Capitol Fax.com - Your Illinois News Radar

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Isabel Miller

After 17 years of delays, the national mandate requiring Real IDs to fly domestically kicked off Wednesday — sort of.

Passengers without the enhanced identification — or other acceptable alternatives, such as a passport — were still allowed to board their flights with additional random security checks.

The change was imperceptible at O’Hare International Airport, where the security line of the United Airlines terminal gave an estimated wait time of 5 minutes mid-morning.

Most travelers picked at random by a reporter had a Real ID or passport and passed through security as usual.

*** Statewide ***

* Daily Herald | U.S. Rep. Krishnamoorthi running for Durbin’s Senate seat: In a telephone interview Tuesday night, Krishnamoorthi said the time is right to run for Senate because of Durbin’s pending departure. But he said he’s also hoping to shift chambers now because Trump administration policies targeting legal immigration, public housing and aid, and public schools are creating “economic chaos” and causing people to lose their grip on the American Dream.

*** It’s Just A Bill ***

* The Electrification Coalition’s Liam Condon | Proposed bill would limit where customers could buy EVs: When I want to purchase something, I go to the company’s website or brick-and-mortar store and buy it. That’s how commerce works. But Senate Bill 1939, which is expected to go before Illinois legislators Wednesday, would make it illegal to buy many electric vehicles in this manner. Gov. JB Pritzker and many state lawmakers have been effective leaders in the push to modernize transportation. They have brought thousands of well-paying jobs to Illinois, from manufacturing electric trucks in Normal and batteries in Manteno to producing copper for EV batteries and installing and maintaining the state’s rapidly expanding network of 4,400 public charging ports. If they want to guarantee Illinoisans are in the driver’s seat building our electric future, they must vote down the proposed bill.

* Daily Herald | Bill to nix senior road tests for 86 and younger, allow reporting of unsafe drivers clears Senate committee: The redo comes after myriad seniors protested against Illinois being the only state with road tests for older drivers, which they characterized as onerous age discrimination. “We need to ensure that processes, such as renewing a license, continue to be accessible to all, especially for those who pose the least amount of risk to other drivers,” said Senate Transportation Committee Chair Ram Villivalam, a Chicago Democrat.

* WAND | IL bill to require school coaches to receive CPR, first aid and AED training passes Senate committee unanimously: A bill to require training for coaches on how to give CPR, first aid and use AED’s passed the Illinois Senate education committee unanimously Tuesday. It’s an expansion on a bipartisan law last year that required schools to have a cardiac emergency response plan. State Sen. Adriane Johnson (D-Waukegan) said in committee this expansion will protect students and teachers.

* President & CEO of Safer Foundation Victor Dickson | Expanding housing access to recently incarcerated Illinoisans is a worthwhile investment: Home for Good, sponsored by state Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, and state Sen. Willie Preston, D-Chicago, would be a vital public investment in making that belief real. It expands existing housing programs that have already shown that with housing support and access, people are less likely to return to prison. It would allocate $103 million for rental assistance for people with criminal records who will contribute up to 30% of their income; grant money to acquire, build and rehabilitate affordable transitional and permanent housing; wraparound support services for those seeking housing; and create the Home for Good Institute, a training center for organizations that want to provide this kind of housing.

* WAND | IL Senate committee unanimously approves bill banning firefighting protective gear containing PFAS: The plan requires companies selling protective equipment containing PFAS to provide written notice of why the chemicals are added to the gear by the end of this year. Illinois could then ban people from selling any PPE containing forever chemicals to fire departments starting January 1, 2027.

* WCIA | Illinois bill to include horse riding therapy in coverage passes House Insurance Committee: The state insurance program may soon start covering horseback riding as part of therapy. A bill that passed in the House Insurance Committee would expand insurance coverage for hippotherapy when prescribed by a licensed occupational or speech therapist. Hippotherapy, also known as therapeutic horseback riding, is done by a licensed therapist with assistance from a professional horse handler to support a person to have better physical movement and cognitive processing. It is often used for people with physical disabilities, autism, cerebral palsy, arthritis and in some cases Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

*** Chicago ***

* Tribune | Ex-CPS principal found dead on day of sentencing in fraud case, lawyer says: At those proceedings, Abedelal’s attorney, Jonathan Bedi, told the judge he was informed last night that his client had passed away. No further details of the circumstances of her death were discussed in court. Ellis told Bedi to extend the court’s condolences to Abedelal’s family. Assistant U.S. Attorney Prashant Kolluri said that once the death certificate is verified the case will be dropped.

* Block Club | Uber Refunding Riders Hit With City Congestion Fee — But Won’t Say How Much It Owes: The refunds appeared on Uber receipts and directly hit bank accounts for cards used to pay for rides outside the surcharge time window. In some cases, Uber sent messages to riders with the header “Just a quick update.” “You took a ride for which you were incorrectly charged a Chicago Congestion Surcharge due to technical issues on our end,” the Uber message reads. “We have corrected the error and refunded the incorrectly charged amount to the original payment method of this trip.”

* Crain’s | DePaul chief to Congress: ‘We’ve made mistakes’ on antisemitism, campus protests: DePaul University President Robert Manuel told the U.S. House education committee today he was “deeply sorry” for mistakes in handling an anti-Israel encampment on the school’s Lincoln Park campus last spring and for an antisemitic attack on two DePaul students last fall. “We’ve made mistakes along the way” in responding to campus actions after the Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel, Manuel said. “As DePaul’s leader, I want to acknowledge that openly. To our students, our parents, our faculty, our staff, our alumni, and our friends, I am deeply sorry. I know there are areas where we must and will do better.”

* WBEZ | ‘Pure chaos’: Why most Chicagoans used to move at the same time on Moving Day: People from every walk of life participated in Moving Day, including immigrants, longtime residents and those of all economic backgrounds. Picture this: The Chicago Tribune described Moving Day 1865 as “[t]he same grand old crash and confusion.” “Every wagon in the city was pressed into the service,” the writer said, describing packed wagons careening through the streets, torn-up carpets and furniture thrown into heaps, “[c]rying children, storming fathers, bewildered mothers.”

* Block Club | Devil Dawgs Coming To Andersonville, Taking Over Former Reza’s Restaurant: Andersonville neighbors can expect the same Devil Dawgs menu as other locations, including its classic Chicago hot dog, jumbo spicy sausage and Italian beef sandwich. The location hopes to offer an outdoor patio as well, the spokesperson said. […] The business now has four locations in Chicago, including at 937 W. Belmont Ave. in Lakeview, 1431 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Wicker Park, 804 N. Rush St. in the Gold Cost and 767 S. State St. in the South Loop. There’s also a location in Evanston at 921 Church St.

* Sun-Times | Michael Miner, longtime media columnist for Chicago Reader, dies at 81: Mr. Miner pondered such topics as hypocritical columnists, biases, bad grammar and questionable editorial takes. Former Chicago Tribune columnist Mary Schmich remembered in a Facebook post how reporters used to rush to pick up a copy of the Reader on publication day. “What did Miner have to say about that hot Sun-Times or Tribune story? Was he going to lacerate some terrible reporter? Or editor? Or praise some great reporter? Or editor?” Schmich wrote.

*** Cook County and Suburbs ***

* Crain’s | Cleveland-Cliffs to idle Riverdale plant, lay off 281 workers: The idles “are a necessary response to insufficient demand and pricing for the products the affected facilities produce, including rail, specialty plate, and high-carbon sheet; all of which fall outside of Cliffs’ core business focus,” a Cliffs spokesperson said in an emailed statement. The company said the closures are not related to the imposition of tariffs by President Donald Trump, a policy strongly supported by Cliffs CEO Lourenco Goncalves. Cliffs said the idles will start around June 30 and about 950 employees will be out of work during the shutdowns. A WARN report filed recently with the state of Illinois shows 281 workers at the Riverdale facility will be laid off at the start of the closure.

* ABC Chicago | Plainfield man asks Will County judge to reconsider sentence in 6-year-old stabbing, hate crime case: A Will County judge heard his case Wednesday morning. There’s no word on the judge’s decision yet. A jury convicted him in February on charges of first-degree murder, attempted murder and hate crimes.

* Daily Southtown | Homewood Arts Council bringing rock veterans together for birthday tribute to The Who’s Pete Townshend: One way the 501(c)(3) volunteer-run community organization does this is by presenting events such as Who’s Birthday – A Tribute to Pete Townshend for ages 21 and older on May 10 at Homewood Izaak Walton Preserve’s Senior Hall. “I’m friends with Chris Casteneda, who put this together. He knows me through a couple mutual friends and has seen me play,” said Phil Angotti, one of the event’s performers. “Besides writing original music I play a lot of ’60s things. I’m a huge fan. He knew that so he asked me to part of this show.”

* Daily Herald | Lawyers outline plan for class action suit against Prestige Feed Products: Lawyers representing neighbors complaining about odors from a Mount Prospect animal feed producer in a class-action lawsuit met Tuesday at a Des Plaines church with clients and interested parties. During the meeting at Unity Des Plaines church, Reed Solt and Laura Sheets of the Detroit-based firm Liddle Sheets P.C., explained next steps as the suit against Prestige Feed Products LLC and Cereal Byproducts Co. heads to a May 14 court date before Cook County Judge Clare Sheets said the primary objective of the lawsuit is to secure monetary damages for affected residents and require operators to address the odor issues.

*** Downstate ***

* BND | Over 80K in metro-east have elevated ‘forever chemicals’ in their city’s water: More than 80,000 people in Madison County recently learned their city’s water exceeded new state and federal limits on contamination from PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” the last time it was tested. Collinsville had some of the highest levels in the state: four and a half times the limit for one type of chemical.

* WGLT | Former members of Foundation Church in Normal say they faced spiritual abuse: Many said the church, which catered largely to college students, young professionals and youth, has increasingly focused on a patriarchal hierarchy that can be degrading to women, and some said their mental health concerns were directly ignored when raised with church leadership. […] “Most examples of spiritual abuse refer to a church elder or faith leader inflicting abuse on congregation members, often by creating a toxic culture within the church or group by shaming or controlling members using the power of their position,” the writes the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

* BND | Former bishop of Belleville Diocese part of papal conclave to elect a new pope: Gregory, a native of Chicago, served as the seventh bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Belleville from 1993 to 2004. During his tenure locally, he was elected president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops as the crisis of sex abuse by Catholic clergy was escalating. In 2002, he pushed the conference to pass the Dallas Charter, which instituted a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse of minors.

* WSIL | See Moments Captured on the Veterans Honor Flight 14: As veterans made their way to Washington D.C. as part of the Veterans Honor Flight of Southern Illinois Flight 14, members of the organization wanted to make sure they documented their trip. As veterans first walked into the Veteran’s Airport in Marion, they were treated with lots of volunteers and crews welcoming them with open arms.

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It’s Illinois bacon day!

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Rich Miller

* Press release…

On May 7th, the Illinois Pork Producers Association will be at the Illinois State Capitol to celebrate the commemoration of Senate Joint Resolution 24 designating May 7th at Illinois Bacon Day. The resolution is sponsored by Senators Chris Balkema, Doris Turner, Sally Turner, Craig Wilcox and Li Arellano Jr. in the Senate, and Reps Kelly Cassidy and Katie Stuart in the House.

Illinois pig farmers, IPPA staff, and FFA state officers will be handing out BLT sandwiches to legislators at the Illinois State Capitol and discussing the role that pork production plays in Illinois.

Illinois pig farmers produce over 6 billion slices of bacon annually. Additionally, Illinois pork production is ranked 4th in the U.S. and supports over 30,000 jobs and contributes an estimated $13.8 billion dollars to the economy.

To help support our farmers, we are challenging consumers to #BringHomeTheBacon. Keep the demand for pork products high by adding bacon (or any pork product!) to your grocery cart every time you shop. In doing so, you are supporting Illinois farms, 96% of which are family owned. Additionally, many local restaurants will be participating in Illinois Bacon Day by featuring a pork special on their menu May 7th.

IPPA president, Josh Maschhoff of Nashville; Illinois pork producers: Cheryl Walsh and Kristi Smith of Princeville, Tyler Main of Altona, Amanda Spinner of Hillsboro, Emmalee Haege of Nashville, and Phil Borgic of Raymond Illinois, will attend the event on May 7th.

* WICS…

Numerous local restaurants will join the celebration by featuring pork specials on their menus on May 7. Participating establishments include ABE’s Hideout, Clay Popeye’s BBQ, Cured Catering, and many more across Springfield, Rochester, Urbana, Yorkville, Bloomington, Champaign, Chicago, Decatur, Jacksonville, and Galesburg.

* Rep. Cassidy celebrated on the House floor by wearing a bacon hat…

Hilarious.

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From the legal front: AG Raoul helps win preliminary injunction to restore federal education grants

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Rich Miller

* Click here for the preliminary injunction. From yesterday…

Attorney General Kwame Raoul and a coalition of 17 states secured a preliminary injunction today against the Trump administration in an ongoing lawsuit to restore access to critical U.S. Department of Education (department) funds that support programs for students across the state.

The preliminary injunction forces the Trump administration to restore states’ access to funds for programs that support low-income and unhoused students, and provide funding for other essential school services to address the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on K-12 students.

“The Trump administration’s shortsighted and illegal decision to attempt to rescind already-appropriated education funding would hurt vulnerable students the most and could wreak havoc on the budgets of school districts throughout Illinois and the nation,” Raoul said. “I am committed to joining with my fellow attorneys general to stand up against the president’s continued illegal and reckless actions.”

The injunction, issued today by Judge Edgardo Ramos from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, prevents the department from enforcing a March 28 letter from Education Secretary Linda McMahon rescinding states’ ability to access their awarded grants from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). On April 10, Raoul and the coalition filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration for unilaterally ending access to over $1 billion in grants from ARPA, which the department had previously determined the states could access through March 2026.

To combat the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, ARPA funded three education-related programs to help support states’ school systems and direct more resources to the most vulnerable students. These three programs – Homeless Children and Youth (HCY), Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), and Emergency Assistance to Nonpublic Schools (EANS) – provide essential resources to help schools and students around the country recover from the lasting impacts of the pandemic.

Raoul and the coalition assert in their lawsuit that the department’s arbitrary and abrupt termination of the states’ access to these funds is causing a massive, unexpected budget gap that will hurt students and teachers by cutting off vital education services.

Attorney General Raoul was joined in filing the lawsuit by the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York and Oregon, along with the governor of Pennsylvania.

* Meanwhile…

Attorney General Kwame Raoul will join four state attorneys general at a Community Impact Hearing in New York, where they will hear from the public about how the Trump administration’s executive orders and other actions are harming them and to discuss how to fight back. This will be the third in a national series of similar events hosted by attorneys general around the country. Raoul and his colleagues have partnered to take action to defend critical services, maintain the benefits people rely on and fight back against federal overreach by the Trump administration.

Who: Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul  
California Attorney General Rob Bonta
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison
New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin
New York Attorney General Letitia James

When: Thursday, May 8, 2025
5 to 7 p.m. CST
Press should arrive no later than 3:45 p.m. CST.

Where: SUNY Westchester Community College
75 Grasslands Road
Valhalla, NY 10595

Livestream: ag.ny.gov/livestream

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Repeal IFPA Now

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Advertising Department

[The following is a paid advertisement.]

Deborah Fears, President & CEO of Chicago Post Office Employees CU:
IFPA Will Harm our Members and our Communities.
“This new law passed in Illinois would be really difficult to explain to our members”.
Stop Chaos for Our Hard-Working Postal Workers!

Paid for by Illinois Credit Union League.

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Emma Shafer’s memory used by Secretary Noem to buttress argument on Illinois laws (Updated)

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Rich Miller

* WICS TV last July…

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.

* Emma Shafer was a beloved local activist…

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.

* From Secretary Noem’s remarks…

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.

Also, despite what Noem said, police think Calixto may have fled the country.

* 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.

* Click here to donate to the Emma Shafer Peace and Justice Fund

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Protect Access To 340B: Drug Discount Savings Means More Services For Low-Income Communities

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Advertising Department

[The following is a paid advertisement.]

Pharmaceutical manufacturers, many of them based in foreign countries, are making it hard for hospitals like Franciscan Health Olympia Fields to turn savings on drug costs into services for patients. The hospital joined the federal 340B drug discount program “to help serve the uninsured and under-insured community residents in Olympia Fields and Chicago Heights.” The poverty rates in both Chicago suburbs are higher than the 11.6% state average—12.7% in Olympia Fields and 24.7% in Chicago Heights.

The hospital has put those savings toward services, including its:

Outpatient Infusion Center

Medication to Bedside program

Pharmacist-managed Anticoagulation Clinics and Pharmacotherapy Clinics

“The 340B program serves as a vital lifeline for safety-net providers to support critical health services in low-income or isolated rural communities, which are typically operated at a loss,” Franciscan Health said.

Since 2020, drugmakers have arbitrarily limited access to lifesaving medications acquired through the 340B program, making it harder for more than 100 participating hospitals in Illinois to invest in healthcare—and patients. For one safety net hospital alone, these restrictions have resulted in a $16 million hit.

Support Senate Bill 2385 and House Bill 3350 to prohibit drugmakers from interfering with hospital pharmacy contracts. Learn more.

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Coverage roundup: Krishnamoorthi launches bid for Durbin seat

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Isabel Miller

* Subscribers were briefed earlier. Capitol News Illinois…

U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi is the latest Democrat to enter the 2026 U.S. Senate primary for retiring Sen. Dick Durbin’s seat.

Krishnamoorthi, of Schaumburg, has represented the 8th Congressional District since 2017. He was born in India and grew up in Peoria. He earned a law degree from Harvard and has worked in the Illinois Attorney General’s Office and led a small tech company in the Chicago suburbs.

Describing his middle-class upbringing, Krishnamoorthi said he’ll “never be quiet while billionaires like Elon Musk and a convicted felon deny the dreams of the next generation for their own egos.”

“People want to know: At this moment, in this time, where is the power to fight back?” Krishnamoorthi said in a video launching his campaign. “What does it look like? Well, I’ll tell you. It looks like you … all of us ready to step up and fight back.”

* Rep. Krishnamoorthi’s launch video…

* Tribune…

Krishnamoorthi’s formal announcement had been expected and it comes two weeks after the 80-year-old Durbin announced he would not seek a sixth term. It also follows announcements by Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton and U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly of Matteson that they would enter the March 17 Democratic primary.

With his bid, Krishnamoorthi injects into the race a mix of moderate policy positions such as supporting small business initiatives — in line with the ideology of many voters in his suburban district — along with progressivism as one of 19 vice chairs of the Congressional Equality Caucus, a group that promotes equality for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

“I see myself as kind of a radical common sense progressive,” the one-time small business security firm owner said in an interview before his announcement.

“I’m a racial, religious, ethnic minority immigrant with 29 letters in my name. I identify with people who are strivers or dreamers, as single moms, the most vulnerable, LGBTQ people who have been bullied,” Krishnamoorthi said. “I identify myself with the small businesses who constantly feel like the playing field is unlevel for them relative to big corporations, because I myself felt that way relative to my competitors.”

* Sun-Times…

Krishnamoorthi, 51, is the son of Indian parents, and was raised in Peoria. The Harvard Law School graduate clerked for a federal judge before practicing law in Chicago. He became the first South Asian American in history to lead a congressional committee when he became a ranking member of the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party.

The political dominoes are now in place for other Democrats to run in Krishnamoorthi’s district, as well as Kelly’s 2nd Congressional District. And if Rep. Lauren Underwood also opts to run for the Senate, Democrats are already lining up to run in the 14th District.

In a Sun-Times interview, Krishnamoorthi laughed when asked whether he feels either annoyed or proud of the repetitive mentions of the $19 million and counting campaign war chest he has amassed.

“I think it’s a sideshow. I think that I’m most proud of the tent. The fact that tens of thousands of people have entrusted me with their hard-earned money because they believe in my office. They believe in my mission,” Krishnamoorthi said. “…I think people have seen that. They have entrusted me with resources to pursue that mission. And in light of Elon Musk and the unprecedented amount of money that he has kind of unleashed into the system, I look forward to having the resources to be able to defend my track record and be able to get our message out as well.”

* Politico…

On Friday, Krishnamoorthi will host his first official campaign events, making stops in his hometown of Peoria, as well as Chicago and Schaumburg. […]

Krishnamoorthi was first elected to Congress in 2016, representing the suburban 8th District seat that had been held by Duckworth before she won the state’s other Senate seat. In 2012, Krishnamoorthi lost to Duckworth for the House seat.

This won’t be his first time running statewide. In 2010 Krishnamoorthi ran for state comptroller, losing by a razor-thin margin after he served as Illinois’ deputy treasurer.

Krishnamoorthi is also a longtime behind-the-scenes player in Illinois Democratic politics, including working for Barack Obama’s unsuccessful run for Congress in 2000, his winning bid for Senate in 2004, and his 2008 presidential campaign.

* ABC…

In an interview with ABC News, the five-term congressman said he’s running on a record of confronting “bullies” like Donald Trump and is keenly focused on opposing the efforts by the Department of Government Efficiency and Elon Musk to slash federal agencies, programs and jobs.

“I have a track record of standing up to Donald Trump in Congress. I voted for impeaching him twice, but I also … played a big role in the first impeachment hearings on Capitol Hill,” said Krishnamoorthi, who entered the House in 2016, now serves as the top Democrat on the House China select committee on the Chinese Communist Party and is a senior member of the Intelligence and Oversight committees. […]

Krishnamoorthi told ABC News that his record, paired with his ability to “stand up” to Trump distinctly, makes him uniquely positioned for the role.

“I think that your track record matters. I think that the diversity of your experiences, plus … where you come from, I think that matters,” he said. “I think that most of all, who is going to be the most effective at standing up to Donald Trump but also delivering for constituents?”

* More…

Bloomberg | Raja Krishnamoorthi Enters Illinois Senate Race for Dick Durbin’s Seat:

* Axios | Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi launches bid for U.S. Senate: Krishnamoorthi’s announcement video starts off by focusing on his opposition to the Trump administration, saying he spent his “life standing up to bullies.” The 51-year-old, 5-term congressman cited abortion, gun control and opposition to DOGE and tariffs as key issues of his campaign. He also leaned heavily into his ties to former President Obama — who he worked for as a campaign operative — who he said “showed that Illinois will give you a shot even when you have a funny name.”

* ABC Chicago | Illinois Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi running for US Senate: The congressman now joins Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton and Representative Robin Kelly in the race for Durbin’s Senate seat. Other possible contenders to enter the race include Congresswoman Lauren Underwood, former Mayor Rahm Emanuel and on the Republican side, Representative Darin LaHood.

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12 Million: The Number Of Care Hours Illinois Seniors Need And Aren’t Receiving

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Rich Miller

Seniors need access to home care services so they can age with dignity at home. But Illinois seniors aren’t getting the care they need.

There are over 20,000 seniors in Illinois who need home care services but are not receiving care.

What’s more, in 2024, 12 million hours meant for senior home care went unserviced. That means the home care crisis shortchanged Illinois seniors 12 million hours of care that they need. And it’s getting worse.

This number has been growing every year – destabilizing the Community Care Program. And it’s because poverty wages are destabilizing the care workforce. Care workers are leaving the industry because they can’t afford to stay – leaving seniors without care.

“People like me are struggling to access home care services that allow us to continue living independently in our homes because of a workforce shortage that is being driven by low wages,” said Diana Inman, a Decatur senior who receives home care services through the Community Care Program. “My regular [worker] was taken away from me, and it took them a whole week to finally find somebody to come in. That was rough.”

Seniors can’t wait any longer to get the essential home care they need. Support HB 1330/SB 120 to increase the wage floor for home care workers serving seniors in the Community Care Program from $18/hr to $20/hr in 2026. Care can’t wait!

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Roundup: DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to visit Springfield (Updated x9)

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Isabel Miller

* Subscribers know more. Media advisory from the Department of Homeland Security about Secretary Kristi Noem’s visit to Springfield today…

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…

* Organizers are preparing to protest…

* 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.”

Click here to watch the hearing.

* 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.”

…Adding… The scene in front of the mansion…

The press conference has started at different location https://t.co/1Pk7kK2uu7

— IsabelMillerMedia (@IsabelMMiller) May 7, 2025

…Adding… Press release…

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 #twill https://t.co/VrLeMJ3d1g pic.twitter.com/Xgtw7Phh8M

— Ben Szalinski (@BenSzalinski) May 7, 2025

…Adding… The executive mansion was decorated ahead of Noem’s visit…

No sign yet that DHS Secretary Kristi Noem will show up to her press conference outside the Governor’s mansion. pic.twitter.com/L9xxcqGe11

— IsabelMillerMedia (@IsabelMMiller) May 7, 2025

* Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias gave a short speech and took no questions…

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has arrived pic.twitter.com/rI9bsFSDSe

— IsabelMillerMedia (@IsabelMMiller) May 7, 2025

…Adding… Press release…

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.

FACT: The Illinois TRUST Act is fully compliant with federal law.

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.

We are posting related state legislator press releases on our live press release coverage post.

…Adding… Latino Policy Forum…

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.”

* More…

WAND | Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to visit Springfield, sparking backlash:

* 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.”

Thoughts?

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Powering Illinois’ Energy And Economic Future

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Advertising Department

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Open thread

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Rich Miller

* A little wake-up music…

She got Elgin movement from her head down to her toes

What’s going on in your world?

8 Comments

Isabel’s morning briefing

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Isabel Miller

* ICYMI: US Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi joins increasingly crowded race to succeed Dick Durbin in Senate. Tribune…

I’ll have a full coverage roundup for Krishnamoorthi’s announcement later this morning.

* Related stories…

∙ Laura Washington: Three Black women may vie for US Sen. Dick Durbin’s seat. Will they split the vote?
∙ Daily Herald: ‘I’m ready to stand up and fight back’: State Sen. Laura Fine launches bid for Schakowsky’s U.S. House seat
∙ NOTUS: The Already Crowded Illinois Senate Race Gets Another Contender

***************** Advertisement *****************
Sponsored by Environment Illinois

*************************************************

* BlueRoomStream.com’s coverage of today’s press conferences and committee hearings can be found here.

*** Isabel’s Top Picks ***

* Tribune | Gov. JB Pritzker to testify before Congress on Illinois’ ‘sanctuary’ immigration policies: Pritzker’s office confirmed Tuesday that the governor would “voluntarily appear” before the U.S. House Oversight Committee on June 12 after its chairman, Republican Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, announced in a news release that Pritzker would testify alongside New York’s Kathy Hochul and Minnesota’s Tim Walz.

* Sun-Times | Nicor’s ‘exorbitant’ $309 million rate hike request should be cut in half, watchdogs say: That’s why state regulators should cut the increase roughly in half, experts from the Citizens Utility Board, Illinois Public Interest Research Group and Environmental Defense Fund argued Wednesday. “This company is rolling in profits and they just keep coming to the table asking for more,” CUB spokesman Jim Chilsen said. “This rate hike request is filled with fat and excess, and customers are fed up.”

* Sun-Times | New study suggests insuring immigrants in Illinois gives hospitals a financial lift: That effort has had a domino effect. In a new study, researchers at the University of Chicago and the University of California in Los Angeles found what’s known as bad debt, or debt hospitals fail to recoup, declined on average 15% across Illinois from 2021-23 — and potentially as much as 25% at hospitals in counties with the highest enrollment in the state’s immigrant health plans. For the average hospital, a 15% drop in bad debt is around $1.5 million.

*** Statehouse News ***

* Sun-Times | In response to RFK Jr., Pritzker to sign first in nation executive order protecting autism data: Gov. JB Pritzker on Wednesday plans to sign an executive order to restrict the mass collection and sharing of autism-related data for Illinois residents, in response to the country’s top health secretary’s rhetoric around the cause of autism. The executive order comes after Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, recently said he would undertake a “massive testing and research effort” to determine the cause of autism, including an investigation into whether any environmental factors are causing the development disorder.

* Capitol News Illinois | New study suggests changes to Illinois’ community college-university pipeline: The report by the Partnership for College Completion says that while 79% of community college students start with the intention of transferring to a university, only 35% of them do. The success rate is even lower for low-income students and students of color, the report states. Only 28% of low-income students transfer, compared to 44% of higher-income students. And while Black and Latino students make up 44% of community college enrollment in Illinois, they make up just 31% of those who transfer to public universities.

* Capitol City Now | Illinois House and Senate meet for 7th annual softball game: State Senator, Steve McClure, said honor was on the line this year as, according to him, the officiating last year was questionable, so he was hoping for a fair shot this year. Unfortunately, his Field of Dreams was not to be. Final in the game – House 9, Senate NOTHING.

*** Statewide ***

* Center Square | Illinois’ meat industry discusses successes, challenges in face of tariffs: During an Illinois House Agriculture and Conservation Committee hearing Tuesday afternoon, Jennifer Tyree with the Illinois Pork Producers Association laid out the strengths in her industry. To the question of prospective tariffs, Tyree said they are a big concern they’re monitoring closely, but Illinois’ pork industry is focused on maintaining their market share. “Closer to 30% of our product is exported,” Tyree said. “At this point we are holding our own. We are just trying very hard to continue to keep that market share because I think what is our biggest concern is if we lose market share, it’s very hard to get it back.”

*** Chicago ***

* Sun-Times | Brandon Johnson faces pushback from top ally on eve of pivotal affordable housing vote: Finance Committee Chair Pat Dowell said the plan would simply benefit affluent communities and do little to uplift marginalized communities where “affordable rent is the same as market rent.”

* Background is here if you need it…

NEW: The CTA Board is having a special meeting Thursday. It was just scheduled in the last few hours.

This comes amid speculation that Mayor Brandon Johnson will name his COO John Roberson as CTA President — and as transit advocates call for a broader search. Full agenda: pic.twitter.com/YK1U4uHSqJ

— Jake Sheridan (@JakeSheridan_) May 6, 2025

* Tribune | Mayor Brandon Johnson defends deal on Columbus statues: Asked about the long celebrated, but now more closely scrutinized Italian explorer’s legacy, Johnson Tuesday talked about the trans-Atlantic slave trade and decimation of Indigenous American people that followed Columbus’ arrival. Still, Columbus left a legacy many are proud of, he added. “Art and culture in particular is something that I don’t believe we should erase,” Johnson said. “And we do have to make sure that our presentation is depicting not just truth, but the best part of our existence, which is our collective humanity.”

* Crain’s | Trump goes off on ‘woke’ Obama Center construction: President Donald Trump went on a tangent to lambast the state of construction for the Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park today during a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. “I mean look, President Obama — and if he wanted help, I’d give him help because I build on time and on budget — he’s building his presidential library in Chicago. It’s a disaster,” Mr. Trump said. “And he said something to the effect, ‘I only want DEI, I only want woke.’ He wants woke people to build it. Well, he got woke people and they have massive cost overruns, the job is stopped. I don’t know, it’s a disaster.”

* President of the Chicago Federation of Labor Bob Reiter’s response…

“While understanding President Trump is thin-skinned and emotionally fragile, I feel it’s necessary to set the record straight on Chicago’s talented and hard working union construction workers. Donald Trump’s wildly inaccurate and offensive rant about the building of the Obama Presidential Center is utterly ridiculous. Chicago’s highly trained, highly skilled union construction workers are building this state-of-the-art facility. The job isn’t shut down and continues on an aggressive schedule despite Donald Trump’s obsession with President Obama. With experienced journeyworkers and new apprentices building this project, you can count on quality and efficient construction.”

* Crain’s | Inside the long-simmering United vs. American grudge match that’s reignited at O’Hare: The dispute between United and American airlines that spilled into federal court last week has roots in a contentious lease agreement signed in 2018 but reflects a deeper rivalry between the two carriers over one of the nation’s biggest and busiest markets for air travel. It’s a history marked by both cooperation and gamesmanship, at times reminiscent of the Hatfields and McCoys—the result of an unusual scenario in which two major airlines have hubs at the same airport.

* Sun-Times | Trump Tower plaza barricades pulled back after months of complaints: Trump Tower building security notified the city Tuesday afternoon that all levels of the plaza and riverwalk were reopened Tuesday morning. A Sun-Times photographer found fences that were moved, now sitting alongside a pathway. The planning department’s investigation found “that the property was not in compliance” with the planned development, which states: “All of the open-to-air components of the River Park/Plaza Improvements … shall be open to the public twenty-four (24) hours a day.”

*** Cook County and Suburbs ***

* Daily Southtown | Tinley Park-Park District budget plan seeks to identify how much more state funding needed for land cleanup: The state earmarked $15 million the Park District could use for cleanup of environmental issues including asbestos and mold, as well as demolishing dozens of buildings, both large and small, on the property. District officials said experts working on the remediation are calculating what additional funds will be sought from the state. The $15 million set aside in state money was based on estimates of the cost of the cleanup made more than a decade ago.

* Sun-Times | ‘U-pick’ flower farm fighting Chicago suburb to reopen, as 20,000 tulips wait to be picked: But in May 2024, the village sent a cease-and-desist letter to owner Chris Yamamoto, forcing him to close shop. The village contends the farm violates its zoning codes for businesses on residential property. Yamamoto believes the farm aligns with the village’s values, so for almost a year now, he’s been fighting to reverse the decision. It’s not about the money. He bought all those tulip bulbs direct from Holland out of a passion for flower farming.

* Daily Herald | After 36 years and more than 1,200 meetings, Palatine village clerk retires: “I enjoyed writing minutes that were succinct, that were clear, concise and accurate,” the former Northwestern University English major said. “Don’t waste anybody’s time reading through mumbo jumbo.” The job, however, goes way beyond taking the minutes. As village clerk, Duer was responsible for overseeing elections, including establishing early voting sites, recommending election judges and ensuring proper signage and nonpartisan administration of polling places.

*** Downstate ***

* Illinois Times | Major solar development opens in Sangamon County: The farm generates 800 megawatts, which is enough power to supply more than 100,000 homes. Previously, the land was used to grow corn and soybeans. [..] Creating alternative uses for farmland gives more options for landowners but places pressure on tenant farmers, said Bill Bodine, director of business and regulatory affairs for the Illinois Farm Bureau. “For some farmers, it’s a challenge, because they need access to land in order to continue their business, to make a profit, to support their families. Sometimes there can be concerns with conversion of farmland simply because it’s a competing use.”

* PJ Star | Tension, transparency and hope: Why a new mayor could mean ‘a new day’ for Washington: In addition to her swearing in as the city’s first female mayor, four new city council members were sworn in, and three other officials were reelected. […] Stevens moved quickly to carry out city business, starting with designating McIntyre and Moss as signatories. City policy requires two authorized signatures on checks and withdrawals, and while those are typically handled by the mayor and city treasurer, additional signatories are needed in case the treasurer would be absent, Finance Director Joanie Baxter explained.

* WCIA | Champaign Co. workers rallying for better contracts: “We want to be able to buy groceries, keep a roof over our head. We don’t want to have to work two and three jobs at a time to make ends meet,” Cecelia Phillips, the AFSCME local 900 president, said. Phillips works in the Champaign County Circuit Clerk’s Office and organized a rally Tuesday afternoon in hopes it’ll change the minds of local government officials.

* BND | About 300 East St. Louis students may lose after-school programs: East St. Louis School District 189 typically uses federal 21st Century Community Learning Center Grants, which supports programming in high-poverty areas, to fund its after-school programming. Those grants have been running out, and District 189 has been struggling to find alternative funding sources, said Sydney Stigge-Kaufman, the district’s executive director of communications.

* WGLT | Big sewer construction project will disrupt homeless encampment in Normal: Mayor Chris Koos said the Bloomington-Normal Water Reclamation District [BNWRD] will begin a large construction project in the area next month. Koos said it’s a good question where the unhoused people at the encampment will go. “We are looking very hard in cooperation with Home Sweet Home Ministries to see if there is any property in Normal and we frankly can’t find anything,” Koos said on WGLT’s Sound Ideas. He said the municipality might consider buying something for a shelter village like one proposed in downtown Bloomington.

*** National ***

* Reuters | EV makers Rivian, Lucid flag increasing costs as tariffs bite: Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe told Reuters the cost per vehicle was expected to rise by “a couple of thousand dollars” due to tariffs. “Customers are hesitant to make large-dollar purchases, and they’re more price sensitive than they historically have been,” he said, adding Rivian was working on adjusting its supply chain to mitigate tariff costs.

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Protected: SUBSCRIBERS ONLY - Supplement to today’s edition and some Statehouse news

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Rich Miller

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Protected: SUBSCRIBERS ONLY - Today’s edition of Capitol Fax (use all CAPS in password)

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Rich Miller

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Selected press releases (Live updates)

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Isabel Miller

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Live coverage

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Posted by Isabel Miller

* 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.

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