* Preckwinkle running decidedly low-key reelection campaign: Preckwinkle, for her part, thinks fellow Democrats need to message their “support for the full spectrum of health care for women,” including abortion rights, given that that issue has now become strictly polarized. Asked if she thought abortion rights would be a galvanizing issue for Illinois voters, Preckwinkle said she hopes it galvanizes Illinois women.

* Stava-Murray, Leong both favor gun control, but issue remains contentious in 81st House race : Leong noted the consistency of his position, referencing a vote he made as a Naperville Unit District 203 board member against arming teachers in the classroom. Leong also questioned the dedication of Democratic state legislators such as Stava-Murray. […] Stava-Murray detailed her support for strengthening “red flag” laws, universal background checks, a modernization of the Firearm Owner’s Identification card system and increasing focus on mental health.

* Illinois politicians spending millions ahead of Election Day: The heavy spending isn’t exclusive to federal political races. The Illinois’ Governor race is where the most green can be seen. Incumbent Gov. JB Pritzker (D-IL) had over $42 million on hand after last quarter. His campaign has reported taking in nearly $3 million after, totaling over $45 million now.

* A look at the statewide races as election enters its final week: As of Monday, the Illinois State Board of Elections had reported 590,333 early votes had already been cast, including 362,604 mail-in ballots, 224,595 early in-person ballots and 3,134 grace period ballots. […] A brief summary of the statewide races. Links to other coverage on the races and interviews with the candidates can be found.

* Barickman suggests revamping state’s cannabis regulation: Marijuana is too expensive in Illinois, according to Republican state Sen. Jason Barickman of Bloomington, who says he’d support lowering taxes on legal cannabis in the state. “There are plenty of Illinoisans today who claim they go to other states to buy their cannabis because it is legalized in other states, but it’s cheaper. I think this is an area in which we could make significant improvements,” said Barickman.

* More to come!