* Putting a dent in my inbox today. From Juliana Stratton…
Today members of the Illinois Asian American Caucus announced their support for Juliana Stratton’s campaign for United States Senate. In a letter, the elected officials cited Stratton’s commitment to codifying Asian American History into curriculum in Illinois schools and her long time support for the community as factors in their decision to endorse her as the next Senator to represent Illinois in Washington D.C.
“The leaders and officials from the Asian American community who have offered my campaign their support are people who I have worked alongside for years and whose perseverance, hard work, and respect for others are an inspiration to me– which makes their endorsement of my candidacy all the more meaningful,” said Juliana Stratton. “I pledge to fight for the needs and concerns of their community in the United States Senate and to never stop listening, learning, and growing in community with my partners in governance.”
The letter of support was signed by Cook County Board Commissioner Josina Morita, Lake County Treasurer Holly Kim, and Representative Jennifer Gong Gershowitz. This endorsement comes on the heels of several other significant endorsements for Stratton’s campaign. Prior endorsements include her partner in governance Governor JB Pritzker, United States Senator Tammy Duckworth, and Ambassador Carol Moseley Braun, the first Black woman to ever serve in the United States Senate.
* Laura Fine in CD9…
Just one week after launching her campaign for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District, Laura Fine announced today that she has earned the endorsement of 12 more prominent Illinois Democratic leaders, a sign of continued momentum for the campaign.
“I’m so honored and grateful for the outpouring of support I’ve received my first week in this race,” Fine said. “I hear it from my neighbors, colleagues, and leaders across the state: This moment requires urgency, and they know that I’ll stand up to fight for them in Washington against Trump and the MAGA agenda. The energy is real, and we’re just getting started.”
Fine is proud to announce the backing of the following Democrats:
• Laura Ellman, State Senator, Illinois’ 21st District
• Gregg Johnson, State Representative, Illinois’ 72nd District
• Natalie Manley, State Representative, Illinois’ 98th District
• Marty Moylan, State Representative, Illinois’ 55th District
• Deb Conroy, DuPage County Board Chair
• Scott Britton, Cook County Commissioner, 14th District
• Nancy Rotering, Highland Park Mayor
• Shiva Mohsenzadeh, Northfield Supervisor
• Gail Schnitzer Eisenberg, New Trier Supervisor
• Atour Sargon, Lincolnwood Trustee
• Peter Braithwaite, Fmr. Evanston Alderman
• Debby Karton, Fmr. Glenview Trustee
These endorsers join the eight Illinois Democrats that endorsed Fine when she launched last week:
• Mary Edly-Allen, State Senator, Illinois’ 31st District
• Adriane Johnson, State Senator, Illinois’ 30th District
• Julie Morrison, State Senator, Illinois’ 29th District
• Laura Murphy, State Senator, Illinois’ 28th District
• Margaret Croke, State Representative, Illinois’ 12th District
• Tracy Katz Muhl, State Representative, Illinois’ 57th District
• Sandy Hart, Lake County Board President
• Jeff Schoenberg, Fmr. Assistant Senate Majority Leader & Evanston Democratic Committeeperson
* Daniel Biss in CD9…
Today, Daniel Biss announced his campaign for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District. Biss, a longtime community leader, state legislator, and now mayor of Evanston, is entering the race not just to fight for progressive values, but to deliver real results to cut costs, protect basic rights, and stop Donald Trump. Click here to watch Daniel Biss’ announcement video.
“I am running for Congress to stand up to Donald Trump and his MAGA cronies. I’ve never backed down from a fight, and I’ve won some big ones—on LGBTQ+ rights, campaign finance reform, protecting abortion access, defending the environment, and more,” said Daniel Biss. “In Congress, I’ll take on billionaires and corporate power, lower costs for working families, and fight tooth and nail to protect our civil rights.”
“Trump and Elon Musk are looting the government and throwing the economy into chaos so they can line their own pockets while driving up costs for the rest of us. Meanwhile, MAGA extremists are ignoring the Constitution, disappearing people into foreign prisons, and slashing Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Enough is enough,” said Biss. “I have taken on and beaten big corporations and powerful interests, and I’m not afraid to stand up to anyone who threatens our public services, our civil liberties, or our democracy. No more backing down before the fight even starts, and no more obeying in advance.”
As mayor of the City of Evanston, Biss enacted campaign finance reform and passed a first-in-the-state Healthy Buildings Ordinance to curb carbon emissions. He has taken on MAGA extremists on preserving access to abortion, expanding mental health services, immigration, and more. Biss previously served in the Illinois House and State Senate, passing major abortion rights legislation, enacting protections for LGBTQ+ youth, providing retirement savings options to Illinoisans who otherwise wouldn’t have access, and strengthening technology privacy requirements to protect civil liberties.
Biss grew up in Bloomington, Indiana, and moved to Chicago to join the University of Chicago’s mathematics faculty after completing his bachelor’s degree at Harvard University and his Ph.D. in mathematics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His wife, Karin, is a former Peace Corps volunteer and a professor at National Louis University. They live in Evanston with their two children, Arya and Sparrow.
The 9th Congressional District is currently represented by Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, who recently announced she would not run for reelection.
* Robert Peters in CD2…
Leaders We Deserve, the grassroots organization founded by David Hogg and Kevin Lata to elect young progressives across the country and defeat the far-right agenda, endorsed State Sen. Robert Peters (D-13) in the open race for Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District on Thursday. Peters, who chairs the Senate Labor Committee, and previously, the Senate Black Caucus, marks the organization’s first endorsement of the 2026 campaign cycle.
“Senator Peters is a shining example of the type of bold, progressive leadership that our country, and our party, desperately needs at this moment,” said Leaders We Deserve’s President and Co-Founder, David Hogg. “He’s been a guiding light for Illinois Democrats on critical issues, including expanding workplace protections and access to SNAP benefits, investing hundreds of millions into violence prevention and leading on criminal justice reform, and launching preventative care efforts to address homelessness and unemployment. Leaders We Deserve is fired up to help get him into the halls of Congress to continue to deliver for Illinois families.”
“I’m humbled to receive the support of Leaders We Deserve, an organization that’s at the forefront of the fight to galvanize Democrats to effectively take on Donald Trump’s corruption and incompetence,” said State Senator Robert Peters. “We need Democrats who are willing to fight like hell for their communities—and that’s exactly what I’ll do when I’m in Congress. I’m honored to be able to partner with Leaders We Deserve as we work to get there.”
Leaders We Deserve’s endorsement comes on the heels of a successful grassroots launch week for Peters’ campaign, which has also been endorsed by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT). The Illinois primary election is March 17, 2026.
* Also in the 2nd District…
Today marks a turning point in Illinois politics as Southside resident and community leader Adal Regis officially announces his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives, seeking to represent Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District, a seat currently held by Congresswoman Robin Kelly.
Adal Regis enters the race with a clear and urgent message: It’s time to put people first.
Having lived in the heart of Chicago’s Southside, Regis is no stranger to the struggles working families face, from rising housing costs to safety concerns and a lack of access to sustainable, good-paying jobs. Additionally, he understands that the proposed federal budget threatens essential programs like Medicaid, Social Security, and SNAP—lifelines for many families in IL-02. These cuts would deepen economic hardship, fuel instability, and, in turn, contribute to rising crime, making it even harder for struggling communities to recover.
His campaign is rooted in the belief that every family, whether they live in urban, suburban, and rural communities, deserves the opportunity to thrive.
“Many people are suffering under today’s economy and divisive policies. Our communities deserve more than promises, they deserve real progress and the opportunity to thrive beyond their circumstances,” said Regis. “We need affordable housing, trustworthy policing, a healthier environment, and targeted economic development that creates jobs—not just to pay the bills, but to build lasting futures. I’m running for Illinois’ Second Congressional District because I believe in empowering people and communities to excel, and it’s time our government did too.”
Regis is a passionate public servant, strategic leader, and proud Chicago South Side resident. He currently serves as Director of Strategy at Elevate, a nonprofit organization headquartered in Chicago working to ensure communities impacted by environmental injustice have access to clean, affordable energy, water, heating, and cooling. His work focuses on delivering clean energy solutions, climate equity and resilience to neighborhoods that have been historically left behind.
Regis brings deep experience and integrity to the race. Before joining Elevate, Regis served as a District Representative and Grant Specialist for Congresswoman Robin Kelly, where he helped secure millions in federal funding for municipalities, small businesses, and community organizations across the district. He also previously worked for former New York Congresswoman Nita Lowey (NY-17), former Chair of the Appropriations Committee, gaining valuable experience in federal policymaking, federal grants and constituent advocacy. He also has collaborated with the Chicago Police Department as a member of its Community Policing Advisory Panel, served alongside leaders at Rainbow PUSH Coalition, and is a member of Governor Pritzker’s Task Force on Black Immigrants. His campaign is not just about policies, it’s about lived experience, public service, and a steadfast commitment to building equity for all. He knows how to navigate complex government systems and deliver real results for communities.
The people of Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District are ready for a fresh, unifying voice in Washington, someone who sees them, hears them, and is ready to act. From rebuilding trust in public safety to revitalizing and investing communities from the South Side of Chicago, to our rural areas, and uplifting working families across the district, the time for bold, people-first solutions is now. That leader is Adal Regis.
Matteson Mayor Sheila Chalmers-Currin and Yumeka Brown, the three-term village clerk of Matteson and a commissioner on the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Board, have both formed exploratory committees to run for Kelly’s seat. And two-term Democratic Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller also said she was weighing whether to enter the race.
Another announced candidate for the 8th District seat is Sanjyot Dunung, a small business owner who bills herself as “the change candidate.”
“People are tired of career politicians who fail to deliver meaningful results,” she said in her announcement. “As the candidate for change, I will deliver fresh, responsible ideas to tackle economic chaos and uncertainty.” […]
On Wednesday, Yasmeen Bankole, a former staffer for Durbin and Krishnamoorthi, entered the contest.
A native of Hanover Park, in 2021 Bankole became the first Nigerian American elected in Illinois when she won her race for Hanover Park village trustee.
A poll conducted by the Illinois Education Association, the largest education organization in Illinois, indicates that 59% of teachers, higher education professors and education support staff are considering leaving the profession. 500 IEA members were surveyed, according to a news release.
This comes in the middle of a teacher shortage in both the state and nationwide. The top reasons educators gave for considering leaving their jobs are below.
65% say they are not earning enough money.
65% say there is a lack of respect for the profession.
62% say their workload is increasing.
IEA also found through their research that:
- 94% of IEA members work additional hours outside their contractual workday.
- 97% spend their own personal income on supplies for their students and classrooms with one in four educators spending at least $500 on things such as pencils, furniture and hygiene products.
* The latest survey of education leaders by the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools points to progress. Chalkbeat Chicago in March…
In its survey of unfilled positions, the state board found that Illinois had 1,877 more classroom teachers in the 2023-24 school year than in the previous school year — for a total of 136,092 educators. As of Oct. 1, 2024, the state board found 3,864 unfilled positions for the current school year, a 5.6% decrease from the previous year. The state’s vacancy rate for the current school year is 2.8%, down from 3% in 2023-24. […]
But, despite the increase in teachers, 87% of the 734 school leaders surveyed by the regional superintendents association in the fall of 2024 believe there is a problem with teacher shortages. Forty percent of the leaders who responded, 281 out of 698, said their need for educators has increased from last school year, and 64% of those who answered a question about the needs for the next school year believe their need for more educators will grow.
* Senate Democratic Caucus today…
To tackle the school staffing crunch, members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus outlined solutions to the ongoing issue through a number of legislative measures.
Prior to entering a classroom full time, students studying education spend a semester or more as a student teacher. Student teaching is a full-time job without the full-time pay — typically without pay at all. This creates a systemic barrier for individuals who want to become teachers, but can’t afford to not receive compensation.
State Senator Adriane Johnson is leading House Bill 3528 to ensure higher education institutions would not be able to require student teachers to work without pay. […]
While the measure will not mandate that universities or school districts pay student teachers, it explicitly prohibits any policy that bars such payment. By doing so, it would create legal space for compensation models to emerge and evolve — particularly in high-need areas.
State Senator Dave Koehler is building off that legislation with House Bill 1375.
His measure would establish a stipend program through the Illinois Board of Higher Education, offering student teachers stipends of up to $10,000 per semester for a maximum of two consecutive semesters. The program also would include stipends of $2,000 per semester for cooperating teachers who mentor student teachers, which are also limited to two consecutive semesters each year. […]
Once someone receives a teaching license, they still often face barriers to being in the classroom.
One such barrier includes the length of short-term licenses when life simply gets in the way. State Senator Sara Feigenholtz is leading Senate Bill 1584 to permit the Illinois State Board of Education to make rules allowing for extensions to short-term approval teacher licenses if the licensee has taken leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act during the time they were licensed under short-term approval, which typically only lasts three years. […]
House Bill 3528 awaits and Senate Bill 1584 await final action in their respective chambers. House Bill 1375 was heard this week by the Senate Appropriations-Education Committee.
* The Question: Which (if any) of these ideas do you think will work, and which (if any) won’t? Explain.
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - Posted by Advertising Department
[The following is a paid advertisement.]
What if Illinois could expand its energy grid, attract AI and emerging tech companies to the state, and provide over 60,000 new jobs with no impact on communities or the environment?
SOO Green makes it possible.
Built along existing rail corridors, this underground transmission project will deliver 2,100 MW of low-cost reliable power making the electric grid more resilient in the face of extreme weather while unlocking billions in economic investments for Illinois.
The SOO Green Advantage:
• Accelerates Illinois’ Clean Energy & Jobs Act goals
• 60,000+ new jobs
• Lower energy costs for families and businesses
• $26 billion in economic benefits statewide
• $9.8 billion in health benefits by reducing emissions
With SOO Green all ratepayers will enjoy a more reliable grid, protection from rising energy costs, and a stronger economy for Illinois.
Outgoing Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez and his team are moving forward with a precarious budget for next school year that is based on $600 million that is not lined up — a move that could result in thousands of teacher and support staff layoffs this summer or even mid-year.
The principals’ union and the mayor’s office blasted Martinez, saying that he is putting politics above the needs of students. Principals are expecting to get their school-level budgets on Thursday, but the Chicago Principals & Administrators Association called those budgets “false” and “magical.”
School Board President Sean Harden also criticized Martinez last week for presenting the board with “unsatisfactory and incomplete” budget options. Harden called for Martinez, who has been terminated with an end date of June 19, to step aside immediately.
The school-level budgets assume a best-case scenario in which the city gives CPS $300 million in surplus from special taxing districts called TIFs, and either the state or the city come up with an additional $300 million. Both the city and state are cash-strapped and are not planning any big boost in revenue for CPS. Last year, the city gave CPS a record $298 million in TIF surplus funds, but it was based on the premise that the school district would cover a $175 million municipal pension payment. Martinez rebuked the mayor’s demand that CPS pay it.
Martinez argued that over $1.2 billion in property taxes are diverted from CPS every year, depriving the district of over $600 million in revenue.
Aldermen are in charge of allocating TIF money in their districts. When they decide they don’t need all the extra property tax money, some of the extra TIF funds are returned to CPS, called the TIF surplus. In recent years, the district has received tens of millions of dollars that way.
Martinez made a similar plea to aldermen last year and received a record amount of $311 million when the city settled its budget over the winter. But Chicago’s City Council faces its own fiscal challenges in the upcoming budget season.
And the $529 million shortfall already assumes $300 million in TIF surplus.
Another unresolved issue is a $175 million pension payment for non-teacher staff, a cost the city used to cover but has now shifted to the school district. CPS punted that responsibility back to the city this year.
Martinez said if the city dissolved existing TIFs now, CPS would be able to solve its budget problems. Dissolving a TIF early, however, requires City Council approval, which school board President Sean Harden said is a “steep hill” to climb. […]
Joe Ferguson, president of the Civic Federation, a nonpartisan government watchdog group, said the district’s budget plan so far appeared to be a pressure tactic on the city and the state to send more money that is unlikely to materialize. What CPS revealed Wednesday is more of a “tactical document for negotiation” that doesn’t allow principals, schools, and parents to “begin to plan for the coming school year,” Ferguson said.
Martinez rejected the idea that he is making a political move or that it is irresponsible.
“I think it’s irresponsible to force our schools to cut a significant number of staff … I think it’s irresponsible to have over $1.2 billion every single year coming into the city that taxpayers think are going to the taxing bodies, and they are not,” Martinez said, referring to revenue generated by TIFs. “I think it’s irresponsible to propose tax increases at the city level when you have this much money.”
“We are ultimately the face of the district’s decisions, and our students deserve better,” said Kia Banks with the Chicago Principals & Administrators Association. […]
“To give us a budget… without a commitment that that budget will be fully funded, I think is very irresponsible,” Banks said.
By law, the Chicago Board of Education has to vote on and pass a balanced budget. That vote will likely happen sometime in August.
The problem is likely to fall to Martinez’s successor. His last day on the job is June 18.
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - Posted by Advertising Department
[The following is a paid advertisement.]
Retail creates more jobs in Illinois than any other private sector employer, with one out of every four workers employed by the retail sector. Importantly, retail is an industry in which everyone, regardless of credentials, can find a viable career path.
Retailers like the Ken enrich our economy and strengthen our communities. We Are Retail and IRMA showcase the retailers who make Illinois work.
A plan moving in the Illinois Capitol could shield healthcare providers from being punished for prescribing medication abortion if President Donald Trump revokes FDA approval for the drugs.
Sponsors said the Trump administration presents a national threat to reproductive healthcare access and Illinois needs laws in place to keep patients and providers safe. The measure would apply regardless of whether a patient is an Illinois resident or not.
Medication abortion would be protected under state laws as long as it is approved for use by the World Health Organization. […]
The legislation passed out of the Senate Executive Committee on a partisan 8-4 vote Tuesday night. House Bill 3637 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
The Illinois High School Association, the state’s governing body for high school athletics, will collaborate with state lawmakers over a bill that aims to allow student-athletes to compete in more sporting events not sanctioned by the IHSA while their high school seasons are going on.
The IHSA announced in a news release this week that it’s working with state Sen. Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) and state Rep. Janet Yang Rohr (D-Naperville) to expand opportunities for student-athletes to compete in local and national sporting events, based on the two lawmakers’ work on House Bill 3037, known as the Right to Play Act. […]
But now, after the bill has passed the Illinois House and awaits action in the Senate, the IHSA says it’s willing to work with state lawmakers by updating its bylaws.
“We recognize that IHSA bylaws require occasional modifications,” Anderson said in this week’s release. “We appreciate Senator Villivalam and Representative Yang Rohr’s focus on serving their constituents.
* Sen. Robert Peters…
On Wednesday, the Senate Health and Human Services Appropriations Committee held a subject matter hearing for two measures sponsored by State Senator Robert Peters aimed at delivering community-driven responses to youth violence and trauma by investing nearly $10 million in programs that use sports and healing-centered support to reach Illinois’ most vulnerable communities.
“We know sport is more than a game – it’s a life-changing tool that keeps young people safe, connected and on a positive path,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Senate Bill 64 would ensure we’re investing in proven strategies that uplift youth and prevent violence where it’s needed most.”
Senate Bill 64 would distribute $5.5 million to the Illinois Department of Human Services for a grant to Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, an organization supporting more than 300 programs in over 40 countries and territories – each using the power of sport to support young people from underserved communities. Through the grant, Laureus would continue to oversee a statewide grant program supporting organizations in low-density residential neighborhoods that leverage sport as a tool for youth development and violence prevention.
Studies have found that youth sport involvement can positively influence the well-being of children across the country – reducing risky behaviors, teaching life skills and promoting positive social environments. Sports also offer a safe space for youth to engage in physical activity, develop social skills and find positive role models, deterring involvement in violence.
To assist communities grappling with the repercussions of violence, Senate Bill 2633 would allot $4 million to IDHS for a grant to Chicago Survivors for family and community services. Chicago Survivors promotes the healing of communities and families affected by violence through empathetic, trauma-informed and multi-faceted approaches to support. […]
Community organizations assist families through a range of services, from mental health support to peer connection and prevention and intervention. They also help families navigate complex systems and connect them with advocacy and support groups – helping those affected by loss cope with grief, trauma and the aftermath of violence. […]
Peters looks forward to continued conversations with colleagues, advocates and stakeholders in the hopes to advance his legislation.
Democratic lawmakers hope to pass a plan in the final weeks of session to ensure Illinois strengthens workplace safety standards even if federal laws are weakened or repealed.
Sen. Robert Peters (D-Chicago) told the Senate Labor Committee Tuesday that no one should have to worry about losing vital workplace protections due to shifting politics.
His legislation could prevent the state from adopting any rules less protective than those in effect under federal law as of April 28, 2025. The plan would also require Illinois to restore any repealed federal occupational safety rules not already covered under state law. […]
Senate Bill 1976 passed out of the Senate Labor Committee on a partisan 10-3 vote Tuesday night.
* Sen. Mike Porfirio…
According to a recent study, 25% of teachers use AI tools in the classroom. A bill sponsored by State Senator Mike Porfirio would provide assurance that students are learning from teachers, not AI.
“AI is a tool, not a teacher,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “Illinois must stay proactive when it comes to cutting-edge technology. This measure would protect the jobs of our teachers, and secure a legitimate education for our students.”
House Bill 1859 would prohibit courses in public community colleges from using artificial intelligence as the sole source of instruction in lieu of a faculty member. It specifies that teachers are able to use AI to aid course instruction. In 2024, California enacted a similar law, prohibiting AI bots from replacing community college faculty.
Schools across the country have been searching for new ways of incorporating AI into their courses. In 2023, Harvard University announced that they would be using an AI teaching assistant to teach their CS50 course. Porfirio’s bill would safeguard teachers from the expansion of AI utilization, preventing it from serving in place of a staff member at Illinois community colleges.
House Bill 1859 passed the Senate Executive Committee on Wednesday.
An Illinois State Senator is pushing a proposal to stop gyms from altering benefits of a “promised lifetime membership.”
State Senator Christopher Belt said in a news conference he’s highlighting legislation that would prevent gyms and fitness centers from cancelling or changing benefits of their promised lifetime memberships, otherwise known as a “bait-and-switch” tactic. […]
Senate Bill 314 requires physical fitness centers that offer these lifetime memberships to be upfront about any provisions in the contract that would allow them to decrease benefits or increase prices. Additionally, these terms have to be clearly disclosed, meaning no fine print or “legal gymnastics.” […]
The bill passed the Senate and is currently awaiting consideration before the Illinois House.
SB314 received a deadline extension in the House, giving the bill until May 31 to move through the chamber.
The Illinois Senate passed a bill Wednesday to allow more low-income college students to receive SNAP benefits.
Nearly one in four undergraduate students don’t know where their next meal is coming from. Sen. Graciela Guzman (D-Chicago) said Illinois should expand eligibility for students who participate in a government operated program that increases employability and job readiness. […]
Senate Republicans appreciated the intent of the legislation. Although, Sen. Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) said able-bodied college students should be working in order to receive SNAP benefits. […]
Senate Bill 1298 passed out of the Senate on a 39-16 vote and now moves to the House floor.
Second Amendment supporters traveled to the state capitol building Wednesday to lobby for gun rights. […]
The gun rights activists also aimed their sights at a bill that is yet to pass both chambers. SB8 would require all firearms to be securely stored in a locked container when in the presence of a minor or at risk person.
While the proposal has passed the Senate, it is currently delayed after a subject matter hearing last week. Ed Sullivan with the Illinois State Rifle Association said the Democrats could be scared to pass it.
“They’re taking notice that we’re going to sue them,” Sullivan said.
Two bills aimed at mascots in Illinois High Schools have temporarily stalled in the Illinois Senate, but lawmakers say the legislation likely isn’t going away anytime soon.
HB1237 and HB 327 each passed the Illinois House by large margins, but failed to be assigned to committee after multiple lawmakers expressed concerns over the cost to local school districts. […]
“The team is named because of history,” State Rep. Charlie Meier said. “Because of what went on there. That’s honoring them. It goes to show you can be a fighter. They fight for their team. They fight to win.”
Shelby Holloway, co-director of Mascot’s Matter, views the issue a bit differently.
“You could be playing another individual at another school who has dwarfism,” Shelby Holloway said. “Imagine what that student feels when you are chanting your mascot.” […]
Sen. Karina Villa, the Senate sponsor of HB3527, has already requested an extension on the bill in hopes it could be assigned to committee before the end of session on June 1.
* Rep. Murri Briel…
Committed to addressing everyday obstacles Illinois farmers face, state Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa, is carrying a bill expanding the lawful use of large-scale farm equipment to the House Floor for consideration this week.
“It’s very common for farms across the state to employ temporary help during planting and harvesting season, and we want to ensure these workers are able to operate equipment critical to the farm’s success,” said Briel. “By extending the license availability to operate farm equipment another 30 days, we won’t be taking away these crucial tools halfway through their harvesting seasons.”
Senate Bill 849 expands CDL license availability for any farm-related service from 180 days to 210 days in any 12-month period, allowing temporary farm workers to operate large-scale equipment through a full season of planting and harvesting.
Current law barred temporary workers from utilizing CDL licenses to continue using large-scale farm equipment, like combines and irrigation machinery, through the completion of harvest season. This measure would effectively extend the CDL period an additional 30 days so temporary farm hands can operate through the completion of harvesting periods.
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - Posted by Advertising Department
[The following is a paid advertisement.]
Over 20,000 Illinois seniors are going without needed home care because wages are too low to keep and attract workers.
“In the past five years, I’ve had five different home care aides, because they can’t support themselves and have to find better paying jobs,” said senior Demetrice Davis. “It’s heartbreaking and makes me worry that I won’t be able to get the help I need to stay in my home.”
“It’s time to decide whether we’re going to do what it takes to provide our seniors with the care they need,” said State Senator Celina Villanueva. “Making this investment in care workers so our seniors don’t suffer—it’s an easy decision. When we have billionaires in DC attacking our most vulnerable, it’s time for us as a state to show our real values by making the wealthiest pay their fair share to fund the services our seniors need.”
As state revenue forecasts continue to decline, advocates and their elected supporters are calling for major corporations and the ultra-wealthy to pay their fair share in taxes, ensuring Illinois has the necessary resources to support investments in seniors and working families.
“As a state, we need to get our priorities right. Investing in the home care workforce with so many seniors’ lives on the line—it’s the right thing to do,” said Senator Villanueva.
Support HB1330/SB120 because Illinois seniors deserve quality care. Care can’t wait!
* Background is here if you need it. When the Democrats passed a temporary income tax increase under Gov. Pat Quinn, the Senate Republicans unveiled a “menu” of budget cuts as an alternative to a tax hike. The Senate Democrats used those cut ideas to blast Republican incumbents and candidates in the 2012 election cycle and prevailed in every contest. The SGOPs’ attacks on a very real tax hike were essentially outdone by the Democrats’ attacks on a hypothetical list of possible cuts. The Democratic Party of Illinois is using a tried and true angle…
Illinois Republicans Play “DOGE” Dress Up While Proposing Devastating Cuts
Springfield, IL — In response to members of the MAGA wannabe Illinois Freedom Caucus proposing a doomed plan to cut billions in state funding for education, health care, and pensions, Democratic Party of Illinois Chair Lisa Hernandez released the following statement:
“Determined to bring Trump’s trademarked chaos home, the ILGOP unveiled their latest haphazard scheme to take us backwards. Despite their clear lack of understanding of how any of this actually works, the Freedom Caucus’s ridiculous proposal would mean devastating consequences for Illinoisans. These cuts would result in massive rollbacks in family services, children’s food assistance, and infrastructure repairs.”
What the Laughable ILGOP Plan Would Mean for Illinois’ Working Families:
• The ILGOP plan aims to destroy the program supporting children with lunches during summer vacation and school breaks.
• From highway repairs to rural broadband expansion, the ILGOP plan would put a halt on much needed infrastructure improvements across Illinois and wouldn’t result in any savings for the general operating budget.
• Their plan shorts pension payments by millions of dollars, jeopardizing the retirement of hardworking teachers, first responders, and public employees.
• Eliminates workforce training initiatives and programs that connect youth with employment opportunities.
• While record-high housing costs are hitting working families hard, Republicans want to eliminate essential housing assistance programs.
• The cuts to DCFS’ budget would have a devastating impact on programs that support the state’s most vulnerable children and families.
• Thousands of high-paying jobs in Illinois would be under threat if these Republicans get their way and cancel support for clean energy projects.
• Republican representatives want to cut benefits for hard-working, rank-and-file state employees.
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - Posted by Advertising Department
[The following is a paid advertisement.]
The IFPA would create chaos for local businesses and shoppers – potentially requiring Illinoisans to pay CASH for sales tax. What do real shoppers think about this untested mandate from Springfield? We found out.
* ICYMI: Illinois Head Start officials react with caution to RFK Jr.’s assurances of continued funding. Tribune…
- Illinois Head Start officials reacted warily Wednesday to assurances from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. that the administration of President Donald Trump supports continued funding for the federal early childhood development program, which supports about 28,000 low-income children and families in Illinois alone.
-“ Lauri Morrison-Frichtl, executive director of the Illinois Head Start Association, said Kennedy’s testimony was “good news and I hope there’s continued good news going forward.”
- Morrison-Frichtl said there are still issues with delayed funding to Illinois Head Start programs due to federal actions such as the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency’s late April “defend to spend” initiative requiring increased justifications for grants from the Department of Health and Human Services.
* BlueRoomStream.com’s coverage of today’s press conferences and committee hearings can be found here.
* Gov. Pritzker will be downstate today, starting with an 11 am visit to Venice Recreation Hall to announce awards supporting the establishment of new grocery stores in food deserts. At 2:30 pm, he’ll be in Marion for the groundbreaking of the first STAR Bonds project. Click here to watch.
*** Isabel’s Top Picks ***
* Tribune | 3 CTA board members join calls for nationwide search for new leader: Amid speculation that Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson plans to appoint one of his top deputies to lead the Chicago Transit Authority, three CTA board members said they support a national search for a new president Wednesday, echoing calls made by transit advocates and signaling the mayor could face more opposition to his plans for the role. Three of the seven members, including one appointed by the mayor, said they back the nationwide search during a sometimes heated CTA board meeting.
* Tribune | Race for retiring US Sen. Dick Durbin’s seat opens up contests for Chicago-area congressional seats: On Thursday, Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss became the latest but likely not the last congressional contestant, announcing his candidacy for the Democratic nomination in Schakowsky’s 9th Congressional District, which includes the city’s Far North Side and numerous north and northwest suburbs. In addition to Schakowsky’s seat, candidacies in recent days have been announced to succeed Democratic Reps. Robin Kelly of Matteson in the 2nd Congressional District that includes parts of the city’s South Side as well as many south suburbs and downstate areas, and Raja Krishnamoorthi of Schaumburg in the northwest suburban 8th Congressional District. Both Kelly and Krishnamoorthi have declared they are running to succeed Durbin.
* Crain’s | CVS’ drug middleman gives Illinois $45M to settle rebate dispute: Illinois officials indicated that the settlement is about a larger issue than just a contract dispute with one PBM. “PBMs have gone from being useful administrative service providers to behemoths that control the pharmaceutical industry at the expense of patients and independent pharmacies,” Attorney General Kwame Raoul said in a statement. “This settlement is part of my office’s ongoing work to hold PBMs accountable to the people of Illinois, which also includes calling on Congress to take federal action to reign in PBMs. I will continue to advocate for reforms that ensure transparency and competition in prescription pricing.”
*** Statewide ***
* WBEZ | Illinois immigrants closely following Supreme Court arguments on birthright citizenship: Daniela, an asylum seeker from Nicaragua who lives in a small town near DeKalb, Illinois, will be watching closely on Thursday, when the U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments about the right to citizenship for children born in the United States to immigrant parents. Almost all legal scholars say there is no basis for denying citizenship to people born in the United States, but Thursday’s oral arguments could ultimately impact the citizenship status of millions of children across the country, including Daniela’s newborn.
*** Statehouse News ***
* Subscribers know much, much more. Politico | Huge shake-up: Democratic state Rep. Fred Crespo was stripped of his leadership positions and kicked out of the Democratic caucus by House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch. The reason: “He wouldn’t return calls” from House Majority Leader and chief budgeteer Robyn Gable, and “didn’t complete” tasks that he was assigned as chair of the House Appropriations-General Services Committee, which reviews funding for statewide offices such as treasurer, comptroller and attorney general, and some state agencies, according to a person inside the speaker’s office. “We understand he was trying to introduce a budget proposal that didn’t reflect input with [his Democratic] colleagues and leadership,” according to the person. “He didn’t work in collaboration with people who the speaker put in charge of budget negotiations.”
* Capitol News Illinois | Governor’s office cuts revenue projection by $500M in latest downward estimate: While Pritzker’s office blamed changes made by the Trump administration for revenue shortfalls, the new fiscal reality is almost certain to make passing a budget more difficult as lawmakers are forced to consider approving new revenue streams or cutting state programs to make up the difference. The Governor’s Office of Management and Budget lowered revenue projections for fiscal year 2026, which begins July 1, by $536 million from its February estimate. It’s a 1% decrease that puts the state on track to finish FY26 with $54.9 billion in revenue.
* KSDK | ‘Slap in the face’: Illinois Lt. Governor blasts Trump EPA’s rollback of PFAS regulations as over 400,000 residents face contamination: — Just over a month after officials warned over 400,000 Illinois residents that their water is contaminated, the Trump Administration’s Environmental Protection Agency announced it would be rolling back numerous regulations aimed at protecting drinking water. EPA on Wednesday announced it would be weakening drinking water rules for “forever chemicals,” or PFAS. The Biden administration originally set the first-of-their-kind limits on PFAS due to their increased risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers and babies being born with low birth weight at high levels.
* Axios | Illinois makes HIV drug PrEP more available: As the federal government cuts funding for HIV and AIDS research, Illinois is trying to make HIV prevention meds more available. Better access to the medication could reduce the risk of contraction for those most at risk — men who have sex with men and Black and Hispanic people. The Illinois Department of Public Health issued an order allowing Illinoisans to obtain the medication PrEP, which can reduce the risk of contracting HIV through sex by 99% when taken correctly, directly from a pharmacist without first requiring a doctor’s prescription.
* Sun-Times | Rahm Emanuel flirts with idea he’d run for president: Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel openly flirted with a 2028 presidential candidacy Wednesday, telling a nationally televised talk show audience that he is “in training” for a White House bid. Emanuel’s remarks on ABC’s “The View” stopped short of an actual announcement that he intends to run for what constitutionally should be an open seat, given that President Donald Trump will have served two terms.
*** Chicago ***
* Tribune | CPS faces $529 million shortfall as school budgets roll out: There are additional challenges in the upcoming school year, officials told reporters in a briefing Wednesday, due to the expiration of federal pandemic relief funding, rising prices and greater student needs. CPS faces an estimated $529 million shortfall heading into next year. But outgoing schools chief Pedro Martinez said the district is moving ahead under the assumption that it will receive $300 million in additional money from either the city or the state, and prioritize cost-saving measures that avoid impacting schools directly.
* WTTW | Ald. Moore Warns CTA Board Not to Be ‘Backbiting Snake’ by Opposing Mayor’s Pick for Agency Leader as Some Call for National Search: In his fiery, unscheduled remarks to directors at the end of the usual public comment period, Moore slammed transit advocates’ outcry for a national search to find the next CTA leader and said the board should fall in line behind the mayor’s nomination. Moore touted Roberson’s long track record of work across local government and claimed advocates for a full-fledged search don’t actually represent commuters who rely on the CTA. Among his previous jobs, Roberson once served as chief of staff for Moore.
* WBEZ | ‘It’s just devastating,’ Chicago State president says of federal cuts: It’s not only big-name institutions that are feeling the effects of President Donald Trump’s attacks on higher education. The administration’s decision to freeze nearly $800 million in funding for Northwestern University has gotten a lot of attention. But on the other side of Chicago, in the Far South Side neighborhood of Roseland, Chicago State University has been hit by federal cuts as well.
* Crain’s | Chicago blocks press from investor event amid $1B budget warning: The city made the decision to block the press from attending the city’s annual investor conference after hearing from financiers who said they would provide less guarded feedback and more pointed questions without journalists in the room. A group of news outlets, including Crain’s Chicago Business, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, WBEZ, Bloomberg, Block Club Chicago and the Better Government Association this week wrote a letter asking the administration to reverse course — to no avail.
* WTTW | With Labor Contract Secured, CTU Members Now Set to Vote on Union Leadership: The union on Friday is holding officer elections in which current leaders — the Caucus of Rank-and-file Educators (CORE) — will face off against challengers from the Respect Educate Advocate Lead, or REAL, caucus. CORE, which took over union leadership in 2010 under powerhouse president Karen Lewis, is now headed by Stacy Davis Gates, who is wrapping up her first term as union president following her election victory in 2022.
* Crain’s | Troubles mount at Appraisal Institute, Chicago-based center of property valuations: Problems are piling up at the Chicago-based Appraisal Institute, an influential group in the real estate industry because of its key role in property valuation. They include a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by a former CEO, a lengthy investigation published by The New York Times and, according to the ex-CEO, entrenched business practices that allegedly undermine the integrity of appraisals done for homes and commercial property.
* Crain’s | Lincoln Yards poised for reset as full site sale nears: Chicago-based JDL Development is in talks to buy the southern portion of the proposed megaproject land along the North Branch of the Chicago River from a joint venture of J.P. Morgan Asset Management and developer Sterling Bay, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. The discussions come as JDL is also in advanced discussions, first reported by Crain’s, to buy the vacant northern portion from lender Bank OZK, which seized that parcel from Sterling Bay in March to resolve an outstanding loan balance.
* NBC Chicago | Chicago Bears’ schedule released by NFL Wednesday: The Chicago Bears will be hoping to get back to the postseason this year, and we now know the road that they will have to take to get there. The Bears’ schedule features 10 games against teams that reached the playoffs last year, including a Week 13 showdown against the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.
*** Cook County and Suburbs ***
* Daily Southtown | Tiffany Henyard skips final regular meeting during tenure as Thornton Township supervisor: The Township Board voted to settle a lawsuit with employee Kathryn Granberry and to spend $3,000 for an “employee luncheon.” The board also paid bills with the exception of several reoccurring services Henyard previously pushed. Meeting attendees, including newly elected trustees Mary Avent and Valeria Stubbs who take office Monday, expressed gratitude for board members Chris Gonzalez, Carmen Carlisle and Stephanie Wiedeman for their leadership during Henyard’s three-year tenure as supervisor.
* Daily Herald | New Aurora mayor calls for people-centered economic development, better relations with aldermen: “The big-picture goal of our city has to be bringing living-wage jobs,” he told a crowd of about 1,100 people at the inauguration ceremony at the Paramount Theater. That will be the litmus test for any company looking to build in Aurora, he said. Laesch also said he wants to share more power with the aldermen and treat all of them equally after being treated as a “second-class citizen the last two years.” He pledged to keep relations civil.
* Shaw Local | Threatened cuts to programs fighting opioid overdoses called ‘disastrous’ for communities: Although the Trump administration named overdose prevention among its top drug policy priorities, in recent weeks, CNN and The New York Times have reported on a draft budget proposal to cut a $56 million annual grant program for the training and distribution of Narcan. […] Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant said these “dangerous cuts would be disastrous for communities” throughout the county. The region has been plagued by fatal heroin and opioid overdoses in the past.
* Daily Herald | DuPage Forest Preserve District volunteer honored with Governor’s Award: Bruce Kulik, a volunteer with the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, has been named a recipient of the 2025 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award by the Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service. The Bolingbrook resident was honored as the Outstanding Senior Volunteer in Region 2 at a ceremony on April 24 in Chicago. He is thought to be the first volunteer from the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County to earn the honor. Since joining the Forest Preserve District in 2020, Kulik has contributed more than 1,600 hours at sites including Danada Equestrian Center in Wheaton and Kline Creek Farm in West Chicago.
* NBC Chicago | Wheaton family blames radio personality for more than $134K investment loss: A few years passed, and when Phil finally saw his policy statement, he noticed thousands of dollars in what he assumed were monthly fees. “It just shows an asset charge $17,000, negative $17,000,” said Phil. “We have so many fees on this thing, we wouldn’t have money left in it.”
* Daily Southtown | Making amends: Lockport Vietnam War veteran funds library in Binh Dinh Province where he served: The 83-year-old veteran’s bright blue eyes grew translucent with tears, guilt and sorrow overcoming his otherwise stoic visage. “You pay for the war for the rest of your life,” Picciolo said, almost 60 years after his nine-month stint in the southeast Asian country. Picciolo said he is considered 60% disabled from Agent Orange, the now infamous herbicide the United States government disseminated in Vietnam to control vegetation.
*** Downstate ***
* Sun-Times | Illinois Supreme Court considers pretrial release of Sonya Massey murder suspect: The Illinois Supreme Court is considering whether a former sheriff’s deputy accused of murder in the fatal shooting of Springfield resident Sonya Massey should be released from jail before his October trial date. Sean Grayson, 30, responded to Massey’s 911 call reporting a potential home intruder on July 6, 2024. Body camera footage shows Grayson, a Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy at the time, threatening to shoot 36-year-old Massey for not removing a pot of boiling water from her stove top, before opening fire and striking her in her face.
* WCIS | Sonya Massey’s family speaks out, following Sean Grayson’s pretrial release hearing: Sonya Massey’s family, including both her parents, were present at the hearing. Members of the family embraced Sonya’s mom while her father supported himself with his cane, as tears welled in his eyes. “I don’t think there are any terms or any conditions that this guy is going to comply with,” Sonya Massey’s Father, James Wilburn, said. Sonya’s family opposes Grayson’s request for pretrial release. Sonya’s cousin, Sontae Massey, said if the roles were reversed, Sonya would’ve been issued punishment a long time ago.
* WGLT | Trump’s proposed NEA cut will hurt small communities most — but artists have been here before: Last week, grants already promised to arts nonprofits were yanked by letter — in a move that looks quite like other recent federal grant revocations. Cultural Arts Director for the Town of Normal Beth Whisman said, for now, they haven’t received one of those letters. The town received a $50,000 NEA grant for a mural in the eventual Uptown underpass. “We’re bracing for it,” said Whisman on the possibility for losing the grant that would primarily impact community engagement tied to the project.
* WCIA | Over 13% of Central Illinoisans are food insecure: EIF, Feeding America: In the EIF’s area, more than 143,000 people — which is 13.3% of the population — live in food-insecure households. Out of those people, nearly 40,000 are children. […] Nationwide, the study also found that nearly nine out 10 high food insecurity counties are rural. And, more than two out of five people facing hunger nationwide may not qualify for SNAP benefits due to income limits. In Eastern Illinois, that number jumps to 44%, while 29% of children facing hunger may not qualify for free or reduced-price meals.
* WCIA | Illinois, Oklahoma State tie for NCAA Regional title: Illinois men’s golf couldn’t maintain a three-stroke lead it held entering the final day of play at Atkins Golf Club. However, the Illini didn’t fully give up the lead either. Instead, Oklahoma State and Illinois wound up tied for the top spot at the conclusion of the three-day tournament in Urbana. Both teams finish 15 under par on the week and will share the regional crown. Since the top five teams all advance to NCAA Nationals, a playoff to determine the winner was not played.
*** National ***
* NYT | House Republicans Push Forward Plan to Cut Taxes, Medicaid and Food Aid: The measure would extend Mr. Trump’s 2017 tax cut and temporarily enact his campaign pledges not to tax tips or overtime pay. Cuts to Medicaid, food stamps and subsidies for clean energy would partly offset the roughly $3.8 trillion cost of those tax measures, as well as increased spending on the military and immigration enforcement.
* The Atlantic | The Cynical Republican Plan to Cut Medicaid: The fiscal centerpiece of the “big, beautiful bill” now making its way through Congress is to take Medicaid away from jobless adults. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the work requirement would save $300 billion over a decade and take health insurance from 7.6 million people. This would not come close to offsetting the deficit-exploding effects of extending and expanding the 2017 tax cut, but it’s one of the only big spending reductions the congressional Republican caucus can agree on.
* WaPo | RFK Jr. to Congress: ‘I don’t think people should be taking medical advice from me’: During one of the sharpest lines of questioning in the first hearing in front of a House Appropriations subcommittee, Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wisconsin) asked if Kennedy, the founder of a prominent anti-vaccine group, would vaccinate his own child against measles today. Kennedy paused before answering, “Probably.” Kennedy went on to say, “I don’t think people should be taking medical advice from me,” and he did not directly answer whether he would vaccinate his own children against chicken pox and polio today.
* WaPo | NOAA scrambles to fill forecasting jobs as hurricane season looms: Some National Weather Service forecasting teams are so critically understaffed that the agency is offering to pay moving expenses for any staff willing to transfer to those offices, according to notices recently sent to employees and obtained by The Washington Post. The worker shortages have forced several offices to stop operating 24 hours a day — a drastic step for an agency whose ethos is to prepare and warn a “weather-ready” nation.
* Click here and/or here to follow breaking news. Hopefully, enough reporters and news outlets migrate to BlueSky so we can hopefully resume live-posting.
