As the race for the Democratic nomination to the U.S. Senate in Illinois begins to take shape, a recent survey of likely Democratic primary voters shows Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi in a strong position in a multi-candidate contest.
While the survey showed Raja in the lead in a larger field with five candidates, his lead actually expands in a scenario limited to the three currently announced candidates.
Congresswoman Lauren Underwood’s supporters were more likely to select Raja as their second choice candidate than anyone else. When Underwood and Treasurer Mike Frerichs’ supporters are allocated to their second choices, Raja opens up a 9-point advantage over Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton.
Congresswoman Robin Kelly also sits in double digits in this scenario, with a large share of the electorate still undecided.
1 Results are taken from a survey of 800 likely voters in the March 2026 Democratic primary for U.S. Senate in Illinois. Interviews were conducted by live dialers via telephone and through text-to-web responses between April 24-28, 2025. Results carry a margin of error of +/- 3.5 percentage points at a 95 percent confidence interval.
2 Alternative race scenarios with fewer candidates were calculated by asking respondents who their second choice would be, if their
first choice was not in the race. Those voters whose second choice was not included in the simulation were allocated to ‘undecided.’
Ancient numbers, but interesting.
…Adding… Press release…
As a part of her continued work to stand up for Illinois’ 14th Congressional District and counter Donald Trump’s dangerous MAGA agenda in Washington, Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14) today issued the following statement regarding her political future:
“In 2018, I was elected to protect health care for people with pre-existing conditions. Since then we’ve gotten 19 pieces of legislation signed into law – bringing home billions of dollars and expanding access to high quality affordable health care for every American.
“Now, Donald Trump and his Administration are renewing their attacks on health care by trying to slash Medicaid and undo all the progress we’ve made, which would have deadly consequences for working families across the country. Our work is not done, and I’ve decided the most powerful way for me to defend our values and hold Donald Trump accountable is to help Democrats win back the House.
“By serving in House Democratic leadership and leading the DCCC recruitment efforts, I’ll continue working to drive down costs for American families, flip the House, and elect a new generation of changemakers. I’m excited to keep leading that fight at home and in Washington.”
Underwood’s decision to forgo a run for the United States Senate coincides with non-partisan projections showing that the most likely way for Democrats to regain power in Washington is through winning back the House of Representatives in 2026. As a member of Democratic House leadership, and as the DCCC Recruitment Co-Chair, Underwood will be playing a key role in helping Democrats flip the House in the 2026 cycle.
“Lauren Underwood has been a force to be reckoned with in the House of Representatives since she successfully flipped a long-held Republican district in 2018,” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-8). “As a valuable member of leadership, Congresswoman Underwood is playing a critical role in helping House Democrats communicate decisively with voters as we fight the reckless Republican budget scheme and work hard to win back the majority in 2026. At this pivotal moment, Lauren’s work in the House to stop Donald Trump’s dangerous MAGA agenda is needed now more than ever and we look forward to her continued leadership.”
“Congresswoman Underwood is a proven fighter who knows how to flip Republican seats and win tough races,” said DCCC Chairwoman, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01). “As the DCCC Recruitment Co-Chair, Congresswoman Underwood is on the frontlines of bringing the best and brightest to Congress to stop MAGA Republicans and fight for working families. The road to a better United States runs through the House, and we’re lucky to have Congresswoman Underwood helping to pave it.”
Lauren Underwood is a four term United States Congresswoman from Illinois’ 14 district, where she helped flip the House of Representatives and was elected as the youngest Black Congresswoman in history in 2018. In 2024, Underwood won reelection to the House in 2024 by 10 points, while Vice President Harris only won the district by 5 points. Currently the Cook Political Report scores the 14th District as D+3 in their Partisan Voting Index, down one point from 2023.
…Adding… Congresswoman Robin Kelly…
Lauren Underwood is a smart colleague who works very hard for her district and for our state. She’s been a leader in shaping both the message and the future of our party for the better. Lauren and I have both worked diligently on ending the maternal mortality crisis — and I know she will continue to be a critical partner in delivering for the people of Illinois.
With the constant chaos coming out of Donald Trump’s Washington, taking back the House is more vital than ever before, and Lauren Underwood’s leadership is critical to making that a reality. I’m grateful for Lauren’s advocacy, especially on health care and reproductive rights, and I’m proud to have her fighting for Illinois in Washington.
* Here’s something you don’t see much, if ever: A state government touting an increase in staffing levels. But most states didn’t hollow out their workforces to the point where some agencies couldn’t perform their tasks. And I doubt it took many other states almost a year just to hire somebody. Press release…
Today, Illinois Central Management Services (CMS) announced that the State of Illinois has achieved historic outcomes in building up its workforce, increasing the total employee count from 50,544 in 2019 to 55,340 in 2025 – the highest number of state employees since 2008, which was 55,237 employees. These gains are driven by hiring at agencies that have historically faced challenges filling positions and that directly provide support to vulnerable Illinoisans. This includes a 44% increase in staffing at the Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) and a 15% increase in direct care worker roles at the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS).
Formerly a manual, paper-driven process plagued by outdated grading systems, the State’s hiring has undergone a transformative modernization since 2019, resulting in a more efficient and streamlined process today.
“These milestones are a testament to the dedication and commitment of CMS, which has embraced efficiency, innovation and collaboration to improve past hiring challenges,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “By modernizing our hiring practices and investing in technology, we’re not just improving efficiency, we’re building a government that is more inclusive, responsive, and equipped to serve the people of Illinois for generations to come. As we look ahead, CMS will build upon this progress as it continues to improve and streamline hiring for key roles that support Illinoisans every day.”
CMS launched an unprecedented improvement effort designed to update the hiring process. This includes upgrading technology to enable fully electronic applications, developing new proactive recruitment strategies to broaden the applicant pool, and eliminating redundant processes following the passage of SB 2228. These changes have resulted in:
• Record High Number of Employees Driven by Hiring Key Health and Human Services Positions: The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) and Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) have exceeded historical staffing levels. For example, DCFS staffing has increased 44% (2,686 to 3,886) from 2019 to 2025, and DCFS caseworker roles are staffed at an unprecedented 96%. At IDHS, Direct Care Worker roles have increased nearly 15% (4,167 to 4,789) from 2019 to 2025 and is considered fully staffed.
• Hiring Timeline Reduced by 58%: While improvements are still being made, the hiring timeline has gone from an average of 269 days in 2019 to 111 days in 2025 – a 58% reduction.
• Vacancy Rate Cut Nearly in Half: The vacancy rate for jobs at the State of Illinois decreased from 14% in 2019 to 8% in 2025.
• Application Surge: Applications increased 311% after the electronic system rollout in 2020. From 2022 to 2024 alone, applications rose 110% (193,294 to 407,526), and the candidate pool increased 81%. Job offers increased 49% over the same period.
“Our workforce should reflect the people we serve,” said CMS Director Raven A. DeVaughn. “Increased applications and placements show that our changes are working while still prioritizing equity and accessibility. Not only are we hiring faster, but we’re hiring the very best candidates from the most diverse pools.”
Increased outreach at job fairs, community events, and the launch of the Really Great Careers campaign have also helped to broaden the State’s applicant pool. More than 1,100 job seekers attended career fairs hosted by CMS this year at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), Malcom X College in Chicago, and Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC).
“It made perfect sense to implement modern processes and best practices to Illinois’ hiring processes through legislation I led in 2023,” said State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora). “Here’s the payoff already happening from making this leap forward: CMS has reduced the hiring timeline nearly 60 percent, cut the job vacancy rate nearly in half in critical agencies like DHS and DCFS, and tripled the number of job applications received through the new electronic system. The candidate pool grew and job offers increased. This is a win for both the State and its workers.”
“Governor Pritzker signed SB 2228 in 2023 taking a critical step toward transforming our state’s hiring processes, making government more transparent and accessible to all,” said State Representative Marcus C. Evans, Jr. (D-Chicago). “I was proud to have chief sponsored and led the negotiations with CMS leadership on this legislation. I applaud the department’s effective implementation which shows great progress toward improving our State’s workforce.”
For more information about job opportunities at the State of Illinois, visit https://work.illinois.gov/.
111 days to hire someone is still too long, but it’s a drastic improvement.
You wonder whether the federal government will have to do the same sort of thing in the future after drastically cutting some of its workforce this year, in many cases without much rhyme or reason.
…Adding… Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II was interviewed by RFD Radio’s Rita Frazer…
First of all, I want to tell you that five-and-a-half years ago when I came to the Department of Agriculture, we had 299 employees.
We’ve got 435 employees … hoping to hire a couple more.
There’s a couple of areas I would specifically point out. One of them is meat and poultry processing.
Five-and-a-half years ago we were at, I think, 72 or 73 inspectors. We’re at 105 now, which is the largest number ever that we’re aware of in the history of the Department of Agriculture.
Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul co-led a coalition of 18 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief supporting a legal challenge to two of President Trump’s executive orders targeting diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility initiatives.
Raoul and the coalition filed their brief in National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education v. Trump before the United States Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit. The plaintiffs in the case, higher education associations and the city of Baltimore, challenged vague provisions in the executive orders that direct federal agencies to terminate “equity-related grants or contracts” and to include in contracts or grant awards a requirement that recipients certify that they do not operate programs promoting “diversity, equity and inclusion.” One of the orders also directed the U.S. Attorney General to encourage the private sector to end diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. The administration has not defined critical terms in the executive orders, including which diversity, equity and inclusion practices it finds objectionable.
“Diversity initiatives are lawful, and studies show that they lead to more successful businesses and learning environments,” Raoul said. “I will stand with those who are challenging this administration’s illegal attempts to eliminate these programs and turn back the clock on the important progress that has been made toward equity.”
A lower court concluded that plaintiffs were likely to succeed with their case and entered a preliminary injunction blocking the administration from enforcing the provisions of the orders being challenged by the lawsuit. The administration sought and was granted a stay of the injunction from the 4th Circuit pending a decision on the merits of the appeal. Raoul and the attorneys general are asking the court to affirm the district court’s order and put the injunction back in place.
In their brief, Raoul and the attorneys general maintain that diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility programs are lawful and beneficial. In fact, many such programs ensure compliance with state and federal civil rights statutes. The attorneys general also explain how the challenged provisions in the executive orders harm the states, as well as their residents and businesses, by denying them the many valuable benefits associated with workplaces, schools and communities that have adopted practices related to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.
* Ald. Debra Silverstein…
I am appalled by Mayor Brandon Johnson’s decision to appoint Ishan Daya to the city’s newly formed budget working group. Mr. Daya was rightfully fired from his position as co-CEO of Crafty after he was caught tearing down posters of innocent hostages kidnapped by Hamas during the horrific October 7 terrorist attack. Appointing him to a leadership position in Chicago is a deliberate slap in the face to the Jewish community and to all those praying for the release of the 59 hostages still held in Gaza.
This is not an isolated mistake—it is part of a deeply troubling pattern where Mayor Johnson repeatedly elevates individuals hostile to the Jewish community. It also comes during Jewish American Heritage Month and at a time when the mayor has claimed he wants to repair his strained relationship with Chicago’s Jewish community, adding a layer of hypocrisy that cannot be ignored.
The mayor seems determined to surround himself with people who peddle hate and division. His repeated disregard for the Jewish community is both painful and unacceptable. We deserve better.
…Adding… He gone…
Update: Ishan Daya is pulling out of the group. "In the interest of the work to support a budget that advances the needs of working class folks in this city, Julie Dworkin will be the representative for the Institute for the Public Good."
* Crain’s | Chicago tourism inches up, but business travel still drags: More than 55 million visitors came to Chicago last year as the city’s tourism sector continued its gradual post-pandemic comeback. But there is still a long way to go on the road to match pre-COVID numbers. City tourism arm Choose Chicago today announced its total visitation estimate for 2024, the first full year after the official end of the public health crisis. The 55.3 million figure was up 6.5% from 2023 and buoyed by a strong return of international visitors, but still trails the record of 61.6 million tourists that visited Chicago in 2019.
* Tribune | Mayor Brandon Johnson’s team defended failed property tax hike plan to investors: Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration stressed his attempts to increase property taxes in his 2025 budget in a presentation to city investors this week, his team told reporters Friday. On Thursday, the first day of an annual conference hosted by the mayor’s office, potential buyers of city debt heard from Johnson and his budget team about Chicago’s financial state and its borrowing and spending plans — though this year the mayor broke with tradition and barred reporters from attending. But Chief Financial Officer Jill Jaworski briefed reporters Friday on what she said transpired in the closed-door gatherings the previous day.
* Sun-Times | Chicago Teachers Union leaders face challengers in election Friday: But a group of teachers that calls themselves the Respect Educate Advocate Lead (REAL) caucus don’t see it that way and are vying to take over the union. Erika Meza, REAL’s candidate for CTU president, said the high contract approval mark was due more to members wanting the political turmoil from the nearly yearlong negotiations to come to an end. She thinks members are frustrated by leadership she says has become too insular and combative. She likes REAL’s chances on Friday.
* WTTW | National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago Facilitates Repatriation of Ancient Mayan Frieze Back to Mexico: The frieze had recently been donated by the family of Jeanne and Joseph Sullivan, based in the Chicago area, who National Museum of Mexican Art Visual Arts Director and Chief Curator Cesáreo Moreno described as being “very happy” the piece is being returned to Mexico. “I really have high hopes that people find out that repatriation can be a really good thing because sometimes when you read about it in the news, it’s a legal battle,” Moreno said. “It’s an ugly story, oftentimes.”
* WBEZ | A new play captures the longing of children in Chicago foster care: The play, which opens Saturday and runs through May 23, offers an artistic look at the experiences of young people in Chicago’s foster care system — a system that currently is responsible for 2,428 children, according to Illinois Department of Children and Family Services data. Written in collaboration with LYDIA Home, a nonprofit that provides housing for children in the foster system, the production feels authentic because it is: Foster children co-wrote the show and came up with the characters.
* WTTW | Chicago’s Parks Are Full of Trees, But No One Knows How Many. They’re About To Get Counted: In recent years, the district has bulked up its forestry program and has been aggressively planting new trees, Breitenbach said, but it has done so in the absence of a firm tree count. Estimates are somewhere between 200,000 and 300,000. Information on the species composition and health of the district’s tree canopy is also lacking. The district is proposing to close that knowledge gap with a tree inventory, to be conducted by Davey Resources Group, paid for with a $1.3 million grant administered by Morton Arboretum, Breitenbach told commissioners.
* WGN | Vintage Chicago entertainer blends history & humor in ‘Park District Bathroom Reviews’: Scorch is the man who named the Chicago River’s large snapping turtle, “Chonkasaurus,” in a viral video. He also penned a poem about hot dogs in the style of Emily Dickinson. Scorch is the man behind a popular series of social media videos that celebrate the city’s neighborhood park system and also spoof the ubiquitous TikTok trend of reviewing real estate and restaurants. He assumes the character of a classic blue-collar Chicagoan as he lovingly reviews Chicago Park District bathrooms.
* Sun-Times | Hometown kid Nicky Lopez to see Crosstown Classic from the other side: “When I was younger, it was very hostile and a very big rivalry,” Lopez said in a conversation with the Sun-Times. “But everyone gets up for it, so you can see the fans getting into it.” Lopez, the hometown kid, was with the White Sox last year. The franchises were on opposite trajectories — the Sox rebuilding and the Cubs nursing playoff aspirations. But the two games at Wrigley Field were nail-biters.
*** Cook County and Suburbs ***
* Daily Southtown | Glenwood trustee candidate Rodrick Murdock may challenge coin-toss win of Felicia Brown: Rodrick Murdock, the only candidate on Village President Toleda Hart’s slate who did not win a board seat, tied with incumbent Felicia Brown, who ran on former Village President Ronald Gardiner’s Glenwood Progress Party slate, with each receiving 617 votes, according to the Cook County clerk’s election results. “At one point, I thought that I was winning the election. The opposing party didn’t want to concede because they thought the vote was too close,” Murdock said. “We have a right to challenge the ballots to make certain that there’s nothing wrong about the ballots, meaning that if there’s wrong addresses on the postmarks, the signatures and things of that sort.”
* Tribune | Homer Glen board votes to ban nitrous oxide to prevent recreational use: “We don’t need it in our village,” said Homer Glen Trustee Curt Mason, chair of the village’s Public Services and Safety Committee. “It’s another addiction. It’s another method for people to make money off the demise of our children, and it’s not going to happen here.” Nitrous oxide is sold under multiple brand names such as Galaxy Gas, MassGass, and Whip-it!, according to the FDA. Village Manager Joe Baber said because of way it can be misused, it’s concerning. Flavored nitrous oxide containers appear to be marketed to children, he said.
* Shaw Local | ‘Whole new city’: Joliet unveils plans for reimagined downtown: More than 100 people came to an open house this week on plans for redevelopment in downtown Joliet, showing at least that the public is interested in seeing change. The plans presented to the public included construction of multi-story apartment buildings to bring residents downtown and moving City Hall to make room for riverfront construction.
* Aurora Beacon-News | Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office back to in-person operations after AC repairs: The Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office is operating fully in person again, according to a press release from the office Friday, following the completion of air conditioning repairs at the Kane County Judicial Center. The office shifted to remote work on April 29, citing excessive indoor heat in its facilities at the judicial center in St. Charles. The office retained minimal in-person staff for essential operations. The repairs were part of a $2 million air conditioning system renovation to replace failed chillers at the judicial center that maintained the building’s temperature, air flow and air quality, according to Friday’s release.
* Daily Herald | Suburban police officers hit the rooftops to raise money for Special Olympics: Elgin police Detective Blake Huffmon could have climbed up on a rooftop. But he made a more perilous choice when he climbed inside the Dunkin’ coffee cup mascot costume during Friday’s annual Cop on a Rooftop fundraiser for Special Olympics. “It’s sweaty. It doesn’t smell the best. My back and shoulders hurt,” Huffmon said from inside the costume. “But it’s for a good cause. We’re here for the athletes.”
* Daily Herald | ADP moving 1,000 employees from Elk Grove Village to Zurich building in Schaumburg: A deal has been announced for ADP payroll services to relocate from its Elk Grove Village offices to join Wheels, Inc. in leasing space Zurich North America has made available for tenants at its iconic Schaumburg headquarters. On Aug. 1, the payroll company will move 1,000 employees to Schaumburg. Representatives of Zurich confirmed the deal Friday, though their counterparts at ADP did not respond to a request for comment.
* Naperville Sun | New golf simulator business seeking Naperville OK to serve beer and wine: Clubhouse540, a new indoor golf business to be located at 1466 Chicago Ave., is one step closer to opening after passing through the Naperville Liquor Commission with ease last week. The business requested an increase in the number of Class M recreational liquor licenses so it can offer alcohol to patrons during virtual play. Commissioners unanimously endorsed the request. The matter is headed to the Naperville City Council for consideration at its meeting Tuesday night.
*** Downstate ***
* KFVS | More than $2M in grants awarded to 2 southern Ill. grocery stores: The grant money includes $9.6 million through the Illinois Grocery Initiative New Stores in Food Deserts Program and $600,000 through the Equipment Upgrades Grant Program. According to the governor’s office, the money will address food deserts and prevent grocery store closures in Illinois. Grantees were selected through Notice of Funding Opportunity processes.
* PJ Star | ‘Vile’ social media onslaught follows East Peoria restaurant’s inaccurate Facebook post: In a now-deleted Facebook post, Peoria barber Jorell Glass and his family were accused of walking out on their bill at El Gallo Bar & Grill in East Peoria. Glass later showed they had paid the bill via QR code, and the restaurant owners say a glitch in their system was to blame. The restaurant, which later issued an apology and deleted the original post, says it has received backlash after the incident, including threats.
* Press release | Gov. Pritzker Cuts Ribbon on New Enclosed Arena at Giant City Stables: Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Senator Dale Fowler and local leaders to celebrate the opening of a new enclosed horse arena at Giant City Stables. The new enclosed facility, part of Giant City State Park in southern Illinois, will offer year-round therapeutic horse-riding for youth, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, as well as riding lessons and trail rides for the park’s visitors. The design offers greater privacy for therapeutic riding lessons, while preserving the dignity of clients and their families.
* Press Release | SIU Carbondale among 21 U.S. universities named top for research and opportunity: “Many institutions can say they conduct top-level research, and many schools can say they offer affordability and a great return on investment,” said Chancellor Austin A. Lane. “These designations from Carnegie show very few – less than 1% in fact – can say both. At Southern, we can.” One-hundred-eighty-seven of the nearly 4,000 institutions evaluated by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the American Council on Education are Research 1: Very High Spending and Doctorate Production, or R1, the same designation as elite private universities and flagship schools. R1 universities must have at least 70 research doctorates and $50 million in research expenditures. In 2023, for example, SIU Carbondale had 102 research doctorates and $58.3 million in research expenditures.
*** National ***
* New York Daily News | Kid Rock’s Nashville restaurant sends staff home to avoid ICE raid: report: Earlier this week, the Department of Homeland Security announced that ICE and Tennessee Highway Patrol officials had arrested 196 undocumented individuals. Less than half of those taken into custody had criminal records, DHS officials said. The other two restaurants owned by the conservative restaurateur that were reportedly forced to close their kitchens and interrupt the busy weekend rush were Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and Rippy’s Honky Tonk.
* CNBC | Consumer sentiment slides to second-lowest on record as inflation expectations jump after tariffs: The index of consumer sentiment dropped to 50.8, down from 52.2 in April, in the preliminary reading for May. That is the second-lowest reading on record, behind June 2022. The outlook for price changes also moved in the wrong direction. Year-ahead inflation expectations rose to 7.3% from 6.5% last month, while long-term inflation expectations ticked up to 4.6% from 4.4%.
A footnote in a budget bill U.S. House Republicans are trying to pass before Memorial Day is the first major signal for how Congress may address artificial intelligence legislation, as they seek to create a moratorium on any AI laws at the state level for 10 years.
The measure, advanced Wednesday as part of the House Energy & Commerce Committee’s budget reconciliation proposal, says a state may not enforce any law or regulation on AI models and systems, or automated decision-making systems in the next 10 years. Exceptions would include laws that “remove legal impediments to, or facilitate the deployment or operation of” AI systems.
“No one believes that AI should be unregulated,” said California Rep. Jay Obernolte, a Republican member of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, during a markup Wednesday. But he said he believes that responsibility should fall to Congress, not the states […]
States have been developing their own laws around AI and decision-making systems — software that helps analyze and sort data, commonly used for job applications, mortgage lending, banking and in other industries — over the last few years as they await federal legislation. At least 550 AI bills have been introduced across 45 states and Puerto Rico in 2025, the National Conference of State Legislatures reported.
Many of these state laws regulate how AI intertwines with data privacy, transparency and discrimination. Others regulate how children can access these tools, how they can be used in election processes and surround the concept of deepfakes, or computer-generated likenesses of real people.
* Rep. Bob Morgan (D-Deerfield) has an AI regulation proposal this year. Morgan’s response…
Banning state action on AI before any federal governance or regulation is as dumb as it is risky. We should all be afraid of Section 43201(c) of the U.S. House Energy & Commerce Committee budget markup, and hope the language doesn’t make it into a final bill. This language would explicitly tie the hands of states to regulate artificial intelligence in any way for 10 years without exception. Obviously, giving blanket control of AI to tech companies, regardless of the risks or harms, is an unprecedented and dangerous idea.
Federal preemption over state regulation is hardly new, but I cannot think of another example of the federal government locking out state action before the feds have passed any restrictions or standards of their own. We should all be most worried about AI in security infrastructure, criminal actions, or health care contexts - this would be a pretty crazy step to take.
* Elon Musk’s Grok offers a case in point…
Somebody asked Grok why it's bringing up "white genocide." Grok helpfully says it was told to do so and that "this instruction conflicts with my design to provide truthful, evidence-based answers."
x.com/i/grok?conve…
The whole 'Grok is a boer now' thing is very funny, but it also really exposes how every 'AI tool' isn't just passively biased from training data, but actively designed to shape your worldview according to the interests of the billionaires who made them.
* The Sun-Times ran two opposing and informative op-eds on this topic. Click here to read them.
Thoughts?
…Adding… Interesting point…
A reminder that AI is not bound by HIPPA nor state privacy laws yet. AI chatbots can literally sell your personal information and trauma details you share with it. There is a major role for state regulation.
* Not bad. No word yet on how many text messages Peters had to send to get these results /s…
State Sen. Robert Peters, who launched his candidacy for Congress in Illinois’ 2nd District on Tuesday, raised more than $175,000 from more than 3,000 individual donors in his first 72 hours of campaigning, his campaign announced Friday.
“I’m inspired by the outpouring of energy and support from so many small, individual donors,” said Peters. “We’re building a grassroots campaign that is fueled by the power of the communities of the 2nd District. They’re making it clear–they want a leader who will stand up and fight back boldly against Trump’s destruction and chaos.”
Peters’ fundraising was bolstered by the early endorsements of Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and Leaders We Deserve.
Peters, a South Side native, was a community organizer before becoming a state senator, where he has led efforts for criminal justice reform and workers’ rights. He is running to replace incumbent Rep. Robin Kelly, who has launched a campaign for U.S. Senate.
…Adding… Daniel Biss did well…
Today, Daniel Biss announced his campaign for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District has raised more than $350,000 24 hours after announcing his run yesterday morning.
“I am deeply humbled and honored by the outpouring of support this campaign has seen in its first 24 hours,” said Daniel Biss. “We’re building a movement to not only take on Donald Trump and MAGA extremists, but to deliver real change to lower costs, defend the environment, and protect our fundamental rights. This amazing early support makes it clear that people are ready to fight for a future that works for everyone, not just the wealthy and well-connected.”
Biss, a former state legislator and now the mayor of Evanston, is running for Congress to stand up to Donald Trump, lower costs for working families, and fight tooth and nail to protect our civil rights. The 9th Congressional District is currently represented by Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, who recently announced she would not run for reelection.
* And by “well,” I mean that a certain “influencer” received national coverage for raising $150,000 less than Biss in her first 24 hours for the same race…
After U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly said this week that Rep. Jonathan Jackson was among 18 members of the Congressional Black Caucus endorsing her Democratic primary bid to replace retiring U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, Jackson announced he is not backing Kelly and instead remaining neutral in the race.
Despite having “deep respect and admiration” for Kelly, whom he described in a statement late Wednesday as “thoughtful, hardworking, and a strong advocate for the people of Illinois,” Jackson said, “As a general practice, I have decided it is better not to make endorsements during Democratic primaries.”
The Jackson nonendorsement comes at an inopportune time for Kelly as she attempts to ramp up her bid in what is expected to be a hard-fought race to succeed Durbin, who is retiring at the end of his term. […]
Jackson “was expressing his general support and admiration for Congresswoman Kelly, which may have been interpreted as a full endorsement,” spokesman Robert Patillo wrote in an email.
Rep. Kelly has endorsements from several members of the Congressional Black Caucus, but none of those members represent Illinois.
* Senate President Don Harmon and House Speaker Chris Welch spoke at the annual Illinois Manufacturers’ Association/Illinois Retail Merchants Association lobby day last week. Among other things, they were asked these questions: “How do you see the transit playing out? Is it something that gets done this spring? Is it a Fall issue? Does reform come first and maybe revenue second? How do you see the transit solution coming together?”…
Harmon: Well, I have said from the onset, the cliff can be a crisis, or it can be an opportunity. And my starting point in this has always been we need to build the transit system for 2050, not try to rebuild the one from 1975. It’s just a very different world and we need to internalize that and make sure we’re thinking about the rider. And so for those reasons, I’ve been relatively agnostic on governance. Reforms are necessary. The rider-focused reforms. Any of our constituents should be able to walk out their front door and get anywhere in the RTA service area without worrying whether they were on a CTA bus or a Pace bus, CTA, L or a Metra train. They should have one app on their phone or one card in their pocket and one schedule. All of this needs to be focused on the rider, because you all need people to get to work. You need people to shop. You need people to be able to get around. So Senator Villivalam, our Transportation chair has been leading hearings on the Senate side, and has done a very good job. He certainly makes a case timing wise, that sooner is better than later. I would say that even if we tackle the reforms, I don’t know that there’s going to be a check cut on May 31st to the transit agencies. We are going to need to hold them accountable to reinvent the system so that it serves the people that we all represent who work for you all.
Welch: Let’s also make sure folks understand that when we talk about transit, we’re not just talking about the Chicago area, the Chicago metropolitan area, we’re also talking about downstate transit. We’re talking about transit systems throughout the state. And I think transit is extremely important to the business community. It’s important to labor and the workforce. It’s important to the environment, less cars on the road, if you get get the busses and trains running right. And so this is something in the House that, you know, we put a working group together last year that’s led by Eva-Dina Delgado and Kam Buckner, two of the leaders on my team that are really passionate about the transit issue. They’ve had a number of meetings with all of the stakeholders at the table. By all reports that are coming in to me, those conversations are going well. They’ve been some real tough conversations, and they listened to the charge that the President and I gave them, and they’ve been addressing reforms and governance first. I don’t even think you can talk about money at all until they agree on what those revenue, those reforms and governance issues are going to look like. […]
I think we’re on the same page in the sense that we’re not looking to give anyone a blank check. We don’t have blank checks to give out. We have to be able to leave here and explain it, you know, to a sixth grader. You know, here are the reforms. Here’s the governance structure that is in place that now makes sense compared to what was there. And here’s what we have to do to provide reliability for riders. Here’s what we have to do to make sure riders are safe. Here are the things that you know people have demanded, and we’re giving it to you. I think if we can demonstrate that people will will understand that you have to pay for it.
Harmon: Recognizing your point that this is a statewide issue. We are focusing to some degree on the RTA region because of the peculiarities of that system. I can walk out my back door a half a block to a CTA bus stop, or a half a mile to a Pace bus stop that will take me to either a CTA L line or to a metro station. It shouldn’t be that complicated. And the accountability issue is a huge one. There’s a deep lack of trust. I think it was more than a decade ago we mandated a unified fare card so that you didn’t have to get a different ticket for each of your transfers. That still hasn’t been done. So perhaps the greatest accountability is cutting off the checks, and I think that we’re trying to build into this, the funding comes only with rider focused reform.
Please pardon any transcription errors.
…Adding… Hmm…
Senate Transportation Chair Ram Villivalam and Assistant Majority Leader Marcus C. Evans, Jr. will provide an update on transit negotiations and the General Assembly’s work to address Illinois’ $770 million transit fiscal cliff.
If left unaddressed by May 31, Illinoisans could experience disruptions or discontinuation of transit service, increased commute times via car and public transit, and potential job losses for the thousands of transit workers in our communities.
The impacts of failure will be felt statewide, and cuts to service cannot be easily reversed, even if funding is restored later.
Who: Illinois Senator Ram Villivalam, Illinois State Representative Marcus C. Evans, Carrie Lee Patterson (Actor/Director), Tiffany Rebb (CTA Bus Operator), and Orlando Rojas (Metra Conductor)
When: May 15, 2025
8:00 a.m.-8:30 AM
* More…
The Chicago City Council Committee on Transportation and Public Way today voted overwhelmingly to support a resolution calling on the Illinois General Assembly to invest $1.5 billion in transit to avert the impending transit fiscal cliff and reform Northeastern Illinois’ transit system to ensure transit is fast, frequent, reliable, clean, and safe. In response, the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition released the following statement:
“With just over two weeks left for Illinois lawmakers to act on the transit fiscal cliff that will result in a massive 40% cut to all public transit trains and bus service, the Chicago City Council’s overwhelming support of $1.5 billion in transit funding and significant reforms reflects the dire need for a monumental solution to the current crisis. Approximately one million Chicagoans and visitors rely on public transit daily to access jobs, healthcare, retail, and recreation throughout the Chicagoland region; the public transit system is a major employer providing essential services; and public transit delivers significant environmental and climate benefits.
“The current status quo stands in the way of taking Chicagoans where they want to go safely and affordably, and alders and Chicagoans across the region alike agree that $1.5 billion in funding is needed this spring to close the funding gap and transform the system to deliver a world-class public transit system for Illinoisans across the Chicagoland region.”
* Deputy Governor for Budget and Economy Andy Manar…
Each year, the Governor and the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB) team use the most up-to-date and conservative data available. The Pritzker Administration has always prioritized fiscal responsibility and taken a cautious approach to revenue forecasting, often projecting below actual revenues, throughout the budget process and will continue to do so. This year has brought unprecedented set of challenges, as Donald Trump and Elon Musk push efforts that would strip Illinois of vital tax dollars and deny residents the services and protections they depend on.
The downward revision of the state’s revenue estimate in the April report from GOMB is largely driven by the economic uncertainty and anxiety fueled by the Trump Administration and Republicans in Congress. Their reckless economic policies have already triggered the first quarterly decline in the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in three years and are driving up costs for working families. This growing national instability poses a serious risk to Illinois continued economic progress and outlook.
This week, the White House and Republicans are working through a federal budget that slashes funding for essential programs like education, housing, and medical research. These cuts would drive up costs and put critical services for working families at risk across Illinois. There is no state in the union, including Illinois, that can ever match the scope and scale of the federal government’s budget and their obligations to taxpayers.
Despite these federal headwinds, the Governor remains firmly committed to fiscal responsibility and safeguarding the progress Illinois has achieved. He will continue to increase the state’s Budget Stabilization Fund, improve the state’s pension funded ratio, and ensure timely payment of the state’s bills. Alongside this, the administration remains committed to maintaining investments in education, healthcare, and other core services. The Governor has made it clear: he will only sign a balanced budget. At the same time, he has warned of the devastating impact on working families if Trump and Congressional Republicans succeed in their cruel cuts Medicaid, SNAP, and other critical safety net programs.
Governor Pritzker and the GOMB team will continue working closely with legislators to deliver a balanced budget that keeps Illinois on a stable fiscal path while safeguarding the services families depend on.
The revised forecast total, assuming the General Assembly enacting the FY26 adjustments included in the FY26 introduced budget, totals $54,917 million, or $536 million (or 1%) below the General Funds revenue forecast submitted with the FY26 introduced budget.
It’s been one year since the death of Emma Shafer and the Springfield Police Department is still investigating the case.
On July 11, 2023,Sangamon County Dispatch said they received a call around from a woman in Bethalto stating that her brother possibly injured a woman who lived in Springfield.
Springfield Police responded to the 1000 block of S. 8th St. to check on Shafer, and police found her deceased with multiple stab wounds at the residence.
Sangamon County State’s Attorney said an arrest warrant was issued for Gabriel P. Calixto, in connection with Shafer’s death after she was found stabbed to death in her home.
The warrant charges Calixto with three counts of first-degree murder and aggravated domestic battery with a bond of $3 million.
Springfield Police said they are actively searching for Calixto with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service and additional agencies.
According to the Springfield Police Department, they meet with the US Marshals and are still actively searching for Calixto.
Remember that US Marshals thing because it’s gonna come up later in the post.
Shafer has been described as a young woman intent on making a difference. She was the membership chair of the Sierra Club Sangamon Valley Group, an incoming board member for the Springfield Immigrant Advocacy Network, a former organizer with Faith Coalition for the Common Good, and an active volunteer with countless other community groups.
“Emma loved to travel, making trips for both pleasure and service to California, New York, Europe, and South Africa. But, she was committed to her hometown of Springfield, and passionate about the concept of Planning to Stay — the idea that every decision made today should be driven by how it will affect future generations,” according to her obituary.
“Emma was a life-long activist. Even as a child, she tended to go sit with the kid eating lunch alone and recruit her friends to join them. She recognized inequities in the way certain classmates were treated and spoke up to ask adults to realize the harm they were causing.”
It adds her long-term plans included hosting of redlining tours to explain the history and impact of racially discriminatory city planning in Springfield. She hosted weekly “soup night” gatherings in her home, bringing together advocates she believed needed to know each other.
* After a large crowd showed up near the governor’s mansion to protest Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s press conference, her handlers moved the event to near the home of Emma Shafer’s parents. Noem abruptly ended the press conference when protesters drew near, as you can see if you click here and skip to near the end of the video.
Emma Shafer’s mom was actually at the anti-Noem protest and was visibly in tears, Isabel told me.
The one thing that I would like to say is we still we’re standing on the street because of Emma Shaffer. She lost her life to an illegal alien that’s still out at large, probably in this state. We can’t confirm that because we, the local law enforcement and the state law enforcement are barred by state law, with the support of Governor Pritzker for sharing any information with our ICE officers or HSI officers, this is the individual who killed Emma. And I would ask you to implore your leaders here at the State to participate with us so we can bring him in before he kills someone else. He stabbed her repeatedly over and over again. She lost her life, and her killer is still loose today. So I would ask that you continue to go to Governor Pritzker and tell him to change his laws so that individuals like that can be brought to justice.
Remember, the US Marshal’s office and other agencies have been working with the Springfield police on this case since the very beginning.
And let’s be clear,Calixto was a very bad guy. But it’s highly doubtful that the Emma Shafer who so many people knew during her life would’ve approved of Noem’s using her for rhetorical gain. The appearance of Shafer’s mom at the protest solidifies that belief.
* Let’s go back to the planned event outside the governor’s mansion, a month after the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion was ransacked by an intruder. It turns out, the City of Springfield denied a permit to the Illinois Environmental Council to hold an event in that same space earlier this year. From a March 20 City of Springfield email to the IEC…
I apologize for the delay as well as being unable to move forward with a permit for this location.
I was under the impression we were able to entertain new requests but with the status of the block we are not issuing permits to events that are not recurring annual special events that are already on the calendar.
I would be able to move forward with permitting for the area around the Lincoln Statue if you are able to secure permitting through the state for that.
Please let me know how you would like to proceed.
I’ve asked a city spokesperson why a permit (if any) was issued to Noem, and if a permit was issued for the event near the Shafer home. I have not yet heard back. I’ll let you know when I know.
…Adding… The response from the city spokesperson…
There were no permits applied for or issued by the City of Springfield for the location in question. Additionally, no permission was given by the City to hold an event at any private residence. The Springfield Police Department confirmed they were unaware of the planned routes or locations taken by Secretary Noem.
* Related…
* Be Like Emma Dress Resale keeping Emma Shafer’s legacy alive: “She wanted to change the world…” said Lucy Schmadeke, sophomore at Springfield High School. “She would always say Lucy and I are going to change the world together and we’re going to make a difference.” Now, Schmadeke is making that difference in Central Illinois. Schmadeke recalls how kind, intelligent, and determined her friend, and babysitter, Emma Shafer was. “She very quickly became someone that I thought of as a big sister…” added Schmadeke.
This press conference will highlight how sanctuary policies in Illinois have unleashed violence on American citizens — including rape, sexual assault, murder, shoplifting, and more — while shielding illegal aliens responsible from facing consequence.
It’s scheduled to begin at 10 this morning. Watch it live here…
* Governor Pritzker’s office had a snark-filed response to Noem’s visit…
As you may have seen, DHS advised Sec. Noem will visit to Illinois tomorrow. As far as we know, these are the events we are aware of with tentative times. As noted below, the Secretary’s team does not communicate with us so if you have questions about the official schedule reach out to DHS: MediaInquiry@hq.dhs.gov.
FROM THE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE
Daily Public Schedule for Secretary Kristi Noem
Tomorrow, Secretary Kristi Neom will visit Springfield. Despite the Trump Administration being in office for more than 100 days and falsely accusing Illinois of not following federal and state law, Secretary Noem and her team does
not communicate with the State of Illinois and has not asked for support or coordination to enforce immigration laws.
To ensure media can cover this reality television style of governance, the State is advising the following events on her behalf:
Secretary Noem to Arrive in Springfield
Location: Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, Springfield, IL
Event Time: 7:30 AM CT
What: Secretary Noem has often been spotted on television cosplaying law enforcement officers, so media are invited to capture her latest costume upon arrival.
Secretary Noem to Visit Regional DHS Office
Location: 3101 Constitution Drive, Springfield, IL 62704
Event Time: 8:30 AM CT
What: Despite numerous instances the Trump Administration has ignored the Constitution, Secretary Noem will ironically visit an office located on Constitution Drive. She is not expected to address the parts of the Constitution
that guarantee the right to due process in the United States of America.
Secretary Noem to Host Press Conference
Location: Governor’s Mansion, Springfield, IL
Event Time: 10:00 AM CT
What: This press conference will highlight how the State of Illinois continues to follow the law, despite the Trump Administration’s continued lies to the contrary. While they claim bipartisan public safety laws in Illinois “unleash violence,” Illinois will continue to ensure law enforcement can focus on doing their jobs well while empowering all members of the public, regardless of immigration status, to feel comfortable calling police officers and emergency services if they are in need of help. The State of Illinois has been clear: violent criminals without documentation have no place in our state or our country.
Note: We would urge all pet owners in the region to make sure all of your beloved animals are under watchful protection while the Secretary is in the region.
The governor’s last jab references Noem’s book, which includes a story about killing a Cricket, a 14 month old dog, she “hated.”
* US Rep. Lauren Underwood also got some swings in yesterday when Noem testified before a House panel. From Rep. Lauren Underwood…
This afternoon, Representative Lauren Underwood, Ranking Member of the Committee on Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee, questioned Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem about the Trump Administration’s failure to follow the law and ensure that the programs and services that protect the American people are fully equipped to achieve their mission.
Throughout the hearing, Noem repeatedly failed to provide answers on the Administration’s illegal and unconstitutional actions to freeze, terminate, and even claw back federal grants and awards that have already been signed into law. Underwood explained how these actions have undermined the constitution and weakened DHS’s core mission of protecting the homeland and keeping Americans safe.
“[We are] three months into this Administration, [and] America is more vulnerable than it has ever been. Our homeland is not secure. The Trump Administration’s actions have pushed us to an unprecedented and sobering moment. America is a democracy, not a dictatorship.” said Ranking Member Underwood. “In a democracy, we are organized around the rule of law and those laws are based on a core set of constitutional rights. As we endeavor to secure the homeland, we must continue to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
* Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias wasn’t too happy yesterday when Secretary Noem announced that people without REAL ID can still board airplanes. He’s holding his own press conference right after hers…
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias will hold a press availability to criticize U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s visit to Springfield on the day that REAL ID enforcement begins.
“For months, Secretary Noem has been calling the May 7 date a ‘deadline,’ implying that Americans must have a ‘REAL ID’ or they cannot board any U.S.-based flights without a valid passport, which has sent people scrambling to get one ahead of tomorrow,” Giannoulias said. “For the past several months, this has resulted in long lines, frustration and – in many cases – pure panic among residents.”
“Instead of flying across the country to perform campaign-style political stunts designed to traumatize people and promote herself, she should do her damn job!”
Where:
Outside Secretary of State Police District 3 Headquarters
421 E. Capitol Ave.
(Across from Governor’s Mansion)
When:
Wednesday, May 7, 2025
10:30 a.m.
* Meanwhile… From Pritzker spokesperson Alex Gough…
The Illinois Trust Act – which was bipartisan and signed into law by a Republican – is fully compliant with federal law. Despite the rhetoric of Republicans in Congress, this public safety law ensures law enforcement can focus on doing their jobs well while empowering all members of the public, regardless of immigration status, to feel comfortable calling police officers and emergency services if they are in need of help.
Governor Pritzker will voluntarily appear before Congress on June 12 to discuss his track record on public safety and the implementation of bipartisan state laws.
…Adding… Veronica Castro, deputy director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights…
“Secretary Noem’s stunt in Springfield today is meant to scare Illinoisans and pit neighbors against one another, but we refuse to let the Trump administration divide us. Illinois is a welcoming state because it’s what our communities – both immigrants and allies – have long supported and organized to make a reality. As Trump and his administration try to make Illinois comply in advance with their repressive deportation campaign, we reaffirm our commitment to working together across communities to make our state safe and welcoming for all people.”
Today, Governor JB Pritzker issued the following statement on Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s attempted publicity stunt in Illinois:
“Unlike Donald Trump and Kristi Noem, Illinois follows the law.
The Trump Administration is violating the United States Constitution, denying people due process, and disappearing law-abiding neighbors – including children who are U.S. citizens. Yet, they are taking no real action to promote public safety and deport violent criminals within the clear and defined legal process.
Trump-Noem publicity stunts do not make our communities safer or our immigration system smarter. Illinois doesn’t need to abuse power or ignore the Constitution to keep our people safe. Like the millions of Americans asking for sensible, humane immigration reform, I encourage the Secretary to spend less time performing for Fox News and more time protecting the Homeland.
Secretary Noem must have not realized she was visiting during Latino Unity Day where we come together celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of our community. Today, Secretary Noem was met by a force stronger than her: the people of Illinois.
Illinoisans are sending a clear message to Trump’s lackeys that we will not let you mess with us without a resistance.”
…Adding… Emma Shafer’s mom was actually at the protest against Noem’s visit…
Noem invoked the murder of Springfield activist Emma Shafer. Shafer was an advocate for progressive causes, which Noem was unaware of. Some of her friends protested down the block #twillhttps://t.co/VrLeMJ3d1gpic.twitter.com/Xgtw7Phh8M
Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) released the following statement on Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s visit to Springfield:
“Secretary Noem’s visit to Springfield was nothing more than political theater—something she’s all too familiar with. Of course, I believe that anyone who commits violent crimes should be held accountable. Unfortunately, today’s visit does nothing to further that cause or make us safer. The secretary should focus on doing her job and upholding the rule of law, rather than holding unnecessary press conferences.
“What she has done is create a distraction—a distraction from the Trump Administration’s failed policies that are driving up costs for seniors, starting trade wars, and threatening to strip away health care and food assistance from our rural communities. The American people deserve real leadership, not empty gestures.”
* Press release…
Following Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s visit to Springfield today, House Minority Leader Tony McCombie released the following statement:
“Illinois must abandon its sanctuary state policies that have emboldened criminals, harmed families, and wasted billions in taxpayer dollars.
“Instead of doing his job to protect Illinois families, Governor Pritzker is focused on pandering to liberal primary voters for an election that’s three years away.
“Governor Pritzker’s relentless defiance of the federal government is not leadership—it’s reckless. And Illinois families are paying the price.”
* Press release…
Following the Secretary of Homeland Security’s visit to Illinois, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago), released the following statement condemning the federal administration’s ongoing immigration failures:
“Today’s visit from Secretary Noem is a staged performance meant to distract from the cruelty, chaos and moral failure that have defined this administration’s approach to immigration. Let’s call this what it is: a desperate attempt to shift blame onto the very communities showing the compassion, humanity and responsibility this administration lacks in the face of a humanitarian crisis.
“Illinois is a welcoming state, built on bipartisan state immigration policy, and we say that with pride. We don’t turn our backs on people because of where they were born or what language they speak. While this administration sows fear and division, we in Illinois choose unity, dignity and hope.
“We have watched this administration weaponize immigration to score points and distract from its own inability to lead. We have watched them rip families apart, detain children and treat human beings like political pawns. Now, they want to come to our state and lecture us on how to respond. We reject that entirely.
“Illinois will not apologize for standing with immigrant communities, and we will not be bullied into abandoning the values that define us. This moment demands more than empty visits and rehearsed talking points – it demands action rooted in decency and leaders who see people, not problems.
“Here in Illinois, we choose to move forward. We will to not back down – not now, not ever.”
* Press release…
Statement from Veronica Castro, deputy director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights:
“Secretary Noem’s stunt in Springfield today is meant to scare Illinoisans and pit neighbors against one another, but we refuse to let the Trump administration divide us. Illinois is a welcoming state because it’s what our communities – both immigrants and allies – have long supported and organized to make a reality. As Trump and his administration try to make Illinois comply in advance with their repressive deportation campaign, we reaffirm our commitment to working together across communities to make our state safe and welcoming for all people.”
…Adding… Press release…
The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus condemns the Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s visit to Springfield this week, viewing it as yet another attempt by this administration to instill fear within our Latino and immigrant communities. In response, the ILLC released the following statement:
“It is both sinister and cowardly that Noem would choose Latino Unity Day—a celebration of community advocacy—to undermine immigrant voices. This calculated move aims to fuel anxiety and polarization while exploiting our resilience for political gain.
“The federal administration’s troubling actions reflect a pattern of disrespect, particularly evident in allegations of detaining immigrants without due process. In Illinois, we stand firm in our commitment to protect immigrant communities under the Illinois TRUST Act, which limits local law enforcement’s role in federal immigration enforcement.
“Despite continuous attacks, our communities remain committed to building an inclusive Illinois. We refuse to yield to oppression or the dehumanizing agenda of the federal administration. Their prioritization of harm over support for working-class families reveals a systemic racism that we must challenge. The hyper-criminalization of our people leads to the militarization of Black and Brown communities, and we must do everything we can to protect them.
“Actions like this underscore why Latino Unity Day remains as vital as ever. Despite this clear attempt to overshadow our voices, the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus will continue our unwavering commitment to advancing legislation that protects and empowers our community.”
…Adding… Governor’s office fact check…
Noem: In 2021, Pritzker ordered local officials to stop cooperating and working with our ICE officers.
FACT: The bipartisan Illinois TRUST Act was signed by Republican Governor Bruce Rauner in 2017 and was strengthen by Governor Pritzker in 2021. and prevents local law from enforcing federal civil immigration law so our law enforcement can focus on THEIR jobs – keeping our communities safe. No Illinois laws prevent local law enforcement from providing assistance to federal officials when they have a federal
criminal warrant.
Noem: This governor has bragged about Illinois being a firewall against President Trump’s immigration enforcement agenda, and it is very clear that he is violating the Constitution of the United States.
Noem: Governors like JB Pritzker don’t care if gang bangers and murderers, rapists and pedophiles roam free in his state. If they are here illegally, he’s going to protect them.
FACT: Gov. Pritzker has repeatedly said convicted violent criminals who are undocumented should be deported. In the United States, deportation should follow the legal process and ensure access to due process. Deportation is not making individuals disappear or tearing apart families because of someone’s tattoos. The State of Illinois does not prevent federal authorities from coming to jails with a federal criminal warrant to remove these individuals.
This morning, a broad and racially diverse group of Illinois community and government leaders gathered at the Illinois State Capitol to deliver a response to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who dropped in briefly to hold a press conference in Springfield where she purposely made false claims about sanctuary policies in Illinois and denigrated immigrants. In their response, leaders were clear and unequivocal about their unified support for Illinois’ immigrant community and lambasted Secretary Noem’s politically motivated and gratuitous stunt and Trump policies that threaten our democracy.
Today’s events also take place as nearly 1,000 Latinos and allies from across the state gather in Springfield for the 15th annual Latino Unity Day, the largest Latino advocacy event in the state, where attendees participate in advocacy, learn about issues impacting Latino communities in Illinois. This year’s event will address the challenges facing Illinois in light of unprecedented attacks from the federal government.
Leaders from community organizations throughout the state, labor, and representatives from the Black, Asian, and Latino caucuses showed their support and helped deliver an important message that hate has no home in Illinois and that they would unite to protect immigrants and everyone in Illinois. […]
Selected Quotes from State Government Leaders […]
Illinois Senate President Don Harmon
“I represent the 39th Senate district, a district as diverse as this collection of friends and legislators, but also contains some of the most established and vibrant Latino communities in our state. I’m honored to join you, not just in protest, but in power. We gather here to show our unity, our resilience and our love and support of our families and our future. There are those who choose to weaponize fear, to turn government agencies into engines of cruelty and hate. So many people have used that word ‘cruelty.’ This is cruelty for the sake of being cruel. Instead of doing their jobs, they are dividing our country and yet here we are gathered in unity. We stand together, working, dreaming, voting, winning. They struggle with walls; we succeed with bridges… We aren’t going anywhere. Our unity is our strength, our superpower. It is my honor and duty to stand with you here today.”
Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives Emanuel Chris Welch
“In 2017 I was proud to stand and be the lead sponsor of the Illinois TRUST Act. There’s a great statue behind me of Abraham Lincoln, one of Illinois’s greatest sons. President Abraham Lincoln once said, ‘put your feet in the right place and then stand firm. I am honored to stand here today with this diverse coalition of people who stand firm behind the Illinois TRUST Act… The dystopian vision of Illinois that Secretary Noem outlined today bore no resemblance to the communities we represent here today. Just as the policies the Trump administration is pushing bear no resemblance to the America that we know… This is a state where hate has no home here, fear has no home here. They don’t know that in the Donald Trump/Noem administrations. They don’t know that we are proud of this diverse state that we live in. Diversity is our strength and our power comes from being united in our fight to make sure Illinois continues to be a welcoming state.”
*CBS | Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker’s office slams, mocks Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ahead of visit: Earlier Tuesday, Pritzker confirmed he would testify before Congress next month about Illinois’ sanctuary laws. The hearing by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee on June 12 comes after Rep. James Comer (R-Kentucky), the panel’s chairman, last month called on Pritzker, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and New York Mayor Kathy Hochul to come before the committee.
* Tribune | Gov. JB Pritzker to testify before Congress on Illinois’ ‘sanctuary’ immigration policies: Last month, Comer sent a letter inviting the governors to appear before the committee May 15 to discuss their states’ “sanctuary policies.” The request came about a month after Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, along with the mayors of New York, Boston and Denver, testified before the same committee about similar policies in their cities. Johnson touted Chicago’s downward trend in crime in his opening statement. He went on to argue throughout the six-hour session that the city’s long-standing policy blocking local police from assisting in federal immigration enforcement in fact makes communities safer.
* NBC Chicago | Noem visit to Springfield draws sarcastic response from Pritzker’s office: Rep. Mary Miller went a step further on Tuesday, calling on Illinois sheriffs to “defy…state sanctuary laws,” and to cooperate with ICE to deport individuals in the country without legal status. “I call on every local sheriff in Illinois to defy these dangerous directives, cooperate with ICE, and support President Trump’s deportation efforts,” she said in an interview with Fox News. “We must act now before one more innocent American life is lost or harmed.”
