https://simplecast.com Illinois in Focus The podcast bringing you the most important stories out of Illinois from TheCenterSquare.com. Join us as we dive into the top headlines and provide insightful commentary and analysis. The Center Square en-us Sat, 4 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 Sat, 4 Apr 2026 10:00:17 +0000 https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/dac9a265-38f6-4bb5-a9fb-68450aca4487/44932c09-0b7b-4206-a442-e51dba881609/3000x3000/1079409-1569438362897-a541b34f4e0be.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://www.americastalking.com/ episodic The podcast bringing you the most important stories out of Illinois from TheCenterSquare.com. Join us as we dive into the top headlines and provide insightful commentary and analysis. The Center Square false https://feeds.simplecast.com/wJJUdEf6 The Center Square gbishop@thecentersquare.com b0dbbc00-b8f1-4e04-9b43-e82025bf9555 Weekend Edition | Fewer businesses of Illinois' diversity-preferred group got state contracts last year (The Center Square) - Fewer businesses that get diversity-related government priority in Illinois are getting contracts with the state, according to a new annual report from the agency, after a long-running computer problem thwarted efforts to increase those contracts.

About 1,500 businesses that are owned by racial minorities, women and people with disabilities were paid by the state for construction and other service contracts in this past fiscal year.

That figure -- contained in the Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion's recent annual report -- is a 9-percent decrease from the prior year. And it happened even though state lawmakers have devoted millions of dollars in recent years to support the businesses.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Sat, 4 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) - Fewer businesses that get diversity-related government priority in Illinois are getting contracts with the state, according to a new annual report from the agency, after a long-running computer problem thwarted efforts to increase those contracts.

About 1,500 businesses that are owned by racial minorities, women and people with disabilities were paid by the state for construction and other service contracts in this past fiscal year.

That figure -- contained in the Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion's recent annual report -- is a 9-percent decrease from the prior year. And it happened even though state lawmakers have devoted millions of dollars in recent years to support the businesses.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Fewer businesses of Illinois' diversity-preferred group got state contracts last year The Center Square 00:23:59 (The Center Square) - Fewer businesses that get diversity-related government priority in Illinois are getting contracts with the state, according to a new annual report from the agency, after a long-running computer problem thwarted efforts to increase those contracts. About 1,500 businesses that are owned by racial minorities, women and people with disabilities were paid by the state for construction and other service contracts in this past fiscal year. That figure -- contained in the Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion's recent annual report -- is a 9-percent decrease from the prior year. And it happened even though state lawmakers have devoted millions of dollars in recent years to support the businesses. (The Center Square) - Fewer businesses that get diversity-related government priority in Illinois are getting contracts with the state, according to a new annual report from the agency, after a long-running computer problem thwarted efforts to increase those contracts. About 1,500 businesses that are owned by racial minorities, women and people with disabilities were paid by the state for construction and other service contracts in this past fiscal year. That figure -- contained in the Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion's recent annual report -- is a 9-percent decrease from the prior year. And it happened even though state lawmakers have devoted millions of dollars in recent years to support the businesses. false full 714 f89d886d-3877-4af4-af11-3f51e0609774 Weekend Edition | Trump: Loyola student would be alive if Pritzker, Johnson asked for help (The Center Square) – President Donald Trump says a Loyola University student would still be alive if Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker asked his administration to help stop crime. The president spoke at a Cabinet meeting Thursday morning. “It would be great if people like the mayor of Chicago and the governor of Illinois would say, ‘Please come in and stop the crime,’” Trump said. Trump referred to 18-year-old Loyola student Sheridan Gorman, who was allegedly shot and killed by a Venezuelan migrant Thursday.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Sat, 28 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) – President Donald Trump says a Loyola University student would still be alive if Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker asked his administration to help stop crime. The president spoke at a Cabinet meeting Thursday morning. “It would be great if people like the mayor of Chicago and the governor of Illinois would say, ‘Please come in and stop the crime,’” Trump said. Trump referred to 18-year-old Loyola student Sheridan Gorman, who was allegedly shot and killed by a Venezuelan migrant Thursday.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Trump: Loyola student would be alive if Pritzker, Johnson asked for help The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – President Donald Trump says a Loyola University student would still be alive if Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker asked his administration to help stop crime. The president spoke at a Cabinet meeting Thursday morning. “It would be great if people like the mayor of Chicago and the governor of Illinois would say, ‘Please come in and stop the crime,’” Trump said. Trump referred to 18-year-old Loyola student Sheridan Gorman, who was allegedly shot and killed by a Venezuelan migrant Thursday. (The Center Square) – President Donald Trump says a Loyola University student would still be alive if Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker asked his administration to help stop crime. The president spoke at a Cabinet meeting Thursday morning. “It would be great if people like the mayor of Chicago and the governor of Illinois would say, ‘Please come in and stop the crime,’” Trump said. Trump referred to 18-year-old Loyola student Sheridan Gorman, who was allegedly shot and killed by a Venezuelan migrant Thursday. false full 713 0f410b1f-db17-4c9d-b98d-163d5c0203ce Weekend Edition | Illinois voters to see Pritzker, Bailey rematch in November Sat, 21 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Illinois voters to see Pritzker, Bailey rematch in November The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois voters will have a rematch in the race for governor after Darren Bailey beat out three other candidates in Tuesday evening’s Republican primary election. Just as votes were being counted and before the race was called for Bailey, during a campaign event in Chicago, incumbent Gov. J.B. Pritzker predicted that Republicans would select the same candidate as they did four years ago. “Illinois Republicans are offering voters a destructive alliance of cowardly, doomed grifters who recklessly embrace ruin,” Pritzker said. “Yes, folks, this is the fight of our future.” (The Center Square) – Illinois voters will have a rematch in the race for governor after Darren Bailey beat out three other candidates in Tuesday evening’s Republican primary election. Just as votes were being counted and before the race was called for Bailey, during a campaign event in Chicago, incumbent Gov. J.B. Pritzker predicted that Republicans would select the same candidate as they did four years ago. “Illinois Republicans are offering voters a destructive alliance of cowardly, doomed grifters who recklessly embrace ruin,” Pritzker said. “Yes, folks, this is the fight of our future.” false full 712 09885bfb-cd51-41de-a094-a4652feb791e Weekend Edition | Pritzker: 'God was looking out for people' in storm-damaged Kankakee County Sat, 14 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker: 'God was looking out for people' in storm-damaged Kankakee County The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says God was looking out for people in Kankakee County this week. The governor visited the area Thursday after severe storms, including an EF-3 level tornado, caused extensive damage on Tuesday. “But one thing, and God was looking out for people here, is that there were really very few injuries. They were relatively minor. There were no deaths,” Pritzker said. Pritzker said almost 500 structures were affected and at least 30 homes were totally destroyed. “Many of the people who have been displaced have family that live in the area, and they’ve gone to stay with their family while their homes are being repaired or maybe for longer,” Pritzker said. (The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says God was looking out for people in Kankakee County this week. The governor visited the area Thursday after severe storms, including an EF-3 level tornado, caused extensive damage on Tuesday. “But one thing, and God was looking out for people here, is that there were really very few injuries. They were relatively minor. There were no deaths,” Pritzker said. Pritzker said almost 500 structures were affected and at least 30 homes were totally destroyed. “Many of the people who have been displaced have family that live in the area, and they’ve gone to stay with their family while their homes are being repaired or maybe for longer,” Pritzker said. false full 710 b1235d74-0f32-47de-8413-b3a4d8d7e5c1 Weekend Edition | Chicago police monitor Iran-U.S. conflict; public advised to be aware (The Center Square) – Chicago Police say they are monitoring the U.S. conflict in Iran. Residents and visitors observed a significant increase in police presence at O’Hare International Airport and on area passenger trains this week. In a statement to The Center Square, the Chicago Police Department said it is monitoring the situation in Iran. “While there is no actionable intelligence related to Chicago at this time, we are paying special attention to places of worship and will adjust resources if necessary as we continue to follow the rapidly unfolding events,” the CPD statement said.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Sat, 7 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) – Chicago Police say they are monitoring the U.S. conflict in Iran. Residents and visitors observed a significant increase in police presence at O’Hare International Airport and on area passenger trains this week. In a statement to The Center Square, the Chicago Police Department said it is monitoring the situation in Iran. “While there is no actionable intelligence related to Chicago at this time, we are paying special attention to places of worship and will adjust resources if necessary as we continue to follow the rapidly unfolding events,” the CPD statement said.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Chicago police monitor Iran-U.S. conflict; public advised to be aware The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Chicago Police say they are monitoring the U.S. conflict in Iran. Residents and visitors observed a significant increase in police presence at O’Hare International Airport and on area passenger trains this week. In a statement to The Center Square, the Chicago Police Department said it is monitoring the situation in Iran. “While there is no actionable intelligence related to Chicago at this time, we are paying special attention to places of worship and will adjust resources if necessary as we continue to follow the rapidly unfolding events,” the CPD statement said. (The Center Square) – Chicago Police say they are monitoring the U.S. conflict in Iran. Residents and visitors observed a significant increase in police presence at O’Hare International Airport and on area passenger trains this week. In a statement to The Center Square, the Chicago Police Department said it is monitoring the situation in Iran. “While there is no actionable intelligence related to Chicago at this time, we are paying special attention to places of worship and will adjust resources if necessary as we continue to follow the rapidly unfolding events,” the CPD statement said. false full 709 daeedf96-73c3-4346-ba19-f5eae5d3f5e8 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 5th, 2026 - State budget hearings begin as locals look to increase gas tax Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. 

Read more at TheCenterSquare.com/illinois


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 5 Mar 2026 15:22:57 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. 

Read more at TheCenterSquare.com/illinois


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 5th, 2026 - State budget hearings begin as locals look to increase gas tax The Center Square 00:18:40 Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. false full 708 ab229dd2-c098-4000-bc48-437230ebf7c3 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 3rd, 2026 - DEI commissioner didn’t properly disclose $23K side job For Illinois in Focus Daily with The Center Square, host Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square investigative reporter Jared Strong about his continued investigation into Illinois diversity contracting commission, including a commissioner not disclosing the entirety of their other employment outside of being a commissioner. 

Read the story here: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_63956a13-5235-4a23-92e7-06203fbad8d9.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 3 Mar 2026 15:54:56 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ For Illinois in Focus Daily with The Center Square, host Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square investigative reporter Jared Strong about his continued investigation into Illinois diversity contracting commission, including a commissioner not disclosing the entirety of their other employment outside of being a commissioner. 

Read the story here: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_63956a13-5235-4a23-92e7-06203fbad8d9.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 3rd, 2026 - DEI commissioner didn’t properly disclose $23K side job The Center Square 00:22:08 For Illinois in Focus Daily with The Center Square, host Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square investigative reporter Jared Strong about his continued investigation into Illinois diversity contracting commission, including a commissioner not disclosing the entirety of their other employment outside of being a commissioner. For Illinois in Focus Daily with The Center Square, host Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square investigative reporter Jared Strong about his continued investigation into Illinois diversity contracting commission, including a commissioner not disclosing the entirety of their other employment outside of being a commissioner. false full 707 ee52a201-0555-43f2-9ff4-c9b302677a61 Weekend Edition | Amended Bears megaproject bill could have major impact on property tax payers (The Center Square) - An Illinois megaproject bill about a new Chicago Bears stadium project passed through a House committee Thursday, but it did so with a warning from several legislators and an advocacy group that the bill could lead to a meteoric rise in property tax bills in multiple communities in the state. The bill will next go to the House for a vote with sponsor Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, saying he didn’t know how quickly it would be taken up for a vote. The bill would allow the Bears’ proposed $5 billion stadium project and any $500 million project in the state to pay a negotiated lower rate instead of the same property tax that other companies and residents pay and it would allow the construction of the facility to be done sales tax free for 10 years.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Sat, 28 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) - An Illinois megaproject bill about a new Chicago Bears stadium project passed through a House committee Thursday, but it did so with a warning from several legislators and an advocacy group that the bill could lead to a meteoric rise in property tax bills in multiple communities in the state. The bill will next go to the House for a vote with sponsor Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, saying he didn’t know how quickly it would be taken up for a vote. The bill would allow the Bears’ proposed $5 billion stadium project and any $500 million project in the state to pay a negotiated lower rate instead of the same property tax that other companies and residents pay and it would allow the construction of the facility to be done sales tax free for 10 years.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Amended Bears megaproject bill could have major impact on property tax payers The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) - An Illinois megaproject bill about a new Chicago Bears stadium project passed through a House committee Thursday, but it did so with a warning from several legislators and an advocacy group that the bill could lead to a meteoric rise in property tax bills in multiple communities in the state. The bill will next go to the House for a vote with sponsor Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, saying he didn’t know how quickly it would be taken up for a vote. The bill would allow the Bears’ proposed $5 billion stadium project and any $500 million project in the state to pay a negotiated lower rate instead of the same property tax that other companies and residents pay and it would allow the construction of the facility to be done sales tax free for 10 years. (The Center Square) - An Illinois megaproject bill about a new Chicago Bears stadium project passed through a House committee Thursday, but it did so with a warning from several legislators and an advocacy group that the bill could lead to a meteoric rise in property tax bills in multiple communities in the state. The bill will next go to the House for a vote with sponsor Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, saying he didn’t know how quickly it would be taken up for a vote. The bill would allow the Bears’ proposed $5 billion stadium project and any $500 million project in the state to pay a negotiated lower rate instead of the same property tax that other companies and residents pay and it would allow the construction of the facility to be done sales tax free for 10 years. false full 706 7cb736e1-bf1e-4d8d-ad5e-09230afd13df Weekend Edition | Pritzker proposes $54.8 billion budget, down from $55.2 billion in 2026 (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has proposed a budget for fiscal year 2027 that is smaller than the state’s 2026 spending plan.

The governor delivered his State of the State budget address before the General Assembly at the Illinois Capitol on Wednesday.

Pritzker opened by saying he would introduce another balanced budget proposal. The spending plan with $54.8 billion in general funds appropriations is down from the state’s $55.2 billion for the current year.

The governor then launched into criticism of President Donald Trump and said Illinois is fighting more than 50 cases in court where Pritzker said the federal government is “illegally confiscating money” that was promised and appropriated by Congress to the people of Illinois.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Sat, 21 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has proposed a budget for fiscal year 2027 that is smaller than the state’s 2026 spending plan.

The governor delivered his State of the State budget address before the General Assembly at the Illinois Capitol on Wednesday.

Pritzker opened by saying he would introduce another balanced budget proposal. The spending plan with $54.8 billion in general funds appropriations is down from the state’s $55.2 billion for the current year.

The governor then launched into criticism of President Donald Trump and said Illinois is fighting more than 50 cases in court where Pritzker said the federal government is “illegally confiscating money” that was promised and appropriated by Congress to the people of Illinois.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Pritzker proposes $54.8 billion budget, down from $55.2 billion in 2026 The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has proposed a budget for fiscal year 2027 that is smaller than the state’s 2026 spending plan. The governor delivered his State of the State budget address before the General Assembly at the Illinois Capitol on Wednesday. Pritzker opened by saying he would introduce another balanced budget proposal. The spending plan with $54.8 billion in general funds appropriations is down from the state’s $55.2 billion for the current year. The governor then launched into criticism of President Donald Trump and said Illinois is fighting more than 50 cases in court where Pritzker said the federal government is “illegally confiscating money” that was promised and appropriated by Congress to the people of Illinois. (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has proposed a budget for fiscal year 2027 that is smaller than the state’s 2026 spending plan. The governor delivered his State of the State budget address before the General Assembly at the Illinois Capitol on Wednesday. Pritzker opened by saying he would introduce another balanced budget proposal. The spending plan with $54.8 billion in general funds appropriations is down from the state’s $55.2 billion for the current year. The governor then launched into criticism of President Donald Trump and said Illinois is fighting more than 50 cases in court where Pritzker said the federal government is “illegally confiscating money” that was promised and appropriated by Congress to the people of Illinois. false full 704 6555c8f4-5ee1-466c-9c01-a2a8104e3565 Illinois in Focus Daily | February 20th, 2026 - Pritzker 'very disappointed' in latest around Chicago Bears relocation For Illinois in Focus Daily, host Greg Bishop reviews the latest actions from Indiana to lure the Chicago Bears out of Illinois, and shares reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:19:07 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ For Illinois in Focus Daily, host Greg Bishop reviews the latest actions from Indiana to lure the Chicago Bears out of Illinois, and shares reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 20th, 2026 - Pritzker 'very disappointed' in latest around Chicago Bears relocation The Center Square 00:20:47 For Illinois in Focus Daily, host Greg Bishop reviews the latest actions from Indiana to lure the Chicago Bears out of Illinois, and shares reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. For Illinois in Focus Daily, host Greg Bishop reviews the latest actions from Indiana to lure the Chicago Bears out of Illinois, and shares reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. false full 705 be1a0616-0365-46e6-b486-bbd10e160edf Illinois in Focus Daily | February 18th, 2026 - Republicans urge Pritzker to focus on taxpayers in Wednesday’s budget address For Illinois in Focus Daily, host Greg Bishop reviews moments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's 2025 budget address and what Republicans are looking for from the Democratic incumbent in the 2026 address.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 21:06:13 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ For Illinois in Focus Daily, host Greg Bishop reviews moments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's 2025 budget address and what Republicans are looking for from the Democratic incumbent in the 2026 address.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 18th, 2026 - Republicans urge Pritzker to focus on taxpayers in Wednesday’s budget address The Center Square 00:19:18 For Illinois in Focus Daily, host Greg Bishop reviews moments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's 2025 budget address and what Republicans are looking for from the Democratic incumbent in the 2026 address. For Illinois in Focus Daily, host Greg Bishop reviews moments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's 2025 budget address and what Republicans are looking for from the Democratic incumbent in the 2026 address. false full 703 a341943d-c359-4dde-9e61-c0cb82df5999 Weekend Edition | Retail advocate: Swipe fees ruling is largest Main St. 'relief package' in Illinois Sat, 14 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Retail advocate: Swipe fees ruling is largest Main St. 'relief package' in Illinois The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – A retail business advocate says a federal judge’s ruling to uphold the Interchange Fee Prohibition Act paves the way for Main Street Illinois to experience major relief, but a banking advocate says the law could slow commerce and foul up transactions. U.S. District Court Judge Virginia Kendall ruled on Tuesday that the law to ban processing fees on the tax and tip portion of credit and debit card transactions could be implemented as scheduled July 1. Illinois Retail Merchants Association President and CEO Rob Karr said removing the pressure of swipe fees on prices will be a big deal. (The Center Square) – A retail business advocate says a federal judge’s ruling to uphold the Interchange Fee Prohibition Act paves the way for Main Street Illinois to experience major relief, but a banking advocate says the law could slow commerce and foul up transactions. U.S. District Court Judge Virginia Kendall ruled on Tuesday that the law to ban processing fees on the tax and tip portion of credit and debit card transactions could be implemented as scheduled July 1. Illinois Retail Merchants Association President and CEO Rob Karr said removing the pressure of swipe fees on prices will be a big deal. false full 701 8975548d-fbae-4d20-9aea-2b4575959166 Illinois in Focus Daily | February 13th, 2026 - Illinois' AG responds to Trump terminating Obama-era climate change policy For Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop discusses President Donald Trump's action on vehicle emissions and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul's response.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:29:41 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ For Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop discusses President Donald Trump's action on vehicle emissions and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul's response.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 13th, 2026 - Illinois' AG responds to Trump terminating Obama-era climate change policy The Center Square 00:20:14 For Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop discusses President Donald Trump's action on vehicle emissions and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul's response. For Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop discusses President Donald Trump's action on vehicle emissions and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul's response. false full 702 ab9465f5-580d-49da-9f4e-40295848c294 Illinois in Focus Daily | February 11th, 2026 - Pritzker's office sued over 'peacekeeper' pic and other Illinois headlines During Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop provides some of the latest headlines you'll find at The Center Square - Illinois. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com/Illinois

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:16:32 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ During Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop provides some of the latest headlines you'll find at The Center Square - Illinois. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com/Illinois

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 11th, 2026 - Pritzker's office sued over 'peacekeeper' pic and other Illinois headlines The Center Square 00:27:18 During Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop provides some of the latest headlines you'll find at The Center Square - Illinois. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com/Illinois During Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop provides some of the latest headlines you'll find at The Center Square - Illinois. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com/Illinois false full 700 9546d7aa-8961-4ba5-9795-0a0868adac2b Illinois in Focus Daily | February 10th, 2026 - Indiana courts the Bears as Iowa toys with boundary adjustment For Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop reviews the latest in conversations about the future of the Chicago Bears, and Iowa looks to join Indiana in starting a commission to have the state absorb one or more Illinois counties.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 10 Feb 2026 21:22:38 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ For Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop reviews the latest in conversations about the future of the Chicago Bears, and Iowa looks to join Indiana in starting a commission to have the state absorb one or more Illinois counties.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 10th, 2026 - Indiana courts the Bears as Iowa toys with boundary adjustment The Center Square 00:15:57 For Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop reviews the latest in conversations about the future of the Chicago Bears, and Iowa looks to join Indiana in starting a commission to have the state absorb one or more Illinois counties. For Illinois in Focus Daily, Greg Bishop reviews the latest in conversations about the future of the Chicago Bears, and Iowa looks to join Indiana in starting a commission to have the state absorb one or more Illinois counties. false full 699 5e612233-81aa-48ff-bfbd-7902f3d63e0a Weekend Edition | Lawmakers discuss budget, spending, tax credits as Illinois Senate returns Sat, 7 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Lawmakers discuss budget, spending, tax credits as Illinois Senate returns The Center Square 00:24:00 The Illinois Senate Appropriations Committee chair says greater federal scrutiny of state government spending will not change the General Assembly’s budget process. State senators are scheduled to return to Springfield this week for session days Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. State Sen. Elgie Sims, D-Chicago, chairs the appropriations committee. 
 The Illinois Senate Appropriations Committee chair says greater federal scrutiny of state government spending will not change the General Assembly’s budget process. State senators are scheduled to return to Springfield this week for session days Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. State Sen. Elgie Sims, D-Chicago, chairs the appropriations committee. 
 false full 697 6c821e7f-d1be-41cb-b7a2-c79d642fb356 Illinois in Focus Daily | February 6th, 2026 - Illinois legislators discuss taxes, spending and campfire regulations Greg Bishop shares some of the recent conversations happening at the Illinois Statehouse as some legislators push for taxing millionaires more, others push changes to public safety policy. One legislator is defending her bill allowing for local regulation of campfires.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 6 Feb 2026 21:44:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares some of the recent conversations happening at the Illinois Statehouse as some legislators push for taxing millionaires more, others push changes to public safety policy. One legislator is defending her bill allowing for local regulation of campfires.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 6th, 2026 - Illinois legislators discuss taxes, spending and campfire regulations The Center Square 00:20:19 Greg Bishop shares some of the recent conversations happening at the Illinois Statehouse as some legislators push for taxing millionaires more, others push changes to public safety policy. One legislator is defending her bill allowing for local regulation of campfires. Greg Bishop shares some of the recent conversations happening at the Illinois Statehouse as some legislators push for taxing millionaires more, others push changes to public safety policy. One legislator is defending her bill allowing for local regulation of campfires. false full 698 0ed1b73e-ca90-430a-b2ab-1cddaaa9d6bc Illinois in Focus Daily | February 4th, 2026 - Immigration enforcement debate continues as voter integrity urged The Center Square's Greg Bishop looks at the immigration enforcement debate as it relates to Illinois

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 4 Feb 2026 22:47:50 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop looks at the immigration enforcement debate as it relates to Illinois

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 4th, 2026 - Immigration enforcement debate continues as voter integrity urged The Center Square 00:16:34 The Center Square's Greg Bishop looks at the immigration enforcement debate as it relates to Illinois The Center Square's Greg Bishop looks at the immigration enforcement debate as it relates to Illinois false full 696 4db791cb-6492-4ef9-881c-efb12728eaf0 Illinois in Focus Daily | February 3rd, 2026 - Former state Sen. Bailey seeks rematch with Pritzker Greg Bishop talks live with Darren Bailey, a former state senator who was the Republican candidate for governor against Gov. J.B. Pritzker four years ago. Bailey is running in the Republican primary March 17 with early voting starting Feb. 5.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 3 Feb 2026 15:53:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks live with Darren Bailey, a former state senator who was the Republican candidate for governor against Gov. J.B. Pritzker four years ago. Bailey is running in the Republican primary March 17 with early voting starting Feb. 5.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 3rd, 2026 - Former state Sen. Bailey seeks rematch with Pritzker The Center Square 00:28:21 Greg Bishop talks live with Darren Bailey, a former state senator who was the Republican candidate for governor against Gov. J.B. Pritzker four years ago. Bailey is running in the Republican primary March 17 with early voting starting Feb. 5. Greg Bishop talks live with Darren Bailey, a former state senator who was the Republican candidate for governor against Gov. J.B. Pritzker four years ago. Bailey is running in the Republican primary March 17 with early voting starting Feb. 5. false full 695 17cdbbb1-d11e-4a52-9cd3-a27c79834b63 Weekend Edition | Illinois gains population for third straight year (The Center Square) – According to new estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, Illinois’ population has risen for the third straight year. Data released on Tuesday showed Illinois with an estimated 12,719,141 people on July 1, 2025, up from 12,703,033 the previous year. The state’s number is 16,108 higher than a year ago but 76,207 lower than it was in 2020.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx  

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Sat, 31 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) – According to new estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, Illinois’ population has risen for the third straight year. Data released on Tuesday showed Illinois with an estimated 12,719,141 people on July 1, 2025, up from 12,703,033 the previous year. The state’s number is 16,108 higher than a year ago but 76,207 lower than it was in 2020.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx  

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Illinois gains population for third straight year The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – According to new estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, Illinois’ population has risen for the third straight year. Data released on Tuesday showed Illinois with an estimated 12,719,141 people on July 1, 2025, up from 12,703,033 the previous year. The state’s number is 16,108 higher than a year ago but 76,207 lower than it was in 2020. (The Center Square) – According to new estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, Illinois’ population has risen for the third straight year. Data released on Tuesday showed Illinois with an estimated 12,719,141 people on July 1, 2025, up from 12,703,033 the previous year. The state’s number is 16,108 higher than a year ago but 76,207 lower than it was in 2020. false full 694 6f55ed4c-5385-407b-ac03-f17e100801f2 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 30th, 2026 - SNAP changes work requirements Sunday as Illinois' error rate doubles in 10 years The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest deadlines around work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and shares data on how much tax money goes to SNAP, and how much Illinois' error rate has increased in the last 10 years.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 30 Jan 2026 21:33:22 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest deadlines around work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and shares data on how much tax money goes to SNAP, and how much Illinois' error rate has increased in the last 10 years.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 30th, 2026 - SNAP changes work requirements Sunday as Illinois' error rate doubles in 10 years The Center Square 00:18:33 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest deadlines around work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and shares data on how much tax money goes to SNAP, and how much Illinois' error rate has increased in the last 10 years. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest deadlines around work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and shares data on how much tax money goes to SNAP, and how much Illinois' error rate has increased in the last 10 years. false full 693 1476af7a-df0b-49cc-8941-27fc3e065dad Illinois in Focus Daily | January 28th, 2026 - Illinois' population gain through international migration Greg Bishop delves into the latest U.S. Census estimates for Illinois' population that shows a third year of growth, but international migration into the state continues to outpace the domestic migration out of the state.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 29 Jan 2026 03:45:40 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop delves into the latest U.S. Census estimates for Illinois' population that shows a third year of growth, but international migration into the state continues to outpace the domestic migration out of the state.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 28th, 2026 - Illinois' population gain through international migration The Center Square 00:16:19 Greg Bishop delves into the latest U.S. Census estimates for Illinois' population that shows a third year of growth, but international migration into the state continues to outpace the domestic migration out of the state. Greg Bishop delves into the latest U.S. Census estimates for Illinois' population that shows a third year of growth, but international migration into the state continues to outpace the domestic migration out of the state. false full 692 db6a56d3-ab7f-405d-ab15-7ca4d2aebc3f Illinois in Focus Daily | January 26th, 2026 - Illinois Statehouse candidate investigates Medicaid spending Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Statehouse candidate Bailey Templeton about her latest findings through public records requests showing a 725% increase in the amount of Medicaid spending on children without Social Security Numbers. 
 

Read the story here: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_5d99f9cb-5413-4907-86df-de9e92a73b85.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:47:56 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Statehouse candidate Bailey Templeton about her latest findings through public records requests showing a 725% increase in the amount of Medicaid spending on children without Social Security Numbers. 
 

Read the story here: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_5d99f9cb-5413-4907-86df-de9e92a73b85.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 26th, 2026 - Illinois Statehouse candidate investigates Medicaid spending The Center Square 00:29:14 Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Statehouse candidate Bailey Templeton about her latest findings through public records requests showing a 725% increase in the amount of Medicaid spending on children without Social Security Numbers. Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Statehouse candidate Bailey Templeton about her latest findings through public records requests showing a 725% increase in the amount of Medicaid spending on children without Social Security Numbers. false full 691 a9b84711-70d3-458e-8933-4783f1a7bcf2 Weekend Edition | IL AG reviews battles vs. Trump administration: '365 days of chaos' Sat, 24 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | IL AG reviews battles vs. Trump administration: '365 days of chaos' The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul says his office has endured 365 days of chaos with President Donald Trump back in the White House. Raoul held a press conference in Chicago on Tuesday to mark the one-year anniversary of Trump’s return to the Oval Office. “Today marks 365 days of chaos, 365 days of attacks on civil rights, on the rule of law and on the Constitution itself,” Raoul said. (The Center Square) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul says his office has endured 365 days of chaos with President Donald Trump back in the White House. Raoul held a press conference in Chicago on Tuesday to mark the one-year anniversary of Trump’s return to the Oval Office. “Today marks 365 days of chaos, 365 days of attacks on civil rights, on the rule of law and on the Constitution itself,” Raoul said. false full 689 1233da03-780d-4bc0-b642-a305ae500c30 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 23rd, 2026 - SCOTUS again considering gun ban challenge from Illinois Greg Bishop discusses the status of several Second Amendment challenges in the federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court still considering whether to take a challenge from Illinois calling the state's gun and magazine ban unconstitutional.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 23 Jan 2026 22:59:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the status of several Second Amendment challenges in the federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court still considering whether to take a challenge from Illinois calling the state's gun and magazine ban unconstitutional.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 23rd, 2026 - SCOTUS again considering gun ban challenge from Illinois The Center Square 00:24:24 Greg Bishop discusses the status of several Second Amendment challenges in the federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court still considering whether to take a challenge from Illinois calling the state's gun and magazine ban unconstitutional. Greg Bishop discusses the status of several Second Amendment challenges in the federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court still considering whether to take a challenge from Illinois calling the state's gun and magazine ban unconstitutional. false full 690 942090fd-7469-433a-8d65-1cdac8749ab1 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 22nd, 2026 - House passes resolutions condemning ICE, tariffs Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 22 Jan 2026 22:06:15 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 22nd, 2026 - House passes resolutions condemning ICE, tariffs The Center Square 00:12:13 Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. false full 688 4687fde6-13dc-486a-ae70-3796008d8768 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 21th, 2026 - Pritzker says Trump’s first year a 'failure,' calls ICE 'secret police' Greg Bishop discusses some of the highlights President Donald Trump provided from his first year in office of his second non-consecutive term. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Trump's first year has been a "failure," while Republicans in Illinois say Pritzker's policy are not making the state safe or affordable.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 21 Jan 2026 17:24:35 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses some of the highlights President Donald Trump provided from his first year in office of his second non-consecutive term. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Trump's first year has been a "failure," while Republicans in Illinois say Pritzker's policy are not making the state safe or affordable.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 21th, 2026 - Pritzker says Trump’s first year a 'failure,' calls ICE 'secret police' The Center Square 00:30:02 Greg Bishop discusses some of the highlights President Donald Trump provided from his first year in office of his second non-consecutive term. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Trump's first year has been a "failure," while Republicans in Illinois say Pritzker's policy are not making the state safe or affordable. Greg Bishop discusses some of the highlights President Donald Trump provided from his first year in office of his second non-consecutive term. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Trump's first year has been a "failure," while Republicans in Illinois say Pritzker's policy are not making the state safe or affordable. false full 687 834f1925-46c1-4597-87ea-88230e74216d Weekend Edition | GOP senator wants budget transparency; Dems describe open process Sat, 17 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | GOP senator wants budget transparency; Dems describe open process The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – As Illinois state senators return to Springfield, Democrats and Republicans disagree over the level of transparency in the state’s budget process. The state Senate’s first meeting of 2026 is scheduled Tuesday afternoon at the Illinois Capitol. A reporter asked Illinois Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, about lawmakers routinely passing the state budget in the middle of the night with line items stuffed into a shell bill. (The Center Square) – As Illinois state senators return to Springfield, Democrats and Republicans disagree over the level of transparency in the state’s budget process. The state Senate’s first meeting of 2026 is scheduled Tuesday afternoon at the Illinois Capitol. A reporter asked Illinois Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, about lawmakers routinely passing the state budget in the middle of the night with line items stuffed into a shell bill. false full 685 5584b425-c3e0-4470-bcc5-9fb203919709 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 16th, 2026 - Ives investigates tax Illinois dollars for NGOs Greg Bishop talks live with Jeanne Ives from Breakthrough Ideas about her investigations into state spending on non-government organizations, how to shore up the state's budget and more.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2026 21:03:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks live with Jeanne Ives from Breakthrough Ideas about her investigations into state spending on non-government organizations, how to shore up the state's budget and more.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 16th, 2026 - Ives investigates tax Illinois dollars for NGOs The Center Square 00:21:16 Greg Bishop talks live with Jeanne Ives from Breakthrough Ideas about her investigations into state spending on non-government organizations, how to shore up the state's budget and more. Greg Bishop talks live with Jeanne Ives from Breakthrough Ideas about her investigations into state spending on non-government organizations, how to shore up the state's budget and more. false full 686 0d4c5a2d-3067-40c2-9197-833bba6df63b Illinois in Focus Daily | January 15th, 2026 - Tax increase talk at the Illinois Statehouse Greg Bishop discusses the status of Illinois' budget, and shares comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the impacts to state spending if federal taxpayer funds are frozen. Legislators discuss the prospect of tax increases with a proposal being floated to have a surcharge on millionaires.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 15 Jan 2026 18:55:35 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the status of Illinois' budget, and shares comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the impacts to state spending if federal taxpayer funds are frozen. Legislators discuss the prospect of tax increases with a proposal being floated to have a surcharge on millionaires.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 15th, 2026 - Tax increase talk at the Illinois Statehouse The Center Square 00:25:04 Greg Bishop discusses the status of Illinois' budget, and shares comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the impacts to state spending if federal taxpayer funds are frozen. Legislators discuss the prospect of tax increases with a proposal being floated to have a surcharge on millionaires. Greg Bishop discusses the status of Illinois' budget, and shares comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the impacts to state spending if federal taxpayer funds are frozen. Legislators discuss the prospect of tax increases with a proposal being floated to have a surcharge on millionaires. false full 684 e9ac1c58-a5ce-48cd-8d5d-ffd19090b18e Illinois in Focus Daily | January 13th, 2026 - Migrant sanctuary Illinois sues Trump admin over immigration enforcement tactics Greg Bishop discusses the latest lawsuit Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed against the Trump administration over public safety around immigration enforcement.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 13 Jan 2026 17:26:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the latest lawsuit Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed against the Trump administration over public safety around immigration enforcement.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 13th, 2026 - Migrant sanctuary Illinois sues Trump admin over immigration enforcement tactics The Center Square 00:29:14 Greg Bishop discusses the latest lawsuit Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed against the Trump administration over public safety around immigration enforcement. Greg Bishop discusses the latest lawsuit Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed against the Trump administration over public safety around immigration enforcement. false full 683 6c5bef37-b823-472a-82ce-691e2b82e1a5 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 12th, 2026 - With adverse audit opinions, Illinois sues Trump admin over frozen welfare funds Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul about a lawsuit he's joining with other states like New York and California challenging the Trump administration's freezing of federal taxpayer funds for certain welfare programs.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 12 Jan 2026 23:02:14 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul about a lawsuit he's joining with other states like New York and California challenging the Trump administration's freezing of federal taxpayer funds for certain welfare programs.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 12th, 2026 - With adverse audit opinions, Illinois sues Trump admin over frozen welfare funds The Center Square 00:30:08 Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul about a lawsuit he's joining with other states like New York and California challenging the Trump administration's freezing of federal taxpayer funds for certain welfare programs. Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul about a lawsuit he's joining with other states like New York and California challenging the Trump administration's freezing of federal taxpayer funds for certain welfare programs. false full 682 58cc88f5-0631-4db7-8af4-8b9f68f51567 Weekend Edition | Report: More people continue leaving Illinois than arriving (The Center Square) – Illinois state Rep. Martin McLaughlin argues lawmakers in Springfield only look in the mirror to come face to face with the source of the state’s dwindling appeal. A new Atlas Van Lines report details how Illinois’ outbound migration levels in 2025 again topped the number of new move-ins to the state, marking the 17th straight year that trend has festered. While this year’s ratio reflects the smallest gap between new move-ins and those leaving the state since 2008, staffers nonetheless found 54% of the company’s clients last year were on the move out of Illinois.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Sat, 10 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) – Illinois state Rep. Martin McLaughlin argues lawmakers in Springfield only look in the mirror to come face to face with the source of the state’s dwindling appeal. A new Atlas Van Lines report details how Illinois’ outbound migration levels in 2025 again topped the number of new move-ins to the state, marking the 17th straight year that trend has festered. While this year’s ratio reflects the smallest gap between new move-ins and those leaving the state since 2008, staffers nonetheless found 54% of the company’s clients last year were on the move out of Illinois.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Report: More people continue leaving Illinois than arriving The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois state Rep. Martin McLaughlin argues lawmakers in Springfield only look in the mirror to come face to face with the source of the state’s dwindling appeal. A new Atlas Van Lines report details how Illinois’ outbound migration levels in 2025 again topped the number of new move-ins to the state, marking the 17th straight year that trend has festered. While this year’s ratio reflects the smallest gap between new move-ins and those leaving the state since 2008, staffers nonetheless found 54% of the company’s clients last year were on the move out of Illinois. (The Center Square) – Illinois state Rep. Martin McLaughlin argues lawmakers in Springfield only look in the mirror to come face to face with the source of the state’s dwindling appeal. A new Atlas Van Lines report details how Illinois’ outbound migration levels in 2025 again topped the number of new move-ins to the state, marking the 17th straight year that trend has festered. While this year’s ratio reflects the smallest gap between new move-ins and those leaving the state since 2008, staffers nonetheless found 54% of the company’s clients last year were on the move out of Illinois. false full 681 132c70c4-760a-44d8-b164-747f533a68f9 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 8th, 2026 - HHS suspects 'political patronage' with welfare spending, Illinois a suspected 'hotspot' Greg Bishop shares conversations about fighting welfare fraud with Truth In Accounting founder and CEO Sheila Weinberg and HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill and how Illinois could be impacted and how the state can rectify a funding freeze. 

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_64464fdd-b310-4260-aefb-5e0c8bfbed6f.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 8 Jan 2026 14:58:02 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares conversations about fighting welfare fraud with Truth In Accounting founder and CEO Sheila Weinberg and HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill and how Illinois could be impacted and how the state can rectify a funding freeze. 

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_64464fdd-b310-4260-aefb-5e0c8bfbed6f.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 8th, 2026 - HHS suspects 'political patronage' with welfare spending, Illinois a suspected 'hotspot' The Center Square 00:35:05 Greg Bishop shares conversations about fighting welfare fraud with Truth In Accounting founder and CEO Sheila Weinberg and HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill and how Illinois could be impacted and how the state can rectify a funding freeze. Greg Bishop shares conversations about fighting welfare fraud with Truth In Accounting founder and CEO Sheila Weinberg and HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill and how Illinois could be impacted and how the state can rectify a funding freeze. false full 680 267b8f06-6570-485d-bdb2-27c9cb8155c8 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 7th, 2026 - IL gubernatorial candidate calls for audit as child care funding freeze announced Bishop delves into the news that the Trump administration is freezing $10 billion in federal funds to five different states including approximately $1 billion to Illinois as concerns continue about potential fraud in the welfare system stemming from findings in Minnesota.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 7 Jan 2026 17:49:13 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Bishop delves into the news that the Trump administration is freezing $10 billion in federal funds to five different states including approximately $1 billion to Illinois as concerns continue about potential fraud in the welfare system stemming from findings in Minnesota.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 7th, 2026 - IL gubernatorial candidate calls for audit as child care funding freeze announced The Center Square 00:46:20 Bishop delves into the news that the Trump administration is freezing $10 billion in federal funds to five different states including approximately $1 billion to Illinois as concerns continue about potential fraud in the welfare system stemming from findings in Minnesota. Bishop delves into the news that the Trump administration is freezing $10 billion in federal funds to five different states including approximately $1 billion to Illinois as concerns continue about potential fraud in the welfare system stemming from findings in Minnesota. false full 679 3aeae15a-3a87-4b56-9559-7c4ad0ffa9eb Illinois in Focus Daily | January 6th, 2026 - Trump ‘not gonna pay’ child care fraud to Illinois Greg Bishop shares the latest in the ongoing scrutiny of taxpayer spending on child care subsidies with President Donald Trump saying he's not going to pay states like Illinois for child care fraud. 

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_eba67e20-474d-46e1-bee7-6a0c92eac4f6.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 6 Jan 2026 19:23:53 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares the latest in the ongoing scrutiny of taxpayer spending on child care subsidies with President Donald Trump saying he's not going to pay states like Illinois for child care fraud. 

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_eba67e20-474d-46e1-bee7-6a0c92eac4f6.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 6th, 2026 - Trump ‘not gonna pay’ child care fraud to Illinois The Center Square 00:37:20 Greg Bishop shares the latest in the ongoing scrutiny of taxpayer spending on child care subsidies with President Donald Trump saying he's not going to pay states like Illinois for child care fraud. Greg Bishop shares the latest in the ongoing scrutiny of taxpayer spending on child care subsidies with President Donald Trump saying he's not going to pay states like Illinois for child care fraud. false full 678 47f58807-65ec-49fc-92d5-7a70125314e3 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 5th, 2026 - White business owners are biggest share of Illinois' diversity-preferred contract group Greg Bishop talks with Jared Strong with The Center Square's investigative unit about his ongoing investigation of the taxpayer cost for the state's diversity contracting goals.

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 5 Jan 2026 15:25:51 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks with Jared Strong with The Center Square's investigative unit about his ongoing investigation of the taxpayer cost for the state's diversity contracting goals.

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 5th, 2026 - White business owners are biggest share of Illinois' diversity-preferred contract group The Center Square 00:23:28 Greg Bishop talks with Jared Strong with The Center Square's investigative unit about his ongoing investigation of the taxpayer cost for the state's diversity contracting goals. Greg Bishop talks with Jared Strong with The Center Square's investigative unit about his ongoing investigation of the taxpayer cost for the state's diversity contracting goals. false full 677 42a5526d-64a1-4712-b4de-dc60e9707b2e Weekend Edition | Chicago mayor refuses to sign or veto budget at 'not a campaign event' (The Center Square) – A new Chicago budget is set to take effect, even though the city’s mayor refused to sign it. Flanked by Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates and several aldermanic allies, Mayor Brandon Johnson said Tuesday he would not sign or veto the budget passed by the city council last Saturday, but he would let it take effect to avoid risk or speculation of a government shutdown. The $16.7 billion spending plan includes higher taxes on cloud computing, liquor and plastic bags, along with rideshare surcharges and a roughly $1 billion sweep of tax-increment financing funds to Chicago Public Schools.

Read more:

Chicago mayor refuses to sign or veto budget at 'not a campaign event'

Chicago council, 'starting to legislate,' sends $16.7 billion budget to mayor

IL rep: As if Bears 'had a plan to rob the bank' before considering Indiana

Gas prices drop, but taxes make Illinois pricier than Midwest neighbors

DOJ lawsuit against Illinois draws support from election integrity advocates

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Sat, 3 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) – A new Chicago budget is set to take effect, even though the city’s mayor refused to sign it. Flanked by Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates and several aldermanic allies, Mayor Brandon Johnson said Tuesday he would not sign or veto the budget passed by the city council last Saturday, but he would let it take effect to avoid risk or speculation of a government shutdown. The $16.7 billion spending plan includes higher taxes on cloud computing, liquor and plastic bags, along with rideshare surcharges and a roughly $1 billion sweep of tax-increment financing funds to Chicago Public Schools.

Read more:

Chicago mayor refuses to sign or veto budget at 'not a campaign event'

Chicago council, 'starting to legislate,' sends $16.7 billion budget to mayor

IL rep: As if Bears 'had a plan to rob the bank' before considering Indiana

Gas prices drop, but taxes make Illinois pricier than Midwest neighbors

DOJ lawsuit against Illinois draws support from election integrity advocates

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Chicago mayor refuses to sign or veto budget at 'not a campaign event' The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – A new Chicago budget is set to take effect, even though the city’s mayor refused to sign it. Flanked by Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates and several aldermanic allies, Mayor Brandon Johnson said Tuesday he would not sign or veto the budget passed by the city council last Saturday, but he would let it take effect to avoid risk or speculation of a government shutdown. The $16.7 billion spending plan includes higher taxes on cloud computing, liquor and plastic bags, along with rideshare surcharges and a roughly $1 billion sweep of tax-increment financing funds to Chicago Public Schools. (The Center Square) – A new Chicago budget is set to take effect, even though the city’s mayor refused to sign it. Flanked by Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates and several aldermanic allies, Mayor Brandon Johnson said Tuesday he would not sign or veto the budget passed by the city council last Saturday, but he would let it take effect to avoid risk or speculation of a government shutdown. The $16.7 billion spending plan includes higher taxes on cloud computing, liquor and plastic bags, along with rideshare surcharges and a roughly $1 billion sweep of tax-increment financing funds to Chicago Public Schools. false full 676 8d7a5e5c-3a9b-4dbf-a9e6-01eaae44dd85 Weekend Edition | Illinois in 2025: Pritzker’s Nazi Remarks, Feds in Chicago & More Sat, 27 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Illinois in 2025: Pritzker’s Nazi Remarks, Feds in Chicago & More The Center Square 00:24:00 This special edition of Illinois in Focus looks back at the biggest stories of 2025. From Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s controversial budget address to Illinois DOGE’s findings on billions flowing to NGOs, federal enforcement actions in Chicago, and new gun laws set to take effect in 2026. We revisit the moments that shaped Illinois politics this year. This special edition of Illinois in Focus looks back at the biggest stories of 2025. From Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s controversial budget address to Illinois DOGE’s findings on billions flowing to NGOs, federal enforcement actions in Chicago, and new gun laws set to take effect in 2026. We revisit the moments that shaped Illinois politics this year. false full 675 e43347a0-6ae1-40de-bb7c-b544410605ab Weekend Edition | Pritzker signs $1.5 billion transit bill raising taxes and tolls Sat, 20 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker signs $1.5 billion transit bill raising taxes and tolls The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signed $1.5 billion public transit-funding legislation, but Illinois consumers are expected to pay the price with higher taxes and tolls. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 2111 Tuesday at Union Station in Chicago. The measure establishes the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) to replace the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and oversee the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra and Pace. The governor promised that Illinois is on the verge of a world-class transportation network. “This new law not only averts the cliff but preserves affordability and makes transit safer and more reliable,” Pritzker said. The bill passed after more than two years of discussion centered around an estimated $770 million transit “fiscal cliff” looming in 2026, but the number was revised last summer to around $250 million. (The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signed $1.5 billion public transit-funding legislation, but Illinois consumers are expected to pay the price with higher taxes and tolls. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 2111 Tuesday at Union Station in Chicago. The measure establishes the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) to replace the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and oversee the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra and Pace. The governor promised that Illinois is on the verge of a world-class transportation network. “This new law not only averts the cliff but preserves affordability and makes transit safer and more reliable,” Pritzker said. The bill passed after more than two years of discussion centered around an estimated $770 million transit “fiscal cliff” looming in 2026, but the number was revised last summer to around $250 million. false full 674 5a50c764-bd62-4993-81af-d208d372db8c Illinois in Focus Daily | December 17th, 2025 - Higher tolls and taxes expected with $1.5 billion Illinois mass transit bill now law Greg Bishop discusses the enactment of a bill Gov. J.B. Pritzker says ushers in a world class mass transit system. Opponents say the measure allows for increased taxes and tolls, while also diverting road fund money away from downstate. 

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_6e028b31-4a06-402e-9da3-0ceac33bdf41.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2025 20:11:06 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the enactment of a bill Gov. J.B. Pritzker says ushers in a world class mass transit system. Opponents say the measure allows for increased taxes and tolls, while also diverting road fund money away from downstate. 

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_6e028b31-4a06-402e-9da3-0ceac33bdf41.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 17th, 2025 - Higher tolls and taxes expected with $1.5 billion Illinois mass transit bill now law The Center Square 00:42:35 Greg Bishop discusses the enactment of a bill Gov. J.B. Pritzker says ushers in a world class mass transit system. Opponents say the measure allows for increased taxes and tolls, while also diverting road fund money away from downstate. Greg Bishop discusses the enactment of a bill Gov. J.B. Pritzker says ushers in a world class mass transit system. Opponents say the measure allows for increased taxes and tolls, while also diverting road fund money away from downstate. false full 673 d5aa9e11-a219-453e-bd6b-07a079a70343 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 16th, 2025 - Complaints against Illinois state employees increases Greg Bishop reviews a recent Office of Executive Inspector General annual report showing a record-breaking number of complaints against Illinois state employees and Gov. J.B. Pritzker's reaction to the growing trend of cases of wrongdoing.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 16 Dec 2025 15:37:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews a recent Office of Executive Inspector General annual report showing a record-breaking number of complaints against Illinois state employees and Gov. J.B. Pritzker's reaction to the growing trend of cases of wrongdoing.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 16th, 2025 - Complaints against Illinois state employees increases The Center Square 00:33:00 Greg Bishop reviews a recent Office of Executive Inspector General annual report showing a record-breaking number of complaints against Illinois state employees and Gov. J.B. Pritzker's reaction to the growing trend of cases of wrongdoing. Greg Bishop reviews a recent Office of Executive Inspector General annual report showing a record-breaking number of complaints against Illinois state employees and Gov. J.B. Pritzker's reaction to the growing trend of cases of wrongdoing. false full 672 a58b06ae-1c33-410f-a40b-0277b9d2f2df Illinois in Focus Daily | December 15th, 2025 - Pritzker enacts assisted suicide law, other bills Greg Bishop reviews the proponents and opponents take on a measure Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Friday allowing for end-of-life options for terminally ill patients, or physician-assisted suicide.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 15 Dec 2025 15:13:36 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the proponents and opponents take on a measure Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Friday allowing for end-of-life options for terminally ill patients, or physician-assisted suicide.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 15th, 2025 - Pritzker enacts assisted suicide law, other bills The Center Square 00:28:46 Greg Bishop reviews the proponents and opponents take on a measure Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Friday allowing for end-of-life options for terminally ill patients, or physician-assisted suicide. Greg Bishop reviews the proponents and opponents take on a measure Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Friday allowing for end-of-life options for terminally ill patients, or physician-assisted suicide. false full 671 8f2c3d63-2cdb-4014-9d7f-da2e31e59abc Weekend Edition | Pritzker signs 'great law' against immigration enforcement, dismisses ethics concerns Sat, 13 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker signs 'great law' against immigration enforcement, dismisses ethics concerns The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says a new law to protect people from federal immigration law enforcement in Illinois is a great one, despite ethical questions about campaign donations to the bill sponsors and private right of action. Pritzker signed House Bill 1312 Tuesday at La Villita Community Church in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. The governor said the measure would provide a measure of legal protections and send a message to President Donald Trump and members of his administration. (The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says a new law to protect people from federal immigration law enforcement in Illinois is a great one, despite ethical questions about campaign donations to the bill sponsors and private right of action. Pritzker signed House Bill 1312 Tuesday at La Villita Community Church in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. The governor said the measure would provide a measure of legal protections and send a message to President Donald Trump and members of his administration. false full 670 1d026635-0f4a-46ac-9835-16f0c93bb885 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 11th, 2025 - Planned vigil from opponents of 'end-of-life options' bill on Pritzker's desk Greg Bishop discusses the debate around a measure on Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's desk about "end-of-life" options for terminally ill patients that opponents say has "grave" consequences. The measure was approved by the Illinois Senate in the final hours of fall veto session, early Halloween morning.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 11 Dec 2025 19:44:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the debate around a measure on Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's desk about "end-of-life" options for terminally ill patients that opponents say has "grave" consequences. The measure was approved by the Illinois Senate in the final hours of fall veto session, early Halloween morning.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 11th, 2025 - Planned vigil from opponents of 'end-of-life options' bill on Pritzker's desk The Center Square 00:31:44 Greg Bishop discusses the debate around a measure on Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's desk about "end-of-life" options for terminally ill patients that opponents say has "grave" consequences. The measure was approved by the Illinois Senate in the final hours of fall veto session, early Halloween morning. Greg Bishop discusses the debate around a measure on Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's desk about "end-of-life" options for terminally ill patients that opponents say has "grave" consequences. The measure was approved by the Illinois Senate in the final hours of fall veto session, early Halloween morning. false full 669 f6388ca2-9bf9-480d-a1d6-4d85d6058e60 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 10th, 2025 - Illinois' migrant sanctuary law expanded Greg Bishop shares highlights from supporters and opponents to expansions of the state's migrant sanctuary policies Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Tuesday.

Read the story from The Center Square: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_d11da5c7-1bd9-439e-be54-8aa97212367d.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 10 Dec 2025 21:50:47 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares highlights from supporters and opponents to expansions of the state's migrant sanctuary policies Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Tuesday.

Read the story from The Center Square: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_d11da5c7-1bd9-439e-be54-8aa97212367d.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 10th, 2025 - Illinois' migrant sanctuary law expanded The Center Square 00:31:24 Greg Bishop shares highlights from supporters and opponents to expansions of the state's migrant sanctuary policies Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Tuesday. Greg Bishop shares highlights from supporters and opponents to expansions of the state's migrant sanctuary policies Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Tuesday. false full 668 07555e9d-01a7-4652-ae27-240190b7b473 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 9th, 2025 - Pritzker signs bill today expanding sanctuary law Greg Bishop discusses a bill Gov. J.B. Pritzker is scheduled to sign Tuesday morning, expanding the state's migrant sanctuary policies and the criticism Republicans have for the bill that impacts child daycares, universities and hospitals.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 9 Dec 2025 18:18:02 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses a bill Gov. J.B. Pritzker is scheduled to sign Tuesday morning, expanding the state's migrant sanctuary policies and the criticism Republicans have for the bill that impacts child daycares, universities and hospitals.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 9th, 2025 - Pritzker signs bill today expanding sanctuary law The Center Square 00:36:55 Greg Bishop discusses a bill Gov. J.B. Pritzker is scheduled to sign Tuesday morning, expanding the state's migrant sanctuary policies and the criticism Republicans have for the bill that impacts child daycares, universities and hospitals. Greg Bishop discusses a bill Gov. J.B. Pritzker is scheduled to sign Tuesday morning, expanding the state's migrant sanctuary policies and the criticism Republicans have for the bill that impacts child daycares, universities and hospitals. false full 667 3c2b2952-bb2c-424c-855a-a8fe10477e85 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 8th, 2025 - IL legislator credits Trump for U.S. Steel restarting in Granite City Greg Bishop shares reaction from Illinois state Rep. Amy Elik, R-Alton, about the announcement that U.S. Steel is restarting a blast furnace in Granite City.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 8 Dec 2025 16:02:36 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares reaction from Illinois state Rep. Amy Elik, R-Alton, about the announcement that U.S. Steel is restarting a blast furnace in Granite City.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 8th, 2025 - IL legislator credits Trump for U.S. Steel restarting in Granite City The Center Square 00:27:25 Greg Bishop shares reaction from Illinois state Rep. Amy Elik, R-Alton, about the announcement that U.S. Steel is restarting a blast furnace in Granite City. Greg Bishop shares reaction from Illinois state Rep. Amy Elik, R-Alton, about the announcement that U.S. Steel is restarting a blast furnace in Granite City. false full 666 9049a77a-a021-4b03-8f15-fbb349727cf3 Weekend Edition | Bill on Pritzker’s desk enhances Illinois’ migrant sanctuary policies Sat, 6 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Bill on Pritzker’s desk enhances Illinois’ migrant sanctuary policies The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker can now enact a measure enhancing the state’s migrant sanctuary policies that Republicans warn is too broad. House Bill 1312 was originally filed by state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, in January, and started as a POW/MIA Recognition Day bill. It passed unanimously in the House in April and was read in the Senate for a second time in May, but was never approved before the end of spring session. In October, the Senate placed it up for final passage until Senate President Don Harmon filed an amendment on Oct. 30, changing the bill to the Illinois Bivens Act on the final day of scheduled veto session. (The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker can now enact a measure enhancing the state’s migrant sanctuary policies that Republicans warn is too broad. House Bill 1312 was originally filed by state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, in January, and started as a POW/MIA Recognition Day bill. It passed unanimously in the House in April and was read in the Senate for a second time in May, but was never approved before the end of spring session. In October, the Senate placed it up for final passage until Senate President Don Harmon filed an amendment on Oct. 30, changing the bill to the Illinois Bivens Act on the final day of scheduled veto session. false full 664 08e9ce53-5d7e-4ed0-a487-8d1526007e4a Illinois in Focus Daily | December 5th, 2025 - Illinois gun ban challenge with SCOTUS as other cases linger in lower courts Greg Bishop reviews the status of several challenges to Illinois' gun and magazine ban, including the U.S. Supreme Court taking a case challenging Cook County's ban into conference Friday. A decision whether they'll take the case could be released Monday. This as the case where a district court found the state's law unconstitutional remains pending in an appeals court, and a case challenging Naperville's ban remains in a district court.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 Dec 2025 22:24:05 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the status of several challenges to Illinois' gun and magazine ban, including the U.S. Supreme Court taking a case challenging Cook County's ban into conference Friday. A decision whether they'll take the case could be released Monday. This as the case where a district court found the state's law unconstitutional remains pending in an appeals court, and a case challenging Naperville's ban remains in a district court.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 5th, 2025 - Illinois gun ban challenge with SCOTUS as other cases linger in lower courts The Center Square 00:38:20 Greg Bishop reviews the status of several challenges to Illinois' gun and magazine ban, including the U.S. Supreme Court taking a case challenging Cook County's ban into conference Friday. A decision whether they'll take the case could be released Monday. This as the case where a district court found the state's law unconstitutional remains pending in an appeals court, and a case challenging Naperville's ban remains in a district court. Greg Bishop reviews the status of several challenges to Illinois' gun and magazine ban, including the U.S. Supreme Court taking a case challenging Cook County's ban into conference Friday. A decision whether they'll take the case could be released Monday. This as the case where a district court found the state's law unconstitutional remains pending in an appeals court, and a case challenging Naperville's ban remains in a district court. false full 665 60ad3166-ce40-4f34-8812-8a6520d3b4be Illinois in Focus Daily | December 3rd, 2025 - Pritzker continues to encourage ICE protests Greg Bishop shares the continued debate around federal immigration enforcement and the state's migrant sanctuary policies with Gov. J.B. Pritzker encouraging protests against ICE.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 3 Dec 2025 17:34:50 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares the continued debate around federal immigration enforcement and the state's migrant sanctuary policies with Gov. J.B. Pritzker encouraging protests against ICE.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 3rd, 2025 - Pritzker continues to encourage ICE protests The Center Square 00:35:11 Greg Bishop shares the continued debate around federal immigration enforcement and the state's migrant sanctuary policies with Gov. J.B. Pritzker encouraging protests against ICE. Greg Bishop shares the continued debate around federal immigration enforcement and the state's migrant sanctuary policies with Gov. J.B. Pritzker encouraging protests against ICE. false full 663 371533df-32c8-452b-bb80-fd62928933b9 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 2nd, 2025 - Illinois migrant sanctuary enhancement bill will soon be law Greg Bishop airs concerns a Republican state legislator has over a bill pending Gov. J.B. Pritzker's signature to expand the state's migrant sanctuary policies.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 2 Dec 2025 15:48:54 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop airs concerns a Republican state legislator has over a bill pending Gov. J.B. Pritzker's signature to expand the state's migrant sanctuary policies.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 2nd, 2025 - Illinois migrant sanctuary enhancement bill will soon be law The Center Square 00:35:47 Greg Bishop airs concerns a Republican state legislator has over a bill pending Gov. J.B. Pritzker's signature to expand the state's migrant sanctuary policies. Greg Bishop airs concerns a Republican state legislator has over a bill pending Gov. J.B. Pritzker's signature to expand the state's migrant sanctuary policies. false full 662 412075c1-9889-4896-aa67-47c1bc6b720a Weekend Edition | Trump calls Pritzker a 'fat slob,' Illinois governor blasts president Fri, 28 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Trump calls Pritzker a 'fat slob,' Illinois governor blasts president The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – President Donald Trump has revived his criticism of Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker over crime, and Pritzker has fired back by blasting Trump over Thanksgiving dinner prices. The president spoke at the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Pardoning outside the White House Tuesday. Referring to Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson as well as the governor, Trump said crime in Chicago is out of control. (The Center Square) – President Donald Trump has revived his criticism of Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker over crime, and Pritzker has fired back by blasting Trump over Thanksgiving dinner prices. The president spoke at the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Pardoning outside the White House Tuesday. Referring to Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson as well as the governor, Trump said crime in Chicago is out of control. false full 661 6124463d-a172-417f-8fb6-1153abeabdc7 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 25th, 2025 - Court battles around migrant sanctuary policies, use of Guard continue Court battles around migrant sanctuary policies, use of Guard continue


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 25 Nov 2025 21:24:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Court battles around migrant sanctuary policies, use of Guard continue


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 25th, 2025 - Court battles around migrant sanctuary policies, use of Guard continue The Center Square 00:21:58 Court battles around migrant sanctuary policies, use of Guard continue Court battles around migrant sanctuary policies, use of Guard continue false full 660 2e23fea5-a55c-42b9-8bac-de83d25518fb Illinois in Focus Daily | November 24th, 2025 - Chicago holiday celebration shootings, CTA fire, spur public safety debate Greg Bishop shares the reaction to violence in Chicago, including two separate shootings after a downtown holiday celebration, from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and President Donald Trump. Also, last week, Gov. J.B. Pritzker was asked if the state needs to change no-cash bail policies and the perception of public safety in the city.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 24 Nov 2025 17:57:29 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares the reaction to violence in Chicago, including two separate shootings after a downtown holiday celebration, from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and President Donald Trump. Also, last week, Gov. J.B. Pritzker was asked if the state needs to change no-cash bail policies and the perception of public safety in the city.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 24th, 2025 - Chicago holiday celebration shootings, CTA fire, spur public safety debate The Center Square 00:40:36 Greg Bishop shares the reaction to violence in Chicago, including two separate shootings after a downtown holiday celebration, from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and President Donald Trump. Also, last week, Gov. J.B. Pritzker was asked if the state needs to change no-cash bail policies and the perception of public safety in the city. Greg Bishop shares the reaction to violence in Chicago, including two separate shootings after a downtown holiday celebration, from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and President Donald Trump. Also, last week, Gov. J.B. Pritzker was asked if the state needs to change no-cash bail policies and the perception of public safety in the city. false full 659 bcb47298-af64-4238-84a1-99f1620da0f9 Weekend Edition | Wheat price drop brings notable Thanksgiving savings for Illinois families Sat, 22 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Wheat price drop brings notable Thanksgiving savings for Illinois families The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois families will see some relief at the Thanksgiving table this year, with the average cost of a classic holiday meal dropping to $49.20, continuing a three-year decline and mirroring the national average of $55.18, a 5% drop from 2024. Tasha Bunting, associate director of commodities and livestock programs at the Illinois Farm Bureau, said multiple factors are pushing costs down across the state. “We definitely have seen not only here in Illinois but across the nation within the survey that turkey prices have come down,” Bunting said. “Some of the other ingredients that are used within the meal have come down… like the frozen peas and some of the other staples that we normally have within the Thanksgiving dinner.” (The Center Square) – Illinois families will see some relief at the Thanksgiving table this year, with the average cost of a classic holiday meal dropping to $49.20, continuing a three-year decline and mirroring the national average of $55.18, a 5% drop from 2024. Tasha Bunting, associate director of commodities and livestock programs at the Illinois Farm Bureau, said multiple factors are pushing costs down across the state. “We definitely have seen not only here in Illinois but across the nation within the survey that turkey prices have come down,” Bunting said. “Some of the other ingredients that are used within the meal have come down… like the frozen peas and some of the other staples that we normally have within the Thanksgiving dinner.” false full 657 b0ef5915-3495-4db1-b3d9-d7b4a41ec269 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 21st, 2025 - Illinois gun ban cases and the U.S. Supreme Court Greg Bishop discusses the status of various challenges to gun bans from Illinois, including a challenge to Cook County's ban being sent to a U.S. Supreme Court conference for Dec. 5. The Barnett case, where a district judge ruled against the law on the merits after developing a substantial record from a four day bench trial, remains in the appeals court after a hearing nearly two months ago.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 21 Nov 2025 22:16:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the status of various challenges to gun bans from Illinois, including a challenge to Cook County's ban being sent to a U.S. Supreme Court conference for Dec. 5. The Barnett case, where a district judge ruled against the law on the merits after developing a substantial record from a four day bench trial, remains in the appeals court after a hearing nearly two months ago.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 21st, 2025 - Illinois gun ban cases and the U.S. Supreme Court The Center Square 00:42:52 Greg Bishop discusses the status of various challenges to gun bans from Illinois, including a challenge to Cook County's ban being sent to a U.S. Supreme Court conference for Dec. 5. The Barnett case, where a district judge ruled against the law on the merits after developing a substantial record from a four day bench trial, remains in the appeals court after a hearing nearly two months ago. Greg Bishop discusses the status of various challenges to gun bans from Illinois, including a challenge to Cook County's ban being sent to a U.S. Supreme Court conference for Dec. 5. The Barnett case, where a district judge ruled against the law on the merits after developing a substantial record from a four day bench trial, remains in the appeals court after a hearing nearly two months ago. false full 658 823010fd-37d2-4e21-9635-8bd9e5684eb0 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 20th, 2025 - Chicago activist testifies to U.S. Senate about immigration enforcement Greg Bishop shares highlights from Wednesday U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary where Chicago Flips Red Vice President Daniel Carter-Walters testified about immigration enforcement in the Windy City.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 20 Nov 2025 19:39:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares highlights from Wednesday U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary where Chicago Flips Red Vice President Daniel Carter-Walters testified about immigration enforcement in the Windy City.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 20th, 2025 - Chicago activist testifies to U.S. Senate about immigration enforcement The Center Square 00:39:30 Greg Bishop shares highlights from Wednesday U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary where Chicago Flips Red Vice President Daniel Carter-Walters testified about immigration enforcement in the Windy City. Greg Bishop shares highlights from Wednesday U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary where Chicago Flips Red Vice President Daniel Carter-Walters testified about immigration enforcement in the Windy City. false full 656 f270d1d2-e60f-43a4-a476-7816a9636f98 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 19th, 2025 - Illinois Senate President's $10M campaign finance fine dropped Greg Bishop reviews actions taken by the Illinois State Board of Elections in regards to a nearly $10 million fine for campaign finance violations with Illinois Senate President Don Harmon's campaign committee. Bishop also shares recent public comments from residents of the city.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 19 Nov 2025 15:04:33 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews actions taken by the Illinois State Board of Elections in regards to a nearly $10 million fine for campaign finance violations with Illinois Senate President Don Harmon's campaign committee. Bishop also shares recent public comments from residents of the city.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 19th, 2025 - Illinois Senate President's $10M campaign finance fine dropped The Center Square 00:35:46 Greg Bishop reviews actions taken by the Illinois State Board of Elections in regards to a nearly $10 million fine for campaign finance violations with Illinois Senate President Don Harmon's campaign committee. Bishop also shares recent public comments from residents of the city. Greg Bishop reviews actions taken by the Illinois State Board of Elections in regards to a nearly $10 million fine for campaign finance violations with Illinois Senate President Don Harmon's campaign committee. Bishop also shares recent public comments from residents of the city. false full 655 65255d5d-b36e-45fe-95ee-8873c31a46a7 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 18th, 2025 - Chicago committee rejects mayor's proposed tax hikes Greg Bishop shares comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson after a city council committee rejected a slew of proposed tax increases he says are needed to prevent layoffs in city government. Johnson vowed to veto a budget with a property tax increase, but dodged whether he'd veto a budget that didn't include a head tax on employers.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 18 Nov 2025 15:48:10 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson after a city council committee rejected a slew of proposed tax increases he says are needed to prevent layoffs in city government. Johnson vowed to veto a budget with a property tax increase, but dodged whether he'd veto a budget that didn't include a head tax on employers.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 18th, 2025 - Chicago committee rejects mayor's proposed tax hikes The Center Square 00:32:05 Greg Bishop shares comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson after a city council committee rejected a slew of proposed tax increases he says are needed to prevent layoffs in city government. Johnson vowed to veto a budget with a property tax increase, but dodged whether he'd veto a budget that didn't include a head tax on employers. Greg Bishop shares comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson after a city council committee rejected a slew of proposed tax increases he says are needed to prevent layoffs in city government. Johnson vowed to veto a budget with a property tax increase, but dodged whether he'd veto a budget that didn't include a head tax on employers. false full 654 995e2a77-79bf-4039-aae8-c538f6649723 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 17th, 2025 - Pritzker's budget cuts executive order transparency criticized Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:05:26 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | November 17th, 2025 - Pritzker's budget cuts executive order transparency criticized The Center Square 00:32:35 Greg Bishop shares recent criticism from Illinois House Republicans to what they say is the lack of transparency around Gov. J.B. Pritzker's recent executive order calling for state agencies to find efficiencies in their annual spending plan. Greg Bishop shares recent criticism from Illinois House Republicans to what they say is the lack of transparency around Gov. J.B. Pritzker's recent executive order calling for state agencies to find efficiencies in their annual spending plan. false full 653 e3ed3765-45ed-4ca2-be82-ccf51f3f7591 Weekend Edition | Pritzker disagrees with Durbin on vote to end shutdown Fri, 14 Nov 2025 13:44:32 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker disagrees with Durbin on vote to end shutdown The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he is disappointed that Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin voted in favor of ending the partial shutdown of the federal government. Durbin joined seven other Democrats in voting with Republican senators to send government funding legislation to the U.S. House. “Many of my friends are unhappy. They think we should have kept our government closed indefinitely to protest the policies of the Trump administration. I share their opinions of this administration but cannot accept a strategy which wages political battle at the expense of my neighbor’s paycheck or the food for his children,” Durbin said on the Senate floor this week. (The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he is disappointed that Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin voted in favor of ending the partial shutdown of the federal government. Durbin joined seven other Democrats in voting with Republican senators to send government funding legislation to the U.S. House. “Many of my friends are unhappy. They think we should have kept our government closed indefinitely to protest the policies of the Trump administration. I share their opinions of this administration but cannot accept a strategy which wages political battle at the expense of my neighbor’s paycheck or the food for his children,” Durbin said on the Senate floor this week. false full 652 9525a215-0c44-49fa-abfc-ecc2826a6801 Weekend Edition | IL GOP Rep: Sanctuary expansion bill may expose many to civil lawsuits Sat, 8 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | IL GOP Rep: Sanctuary expansion bill may expose many to civil lawsuits The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois House and Senate leaders are touting legislation they say will protect people from federal immigration enforcement, but the House Republican floor leader says the bill could have unintended consequences and expose many people to civil liability. Illinois House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch, D-Hillside, sponsored House Bill 1312. Under the bill, Welch said hospitals would be required to adopt safeguards concerning law enforcement. The bill would also impose mandates and ban civil arrests at hospitals, courthouses, college campuses and daycare centers. (The Center Square) – Illinois House and Senate leaders are touting legislation they say will protect people from federal immigration enforcement, but the House Republican floor leader says the bill could have unintended consequences and expose many people to civil liability. Illinois House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch, D-Hillside, sponsored House Bill 1312. Under the bill, Welch said hospitals would be required to adopt safeguards concerning law enforcement. The bill would also impose mandates and ban civil arrests at hospitals, courthouses, college campuses and daycare centers. false full 651 4478b8c0-a24c-4f46-bd92-7e83df5fd610 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 5th, 2025 - Illinois DCFS still looking for missing children numbers Greg Bishop continues his coverage about how many youth in care the Department of Children and Family Services has on record that are missing and reaction to the lack of information from state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 6 Nov 2025 21:47:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop continues his coverage about how many youth in care the Department of Children and Family Services has on record that are missing and reaction to the lack of information from state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 5th, 2025 - Illinois DCFS still looking for missing children numbers The Center Square 00:34:09 Greg Bishop continues his coverage about how many youth in care the Department of Children and Family Services has on record that are missing and reaction to the lack of information from state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet. Greg Bishop continues his coverage about how many youth in care the Department of Children and Family Services has on record that are missing and reaction to the lack of information from state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet. false full 650 aac2c8ea-dc2b-49da-aba6-1f8aec4e16d1 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 4th, 2025 - IL GOP U.S. Sen. candidate Tracy on shutdown, immigration, tariffs and politics Greg Bishop talks live with Republican U.S. Senate candidate Don Tracy about the government shutdown, politics over immigration, the use of tariffs and more.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 4 Nov 2025 19:46:56 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks live with Republican U.S. Senate candidate Don Tracy about the government shutdown, politics over immigration, the use of tariffs and more.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 4th, 2025 - IL GOP U.S. Sen. candidate Tracy on shutdown, immigration, tariffs and politics The Center Square 00:35:37 Greg Bishop talks live with Republican U.S. Senate candidate Don Tracy about the government shutdown, politics over immigration, the use of tariffs and more. Greg Bishop talks live with Republican U.S. Senate candidate Don Tracy about the government shutdown, politics over immigration, the use of tariffs and more. false full 649 5559b085-f6e9-4e2c-97fe-f50c52befb2b Illinois in Focus Daily | November 3rd, 2025 - Illinois Department of Revenue amnesty program for delinquent taxpayers continues Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois Department of Revenue Director David Harris about the state's ongoing amnesty program for delinquent taxpayers.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 3 Nov 2025 20:13:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois Department of Revenue Director David Harris about the state's ongoing amnesty program for delinquent taxpayers.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 3rd, 2025 - Illinois Department of Revenue amnesty program for delinquent taxpayers continues The Center Square 00:32:30 Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois Department of Revenue Director David Harris about the state's ongoing amnesty program for delinquent taxpayers. Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois Department of Revenue Director David Harris about the state's ongoing amnesty program for delinquent taxpayers. false full 648 996cf97e-cd60-4000-aef6-9c05676de59b Weekend Edition | Energy bill opponents say increases IL electric bills by $8 billion passes Sat, 1 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Energy bill opponents say increases IL electric bills by $8 billion passes The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois lawmakers have passed wide-ranging energy legislation, but opponents say it will lead to higher electricity bills. Senate Bill 25, also known as The Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA), passed the state Senate by a vote of 37-22 Thursday night after the House advanced it Wednesday. Sen. Steve Stadelman, D-Rockford, said a new line item would be added to Illinois consumers’ electric bills in 2030. “That line item will be immediately offset, because that’s the same date that the battery storage providers will start providing extra capacity, providing power to the grid,” Stadelman said. (The Center Square) – Illinois lawmakers have passed wide-ranging energy legislation, but opponents say it will lead to higher electricity bills. Senate Bill 25, also known as The Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA), passed the state Senate by a vote of 37-22 Thursday night after the House advanced it Wednesday. Sen. Steve Stadelman, D-Rockford, said a new line item would be added to Illinois consumers’ electric bills in 2030. “That line item will be immediately offset, because that’s the same date that the battery storage providers will start providing extra capacity, providing power to the grid,” Stadelman said. false full 647 9d58ec91-05d7-4e1c-ae89-cd23c8640bbf Illinois in Focus Daily | October 30th, 2025 - Illinois legislators debate which taxes to increase in final days of veto session Greg Bishop reviews the ongoing debate at the Illinois Statehouse about which taxes to increase during the final days of fall veto session. Among the proposals are an "amusement tax," a retail delivery tax and decoupling Illinois tax code from the federal tax code.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:03:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the ongoing debate at the Illinois Statehouse about which taxes to increase during the final days of fall veto session. Among the proposals are an "amusement tax," a retail delivery tax and decoupling Illinois tax code from the federal tax code.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 30th, 2025 - Illinois legislators debate which taxes to increase in final days of veto session The Center Square 00:28:27 Greg Bishop reviews the ongoing debate at the Illinois Statehouse about which taxes to increase during the final days of fall veto session. Among the proposals are an "amusement tax," a retail delivery tax and decoupling Illinois tax code from the federal tax code. Greg Bishop reviews the ongoing debate at the Illinois Statehouse about which taxes to increase during the final days of fall veto session. Among the proposals are an "amusement tax," a retail delivery tax and decoupling Illinois tax code from the federal tax code. false full 646 e10019ba-dba5-4fd5-83b0-acc836c1d8d9 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 29th, 2025 - Expect tax and fee increases from Illinois fall veto Greg Bishop reviews the prospects of increased taxes and fees expected to come from Illinois legislators in the final days of fall veto session. Democrats are looking to increase taxes to pay for mass transit and an energy bill to support battery storage. Republicans say both policies are bad for Illinois families and businesses.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:13:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the prospects of increased taxes and fees expected to come from Illinois legislators in the final days of fall veto session. Democrats are looking to increase taxes to pay for mass transit and an energy bill to support battery storage. Republicans say both policies are bad for Illinois families and businesses.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 29th, 2025 - Expect tax and fee increases from Illinois fall veto The Center Square 00:37:28 Greg Bishop reviews the prospects of increased taxes and fees expected to come from Illinois legislators in the final days of fall veto session. Democrats are looking to increase taxes to pay for mass transit and an energy bill to support battery storage. Republicans say both policies are bad for Illinois families and businesses. Greg Bishop reviews the prospects of increased taxes and fees expected to come from Illinois legislators in the final days of fall veto session. Democrats are looking to increase taxes to pay for mass transit and an energy bill to support battery storage. Republicans say both policies are bad for Illinois families and businesses. false full 645 83b8c2bd-cdc5-4b62-9435-ffca0fa969ff Illinois in Focus Daily | October 28th, 2025 - Redistricting Illinois congressional maps under consideration for veto session Greg Bishop previews what could come from the start of fall veto session beginning Tuesday. Legislators could tackle energy legislation, increased taxes for the mass transit fiscal cliff and the possibility of redistricting Illinois congressional maps ahead of the 2026 election.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:13:36 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop previews what could come from the start of fall veto session beginning Tuesday. Legislators could tackle energy legislation, increased taxes for the mass transit fiscal cliff and the possibility of redistricting Illinois congressional maps ahead of the 2026 election.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 28th, 2025 - Redistricting Illinois congressional maps under consideration for veto session The Center Square 00:29:30 Greg Bishop previews what could come from the start of fall veto session beginning Tuesday. Legislators could tackle energy legislation, increased taxes for the mass transit fiscal cliff and the possibility of redistricting Illinois congressional maps ahead of the 2026 election. Greg Bishop previews what could come from the start of fall veto session beginning Tuesday. Legislators could tackle energy legislation, increased taxes for the mass transit fiscal cliff and the possibility of redistricting Illinois congressional maps ahead of the 2026 election. false full 644 88e537a9-6cbc-450d-a6d4-3b9ec7c4d35e Weekend Edition | Pritzker wants immigration enforcement, just not Trump’s way Sat, 25 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker wants immigration enforcement, just not Trump’s way The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he is not for open borders and wants immigration law enforced, just not how the Trump administration is doing it. Monday at a stop in Florida, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the feds are working with local authorities in various states, but not in Illinois. "Governor Pritzker in Illinois is putting his people in danger every day by going against us and not working with us to make sure that we're detaining individuals who have criminal charges against them or have been convicted, and then rereleasing them out on the streets," Noem said. (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he is not for open borders and wants immigration law enforced, just not how the Trump administration is doing it. Monday at a stop in Florida, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the feds are working with local authorities in various states, but not in Illinois. "Governor Pritzker in Illinois is putting his people in danger every day by going against us and not working with us to make sure that we're detaining individuals who have criminal charges against them or have been convicted, and then rereleasing them out on the streets," Noem said. false full 643 c24c6a8e-888d-429e-8453-e9ce120ce05d Illinois in Focus Daily | October 23rd, 2025 - Pritzker to sign exec. order to ‘pursue accountability’ amid federal deployments Greg Bishop delves into the latest filings to the U.S. Supreme Court about the Trump administration's use of the National Guard in Illinois, reaction to Wednesday's immigration enforcement actions in Little Village and President Donald Trump saying he will make Chicago safe.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 23 Oct 2025 17:30:08 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop delves into the latest filings to the U.S. Supreme Court about the Trump administration's use of the National Guard in Illinois, reaction to Wednesday's immigration enforcement actions in Little Village and President Donald Trump saying he will make Chicago safe.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 23rd, 2025 - Pritzker to sign exec. order to ‘pursue accountability’ amid federal deployments The Center Square 00:24:12 Greg Bishop delves into the latest filings to the U.S. Supreme Court about the Trump administration's use of the National Guard in Illinois, reaction to Wednesday's immigration enforcement actions in Little Village and President Donald Trump saying he will make Chicago safe. Greg Bishop delves into the latest filings to the U.S. Supreme Court about the Trump administration's use of the National Guard in Illinois, reaction to Wednesday's immigration enforcement actions in Little Village and President Donald Trump saying he will make Chicago safe. false full 642 046d333b-7f13-40aa-aafd-e1f34f5ea67a Illinois in Focus Daily | October 22nd, 2025 - Pritzker opposes Chicago ‘head tax,' says he's a capitalist Greg Bishop shares a few of the topics and comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker Tuesday with The Economic Club of Chicago. The governor opposed a proposed "head tax" in Chicago, talked about redistricting efforts and more.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 22 Oct 2025 17:25:59 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares a few of the topics and comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker Tuesday with The Economic Club of Chicago. The governor opposed a proposed "head tax" in Chicago, talked about redistricting efforts and more.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 22nd, 2025 - Pritzker opposes Chicago ‘head tax,' says he's a capitalist The Center Square 00:35:17 Greg Bishop shares a few of the topics and comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker Tuesday with The Economic Club of Chicago. The governor opposed a proposed "head tax" in Chicago, talked about redistricting efforts and more. Greg Bishop shares a few of the topics and comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker Tuesday with The Economic Club of Chicago. The governor opposed a proposed "head tax" in Chicago, talked about redistricting efforts and more. false full 641 d7feb946-bf2a-4f64-ad46-a3c06446ed64 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 21st, 2025 - Illinois National Guard case before SCOTUS Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the legal battle over whether the Trump administration can use the National Guard for public safety in Illinois with an emergency motion to the U.S. Supreme Court.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 21 Oct 2025 14:28:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the legal battle over whether the Trump administration can use the National Guard for public safety in Illinois with an emergency motion to the U.S. Supreme Court.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 21st, 2025 - Illinois National Guard case before SCOTUS The Center Square 00:25:14 Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the legal battle over whether the Trump administration can use the National Guard for public safety in Illinois with an emergency motion to the U.S. Supreme Court. Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the legal battle over whether the Trump administration can use the National Guard for public safety in Illinois with an emergency motion to the U.S. Supreme Court. false full 640 d41311cb-051c-40e9-9bf8-722cc2869f90 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 20th, 2025 - Trump responds to 'No Kings' protests, continues focus on Chicago public safety Greg Bishop shares President Donald Trump's reaction to Saturday's "No Kings" protests across the country and reviews some statements from Illinois' Democratic congressional delegation.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 20 Oct 2025 17:11:51 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares President Donald Trump's reaction to Saturday's "No Kings" protests across the country and reviews some statements from Illinois' Democratic congressional delegation.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 20th, 2025 - Trump responds to 'No Kings' protests, continues focus on Chicago public safety The Center Square 00:22:29 Greg Bishop shares President Donald Trump's reaction to Saturday's "No Kings" protests across the country and reviews some statements from Illinois' Democratic congressional delegation. Greg Bishop shares President Donald Trump's reaction to Saturday's "No Kings" protests across the country and reviews some statements from Illinois' Democratic congressional delegation. false full 639 e11aad3e-e066-457c-b1d7-9b317825cf50 Weekend Edition | Pritzker vows to continue battling Trump over ‘abuses’ around public safety Sat, 18 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker vows to continue battling Trump over ‘abuses’ around public safety The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – The war of words continues between President Donald Trump and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker over public safety in the streets of Chicago and beyond. Monday evening returning from the Middle East peace summit on Air Force One, Trump said Pritzker should ask for help with public safety. “I think he should beg for help because he's running a bad operation,” Trump told reporters. “He's letting people be killed in his city because he doesn't want it,” referring to a callus of the National Guard. Clashes between law enforcement and protesters continued into Tuesday with chemical agents being deployed to scatter a growing crowd in Chicago surrounding federal immigration enforcement. (The Center Square) – The war of words continues between President Donald Trump and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker over public safety in the streets of Chicago and beyond. Monday evening returning from the Middle East peace summit on Air Force One, Trump said Pritzker should ask for help with public safety. “I think he should beg for help because he's running a bad operation,” Trump told reporters. “He's letting people be killed in his city because he doesn't want it,” referring to a callus of the National Guard. Clashes between law enforcement and protesters continued into Tuesday with chemical agents being deployed to scatter a growing crowd in Chicago surrounding federal immigration enforcement. false full 637 68c0a78d-e548-4202-ae03-08283af324d1 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 17th, 2025 - GOP says Pritzker out of touch winning $1.4 million Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 17 Oct 2025 20:56:15 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 17th, 2025 - GOP says Pritzker out of touch winning $1.4 million The Center Square 00:16:16 Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. false full 638 3055c2f9-3cd9-409c-aba2-f129328fd076 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 16th, 2025 - Illinois legislators continue debate over migrant sanctuary policies, public safety Greg Bishop share the ongoing debate about public safety around immigration enforcement with comments from state Reps. Patrick Sheehan, R-Homer Glenn, La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, and others.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 16 Oct 2025 20:44:35 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop share the ongoing debate about public safety around immigration enforcement with comments from state Reps. Patrick Sheehan, R-Homer Glenn, La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, and others.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 16th, 2025 - Illinois legislators continue debate over migrant sanctuary policies, public safety The Center Square 00:40:25 Greg Bishop share the ongoing debate about public safety around immigration enforcement with comments from state Reps. Patrick Sheehan, R-Homer Glenn, La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, and others. Greg Bishop share the ongoing debate about public safety around immigration enforcement with comments from state Reps. Patrick Sheehan, R-Homer Glenn, La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, and others. false full 636 06a44789-1025-406e-8f12-219d48aad474 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 15th, 2025 - DHS: cartel placing bounties on federal agents in Chicago Greg Bishop shares the latest news release from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security about bounties being put on the heads of federal law enforcement by criminal networks from Mexico and the ongoing debate about public safety and immigration enforcement in Chicago and beyond.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 15 Oct 2025 20:15:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares the latest news release from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security about bounties being put on the heads of federal law enforcement by criminal networks from Mexico and the ongoing debate about public safety and immigration enforcement in Chicago and beyond.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 15th, 2025 - DHS: cartel placing bounties on federal agents in Chicago The Center Square 00:37:44 Greg Bishop shares the latest news release from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security about bounties being put on the heads of federal law enforcement by criminal networks from Mexico and the ongoing debate about public safety and immigration enforcement in Chicago and beyond. Greg Bishop shares the latest news release from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security about bounties being put on the heads of federal law enforcement by criminal networks from Mexico and the ongoing debate about public safety and immigration enforcement in Chicago and beyond. false full 635 66a99dde-ca58-428a-9193-09afd37863a4 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 14th, 2025 - Trump: Pritzker should ‘beg’ for help with public safety as Broadview clamps down on protesters Greg Bishop shares comments from President Donald Trump, Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch, Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson and state Reps. Patrick Windhorst and John Cabello about public safety around immigration enforcement in Chicago and beyond.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 14 Oct 2025 17:05:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares comments from President Donald Trump, Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch, Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson and state Reps. Patrick Windhorst and John Cabello about public safety around immigration enforcement in Chicago and beyond.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 14th, 2025 - Trump: Pritzker should ‘beg’ for help with public safety as Broadview clamps down on protesters The Center Square 00:35:08 Greg Bishop shares comments from President Donald Trump, Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch, Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson and state Reps. Patrick Windhorst and John Cabello about public safety around immigration enforcement in Chicago and beyond. Greg Bishop shares comments from President Donald Trump, Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch, Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson and state Reps. Patrick Windhorst and John Cabello about public safety around immigration enforcement in Chicago and beyond. false full 634 98db10ad-706d-498b-8a94-ebcecf3376f2 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 13th, 2025 - Trump’s emergency Guard appeal denied by Illinois federal appeals court Greg Bishop gets to the latest in the ongoing court battle over whether the Trump administration has the justification needed to deploy the National Guard to Illinois with a federal appeals court denying a motion to reverse a temporary restraining order against the deployment.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 13 Oct 2025 14:27:16 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop gets to the latest in the ongoing court battle over whether the Trump administration has the justification needed to deploy the National Guard to Illinois with a federal appeals court denying a motion to reverse a temporary restraining order against the deployment.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 13th, 2025 - Trump’s emergency Guard appeal denied by Illinois federal appeals court The Center Square 00:30:06 Greg Bishop gets to the latest in the ongoing court battle over whether the Trump administration has the justification needed to deploy the National Guard to Illinois with a federal appeals court denying a motion to reverse a temporary restraining order against the deployment. Greg Bishop gets to the latest in the ongoing court battle over whether the Trump administration has the justification needed to deploy the National Guard to Illinois with a federal appeals court denying a motion to reverse a temporary restraining order against the deployment. false full 633 e7dfae02-e4b8-4ca2-952c-d2c3755564be Weekend Edition | Hundreds of National Guard activated in Illinois Sat, 11 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Hundreds of National Guard activated in Illinois The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Hundreds of National Guard soldiers are activated in Illinois for the next two months to assist in protecting federal property and personnel enforcing federal immigration law. The issue is in front of a federal judge in Chicago on Thursday morning with the state seeking a temporary restraining order. President Donald Trump for weeks has said he was going to send in the military to help with public safety in Chicago. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security says federal law enforcement are seeing increased assaults against them. U.S. Northern Command announced Wednesday evening, the Texas National Guard are employed in the greater Chicago area with DHS as the lead federal agency. (The Center Square) – Hundreds of National Guard soldiers are activated in Illinois for the next two months to assist in protecting federal property and personnel enforcing federal immigration law. The issue is in front of a federal judge in Chicago on Thursday morning with the state seeking a temporary restraining order. President Donald Trump for weeks has said he was going to send in the military to help with public safety in Chicago. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security says federal law enforcement are seeing increased assaults against them. U.S. Northern Command announced Wednesday evening, the Texas National Guard are employed in the greater Chicago area with DHS as the lead federal agency. false full 631 98a1c756-13b3-468b-8a3b-57e8c5c69919 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 10th, 2025 - Trump appeals Illinois judge's National Guard temporary restraining order Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the legal battle over whether the Trump administration has the justification to use the National Guard in Illinois. A judge Thursday issued a temporary restraining order. The Trump administration appealed.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 10 Oct 2025 17:14:30 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the legal battle over whether the Trump administration has the justification to use the National Guard in Illinois. A judge Thursday issued a temporary restraining order. The Trump administration appealed.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 10th, 2025 - Trump appeals Illinois judge's National Guard temporary restraining order The Center Square 00:24:59 Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the legal battle over whether the Trump administration has the justification to use the National Guard in Illinois. A judge Thursday issued a temporary restraining order. The Trump administration appealed. Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the legal battle over whether the Trump administration has the justification to use the National Guard in Illinois. A judge Thursday issued a temporary restraining order. The Trump administration appealed. false full 632 439ac57d-15b5-4a0a-986b-f128e16b2d70 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 9th, 2025 - Pritzker tells Trump ‘come and get me’ Greg Bishop shares reaction to President Donald Trump saying he thinks Gov. J.B. Pritzker should be in jail as Pritzker says "come get me."


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 9 Oct 2025 20:20:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares reaction to President Donald Trump saying he thinks Gov. J.B. Pritzker should be in jail as Pritzker says "come get me."


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 9th, 2025 - Pritzker tells Trump ‘come and get me’ The Center Square 00:24:39 Greg Bishop shares reaction to President Donald Trump saying he thinks Gov. J.B. Pritzker should be in jail as Pritzker says "come get me." Greg Bishop shares reaction to President Donald Trump saying he thinks Gov. J.B. Pritzker should be in jail as Pritzker says "come get me." false full 630 073fd75f-69fe-4e72-8c5e-1104e64afd3f Illinois in Focus Daily | October 8th, 2025 - Local executive orders impact ICE protesters in Broadview, federal officers in Chicago Greg Bishop shares some of the local officials' executive actions taken this week in the face of disruptive protesters in Broadview and police responding to federal agents calls for help in Chicago.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 8 Oct 2025 20:47:37 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares some of the local officials' executive actions taken this week in the face of disruptive protesters in Broadview and police responding to federal agents calls for help in Chicago.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 8th, 2025 - Local executive orders impact ICE protesters in Broadview, federal officers in Chicago The Center Square 00:45:01 Greg Bishop shares some of the local officials' executive actions taken this week in the face of disruptive protesters in Broadview and police responding to federal agents calls for help in Chicago. Greg Bishop shares some of the local officials' executive actions taken this week in the face of disruptive protesters in Broadview and police responding to federal agents calls for help in Chicago. false full 629 9104063a-0317-4ab9-8b59-65aded78b571 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 7th, 2025 - Pritzker say he’s not afraid, sues Trump over Guard Greg Bishop unpacks some of the comments from Illinois Democrats who sued the Trump administration over the use of the National Guard to focus on public safety around federal immigration enforcement.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 7 Oct 2025 15:43:12 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop unpacks some of the comments from Illinois Democrats who sued the Trump administration over the use of the National Guard to focus on public safety around federal immigration enforcement.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 7th, 2025 - Pritzker say he’s not afraid, sues Trump over Guard The Center Square 00:20:57 Greg Bishop unpacks some of the comments from Illinois Democrats who sued the Trump administration over the use of the National Guard to focus on public safety around federal immigration enforcement. Greg Bishop unpacks some of the comments from Illinois Democrats who sued the Trump administration over the use of the National Guard to focus on public safety around federal immigration enforcement. false full 628 d4a00b79-25e9-42b1-924b-680d9878fe6f Illinois in Focus Daily | October 6th, 2025 - Trump: Pritzker fears for his life as gov opposes Guard deployment; CTA DEI cuts Mon, 6 Oct 2025 14:19:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | October 6th, 2025 - Trump: Pritzker fears for his life as gov opposes Guard deployment; CTA DEI cuts The Center Square 00:50:22 Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. false full 627 8af7bd71-45d7-4d49-bc80-00604e55f478 Weekend Edition | Pritzker blames Trump for partial government shutdown Sat, 4 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker blames Trump for partial government shutdown The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says President Donald Trump is to blame for the U.S. government’s partial shutdown, but Vice President J.D. Vance has a different opinion. The governor took questions from reporters Wednesday after he hosted a panel discussion with Illinois Department of Public Health Director Sameer Vohra and doctors at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine. “The president of the United States decided to shut down the government because he’s unwilling to sit down with Democrats to discuss things,” Pritzker said. (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says President Donald Trump is to blame for the U.S. government’s partial shutdown, but Vice President J.D. Vance has a different opinion. The governor took questions from reporters Wednesday after he hosted a panel discussion with Illinois Department of Public Health Director Sameer Vohra and doctors at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine. “The president of the United States decided to shut down the government because he’s unwilling to sit down with Democrats to discuss things,” Pritzker said. false full 625 4675c867-1f5f-4696-b487-3a1f01c88409 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 3, 2025 - IL State Police prepares ICE protest zones as DHS announces vehicular assaults Greg Bishop shares the latest updates from Illinois State Police and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security over public safety and immigration enforcement.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 3 Oct 2025 16:37:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares the latest updates from Illinois State Police and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security over public safety and immigration enforcement.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 3, 2025 - IL State Police prepares ICE protest zones as DHS announces vehicular assaults The Center Square 00:28:52 Greg Bishop shares the latest updates from Illinois State Police and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security over public safety and immigration enforcement. Greg Bishop shares the latest updates from Illinois State Police and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security over public safety and immigration enforcement. false full 626 123cbd6d-24d7-42fa-a589-d157ab525757 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 2, 2025 - Republican legislator, Chicago alderman blame Illinois' sanctuary policies for 'chaos' Greg Bishop shares information about two measures filed by statehouse Republicans, one to reverse the state's laws that prohibit state and local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration enforcement and another distancing protesters for police.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 2 Oct 2025 21:36:32 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares information about two measures filed by statehouse Republicans, one to reverse the state's laws that prohibit state and local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration enforcement and another distancing protesters for police.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 2, 2025 - Republican legislator, Chicago alderman blame Illinois' sanctuary policies for 'chaos' The Center Square 00:28:42 Greg Bishop shares information about two measures filed by statehouse Republicans, one to reverse the state's laws that prohibit state and local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration enforcement and another distancing protesters for police. Greg Bishop shares information about two measures filed by statehouse Republicans, one to reverse the state's laws that prohibit state and local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration enforcement and another distancing protesters for police. false full 624 ed6b3bfb-aeb0-48a6-a86f-dcf23e213e34 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 1, 2025 - Trump, Pritzker trade barbs; U.S. Senate talks Chicago; partial government shutdown Wed, 1 Oct 2025 15:18:27 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | October 1, 2025 - Trump, Pritzker trade barbs; U.S. Senate talks Chicago; partial government shutdown The Center Square 00:37:43 (The Center Square) – In today's edition of Illinois in Focus Daily, The Center Square Editor Greg Bishop airs the latest back and forth between President Donald Trump and Gov. J.B. Pritzker over public safety in Chicago and around immigration enforcement. (The Center Square) – In today's edition of Illinois in Focus Daily, The Center Square Editor Greg Bishop airs the latest back and forth between President Donald Trump and Gov. J.B. Pritzker over public safety in Chicago and around immigration enforcement. false full 623 c9898bb9-9382-4257-8848-2ae9f552f07b Illinois in Focus Daily | September 30, 2025 - Pritzker expects troops soon for Chicago; ICE protesters with guns charged Greg Bishop shares comments from Democratic leaders about the expectation that the Trump administration is requesting military troops for Chicago amid protests against immigration officials enforcing federal law.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:32:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares comments from Democratic leaders about the expectation that the Trump administration is requesting military troops for Chicago amid protests against immigration officials enforcing federal law.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 30, 2025 - Pritzker expects troops soon for Chicago; ICE protesters with guns charged The Center Square 00:32:18 Greg Bishop shares comments from Democratic leaders about the expectation that the Trump administration is requesting military troops for Chicago amid protests against immigration officials enforcing federal law. Greg Bishop shares comments from Democratic leaders about the expectation that the Trump administration is requesting military troops for Chicago amid protests against immigration officials enforcing federal law. false full 622 88b4aa99-5fce-42d9-b182-11bb47867021 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 29, 2025 - Homeland Security arrests ICE protesters with guns in Broadview, Illinois Greg Bishop unpacks some of the latest in the developing situation of increased federal law enforcement in and around Chicago with the anticipation of more unfolding throughout the start of the week.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:39:22 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop unpacks some of the latest in the developing situation of increased federal law enforcement in and around Chicago with the anticipation of more unfolding throughout the start of the week.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 29, 2025 - Homeland Security arrests ICE protesters with guns in Broadview, Illinois The Center Square 00:31:35 Greg Bishop unpacks some of the latest in the developing situation of increased federal law enforcement in and around Chicago with the anticipation of more unfolding throughout the start of the week. Greg Bishop unpacks some of the latest in the developing situation of increased federal law enforcement in and around Chicago with the anticipation of more unfolding throughout the start of the week. false full 621 46417747-4c35-416d-a8bc-d58fb78cb638 Weekend Edition | Fiscal Fallout: Illinois spending swells 43% under Pritzker Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:08:01 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Fiscal Fallout: Illinois spending swells 43% under Pritzker The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Discretionary spending by Illinois state leaders has increased more than $16 billion since J.B. Pritzker became governor nearly seven years ago. That is a total increase of about 43%. Before Pritzker, the state's general fund spending was roughly flat or had modest increases, according to state data. Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner was in office for part of that time. In the years of financial data reviewed by The Center Square, Democrats have been in control of the state legislature and most statewide offices. A notable exception was Rauner’s single, four-year term as governor. (The Center Square) – Discretionary spending by Illinois state leaders has increased more than $16 billion since J.B. Pritzker became governor nearly seven years ago. That is a total increase of about 43%. Before Pritzker, the state's general fund spending was roughly flat or had modest increases, according to state data. Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner was in office for part of that time. In the years of financial data reviewed by The Center Square, Democrats have been in control of the state legislature and most statewide offices. A notable exception was Rauner’s single, four-year term as governor. false full 620 497aba69-a3b3-475c-b9c0-f19144c4eaa1 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 25, 2025 - Illinois spending increases 43% under Pritzker as Republicans urge for reforms Greg Bishop delves into recent analysis by The Center Square's investigative team about the increased state spending of tax dollars under the Pritzker administration and reaction from legislators on both sides of the aisle.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 25 Sep 2025 14:35:42 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop delves into recent analysis by The Center Square's investigative team about the increased state spending of tax dollars under the Pritzker administration and reaction from legislators on both sides of the aisle.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 25, 2025 - Illinois spending increases 43% under Pritzker as Republicans urge for reforms The Center Square 00:33:05 Greg Bishop delves into recent analysis by The Center Square's investigative team about the increased state spending of tax dollars under the Pritzker administration and reaction from legislators on both sides of the aisle. Greg Bishop delves into recent analysis by The Center Square's investigative team about the increased state spending of tax dollars under the Pritzker administration and reaction from legislators on both sides of the aisle. false full 619 5e97978e-4dfb-4da5-a651-92010595a785 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 24, 2025 - Pritzker blames Trump for budget cut EO Greg Bishop shares reaction from Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, to the budget executive order signed by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 24 Sep 2025 14:33:35 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares reaction from Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, to the budget executive order signed by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 24, 2025 - Pritzker blames Trump for budget cut EO The Center Square 00:34:18 Greg Bishop shares reaction from Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, to the budget executive order signed by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. Greg Bishop shares reaction from Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, to the budget executive order signed by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. false full 618 90965191-a14d-4094-81a6-d95c4a158d72 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 23, 2025 - DOJ: AR15s protected by 2nd Amendment, challenges IL's gun ban Greg Bishop provides highlights from the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals oral arguments in the challenge to Illinois' gun ban that were heard Monday in court.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:16:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop provides highlights from the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals oral arguments in the challenge to Illinois' gun ban that were heard Monday in court.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 23, 2025 - DOJ: AR15s protected by 2nd Amendment, challenges IL's gun ban The Center Square 00:44:52 Greg Bishop provides highlights from the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals oral arguments in the challenge to Illinois' gun ban that were heard Monday in court. Greg Bishop provides highlights from the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals oral arguments in the challenge to Illinois' gun ban that were heard Monday in court. false full 617 0275f1b0-51e2-4317-95fc-c7b41762a614 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 22, 2025 - Appeals court hears challenge to Illinois' gun ban today Greg Bishop previews some of what the expectations are from the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals oral arguments in the gun and magazine ban set for Monday afternoon in Chicago. He also shares voices from gun owners and gun rights advocates, including Dan Eldridge of Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois about an event scheduled after the oral arguments. 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 22 Sep 2025 16:50:51 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop previews some of what the expectations are from the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals oral arguments in the gun and magazine ban set for Monday afternoon in Chicago. He also shares voices from gun owners and gun rights advocates, including Dan Eldridge of Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois about an event scheduled after the oral arguments. 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 22, 2025 - Appeals court hears challenge to Illinois' gun ban today The Center Square 00:35:16 Greg Bishop previews some of what the expectations are from the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals oral arguments in the gun and magazine ban set for Monday afternoon in Chicago. He also shares voices from gun owners and gun rights advocates, including Dan Eldridge of Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois about an event scheduled after the oral arguments. Greg Bishop previews some of what the expectations are from the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals oral arguments in the gun and magazine ban set for Monday afternoon in Chicago. He also shares voices from gun owners and gun rights advocates, including Dan Eldridge of Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois about an event scheduled after the oral arguments. false full 616 a69cbc0b-c228-4d6e-b91d-3c7a710746e7 Weekend Edition | IL Freedom Caucus files to impeach Pritzker, allege incitement of violence (The Center Square) – The Illinois Freedom Caucus has filed articles of impeachment against Gov. J.B. Pritzker for what it says is his engaging in conduct that constitutes inciting violence. Part of the impeachment resolution in House Resolution 466 that the Illinois Freedom Caucus filed includes quotes from Pritzker’s State of the State speech on Feb. 19 where he characterized the Trump administration as using an authoritarian playbook. “If you think I'm overreacting and sounding the alarm too soon, consider this: It took the Nazis one month, three weeks, two days, eight hours and 40 minutes to dismantle a constitutional republic,” Pritzker said earlier this year. The resolution says Pritzker “has issued inflammatory statements that incite violence against elected officials, citizens, and persons located in the United States and has failed to uphold the constitutional requirement to faithfully execute the laws of the State of Illinois.”


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Sat, 20 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) – The Illinois Freedom Caucus has filed articles of impeachment against Gov. J.B. Pritzker for what it says is his engaging in conduct that constitutes inciting violence. Part of the impeachment resolution in House Resolution 466 that the Illinois Freedom Caucus filed includes quotes from Pritzker’s State of the State speech on Feb. 19 where he characterized the Trump administration as using an authoritarian playbook. “If you think I'm overreacting and sounding the alarm too soon, consider this: It took the Nazis one month, three weeks, two days, eight hours and 40 minutes to dismantle a constitutional republic,” Pritzker said earlier this year. The resolution says Pritzker “has issued inflammatory statements that incite violence against elected officials, citizens, and persons located in the United States and has failed to uphold the constitutional requirement to faithfully execute the laws of the State of Illinois.”


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | IL Freedom Caucus files to impeach Pritzker, allege incitement of violence The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – The Illinois Freedom Caucus has filed articles of impeachment against Gov. J.B. Pritzker for what it says is his engaging in conduct that constitutes inciting violence. Part of the impeachment resolution in House Resolution 466 that the Illinois Freedom Caucus filed includes quotes from Pritzker’s State of the State speech on Feb. 19 where he characterized the Trump administration as using an authoritarian playbook. “If you think I'm overreacting and sounding the alarm too soon, consider this: It took the Nazis one month, three weeks, two days, eight hours and 40 minutes to dismantle a constitutional republic,” Pritzker said earlier this year. The resolution says Pritzker “has issued inflammatory statements that incite violence against elected officials, citizens, and persons located in the United States and has failed to uphold the constitutional requirement to faithfully execute the laws of the State of Illinois.” (The Center Square) – The Illinois Freedom Caucus has filed articles of impeachment against Gov. J.B. Pritzker for what it says is his engaging in conduct that constitutes inciting violence. Part of the impeachment resolution in House Resolution 466 that the Illinois Freedom Caucus filed includes quotes from Pritzker’s State of the State speech on Feb. 19 where he characterized the Trump administration as using an authoritarian playbook. “If you think I'm overreacting and sounding the alarm too soon, consider this: It took the Nazis one month, three weeks, two days, eight hours and 40 minutes to dismantle a constitutional republic,” Pritzker said earlier this year. The resolution says Pritzker “has issued inflammatory statements that incite violence against elected officials, citizens, and persons located in the United States and has failed to uphold the constitutional requirement to faithfully execute the laws of the State of Illinois.” false full 615 064d0972-68c9-4f7c-bf0c-7fb578f5155f Illinois in Focus Daily | September 19, 2025 - Pritzker’s office ‘troubled’ by ‘peacekeeper’ photo Greg Bishop shares the reaction from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's office to the reports the governor took a picture with a "peacekeeper" who later was accused in a deadly smash-and-grab burglary. State Rep. La Shawn Ford reacts to the effectiveness of violence interruption grants.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2025 21:24:09 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares the reaction from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's office to the reports the governor took a picture with a "peacekeeper" who later was accused in a deadly smash-and-grab burglary. State Rep. La Shawn Ford reacts to the effectiveness of violence interruption grants.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 19, 2025 - Pritzker’s office ‘troubled’ by ‘peacekeeper’ photo The Center Square 00:28:18 Greg Bishop shares the reaction from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's office to the reports the governor took a picture with a "peacekeeper" who later was accused in a deadly smash-and-grab burglary. State Rep. La Shawn Ford reacts to the effectiveness of violence interruption grants. Greg Bishop shares the reaction from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's office to the reports the governor took a picture with a "peacekeeper" who later was accused in a deadly smash-and-grab burglary. State Rep. La Shawn Ford reacts to the effectiveness of violence interruption grants. false full 614 558d715c-7920-4d0f-8399-f81a45f12d3c Illinois in Focus Daily | September 18, 2025 - Pritzker reacts to Kimmel suspension Greg Bishop shares Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's comments in the aftermath of Jimmy Kimmel's late night talk show being suspended by ABC, and some of the debate around the issue from affiliates and FCC officials.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 18 Sep 2025 16:19:08 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's comments in the aftermath of Jimmy Kimmel's late night talk show being suspended by ABC, and some of the debate around the issue from affiliates and FCC officials.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 18, 2025 - Pritzker reacts to Kimmel suspension The Center Square 00:33:23 Greg Bishop shares Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's comments in the aftermath of Jimmy Kimmel's late night talk show being suspended by ABC, and some of the debate around the issue from affiliates and FCC officials. Greg Bishop shares Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's comments in the aftermath of Jimmy Kimmel's late night talk show being suspended by ABC, and some of the debate around the issue from affiliates and FCC officials. false full 613 59b82242-cb0d-4a9d-8884-8e992d448035 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 17, 2025 - Trump calls Pritzker ’nothing’ in Chicago public safety push Greg Bishop airs the latest comments about public safety from President Donald Trump, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and others as Trump continues to say Chicago is next on his agenda to clean up crime and illegal immigration.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:01:23 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop airs the latest comments about public safety from President Donald Trump, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and others as Trump continues to say Chicago is next on his agenda to clean up crime and illegal immigration.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 17, 2025 - Trump calls Pritzker ’nothing’ in Chicago public safety push The Center Square 00:31:06 Greg Bishop airs the latest comments about public safety from President Donald Trump, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and others as Trump continues to say Chicago is next on his agenda to clean up crime and illegal immigration. Greg Bishop airs the latest comments about public safety from President Donald Trump, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and others as Trump continues to say Chicago is next on his agenda to clean up crime and illegal immigration. false full 612 406845aa-f76c-4f60-98da-271e1e3d49b8 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 16, 2025 - Trump says Chicago is next after Pritzker was happy Guard isn't coming Greg Bishop airs the latest on President Donald Trump's public safety push, saying he plans to go into Chicago with or without the support of the governor or mayor.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 16 Sep 2025 18:50:06 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop airs the latest on President Donald Trump's public safety push, saying he plans to go into Chicago with or without the support of the governor or mayor.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 16, 2025 - Trump says Chicago is next after Pritzker was happy Guard isn't coming The Center Square 00:39:20 Greg Bishop airs the latest on President Donald Trump's public safety push, saying he plans to go into Chicago with or without the support of the governor or mayor. Greg Bishop airs the latest on President Donald Trump's public safety push, saying he plans to go into Chicago with or without the support of the governor or mayor. false full 611 9513119a-4abb-4549-a61e-2eaf62e83004 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 15, 2025 - Dabrowski announces candidacy for Illinois governor as early poll shows opening positions Greg Bishop shares some recent political polling about the race for the Republican nomination for Illinois governor, which includes the most recent candidate to announce. Former WirePoints President Ted Dabrowski announced his bid for the GOP spot Friday.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 15 Sep 2025 15:50:53 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares some recent political polling about the race for the Republican nomination for Illinois governor, which includes the most recent candidate to announce. Former WirePoints President Ted Dabrowski announced his bid for the GOP spot Friday.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 15, 2025 - Dabrowski announces candidacy for Illinois governor as early poll shows opening positions The Center Square 00:25:32 Greg Bishop shares some recent political polling about the race for the Republican nomination for Illinois governor, which includes the most recent candidate to announce. Former WirePoints President Ted Dabrowski announced his bid for the GOP spot Friday. Greg Bishop shares some recent political polling about the race for the Republican nomination for Illinois governor, which includes the most recent candidate to announce. Former WirePoints President Ted Dabrowski announced his bid for the GOP spot Friday. false full 610 33a6b7d1-38a8-4b57-bfc6-c941e5b97def Weekend Edition | Pritzker says political violence ‘has got to stop’ in reaction to Kirk shooting Sat, 13 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker says political violence ‘has got to stop’ in reaction to Kirk shooting The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Popular political activist and Illinois native Charlie Kirk was shot and killed Wednesday while at a public outdoor event in Utah. The news and video of the shooting spread online quickly. Kirk was speaking in front of at least hundreds of people at Utah Valley University for a “Prove Me Wrong” event. Video showed Kirk getting struck in the neck. President Donald Trump posted on X, “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!" (The Center Square) – Popular political activist and Illinois native Charlie Kirk was shot and killed Wednesday while at a public outdoor event in Utah. The news and video of the shooting spread online quickly. Kirk was speaking in front of at least hundreds of people at Utah Valley University for a “Prove Me Wrong” event. Video showed Kirk getting struck in the neck. President Donald Trump posted on X, “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!" false full 608 06e2042b-9125-4d8c-a8c0-02fa5bd58588 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 12, 2025 - Chicago Flips Red summons Trump Greg Bishop shares the calls from Chicago Flips Red for the Trump administration to do more for public safety in Chicago as Gov. J.B. Pritzker says there is no emergency.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 12 Sep 2025 19:37:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares the calls from Chicago Flips Red for the Trump administration to do more for public safety in Chicago as Gov. J.B. Pritzker says there is no emergency.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 12, 2025 - Chicago Flips Red summons Trump The Center Square 00:26:27 Greg Bishop shares the calls from Chicago Flips Red for the Trump administration to do more for public safety in Chicago as Gov. J.B. Pritzker says there is no emergency. Greg Bishop shares the calls from Chicago Flips Red for the Trump administration to do more for public safety in Chicago as Gov. J.B. Pritzker says there is no emergency. false full 609 3d51244f-d4e4-484f-ab98-62b80a89b9a6 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 11, 2025 - Reaction to Charlie Kirk’s assassination pour in from Illinois political leaders, POTUS Greg Bishop shares some of the reaction from political leaders to the assassination of Turning Points USA founder Charlie Kirk, an Illinois native, and the accusations of which side of the political spectrum is ratcheting up their political rhetoric.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 11 Sep 2025 17:20:28 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares some of the reaction from political leaders to the assassination of Turning Points USA founder Charlie Kirk, an Illinois native, and the accusations of which side of the political spectrum is ratcheting up their political rhetoric.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 11, 2025 - Reaction to Charlie Kirk’s assassination pour in from Illinois political leaders, POTUS The Center Square 00:35:58 Greg Bishop shares some of the reaction from political leaders to the assassination of Turning Points USA founder Charlie Kirk, an Illinois native, and the accusations of which side of the political spectrum is ratcheting up their political rhetoric. Greg Bishop shares some of the reaction from political leaders to the assassination of Turning Points USA founder Charlie Kirk, an Illinois native, and the accusations of which side of the political spectrum is ratcheting up their political rhetoric. false full 607 f58b6ee7-5370-4872-9911-4156933fd867 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 10, 2025 - Pritzker wants help with public safety but refuses to call Trump Greg Bishop delivers the latest back and forth between the Trump administration, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and residents of the city of Chicago concerning public safety and immigration enforcement.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 20:42:33 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop delivers the latest back and forth between the Trump administration, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and residents of the city of Chicago concerning public safety and immigration enforcement.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 10, 2025 - Pritzker wants help with public safety but refuses to call Trump The Center Square 00:36:57 Greg Bishop delivers the latest back and forth between the Trump administration, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and residents of the city of Chicago concerning public safety and immigration enforcement. Greg Bishop delivers the latest back and forth between the Trump administration, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and residents of the city of Chicago concerning public safety and immigration enforcement. false full 606 d8f09444-4c96-4692-9da8-6345474970f5 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 9, 2025 - DHS Launches Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago as Trump Aims at Cashless Bail, Public Safety Greg Bishop airs the latest in the ongoing debate and Trump administration actions concerning public safety and immigration enforcement as the Department of Homeland Security launches Operation Midway Blitz.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 9 Sep 2025 15:54:45 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop airs the latest in the ongoing debate and Trump administration actions concerning public safety and immigration enforcement as the Department of Homeland Security launches Operation Midway Blitz.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 9, 2025 - DHS Launches Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago as Trump Aims at Cashless Bail, Public Safety The Center Square 00:38:24 Greg Bishop airs the latest in the ongoing debate and Trump administration actions concerning public safety and immigration enforcement as the Department of Homeland Security launches Operation Midway Blitz. Greg Bishop airs the latest in the ongoing debate and Trump administration actions concerning public safety and immigration enforcement as the Department of Homeland Security launches Operation Midway Blitz. false full 605 dda15455-0189-4b1e-a289-637b91a96716 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 8, 2025 - Homan Targets Chicago in Speech To State Freedom Caucus Network Greg Bishop shares some of the moments from Trump administration border czar Tom Homan who spoke to the State Freedom Caucus Network in Dallas, Texas Friday. 

Full Homan speech: https://youtu.be/KBNAX5Qa2Cw


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 8 Sep 2025 20:06:57 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares some of the moments from Trump administration border czar Tom Homan who spoke to the State Freedom Caucus Network in Dallas, Texas Friday. 

Full Homan speech: https://youtu.be/KBNAX5Qa2Cw


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 8, 2025 - Homan Targets Chicago in Speech To State Freedom Caucus Network The Center Square 00:40:08 Greg Bishop shares some of the moments from Trump administration border czar Tom Homan who spoke to the State Freedom Caucus Network in Dallas, Texas Friday. Greg Bishop shares some of the moments from Trump administration border czar Tom Homan who spoke to the State Freedom Caucus Network in Dallas, Texas Friday. false full 604 9f474aee-991a-4ed1-b2ba-9dfcb1678ab0 Weekend Edition | Trump Says They’re Coming to Chicago, State Preps Lawsuit Sat, 6 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Trump Says They’re Coming to Chicago, State Preps Lawsuit The Center Square 00:24:00 In today's edition of Illinois in Focus , The Center Square Editor Greg Bishop unpacks the latest comments about public safety in Chicago from President Donald Trump, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, members of the Illinois Freedom Caucus and more. In today's edition of Illinois in Focus , The Center Square Editor Greg Bishop unpacks the latest comments about public safety in Chicago from President Donald Trump, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, members of the Illinois Freedom Caucus and more. false full 602 1b672e9a-1e59-451e-b6dc-56d730d29bef Illinois in Focus Daily | September 5, 2025 - Pritzker To Sue ‘Immediately’ if Trump Sends Guard Greg Bishop delivers the latest comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker who says the state of Illinois will immediately sue the Trump administration if they use the National Guard, which is speculated to happen as early as this weekend along with increased immigration enforcement.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 Sep 2025 16:42:37 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop delivers the latest comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker who says the state of Illinois will immediately sue the Trump administration if they use the National Guard, which is speculated to happen as early as this weekend along with increased immigration enforcement.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 5, 2025 - Pritzker To Sue ‘Immediately’ if Trump Sends Guard The Center Square 00:29:32 Greg Bishop delivers the latest comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker who says the state of Illinois will immediately sue the Trump administration if they use the National Guard, which is speculated to happen as early as this weekend along with increased immigration enforcement. Greg Bishop delivers the latest comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker who says the state of Illinois will immediately sue the Trump administration if they use the National Guard, which is speculated to happen as early as this weekend along with increased immigration enforcement. false full 603 708051c0-bd47-4e27-869d-6a6c32e16cc3 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 4, 2025 - Pritzker Expects Feds Soon Greg Bishop shares the latest developments on how the Trump administration will address public safety in Chicago and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's refusal to call President Donald Trump for assistance.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 4 Sep 2025 16:08:28 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares the latest developments on how the Trump administration will address public safety in Chicago and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's refusal to call President Donald Trump for assistance.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 4, 2025 - Pritzker Expects Feds Soon The Center Square 00:29:59 Greg Bishop shares the latest developments on how the Trump administration will address public safety in Chicago and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's refusal to call President Donald Trump for assistance. Greg Bishop shares the latest developments on how the Trump administration will address public safety in Chicago and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's refusal to call President Donald Trump for assistance. false full 601 b34cbd8e-97ad-4fb4-8fb6-7aa138cdbe06 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 3, 2025 - Trump Says They’re Coming to Chicago, State Preps Lawsuit Greg Bishop unpacks the latest comments about public safety in Chicago from President Donald Trump, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, members of the Illinois Freedom Caucus and more.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 3 Sep 2025 17:24:29 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop unpacks the latest comments about public safety in Chicago from President Donald Trump, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, members of the Illinois Freedom Caucus and more.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 3, 2025 - Trump Says They’re Coming to Chicago, State Preps Lawsuit The Center Square 00:32:56 Greg Bishop unpacks the latest comments about public safety in Chicago from President Donald Trump, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, members of the Illinois Freedom Caucus and more. Greg Bishop unpacks the latest comments about public safety in Chicago from President Donald Trump, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, members of the Illinois Freedom Caucus and more. false full 600 12630d5a-145b-404a-bc52-37ee38544069 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 2, 2025 - Chicago Braces for Federal Law Enforcement Greg Bishop gets to the latest from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the prospect of increased federal immigration enforcement and the possible use of the National Guard.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 2 Sep 2025 14:35:42 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop gets to the latest from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the prospect of increased federal immigration enforcement and the possible use of the National Guard.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 2, 2025 - Chicago Braces for Federal Law Enforcement The Center Square 00:35:08 Greg Bishop gets to the latest from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the prospect of increased federal immigration enforcement and the possible use of the National Guard. Greg Bishop gets to the latest from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the prospect of increased federal immigration enforcement and the possible use of the National Guard. false full 599 2a78c38d-f1c7-44ed-a0c4-3efd9f4f45f8 Weekend Edition | Trump: Illinois’ ‘Slob of a Governor’ Should Call for Help With Public Safety Sat, 30 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Trump: Illinois’ ‘Slob of a Governor’ Should Call for Help With Public Safety The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he has not received communication from the federal government about potential troop deployments to Illinois, after President Donald Trump offered choice words for the governor. The president deployed troops to combat crime in Washington, D.C. earlier this month and suggested last week that Chicago could be next. When asked Wednesday about reports that federal agencies might use Naval Station Great Lakes for staging, the governor said he had received no calls from the White House or anyone from the federal government who might be in charge of troop movement. (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he has not received communication from the federal government about potential troop deployments to Illinois, after President Donald Trump offered choice words for the governor. The president deployed troops to combat crime in Washington, D.C. earlier this month and suggested last week that Chicago could be next. When asked Wednesday about reports that federal agencies might use Naval Station Great Lakes for staging, the governor said he had received no calls from the White House or anyone from the federal government who might be in charge of troop movement. false full 598 cfd8bd36-02f6-418f-a3fc-f2276fbffc66 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 28, 2025 - Cook County Gun Plan Plaintiffs Ask SCOTUS for Review Greg Bishop gets to the latest in gun ban litigation with plaintiffs challenging Cook County's ban asking the U.S. Supreme Court to take the case. This comes as the statewide ban a district judge found unconstitutional is cued up for appeals' court arguments next month.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:36:43 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop gets to the latest in gun ban litigation with plaintiffs challenging Cook County's ban asking the U.S. Supreme Court to take the case. This comes as the statewide ban a district judge found unconstitutional is cued up for appeals' court arguments next month.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 28, 2025 - Cook County Gun Plan Plaintiffs Ask SCOTUS for Review The Center Square 00:32:06 Greg Bishop gets to the latest in gun ban litigation with plaintiffs challenging Cook County's ban asking the U.S. Supreme Court to take the case. This comes as the statewide ban a district judge found unconstitutional is cued up for appeals' court arguments next month. Greg Bishop gets to the latest in gun ban litigation with plaintiffs challenging Cook County's ban asking the U.S. Supreme Court to take the case. This comes as the statewide ban a district judge found unconstitutional is cued up for appeals' court arguments next month. false full 597 da77d365-0f67-4fa8-acdc-dc7f6d2b6023 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 27, 2025 - Pritzker, Johnson Defend Public Safety Approach Amid Trump Criticism Greg Bishop discusses the latest comments from President Donald Trump, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and others to the issue around public safety in Chicago.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 27 Aug 2025 17:12:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the latest comments from President Donald Trump, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and others to the issue around public safety in Chicago.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 27, 2025 - Pritzker, Johnson Defend Public Safety Approach Amid Trump Criticism The Center Square 00:31:56 Greg Bishop discusses the latest comments from President Donald Trump, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and others to the issue around public safety in Chicago. Greg Bishop discusses the latest comments from President Donald Trump, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and others to the issue around public safety in Chicago. false full 596 e0a4fd6d-fc0f-4aa2-a542-52ccaa4677f7 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 26, 2025 - Trump Ends Tax Funds for Cashless Bail Policies as IL Proponents Anticipate Lawsuits Greg Bishop shares some of the debate around President Donald Trump's executive order ending federal tax funds for cashless bail policies like Illinois' and the push back from proponents of the state's Pretrial Fairness Act.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 26 Aug 2025 14:23:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares some of the debate around President Donald Trump's executive order ending federal tax funds for cashless bail policies like Illinois' and the push back from proponents of the state's Pretrial Fairness Act.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 26, 2025 - Trump Ends Tax Funds for Cashless Bail Policies as IL Proponents Anticipate Lawsuits The Center Square 00:32:48 Greg Bishop shares some of the debate around President Donald Trump's executive order ending federal tax funds for cashless bail policies like Illinois' and the push back from proponents of the state's Pretrial Fairness Act. Greg Bishop shares some of the debate around President Donald Trump's executive order ending federal tax funds for cashless bail policies like Illinois' and the push back from proponents of the state's Pretrial Fairness Act. false full 595 21e38146-a49f-4e61-b399-c5be374e2719 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 25, 2025 - Chicago Reacts to Trump’s Public Safety Push Greg Bishop delves into the issue of President Donald Trump saying he will address public safety in cities like Chicago and the reaction from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Gov. J.B. Pritzker.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 25 Aug 2025 21:00:27 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop delves into the issue of President Donald Trump saying he will address public safety in cities like Chicago and the reaction from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Gov. J.B. Pritzker.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 25, 2025 - Chicago Reacts to Trump’s Public Safety Push The Center Square 00:43:49 Greg Bishop delves into the issue of President Donald Trump saying he will address public safety in cities like Chicago and the reaction from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Gov. J.B. Pritzker. Greg Bishop delves into the issue of President Donald Trump saying he will address public safety in cities like Chicago and the reaction from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Gov. J.B. Pritzker. false full 594 d126bc76-5f58-4004-b0fe-1f38e30736cb Weekend Edition | Governor Pritzker Acts Upon Over 270 Bills Sat, 23 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Governor Pritzker Acts Upon Over 270 Bills The Center Square 00:24:00 The Center Square team reviews just some of the 271 bills Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker acted upon in the last week, including measures impacting the courts, schools, digital currency regulation and more. Of all that, the governor vetoed two of them setting up possible action during veto session scheduled in October. The Center Square team reviews just some of the 271 bills Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker acted upon in the last week, including measures impacting the courts, schools, digital currency regulation and more. Of all that, the governor vetoed two of them setting up possible action during veto session scheduled in October. false full 592 77007750-71d4-4229-a0cc-c587a3ea619d Illinois in Focus Daily | August 22, 2025 - Illinois Child Welfare Interns Debate Heats Up Greg Bishop talks live with state Rep. Jed Davis about his continued concerns about the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services' use of interns. He says he's seeking legislative solutions but worries the issue could get buried heading into an election year.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 22 Aug 2025 22:06:15 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks live with state Rep. Jed Davis about his continued concerns about the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services' use of interns. He says he's seeking legislative solutions but worries the issue could get buried heading into an election year.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 22, 2025 - Illinois Child Welfare Interns Debate Heats Up The Center Square 00:32:19 Greg Bishop talks live with state Rep. Jed Davis about his continued concerns about the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services' use of interns. He says he's seeking legislative solutions but worries the issue could get buried heading into an election year. Greg Bishop talks live with state Rep. Jed Davis about his continued concerns about the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services' use of interns. He says he's seeking legislative solutions but worries the issue could get buried heading into an election year. false full 593 75c8b74e-832b-4d0e-bfe5-b26e8ea20705 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 21, 2025 - Field to Fill Durbin’s US Senate Seat Includes Illinois Congressmen, Former GOP Chair, Others Greg Bishop shares comments from Democrats and Republicans vying for their party's nomination for U.S. Senate, and what they see as the crucial issues will turn out voters to the primary polls.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 21 Aug 2025 21:25:30 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares comments from Democrats and Republicans vying for their party's nomination for U.S. Senate, and what they see as the crucial issues will turn out voters to the primary polls.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 21, 2025 - Field to Fill Durbin’s US Senate Seat Includes Illinois Congressmen, Former GOP Chair, Others The Center Square 00:38:29 Greg Bishop shares comments from Democrats and Republicans vying for their party's nomination for U.S. Senate, and what they see as the crucial issues will turn out voters to the primary polls. Greg Bishop shares comments from Democrats and Republicans vying for their party's nomination for U.S. Senate, and what they see as the crucial issues will turn out voters to the primary polls. false full 591 49571f11-6245-47f7-adfe-c47a4e33b727 Weekend Edition | Illinois Democrats Blast Trump, Republicans at State Fair (The Center Square) − Illinois Democrats say their party will win across the United States in 2026, with the Land of Lincoln serving as the blueprint. Gov. J.B. Pritzker spoke at the Illinois Democratic County Chairs’ Association brunch Wednesday morning before hosting Governor’s Day on the Lawn at the Illinois State Fair in the afternoon. Pritzker said Democrats will win in 2026, and the rest of the country will live out what Illinois is experiencing. “And what I’ll say to those who are wondering what’s next for the Democratic Party is this: She’s alive and well and stronger than ever, living right here in the great state of Illinois,” Pritzker said.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Sat, 16 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) − Illinois Democrats say their party will win across the United States in 2026, with the Land of Lincoln serving as the blueprint. Gov. J.B. Pritzker spoke at the Illinois Democratic County Chairs’ Association brunch Wednesday morning before hosting Governor’s Day on the Lawn at the Illinois State Fair in the afternoon. Pritzker said Democrats will win in 2026, and the rest of the country will live out what Illinois is experiencing. “And what I’ll say to those who are wondering what’s next for the Democratic Party is this: She’s alive and well and stronger than ever, living right here in the great state of Illinois,” Pritzker said.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Illinois Democrats Blast Trump, Republicans at State Fair The Center Square 00:24:00 false full 589 92734ba1-c684-4eb0-b64a-9edcc792da88 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 15, 2025 - Illinois Files Final Appeals Court Brief in Gun Ban Challenge Ahead of Oral Arguments Greg Bishop talks with gun rights advocate Todd Vandermyde about the latest filing from the state defending Illinois' gun ban in the federal appeals court. 

Read the filing here: https://www.thecentersquare.com/pdf_3b203fae-9997-44ca-83ef-61e6ff877717.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 15 Aug 2025 18:47:02 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks with gun rights advocate Todd Vandermyde about the latest filing from the state defending Illinois' gun ban in the federal appeals court. 

Read the filing here: https://www.thecentersquare.com/pdf_3b203fae-9997-44ca-83ef-61e6ff877717.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 15, 2025 - Illinois Files Final Appeals Court Brief in Gun Ban Challenge Ahead of Oral Arguments The Center Square 00:44:28 Greg Bishop talks with gun rights advocate Todd Vandermyde about the latest filing from the state defending Illinois' gun ban in the federal appeals court. Greg Bishop talks with gun rights advocate Todd Vandermyde about the latest filing from the state defending Illinois' gun ban in the federal appeals court. false full 590 cb802806-d0e3-4c6b-a867-6ab9441bd6b1 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 14, 2025 - Democrats Rally at Illinois State Fair Greg Bishop shares highlights from Governor's Day at the Illinois State Fair where Democrats rallied the party faithful. There were also questions about congressional maps and energy prices.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:14:07 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares highlights from Governor's Day at the Illinois State Fair where Democrats rallied the party faithful. There were also questions about congressional maps and energy prices.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 14, 2025 - Democrats Rally at Illinois State Fair The Center Square 00:36:01 Greg Bishop shares highlights from Governor's Day at the Illinois State Fair where Democrats rallied the party faithful. There were also questions about congressional maps and energy prices. Greg Bishop shares highlights from Governor's Day at the Illinois State Fair where Democrats rallied the party faithful. There were also questions about congressional maps and energy prices. false full 588 32fb12dc-eb35-43ce-8fcb-95b1d9fe722d Illinois in Focus Daily | August 13, 2025 - Sonya Massey Bill Signed Into Law Impacting Police Recruit Transparency, Accountability Greg Bishop shares comments from Tuesday's bill signing ceremony where Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Sonya Massey's law and the issue of how to address police accountability.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2025 17:05:14 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares comments from Tuesday's bill signing ceremony where Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Sonya Massey's law and the issue of how to address police accountability.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 13, 2025 - Sonya Massey Bill Signed Into Law Impacting Police Recruit Transparency, Accountability The Center Square 00:28:10 Greg Bishop shares comments from Tuesday's bill signing ceremony where Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Sonya Massey's law and the issue of how to address police accountability. Greg Bishop shares comments from Tuesday's bill signing ceremony where Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Sonya Massey's law and the issue of how to address police accountability. false full 587 7a1518dc-1431-4e15-800f-8ce7cd4db954 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 12, 2025 - Trump and Pritzker Trade Barbs Over Public Safety, Presidential Politics Greg Bishop delves into the back and forth between President Donald Trump and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker over public safety, presidential politics and no-cash bail.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 12 Aug 2025 17:02:13 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop delves into the back and forth between President Donald Trump and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker over public safety, presidential politics and no-cash bail.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 12, 2025 - Trump and Pritzker Trade Barbs Over Public Safety, Presidential Politics The Center Square 00:28:03 Greg Bishop delves into the back and forth between President Donald Trump and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker over public safety, presidential politics and no-cash bail. Greg Bishop delves into the back and forth between President Donald Trump and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker over public safety, presidential politics and no-cash bail. false full 586 2f4d6527-79ad-451d-9cd1-353b93589d1e Illinois in Focus Daily | August 11, 2025 - Attorney Argues IL Should Honor TX Warrants for Absconding Dems Greg Bishop reviews the latest comments in the ongoing debate around drawing new congressional maps with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on the national stage while state Sen. Jil Tracy files a lawsuit in Illinois on behalf of the Texas House to honor Lone Star State warrants for absent Democrats hiding out in the Land of Lincoln.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 11 Aug 2025 21:40:02 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest comments in the ongoing debate around drawing new congressional maps with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on the national stage while state Sen. Jil Tracy files a lawsuit in Illinois on behalf of the Texas House to honor Lone Star State warrants for absent Democrats hiding out in the Land of Lincoln.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 11, 2025 - Attorney Argues IL Should Honor TX Warrants for Absconding Dems The Center Square 00:35:23 Greg Bishop reviews the latest comments in the ongoing debate around drawing new congressional maps with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on the national stage while state Sen. Jil Tracy files a lawsuit in Illinois on behalf of the Texas House to honor Lone Star State warrants for absent Democrats hiding out in the Land of Lincoln. Greg Bishop reviews the latest comments in the ongoing debate around drawing new congressional maps with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on the national stage while state Sen. Jil Tracy files a lawsuit in Illinois on behalf of the Texas House to honor Lone Star State warrants for absent Democrats hiding out in the Land of Lincoln. false full 585 00c16482-ed6f-45cc-b992-27b6d25a0316 Weekend Edition | Pritzker welcomes FBI looking for TX Dems in IL, dismisses bribery question Sat, 9 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker welcomes FBI looking for TX Dems in IL, dismisses bribery question The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – As the FBI gets involved in locating Texas Democrats hiding out in states like Illinois, Gov. J.B. Pritzker says they are welcome, but the Democratic governor insists the absconding legislators aren’t breaking any federal law. At the request of U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, the FBI on Thursday agreed to assist with locating Texas Democrats who fled the state to prevent the Texas House from reaching a quorum to change congressional district maps. (The Center Square) – As the FBI gets involved in locating Texas Democrats hiding out in states like Illinois, Gov. J.B. Pritzker says they are welcome, but the Democratic governor insists the absconding legislators aren’t breaking any federal law. At the request of U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, the FBI on Thursday agreed to assist with locating Texas Democrats who fled the state to prevent the Texas House from reaching a quorum to change congressional district maps. false full 583 b80de164-4cb6-49b9-8f27-601753419b09 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 8, 2025 - IL State Senator Joins TX GOP Suing to Have TX Warrants for Map Absconding Dems Recognized by IL Greg Bishop covers the latest in the fight over redistricting with an Illinois state senator joining Texas House Republicans to have warrants from the Lone Star State to be recognized in Illinois and Gov. J.B. Pritzker responding to the FBI getting involved.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 8 Aug 2025 16:36:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop covers the latest in the fight over redistricting with an Illinois state senator joining Texas House Republicans to have warrants from the Lone Star State to be recognized in Illinois and Gov. J.B. Pritzker responding to the FBI getting involved.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 8, 2025 - IL State Senator Joins TX GOP Suing to Have TX Warrants for Map Absconding Dems Recognized by IL The Center Square 00:37:40 Greg Bishop covers the latest in the fight over redistricting with an Illinois state senator joining Texas House Republicans to have warrants from the Lone Star State to be recognized in Illinois and Gov. J.B. Pritzker responding to the FBI getting involved. Greg Bishop covers the latest in the fight over redistricting with an Illinois state senator joining Texas House Republicans to have warrants from the Lone Star State to be recognized in Illinois and Gov. J.B. Pritzker responding to the FBI getting involved. false full 584 a537d682-a27b-4c83-93ad-2b9a5b002a26 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 7, 2025 - Pritzker Unveils IL Butter Cow, Talks About TX Gerrymandering Greg Bishop continues his coverage on the ongoing debate around redistricting congressional districts with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's latest comments and reaction from Republican state Rep. Ryan Spain.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 7 Aug 2025 19:14:34 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop continues his coverage on the ongoing debate around redistricting congressional districts with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's latest comments and reaction from Republican state Rep. Ryan Spain.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 7, 2025 - Pritzker Unveils IL Butter Cow, Talks About TX Gerrymandering The Center Square 00:21:29 Greg Bishop continues his coverage on the ongoing debate around redistricting congressional districts with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's latest comments and reaction from Republican state Rep. Ryan Spain. Greg Bishop continues his coverage on the ongoing debate around redistricting congressional districts with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's latest comments and reaction from Republican state Rep. Ryan Spain. false full 582 a6d73c0c-bb08-4889-9238-8376605b1428 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 6, 2025 - Map Debate Rhetoric Heats up as Trump Points Out Illinois’ Gerrymandering Greg Bishop reviews the escalating rhetoric over plans to redistrict Texas as Democrats flee to states like Illinois. Comments from across the political spectrum include President Donald Trump, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Illinois state rep. Jed Davis, R-Yorkville.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 6 Aug 2025 16:08:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the escalating rhetoric over plans to redistrict Texas as Democrats flee to states like Illinois. Comments from across the political spectrum include President Donald Trump, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Illinois state rep. Jed Davis, R-Yorkville.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 6, 2025 - Map Debate Rhetoric Heats up as Trump Points Out Illinois’ Gerrymandering The Center Square 00:23:43 Greg Bishop reviews the escalating rhetoric over plans to redistrict Texas as Democrats flee to states like Illinois. Comments from across the political spectrum include President Donald Trump, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Illinois state rep. Jed Davis, R-Yorkville. Greg Bishop reviews the escalating rhetoric over plans to redistrict Texas as Democrats flee to states like Illinois. Comments from across the political spectrum include President Donald Trump, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Illinois state rep. Jed Davis, R-Yorkville. false full 581 33322c17-8cbd-439f-b4bc-d5a4925afdfd Illinois in Focus Daily | August 5, 2025 - Texas Map Debate Continues With Illinois Congressmen Reacting Greg Bishop continues coverage of the ongoing debate about state's political boundaries with Illinois hosting Texas Democrats avoiding votes on new maps for The Lone Star State. Illinois Congressmen Mike Quigley and Darin LaHood shared their thoughts at an unrelated event in Chicago Monday.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 5 Aug 2025 15:59:18 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop continues coverage of the ongoing debate about state's political boundaries with Illinois hosting Texas Democrats avoiding votes on new maps for The Lone Star State. Illinois Congressmen Mike Quigley and Darin LaHood shared their thoughts at an unrelated event in Chicago Monday.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 5, 2025 - Texas Map Debate Continues With Illinois Congressmen Reacting The Center Square 00:27:02 Greg Bishop continues coverage of the ongoing debate about state's political boundaries with Illinois hosting Texas Democrats avoiding votes on new maps for The Lone Star State. Illinois Congressmen Mike Quigley and Darin LaHood shared their thoughts at an unrelated event in Chicago Monday. Greg Bishop continues coverage of the ongoing debate about state's political boundaries with Illinois hosting Texas Democrats avoiding votes on new maps for The Lone Star State. Illinois Congressmen Mike Quigley and Darin LaHood shared their thoughts at an unrelated event in Chicago Monday. false full 580 a9ac131e-38cd-4580-bb7a-c88e69799b9d Illinois in Focus Daily | August 4, 2025 - IL State Rep. Calls Pritzker ‘Fraud’ for Hosting TX Dems Protesting GOP Map Making Greg Bishop gets live reaction from state Rep. Regan Deering, R-Decatur, to Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker hosting Texas Democrats fleeing the state to avoid voting for modified electoral maps.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 4 Aug 2025 19:34:34 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop gets live reaction from state Rep. Regan Deering, R-Decatur, to Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker hosting Texas Democrats fleeing the state to avoid voting for modified electoral maps.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 4, 2025 - IL State Rep. Calls Pritzker ‘Fraud’ for Hosting TX Dems Protesting GOP Map Making The Center Square 00:37:35 Greg Bishop gets live reaction from state Rep. Regan Deering, R-Decatur, to Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker hosting Texas Democrats fleeing the state to avoid voting for modified electoral maps. Greg Bishop gets live reaction from state Rep. Regan Deering, R-Decatur, to Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker hosting Texas Democrats fleeing the state to avoid voting for modified electoral maps. false full 579 6f2d7ab6-615c-40f0-a68c-0752c615e5cd Weekend Edition | Economist Explains Flight of People, Dollars From Illinois Sat, 2 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Economist Explains Flight of People, Dollars From Illinois The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Outmigration has taken a major toll on the Illinois economy, according to a new report by Unleash Prosperity. Using data from the Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Census Bureau, analysts found that Illinois lost 881,012 residents from 2012 to 2022. Economist Stephen Moore said only New York and California suffered more domestic outmigration than the Land of Lincoln. “This is the sad story, same thing. New York and California and Illinois are just being bled to death,” Moore said. (The Center Square) – Outmigration has taken a major toll on the Illinois economy, according to a new report by Unleash Prosperity. Using data from the Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Census Bureau, analysts found that Illinois lost 881,012 residents from 2012 to 2022. Economist Stephen Moore said only New York and California suffered more domestic outmigration than the Land of Lincoln. “This is the sad story, same thing. New York and California and Illinois are just being bled to death,” Moore said. false full 577 204083d0-87fb-46e0-be94-dd627125e14a Illinois in Focus Daily | August 1, 2025 - Republicans Say Pritzker’s Had Enough Time to Turnaround Troubled Illinois Child Welfare Agency Greg Bishop reviews continued concerns Illinois Statehouse Republicans have with the Pritzker administration's management of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 1 Aug 2025 17:28:26 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews continued concerns Illinois Statehouse Republicans have with the Pritzker administration's management of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 1, 2025 - Republicans Say Pritzker’s Had Enough Time to Turnaround Troubled Illinois Child Welfare Agency The Center Square 00:26:43 Greg Bishop reviews continued concerns Illinois Statehouse Republicans have with the Pritzker administration's management of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. Greg Bishop reviews continued concerns Illinois Statehouse Republicans have with the Pritzker administration's management of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. false full 578 5c890131-c229-4511-b456-cd55ccdb74d5 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 30th, 2025 - Pritzker Discusses Food Subsidy ‘Red Tape’ That a Republican Says Is Necessary Greg Bishop continues coverage of how the Trump administration's changes to SNAP could impact Illinois. Gov. J.B. Pritzker says Republicans want to take food benefits away to give tax breaks to the wealthy. Republican state Sen. Andrew Chesney says Republicans are just looking for accountability of how tax dollars are spent.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 30 Jul 2025 15:48:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop continues coverage of how the Trump administration's changes to SNAP could impact Illinois. Gov. J.B. Pritzker says Republicans want to take food benefits away to give tax breaks to the wealthy. Republican state Sen. Andrew Chesney says Republicans are just looking for accountability of how tax dollars are spent.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 30th, 2025 - Pritzker Discusses Food Subsidy ‘Red Tape’ That a Republican Says Is Necessary The Center Square 00:30:19 Greg Bishop continues coverage of how the Trump administration's changes to SNAP could impact Illinois. Gov. J.B. Pritzker says Republicans want to take food benefits away to give tax breaks to the wealthy. Republican state Sen. Andrew Chesney says Republicans are just looking for accountability of how tax dollars are spent. Greg Bishop continues coverage of how the Trump administration's changes to SNAP could impact Illinois. Gov. J.B. Pritzker says Republicans want to take food benefits away to give tax breaks to the wealthy. Republican state Sen. Andrew Chesney says Republicans are just looking for accountability of how tax dollars are spent. false full 575 b0833182-8733-4b33-9c3e-3291f465fb8b Illinois in Focus Daily | July 29th, 2025 - Gun Rights Supports Predict Lawsuits Over Illinois’ ‘Safe Gun Storage Act' Greg Bishop provides highlights from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's Monday news conference where he signed two gun control measures, including one requiring guns be locked up in certain circumstances that Second Amendment advocates say is ripe for lawsuits.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 29 Jul 2025 14:22:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop provides highlights from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's Monday news conference where he signed two gun control measures, including one requiring guns be locked up in certain circumstances that Second Amendment advocates say is ripe for lawsuits.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 29th, 2025 - Gun Rights Supports Predict Lawsuits Over Illinois’ ‘Safe Gun Storage Act' The Center Square 00:37:24 Greg Bishop provides highlights from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's Monday news conference where he signed two gun control measures, including one requiring guns be locked up in certain circumstances that Second Amendment advocates say is ripe for lawsuits. Greg Bishop provides highlights from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's Monday news conference where he signed two gun control measures, including one requiring guns be locked up in certain circumstances that Second Amendment advocates say is ripe for lawsuits. false full 574 cadb21e9-ac7c-4ebf-aba7-00cc0c2a1525 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 28th, 2025 - DOJ’s Migrant Sanctuary Policy Lawsuit Against Illinois Dismissed Greg Bishop reviews the order from a federal judge dismissing the U.S. Department of Justice's lawsuit challenging migrant sanctuary policies in the state of Illinois. The DOJ now has until Aug. 22 to file an amended complaint, or the case will be dismissed with prejudice.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 28 Jul 2025 18:10:13 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the order from a federal judge dismissing the U.S. Department of Justice's lawsuit challenging migrant sanctuary policies in the state of Illinois. The DOJ now has until Aug. 22 to file an amended complaint, or the case will be dismissed with prejudice.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 28th, 2025 - DOJ’s Migrant Sanctuary Policy Lawsuit Against Illinois Dismissed The Center Square 00:39:55 Greg Bishop reviews the order from a federal judge dismissing the U.S. Department of Justice's lawsuit challenging migrant sanctuary policies in the state of Illinois. The DOJ now has until Aug. 22 to file an amended complaint, or the case will be dismissed with prejudice. Greg Bishop reviews the order from a federal judge dismissing the U.S. Department of Justice's lawsuit challenging migrant sanctuary policies in the state of Illinois. The DOJ now has until Aug. 22 to file an amended complaint, or the case will be dismissed with prejudice. false full 573 cfc7dadd-1ab4-4490-9250-2bb41297d7de Weekend Edition | 'Sicko' released under Illinois’ SAFE-T Act arrested by ICE in Chicago Sat, 26 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | 'Sicko' released under Illinois’ SAFE-T Act arrested by ICE in Chicago The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – After U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers arrested a criminal suspect who had been released in Lake County, elected officials are calling for changes to Illinois’ SAFE-T Act. According to an ICE statement, Jose Luis Mendoza-Gonzalez, 52, was arrested in Chicago on Saturday. In April, the Mexican national was charged with four felonies, including concealing a death, abusing a corpse and obstructing justice in connection with the death of 37-year-old Megan Bos of Antioch. A Lake County judge released Mendoza-Gonzalez under the Pretrial Fairness Act. (The Center Square) – After U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers arrested a criminal suspect who had been released in Lake County, elected officials are calling for changes to Illinois’ SAFE-T Act. According to an ICE statement, Jose Luis Mendoza-Gonzalez, 52, was arrested in Chicago on Saturday. In April, the Mexican national was charged with four felonies, including concealing a death, abusing a corpse and obstructing justice in connection with the death of 37-year-old Megan Bos of Antioch. A Lake County judge released Mendoza-Gonzalez under the Pretrial Fairness Act. false full 571 81dac5a7-0509-4ea7-8660-b9badb960c66 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 25th, 2025 - Pritzker Reacts to Energy Prices, Snap Benefits and Salt Deduction Increase Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the expectation energy prices are going to continue to go up for Illinois rate payers, the impacts of the Trump administration's controls over the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and also the governor speaking well of the increase in the State and Local Tax deduction from the "big, beautiful bill."


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 25 Jul 2025 17:05:10 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the expectation energy prices are going to continue to go up for Illinois rate payers, the impacts of the Trump administration's controls over the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and also the governor speaking well of the increase in the State and Local Tax deduction from the "big, beautiful bill."


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 25th, 2025 - Pritzker Reacts to Energy Prices, Snap Benefits and Salt Deduction Increase The Center Square 00:37:12 Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the expectation energy prices are going to continue to go up for Illinois rate payers, the impacts of the Trump administration's controls over the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and also the governor speaking well of the increase in the State and Local Tax deduction from the "big, beautiful bill." Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about the expectation energy prices are going to continue to go up for Illinois rate payers, the impacts of the Trump administration's controls over the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and also the governor speaking well of the increase in the State and Local Tax deduction from the "big, beautiful bill." false full 572 693c1bf8-6c32-4ad3-91ba-3d336610ec16 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 24th, 2025 - Epstein Files and Russia Gate Conspiracy Theory Compete for Headlines Greg Bishop delves into two national controversies competing for headlines: The Jeffery Epstein saga and the Trump administration allegations of conspiracy to derail President Donald Trump's first term with Russia collusion claims.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 24 Jul 2025 18:32:36 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop delves into two national controversies competing for headlines: The Jeffery Epstein saga and the Trump administration allegations of conspiracy to derail President Donald Trump's first term with Russia collusion claims.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 24th, 2025 - Epstein Files and Russia Gate Conspiracy Theory Compete for Headlines The Center Square 00:39:35 Greg Bishop delves into two national controversies competing for headlines: The Jeffery Epstein saga and the Trump administration allegations of conspiracy to derail President Donald Trump's first term with Russia collusion claims. Greg Bishop delves into two national controversies competing for headlines: The Jeffery Epstein saga and the Trump administration allegations of conspiracy to derail President Donald Trump's first term with Russia collusion claims. false full 570 1d184ec1-89cd-4fcf-b1e8-0b0a814ed043 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 22nd, 2025 - ‘Sicko’ Released Under Illinois’ Safe-T Act Arrested by ICE in Chicago Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois elected officials to the arrest by ICE of a Mexican national who was released by local authorities in April despite being arrested for concealing a body.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 22 Jul 2025 14:57:36 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois elected officials to the arrest by ICE of a Mexican national who was released by local authorities in April despite being arrested for concealing a body.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 22nd, 2025 - ‘Sicko’ Released Under Illinois’ Safe-T Act Arrested by ICE in Chicago The Center Square 00:30:19 Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois elected officials to the arrest by ICE of a Mexican national who was released by local authorities in April despite being arrested for concealing a body. Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Illinois elected officials to the arrest by ICE of a Mexican national who was released by local authorities in April despite being arrested for concealing a body. false full 568 f71cc4b5-9931-4a02-b047-94d78fff18a8 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 21st, 2025 - Mexican National Accused of Concealing Illinois Women’s Body Detained by ICE Greg Bishop reviews statements around news of federal immigration officials detaining a Mexican national who was arrested by Illinois law enforcement earlier this year for the concealment of a women's body but was later released from jail under the state's Pretrial Fairness Act that ended cash bail. Republicans say it's a stark example of the reforms that are needed in both the SAFE-T Act and the state's migrant sanctuary policies.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 21 Jul 2025 15:01:01 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews statements around news of federal immigration officials detaining a Mexican national who was arrested by Illinois law enforcement earlier this year for the concealment of a women's body but was later released from jail under the state's Pretrial Fairness Act that ended cash bail. Republicans say it's a stark example of the reforms that are needed in both the SAFE-T Act and the state's migrant sanctuary policies.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 21st, 2025 - Mexican National Accused of Concealing Illinois Women’s Body Detained by ICE The Center Square 00:28:49 Greg Bishop reviews statements around news of federal immigration officials detaining a Mexican national who was arrested by Illinois law enforcement earlier this year for the concealment of a women's body but was later released from jail under the state's Pretrial Fairness Act that ended cash bail. Republicans say it's a stark example of the reforms that are needed in both the SAFE-T Act and the state's migrant sanctuary policies. Greg Bishop reviews statements around news of federal immigration officials detaining a Mexican national who was arrested by Illinois law enforcement earlier this year for the concealment of a women's body but was later released from jail under the state's Pretrial Fairness Act that ended cash bail. Republicans say it's a stark example of the reforms that are needed in both the SAFE-T Act and the state's migrant sanctuary policies. false full 567 5d97e17b-0fde-4c86-8360-b5ebba698338 Weekend Edition | Analyst: Chicago, St. Louis Inflation Problems Reflect Illinois Struggles Sat, 19 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Analyst: Chicago, St. Louis Inflation Problems Reflect Illinois Struggles The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois is one of the U.S. states hardest hit by inflation, an analyst says . The personal finance company WalletHub compared 23 major metropolitan areas across key metrics, including the Consumer Price Index, to measure inflation and how it impacts people in different cities. According to the report, two of the five major metropolitan areas with the biggest inflation problems have a large footprint in Illinois. (The Center Square) – Illinois is one of the U.S. states hardest hit by inflation, an analyst says . The personal finance company WalletHub compared 23 major metropolitan areas across key metrics, including the Consumer Price Index, to measure inflation and how it impacts people in different cities. According to the report, two of the five major metropolitan areas with the biggest inflation problems have a large footprint in Illinois. false full 565 b4c3886c-53e2-4518-8707-b69b20294a48 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 18th, 2025 - IL Requests Delay in Final Gun Ban Appeal Brief as Separate Illegal Alien With Gun Case Reversed Greg Bishop reviews recent court filings in two separate firearms related cases. In the case challenging Illinois' gun and magazine ban, the state is asking to delay the deadline to final a final brief before the Sept. 22 oral arguments in the appeals court. In a separate case challenging the prohibition of illegal aliens having firearms, an appeals court overturned the lower court's ruling the law unconstitutional and remanded the case back to the district court.

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 18 Jul 2025 17:31:50 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews recent court filings in two separate firearms related cases. In the case challenging Illinois' gun and magazine ban, the state is asking to delay the deadline to final a final brief before the Sept. 22 oral arguments in the appeals court. In a separate case challenging the prohibition of illegal aliens having firearms, an appeals court overturned the lower court's ruling the law unconstitutional and remanded the case back to the district court.

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 18th, 2025 - IL Requests Delay in Final Gun Ban Appeal Brief as Separate Illegal Alien With Gun Case Reversed The Center Square 00:30:27 Greg Bishop reviews recent court filings in two separate firearms related cases. In the case challenging Illinois' gun and magazine ban, the state is asking to delay the deadline to final a final brief before the Sept. 22 oral arguments in the appeals court. In a separate case challenging the prohibition of illegal aliens having firearms, an appeals court overturned the lower court's ruling the law unconstitutional and remanded the case back to the district court. Greg Bishop reviews recent court filings in two separate firearms related cases. In the case challenging Illinois' gun and magazine ban, the state is asking to delay the deadline to final a final brief before the Sept. 22 oral arguments in the appeals court. In a separate case challenging the prohibition of illegal aliens having firearms, an appeals court overturned the lower court's ruling the law unconstitutional and remanded the case back to the district court. false full 566 a2b685c2-6295-4539-aa55-6efef071d47f Illinois in Focus Daily | July 17th, 2025 - Washington Gun Law Visits Illinois Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Washington Gun Law host William Kirk about the status of Illinois gun laws and what to expect with the appeals court set to hear the challenge to Illinois gun ban law.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 17 Jul 2025 21:25:05 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Washington Gun Law host William Kirk about the status of Illinois gun laws and what to expect with the appeals court set to hear the challenge to Illinois gun ban law.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 17th, 2025 - Washington Gun Law Visits Illinois The Center Square 00:27:02 Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Washington Gun Law host William Kirk about the status of Illinois gun laws and what to expect with the appeals court set to hear the challenge to Illinois gun ban law. Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Washington Gun Law host William Kirk about the status of Illinois gun laws and what to expect with the appeals court set to hear the challenge to Illinois gun ban law. false full 564 3e3ed0b2-a4e1-4baa-a88c-7f2f52495507 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 16th, 2025 - Congresswoman Kelly on ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ and Her Bid for Illinois’ U.S. Senate Seat Greg Bishop talks live with Illinois U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly about the Democrats' criticism of President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill," and about her bid to become the next U.S. Senator from Illinois.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 16 Jul 2025 14:50:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks live with Illinois U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly about the Democrats' criticism of President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill," and about her bid to become the next U.S. Senator from Illinois.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 16th, 2025 - Congresswoman Kelly on ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ and Her Bid for Illinois’ U.S. Senate Seat The Center Square 00:30:36 Greg Bishop talks live with Illinois U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly about the Democrats' criticism of President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill," and about her bid to become the next U.S. Senator from Illinois. Greg Bishop talks live with Illinois U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly about the Democrats' criticism of President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill," and about her bid to become the next U.S. Senator from Illinois. false full 563 aa373396-ce20-4e62-a91c-e1f0d7d7da59 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 15th, 2025 - Fight Over School Funding Continues as State Senator Urges IL to Join Scholarship Tax Credit Program Greg Bishop discusses the back and forth over federal tax funding for public schools and an Illinois state senator's call for the governor to opt into the federal school choice scholarship tax credit program.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 15 Jul 2025 17:10:59 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the back and forth over federal tax funding for public schools and an Illinois state senator's call for the governor to opt into the federal school choice scholarship tax credit program.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 15th, 2025 - Fight Over School Funding Continues as State Senator Urges IL to Join Scholarship Tax Credit Program The Center Square 00:34:43 Greg Bishop discusses the back and forth over federal tax funding for public schools and an Illinois state senator's call for the governor to opt into the federal school choice scholarship tax credit program. Greg Bishop discusses the back and forth over federal tax funding for public schools and an Illinois state senator's call for the governor to opt into the federal school choice scholarship tax credit program. false full 562 6c381924-9bf2-4d69-bb00-335022829057 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 14th, 2025 - Pritzker Promotes ‘Know Your Rights’ Campaign for Non-citizens Greg Bishop reviews a website Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker promoted for non-citizens to "know your rights."


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 14 Jul 2025 16:13:47 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews a website Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker promoted for non-citizens to "know your rights."


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 14th, 2025 - Pritzker Promotes ‘Know Your Rights’ Campaign for Non-citizens The Center Square 00:21:22 Greg Bishop reviews a website Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker promoted for non-citizens to "know your rights." Greg Bishop reviews a website Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker promoted for non-citizens to "know your rights." false full 561 e3abf9b5-5112-4b41-a746-f1a9927fd712 Weekend Edition | Homan Says ‘Good Luck’ as Johnson Vows Chicago Won’t Work With Ice Sat, 12 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Homan Says ‘Good Luck’ as Johnson Vows Chicago Won’t Work With Ice The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – A Trump administration official says "good luck" to Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, who vows local police won’t cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. Trump administration border czar Tom Homan told reporters they plan to increase immigration enforcement efforts. “And for those that say 3,000 a day is too much, I want to remind them, do the math, we’d have to arrest 7,000 every single day for the remainder of this administration just to catch the ones [former President Joe] Biden released in the nation, ” Homan said. (The Center Square) – A Trump administration official says "good luck" to Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, who vows local police won’t cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. Trump administration border czar Tom Homan told reporters they plan to increase immigration enforcement efforts. “And for those that say 3,000 a day is too much, I want to remind them, do the math, we’d have to arrest 7,000 every single day for the remainder of this administration just to catch the ones [former President Joe] Biden released in the nation, ” Homan said. false full 559 67ae1f51-8450-475e-af30-ec49e32c240b Illinois in Focus Daily | July 11th, 2025 - Chicago Mayor Criticizes ‘Militarized’ Spending as Ice Agents Face Violent Protests Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson critical of increased funding for immigration enforcement amid ICE officials contending with violent protests as he dodges questions about his personal security detail.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 11 Jul 2025 19:17:23 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson critical of increased funding for immigration enforcement amid ICE officials contending with violent protests as he dodges questions about his personal security detail.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 11th, 2025 - Chicago Mayor Criticizes ‘Militarized’ Spending as Ice Agents Face Violent Protests The Center Square 00:25:10 Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson critical of increased funding for immigration enforcement amid ICE officials contending with violent protests as he dodges questions about his personal security detail. Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson critical of increased funding for immigration enforcement amid ICE officials contending with violent protests as he dodges questions about his personal security detail. false full 560 193ff412-bf63-4583-b723-ef7c32a700ae Illinois in Focus Daily | July 10th, 2025 - Millions in Federal Tax Funds Could Be Rescinded From Illinois Public Media Greg Bishop discusses a federal bill to rescind more than $9 billion in federal spending that includes $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Bishop shares comments from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin saying that will devastate Illinois’ public media operations. Analysis of financial records shows millions going to public media associated with Illinois public universities.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 10 Jul 2025 16:59:57 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses a federal bill to rescind more than $9 billion in federal spending that includes $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Bishop shares comments from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin saying that will devastate Illinois’ public media operations. Analysis of financial records shows millions going to public media associated with Illinois public universities.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 10th, 2025 - Millions in Federal Tax Funds Could Be Rescinded From Illinois Public Media The Center Square 00:19:47 Greg Bishop discusses a federal bill to rescind more than $9 billion in federal spending that includes $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Bishop shares comments from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin saying that will devastate Illinois’ public media operations. Analysis of financial records shows millions going to public media associated with Illinois public universities. Greg Bishop discusses a federal bill to rescind more than $9 billion in federal spending that includes $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Bishop shares comments from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin saying that will devastate Illinois’ public media operations. Analysis of financial records shows millions going to public media associated with Illinois public universities. false full 558 c6b61e8e-4f04-4e10-baf0-6a131e06d60c Illinois in Focus Daily | July 9th, 2025 - Homan Says ‘Good Luck’ as Johnson Vows Chicago Police Won’t Cooperate With Ice Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Trump administration border czar Tom Homan and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson about expected increased immigration enforcement in sanctuary cities.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 9 Jul 2025 19:56:10 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Trump administration border czar Tom Homan and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson about expected increased immigration enforcement in sanctuary cities.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 9th, 2025 - Homan Says ‘Good Luck’ as Johnson Vows Chicago Police Won’t Cooperate With Ice The Center Square 00:34:54 Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Trump administration border czar Tom Homan and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson about expected increased immigration enforcement in sanctuary cities. Greg Bishop shares recent comments from Trump administration border czar Tom Homan and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson about expected increased immigration enforcement in sanctuary cities. false full 557 0b5ead89-c835-4091-ab7b-fdaa94238d6f Illinois in Focus Daily | July 8th, 2025 - Congressional candidate on Chicago public safety and the 'One, Big Beautiful Bill' Tue, 8 Jul 2025 18:14:28 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | July 8th, 2025 - Congressional candidate on Chicago public safety and the 'One, Big Beautiful Bill' The Center Square 00:49:53 Greg Bishop talks live with congressional candidate Christian Maxwell about how she feels Congress could impact public safety on the streets of Chicago, impacts from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and more. Greg Bishop talks live with congressional candidate Christian Maxwell about how she feels Congress could impact public safety on the streets of Chicago, impacts from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and more. false full 556 90c98486-8e94-40ab-ae95-1d1506b4d8da Illinois in Focus Daily | July 7th, 2025 - Chicago Mayor: Shootings Show ‘How Far We Still Have to Go’ Mon, 7 Jul 2025 13:49:56 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | July 7th, 2025 - Chicago Mayor: Shootings Show ‘How Far We Still Have to Go’ The Center Square 00:35:15 (The Center Square) – Despite a mass shooting just north of downtown Chicago Wednesday night, Mayor Brandon Johnson says he wants people to enjoy the city this holiday weekend. The shooting outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge on Chicago Avenue left four people dead and 18 others wounded. Police said a vehicle pulled up near a crowd of people on the sidewalk, and gunfire erupted from the vehicle. The incident happened as a crowd was leaving a release party for a local music artist. Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said detectives are working hard to solve the crime. “We as a Chicago Police Department want to make sure that we bring justice to these families, but we also want to make sure that we take individuals who are this violent and this careless off the streets,” Snelling said. (The Center Square) – Despite a mass shooting just north of downtown Chicago Wednesday night, Mayor Brandon Johnson says he wants people to enjoy the city this holiday weekend. The shooting outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge on Chicago Avenue left four people dead and 18 others wounded. Police said a vehicle pulled up near a crowd of people on the sidewalk, and gunfire erupted from the vehicle. The incident happened as a crowd was leaving a release party for a local music artist. Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said detectives are working hard to solve the crime. “We as a Chicago Police Department want to make sure that we bring justice to these families, but we also want to make sure that we take individuals who are this violent and this careless off the streets,” Snelling said. false full 555 4b40c0b8-f713-457f-8f2b-dbcdb1fbdb8d Weekend Edition | Impacts of 'Big, Beautiful Bill' on Illinois Thu, 3 Jul 2025 20:10:37 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Impacts of 'Big, Beautiful Bill' on Illinois The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – As Congress weighs the “big, beautiful bill,” a proposed hike to the state and local tax deduction cap is drawing fire for favoring taxpayers in high-tax states, like Illinois. Taxpayers who itemize can deduct up to $10,000 in state and local taxes from their federal taxes—a cap set by the 2017 tax law. A provision in the legislation the U.S. Senate sent back over to the House Tuesday would raise that cap to $40,000 for most people, but phase it out for those earning over $500,000. “This is considered to be specifically a subsidy for high-income taxpayers in high-tax states because there are some lower-tax states where even relatively high earners aren't paying $10,000 in state and local taxes due to low property and income taxes,” said Tax Foundation analyst Katherine Loughead. (The Center Square) – As Congress weighs the “big, beautiful bill,” a proposed hike to the state and local tax deduction cap is drawing fire for favoring taxpayers in high-tax states, like Illinois. Taxpayers who itemize can deduct up to $10,000 in state and local taxes from their federal taxes—a cap set by the 2017 tax law. A provision in the legislation the U.S. Senate sent back over to the House Tuesday would raise that cap to $40,000 for most people, but phase it out for those earning over $500,000. “This is considered to be specifically a subsidy for high-income taxpayers in high-tax states because there are some lower-tax states where even relatively high earners aren't paying $10,000 in state and local taxes due to low property and income taxes,” said Tax Foundation analyst Katherine Loughead. false full 554 8ee78d74-1f95-47af-a985-17bc8169a6af Illinois in Focus Daily | July 2nd, 2025 - Appeals Court Wants More Deliberation in Challenge of Il’s Mass Transit Concealed Carry Ban Greg Bishop provides the latest in the case challenging Illinois' prohibition of carrying concealed carry on mass transit and shares a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson about an appeals court setting Sept. 22 for oral arguments in the case challenging the state's gun and magazine ban.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 2 Jul 2025 17:06:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop provides the latest in the case challenging Illinois' prohibition of carrying concealed carry on mass transit and shares a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson about an appeals court setting Sept. 22 for oral arguments in the case challenging the state's gun and magazine ban.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 2nd, 2025 - Appeals Court Wants More Deliberation in Challenge of Il’s Mass Transit Concealed Carry Ban The Center Square 00:48:05 Greg Bishop provides the latest in the case challenging Illinois' prohibition of carrying concealed carry on mass transit and shares a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson about an appeals court setting Sept. 22 for oral arguments in the case challenging the state's gun and magazine ban. Greg Bishop provides the latest in the case challenging Illinois' prohibition of carrying concealed carry on mass transit and shares a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson about an appeals court setting Sept. 22 for oral arguments in the case challenging the state's gun and magazine ban. false full 553 3fcc4e40-ce31-4e0a-9ad5-a9fd11479967 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 1st, 2025 - Appeals Court Schedules Oral Arguments for Illinois’ Gun Ban Challenge Greg Bishop reports out the latest in the challenge against Illinois' gun ban with the appeals court scheduling oral arguments for Sept. 22, 2025.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 1 Jul 2025 16:14:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reports out the latest in the challenge against Illinois' gun ban with the appeals court scheduling oral arguments for Sept. 22, 2025.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 1st, 2025 - Appeals Court Schedules Oral Arguments for Illinois’ Gun Ban Challenge The Center Square 00:45:00 Greg Bishop reports out the latest in the challenge against Illinois' gun ban with the appeals court scheduling oral arguments for Sept. 22, 2025. Greg Bishop reports out the latest in the challenge against Illinois' gun ban with the appeals court scheduling oral arguments for Sept. 22, 2025. false full 552 12bc8e6b-c364-4f21-bb16-f6edda313498 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 30th, 2025 - Illinois Political Leaders React to U.S. Supreme Court Decisions Greg Bishop shares reaction from various Illinois political leaders to two separate U.S. Supreme Court rulings issued Friday about the reach district court injunctions have and parental rights when it comes to LGBTQ curriculum in schools.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 30 Jun 2025 16:55:54 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares reaction from various Illinois political leaders to two separate U.S. Supreme Court rulings issued Friday about the reach district court injunctions have and parental rights when it comes to LGBTQ curriculum in schools.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 30th, 2025 - Illinois Political Leaders React to U.S. Supreme Court Decisions The Center Square 00:24:02 Greg Bishop shares reaction from various Illinois political leaders to two separate U.S. Supreme Court rulings issued Friday about the reach district court injunctions have and parental rights when it comes to LGBTQ curriculum in schools. Greg Bishop shares reaction from various Illinois political leaders to two separate U.S. Supreme Court rulings issued Friday about the reach district court injunctions have and parental rights when it comes to LGBTQ curriculum in schools. false full 551 525569d2-b3f3-4d67-8eac-adff5fad44e6 Weekend Edition | Pritzker Dismisses Census Data Showing Youth Flight From Illinois Sat, 28 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker Dismisses Census Data Showing Youth Flight From Illinois The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – After U.S. Census data shows the state losing the 18 and under population faster than any other state, Illinois political leaders have different solutions. Asked Thursday about the latest U.S. Census data released this week showing Illinois losing the 18 and under population at a faster rate than any other state, Pritzker dismissed it. “You’ve got to look at all the data and understand that when you’re trying to attract, remember that every state has people that leave and come, the point is to get net improvement in population,” Pritzker told The Center Square after a campaign rally in Chicago. (The Center Square) – After U.S. Census data shows the state losing the 18 and under population faster than any other state, Illinois political leaders have different solutions. Asked Thursday about the latest U.S. Census data released this week showing Illinois losing the 18 and under population at a faster rate than any other state, Pritzker dismissed it. “You’ve got to look at all the data and understand that when you’re trying to attract, remember that every state has people that leave and come, the point is to get net improvement in population,” Pritzker told The Center Square after a campaign rally in Chicago. false full 550 de0884c7-758a-4ddf-ab24-95f2b34c632c Illinois in Focus Daily | June 26th, 2025 - Illinois Leading Nation in Decline of 18 and Under, Working Age Populations Greg Bishop delves into the latest U.S. Census data showing Illinois leading the nation in the rate of decline of people 18 and under as older populations increases. Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski shares his perspective of the demographics.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 26 Jun 2025 18:33:30 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop delves into the latest U.S. Census data showing Illinois leading the nation in the rate of decline of people 18 and under as older populations increases. Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski shares his perspective of the demographics.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 26th, 2025 - Illinois Leading Nation in Decline of 18 and Under, Working Age Populations The Center Square 00:38:40 Greg Bishop delves into the latest U.S. Census data showing Illinois leading the nation in the rate of decline of people 18 and under as older populations increases. Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski shares his perspective of the demographics. Greg Bishop delves into the latest U.S. Census data showing Illinois leading the nation in the rate of decline of people 18 and under as older populations increases. Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski shares his perspective of the demographics. false full 549 46a79dad-6edf-4eb1-b2c0-06d8405d9334 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 25th, 2025 - School Choice Advocate: Union President’s Rhetoric Doesn’t Help The Center Square Editor Greg Bishop shares reaction to recent rhetoric from Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates about education philosophy. Jonathan Greenberg from Empower Illinois says Davis Gates' comments to the City Club of Chicago give more reason to support school choice.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 25 Jun 2025 20:18:07 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square Editor Greg Bishop shares reaction to recent rhetoric from Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates about education philosophy. Jonathan Greenberg from Empower Illinois says Davis Gates' comments to the City Club of Chicago give more reason to support school choice.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 25th, 2025 - School Choice Advocate: Union President’s Rhetoric Doesn’t Help The Center Square 00:34:50 The Center Square Editor Greg Bishop shares reaction to recent rhetoric from Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates about education philosophy. Jonathan Greenberg from Empower Illinois says Davis Gates' comments to the City Club of Chicago give more reason to support school choice. The Center Square Editor Greg Bishop shares reaction to recent rhetoric from Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates about education philosophy. Jonathan Greenberg from Empower Illinois says Davis Gates' comments to the City Club of Chicago give more reason to support school choice. false full 548 7f1f94a3-df20-4ecd-ace6-fa14a0a22da7 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 24th, 2025 - Raoul and Bondi Lay Out Positions on Immigration at Separate Hearings Greg Bishop airs highlights from dueling hearings in Washington D.C. over the issue of rule of law. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul took part in a "spotlight" panel with other Democrats while a U.S. House committee discussed issues around justice with U.S. Attorney Pam Bondi.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 24 Jun 2025 17:36:13 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop airs highlights from dueling hearings in Washington D.C. over the issue of rule of law. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul took part in a "spotlight" panel with other Democrats while a U.S. House committee discussed issues around justice with U.S. Attorney Pam Bondi.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 24th, 2025 - Raoul and Bondi Lay Out Positions on Immigration at Separate Hearings The Center Square 00:42:48 Greg Bishop airs highlights from dueling hearings in Washington D.C. over the issue of rule of law. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul took part in a "spotlight" panel with other Democrats while a U.S. House committee discussed issues around justice with U.S. Attorney Pam Bondi. Greg Bishop airs highlights from dueling hearings in Washington D.C. over the issue of rule of law. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul took part in a "spotlight" panel with other Democrats while a U.S. House committee discussed issues around justice with U.S. Attorney Pam Bondi. false full 547 40158647-4cbc-4f6d-858c-f66bbaf81dfa Illinois in Focus Daily | June 23rd, 2025 - Illinois Congressional Members React to Trump’s Strike On Iran Greg Bishop shares reaction from members of Congress from Illinois to the weekend bombing President Donald Trump ordered on Iran.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 23 Jun 2025 16:12:57 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares reaction from members of Congress from Illinois to the weekend bombing President Donald Trump ordered on Iran.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 23rd, 2025 - Illinois Congressional Members React to Trump’s Strike On Iran The Center Square 00:28:29 Greg Bishop shares reaction from members of Congress from Illinois to the weekend bombing President Donald Trump ordered on Iran. Greg Bishop shares reaction from members of Congress from Illinois to the weekend bombing President Donald Trump ordered on Iran. false full 546 08b81828-4428-4b62-a99c-6ae67de1d775 Weekend Edition | Ex-Illinois House Speaker Gets 7.5 Year Prison Term, $2.5 Million Fine for Corruption Sat, 21 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Ex-Illinois House Speaker Gets 7.5 Year Prison Term, $2.5 Million Fine for Corruption The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – A federal judge sentenced Michael Madigan Friday to seven-and-a-half years in prison and ordered him to pay a fine of $2.5 million for crimes committed during his tenure as the longest-serving speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives. Judge John Robert Blakey handed down the 90-month sentence Friday at the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago. He also imposed three years of supervised release after his prison time ends. Madigan will be required to report to prison on Oct. 13. The judge said it was difficult to reconcile the two recommendations, one from government attorneys and one from the defense. Prosecutors had asked for a 12.5-year prison sentence and a $1.5 million fine. Defense attorneys requested that Madigan be sentenced to a year of home confinement with probation and community service. (The Center Square) – A federal judge sentenced Michael Madigan Friday to seven-and-a-half years in prison and ordered him to pay a fine of $2.5 million for crimes committed during his tenure as the longest-serving speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives. Judge John Robert Blakey handed down the 90-month sentence Friday at the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago. He also imposed three years of supervised release after his prison time ends. Madigan will be required to report to prison on Oct. 13. The judge said it was difficult to reconcile the two recommendations, one from government attorneys and one from the defense. Prosecutors had asked for a 12.5-year prison sentence and a $1.5 million fine. Defense attorneys requested that Madigan be sentenced to a year of home confinement with probation and community service. false full 544 c7bcd9cb-bd7d-468f-949c-a0bdafe5cefa Illinois in Focus Daily | June 20th, 2025 - 'Amending Constitution’ Only Fix for Pension Debt, Illinois Legislator Says Greg Bishop shares a conversation with state Rep. Steven Reick, R-Woodstock, about the plan to set aside $75 million for Tier 2 pensioners and what he says is the real fix to Illinois' pension problems.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 20 Jun 2025 19:14:12 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares a conversation with state Rep. Steven Reick, R-Woodstock, about the plan to set aside $75 million for Tier 2 pensioners and what he says is the real fix to Illinois' pension problems.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 20th, 2025 - 'Amending Constitution’ Only Fix for Pension Debt, Illinois Legislator Says The Center Square 00:33:59 Greg Bishop shares a conversation with state Rep. Steven Reick, R-Woodstock, about the plan to set aside $75 million for Tier 2 pensioners and what he says is the real fix to Illinois' pension problems. Greg Bishop shares a conversation with state Rep. Steven Reick, R-Woodstock, about the plan to set aside $75 million for Tier 2 pensioners and what he says is the real fix to Illinois' pension problems. false full 545 d8adce14-fa90-4102-ae6b-48972bba7457 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 19th, 2025 - Illinois Republicans File Another Lawsuit Challenging Alleged Three Readings Rule Violations Greg Bishop shares some of the arguments Illinois Statehouse Republicans are leveling in a new lawsuit challenging alleged violations of the state Constitution's three readings rule.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 19 Jun 2025 17:06:54 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares some of the arguments Illinois Statehouse Republicans are leveling in a new lawsuit challenging alleged violations of the state Constitution's three readings rule.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 19th, 2025 - Illinois Republicans File Another Lawsuit Challenging Alleged Three Readings Rule Violations The Center Square 00:35:12 Greg Bishop shares some of the arguments Illinois Statehouse Republicans are leveling in a new lawsuit challenging alleged violations of the state Constitution's three readings rule. Greg Bishop shares some of the arguments Illinois Statehouse Republicans are leveling in a new lawsuit challenging alleged violations of the state Constitution's three readings rule. false full 542 59eb83b2-61b8-49c9-a5c7-c92ceeba5dc7 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 18th, 2025 - Pritzker Keeps Some Non-citizen Health Care Subsidies Despite Warnings Greg Bishop discusses Gov. J.B. Pritzker ending taxpayer subsidies for the health care of non-citizen adults while keeping the subsidies for non-citizen seniors and the warning from Republicans about the loss of federal funds if such policies continue.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 18 Jun 2025 16:31:54 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses Gov. J.B. Pritzker ending taxpayer subsidies for the health care of non-citizen adults while keeping the subsidies for non-citizen seniors and the warning from Republicans about the loss of federal funds if such policies continue.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 18th, 2025 - Pritzker Keeps Some Non-citizen Health Care Subsidies Despite Warnings The Center Square 00:38:59 Greg Bishop discusses Gov. J.B. Pritzker ending taxpayer subsidies for the health care of non-citizen adults while keeping the subsidies for non-citizen seniors and the warning from Republicans about the loss of federal funds if such policies continue. Greg Bishop discusses Gov. J.B. Pritzker ending taxpayer subsidies for the health care of non-citizen adults while keeping the subsidies for non-citizen seniors and the warning from Republicans about the loss of federal funds if such policies continue. false full 541 88f88499-3395-4430-ba20-ed08fdd6f9fb Illinois in Focus Daily | June 17th, 2025 - Prison Looms for Illinois’ Former ‘Man in Charge’ Madigan Tue, 17 Jun 2025 15:04:22 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | June 17th, 2025 - Prison Looms for Illinois’ Former ‘Man in Charge’ Madigan The Center Square 00:59:14 (The Center Square) – Although former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was expected to pay a $2.5 million fine quickly, his time in prison won’t begin until at least October. Judge John Robert Blakey ordered Madigan to immediately pay the $2.5 million, which was the maximum statutory fine the judge was allowed to impose. Madigan’s 90-month prison sentence is scheduled to start at 2 p.m. on Oct. 13. The ex-speaker’s defense attorneys suggested in court last Friday they would file a motion to appeal. (The Center Square) – Although former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was expected to pay a $2.5 million fine quickly, his time in prison won’t begin until at least October. Judge John Robert Blakey ordered Madigan to immediately pay the $2.5 million, which was the maximum statutory fine the judge was allowed to impose. Madigan’s 90-month prison sentence is scheduled to start at 2 p.m. on Oct. 13. The ex-speaker’s defense attorneys suggested in court last Friday they would file a motion to appeal. false full 540 1f54e79e-b79c-4db3-b9c0-b62385578807 Weekend Edition | Pritzker Says He’s Willing to Be Arrested Defending Sanctuary Policies Sat, 14 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker Says He’s Willing to Be Arrested Defending Sanctuary Policies The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – In defending the state’s migrant sanctuary policies, Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he’d rather be arrested than to have Illinois residents arrested improperly. Joining the governors of New York and Minnesota Thursday in front of the U.S. House Oversight Committee, U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, D-Florida, asked the three governors for their response to threats of being arrested for allegedly impeding federal immigration enforcement with migrant sanctuary policies. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said “go for it.” Pritzker said the Trump administration “can try.” “I will stand in the way of [Trump border czar] Tom Homan going after people who don’t deserve to be frightened in their communities, who don’t deserve to be threatened or terrorized, I would rather that he come and arrested me than to do that to the people of my state,” Pritzker said. (The Center Square) – In defending the state’s migrant sanctuary policies, Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he’d rather be arrested than to have Illinois residents arrested improperly. Joining the governors of New York and Minnesota Thursday in front of the U.S. House Oversight Committee, U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, D-Florida, asked the three governors for their response to threats of being arrested for allegedly impeding federal immigration enforcement with migrant sanctuary policies. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said “go for it.” Pritzker said the Trump administration “can try.” “I will stand in the way of [Trump border czar] Tom Homan going after people who don’t deserve to be frightened in their communities, who don’t deserve to be threatened or terrorized, I would rather that he come and arrested me than to do that to the people of my state,” Pritzker said. false full 538 5c0aeb66-7e38-497d-8ec5-af0d49252ea9 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 13th, 2025 - Highlights of Pritzker Defending IL’s Migrant Sanctuary Policies During U.S. House Committee Greg Bishop provides highlights from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's testimony about migrant sanctuary policies to the U.S. House Oversight Committee.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 13 Jun 2025 17:54:41 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop provides highlights from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's testimony about migrant sanctuary policies to the U.S. House Oversight Committee.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 13th, 2025 - Highlights of Pritzker Defending IL’s Migrant Sanctuary Policies During U.S. House Committee The Center Square 00:40:14 Greg Bishop provides highlights from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's testimony about migrant sanctuary policies to the U.S. House Oversight Committee. Greg Bishop provides highlights from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's testimony about migrant sanctuary policies to the U.S. House Oversight Committee. false full 539 f5640aac-ea4d-4d0a-b074-5d5acb00b38e Illinois in Focus Daily | June 12th, 2025 - Chicago Braces for Immigration Enforcement Efforts Amid Protests Greg Bishop reviews the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement amid civil unrest. Gov. J.B. Pritzker is set to testify about migrant sanctuary policies and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson prepare for immigration enforcement and expected protests.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 12 Jun 2025 20:17:06 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement amid civil unrest. Gov. J.B. Pritzker is set to testify about migrant sanctuary policies and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson prepare for immigration enforcement and expected protests.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 12th, 2025 - Chicago Braces for Immigration Enforcement Efforts Amid Protests The Center Square 00:28:12 Greg Bishop reviews the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement amid civil unrest. Gov. J.B. Pritzker is set to testify about migrant sanctuary policies and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson prepare for immigration enforcement and expected protests. Greg Bishop reviews the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement amid civil unrest. Gov. J.B. Pritzker is set to testify about migrant sanctuary policies and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson prepare for immigration enforcement and expected protests. false full 537 01d5c372-42dd-48e4-8539-87f3592c3803 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 11th, 2025 - ‘Societal Concerns’ Won’t Hold Up in Court, Says IL Gun Rights Group Challenging Ban Greg Bishop shares some of a conversation he had with Illinois State Rifle Association's Richard Pearson about the status of the gun ban challenge in the appeals court.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 11 Jun 2025 14:10:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares some of a conversation he had with Illinois State Rifle Association's Richard Pearson about the status of the gun ban challenge in the appeals court.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 11th, 2025 - ‘Societal Concerns’ Won’t Hold Up in Court, Says IL Gun Rights Group Challenging Ban The Center Square 00:35:40 Greg Bishop shares some of a conversation he had with Illinois State Rifle Association's Richard Pearson about the status of the gun ban challenge in the appeals court. Greg Bishop shares some of a conversation he had with Illinois State Rifle Association's Richard Pearson about the status of the gun ban challenge in the appeals court. false full 536 26abc72d-9e6a-4fca-99aa-f081068ee058 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 10th, 2025 - IL Gun Ban Challengers File Final Briefs in Federal Appeals Court Case Greg Bishop reviews the latest filings in the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals in the case challenging Illinois' gun laws. Follow the links to the separate briefs: 

Barnette: https://www.thecentersquare.com/tncms/asset/editorial/a871ecda-f114-4df5-a5ba-b141b14bef1d/ 

Langley: https://www.thecentersquare.com/tncms/asset/editorial/1c475803-2d23-4675-ad8d-b81b99c4c868/ 

Harrel: https://www.thecentersquare.com/tncms/asset/editorial/9cd718ad-87f6-435f-b7d7-e998f95f801e/ 

FFL IL: https://www.thecentersquare.com/tncms/asset/editorial/8639fad7-1565-4d69-a0d4-3c9fd123faa1/


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 10 Jun 2025 21:35:28 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest filings in the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals in the case challenging Illinois' gun laws. Follow the links to the separate briefs: 

Barnette: https://www.thecentersquare.com/tncms/asset/editorial/a871ecda-f114-4df5-a5ba-b141b14bef1d/ 

Langley: https://www.thecentersquare.com/tncms/asset/editorial/1c475803-2d23-4675-ad8d-b81b99c4c868/ 

Harrel: https://www.thecentersquare.com/tncms/asset/editorial/9cd718ad-87f6-435f-b7d7-e998f95f801e/ 

FFL IL: https://www.thecentersquare.com/tncms/asset/editorial/8639fad7-1565-4d69-a0d4-3c9fd123faa1/


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 10th, 2025 - IL Gun Ban Challengers File Final Briefs in Federal Appeals Court Case The Center Square 00:44:18 Greg Bishop reviews the latest filings in the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals in the case challenging Illinois' gun laws. Greg Bishop reviews the latest filings in the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals in the case challenging Illinois' gun laws. false full 535 8b0fef0d-03eb-4fd4-94f8-6bf4beff8e31 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 9th, 2025 - Senate Candidate on la Immigration Riots, Illinois’ Sanctuary Status and the ‘Big Beautiful Bill' Greg Bishop talks live with Dr. Pamela Denise Long who is running for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate to fill the seat being vacated by Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Springfield. Long discusses the latest in the debate around immigration enforcement and use of the National Guard in California, Illinois' migrant sanctuary status and President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill."

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 9 Jun 2025 14:47:10 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks live with Dr. Pamela Denise Long who is running for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate to fill the seat being vacated by Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Springfield. Long discusses the latest in the debate around immigration enforcement and use of the National Guard in California, Illinois' migrant sanctuary status and President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill."

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 9th, 2025 - Senate Candidate on la Immigration Riots, Illinois’ Sanctuary Status and the ‘Big Beautiful Bill' The Center Square 00:42:31 Greg Bishop talks live with Dr. Pamela Denise Long who is running for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate to fill the seat being vacated by Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Springfield. Long discusses the latest in the debate around immigration enforcement and use of the National Guard in California, Illinois' migrant sanctuary status and President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill." Greg Bishop talks live with Dr. Pamela Denise Long who is running for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate to fill the seat being vacated by Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Springfield. Long discusses the latest in the debate around immigration enforcement and use of the National Guard in California, Illinois' migrant sanctuary status and President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill." false full 534 b34f6154-7596-427e-bac1-948962ebb85b Weekend Edition | Republicans Ask Court to Find Illinois’ Budget Violated Three Readings Rule Fri, 6 Jun 2025 15:41:19 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Republicans Ask Court to Find Illinois’ Budget Violated Three Readings Rule The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Several Republican state legislators say they will be irreparably harmed if a court doesn’t stop the state from enacting the recently approved Illinois state budget. They filed a lawsuit in Sangamon County Circuit Court laying out how the final language of the 3,300 page budget bill was filed with just 30 hours before the legislature was set to adjourn. The legislators argue they needed between 70 to 119 hours. State Sen. Andrew Chesney explains the Three Readings Rule is being abused by Democratic leadership. “And the Democrats have a long tradition of short circuiting that process,” Chesney, R-Freeport, told The Center Square. “And brokering these deals behind closed doors and then presenting the final package of these bills with no time to mount opposition, no time to ask all the questions and no time to truly debate these issues.” (The Center Square) – Several Republican state legislators say they will be irreparably harmed if a court doesn’t stop the state from enacting the recently approved Illinois state budget. They filed a lawsuit in Sangamon County Circuit Court laying out how the final language of the 3,300 page budget bill was filed with just 30 hours before the legislature was set to adjourn. The legislators argue they needed between 70 to 119 hours. State Sen. Andrew Chesney explains the Three Readings Rule is being abused by Democratic leadership. “And the Democrats have a long tradition of short circuiting that process,” Chesney, R-Freeport, told The Center Square. “And brokering these deals behind closed doors and then presenting the final package of these bills with no time to mount opposition, no time to ask all the questions and no time to truly debate these issues.” false full 533 145a3358-23bc-4b60-804f-02568362447b Illinois in Focus Daily | June 5th, 2025 - Illinois Taxes Going Up for Cell Phones, Tobacco-Related Products, Sports Betting, Corporations Greg Bishop goes a little deeper into the tax and spend plan the Illinois Legislature approved for Gov. J.B. Pritzker's signature.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 5 Jun 2025 19:14:46 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop goes a little deeper into the tax and spend plan the Illinois Legislature approved for Gov. J.B. Pritzker's signature.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 5th, 2025 - Illinois Taxes Going Up for Cell Phones, Tobacco-Related Products, Sports Betting, Corporations The Center Square 00:29:11 Greg Bishop goes a little deeper into the tax and spend plan the Illinois Legislature approved for Gov. J.B. Pritzker's signature. Greg Bishop goes a little deeper into the tax and spend plan the Illinois Legislature approved for Gov. J.B. Pritzker's signature. false full 532 303ef223-a4ba-474f-9ff7-ba165f28d73e Illinois in Focus Daily | June 4th, 2025 - Illinois Approves Digital Currency Regulations Greg Bishop talks with Andrew Gordon, an attorney and Certified Public Accountant, who just launched Main Street Crypto PAC, a new federal political action committee. The two discuss digital currency regulations and the future of investing in crypto.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 4 Jun 2025 18:49:42 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks with Andrew Gordon, an attorney and Certified Public Accountant, who just launched Main Street Crypto PAC, a new federal political action committee. The two discuss digital currency regulations and the future of investing in crypto.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 4th, 2025 - Illinois Approves Digital Currency Regulations The Center Square 00:30:24 Greg Bishop talks with Andrew Gordon, an attorney and Certified Public Accountant, who just launched Main Street Crypto PAC, a new federal political action committee. The two discuss digital currency regulations and the future of investing in crypto. Greg Bishop talks with Andrew Gordon, an attorney and Certified Public Accountant, who just launched Main Street Crypto PAC, a new federal political action committee. The two discuss digital currency regulations and the future of investing in crypto. false full 531 b4033d10-f70f-4286-a180-1e2e0e867495 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 3rd, 2025 - Federal Appeals Court Sides With Cook County, Illinois, in Challenge to Gun Bans Greg Bishop looks at the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court deciding to deny taking up the challenge to Maryland's gun ban, leaving open the door to a challenge to Cook County and Illinois' gun ban. This as Illinois legislators pass more measures impacting gun owners.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 3 Jun 2025 17:14:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop looks at the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court deciding to deny taking up the challenge to Maryland's gun ban, leaving open the door to a challenge to Cook County and Illinois' gun ban. This as Illinois legislators pass more measures impacting gun owners.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 3rd, 2025 - Federal Appeals Court Sides With Cook County, Illinois, in Challenge to Gun Bans The Center Square 00:37:05 Greg Bishop looks at the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court deciding to deny taking up the challenge to Maryland's gun ban, leaving open the door to a challenge to Cook County and Illinois' gun ban. This as Illinois legislators pass more measures impacting gun owners. Greg Bishop looks at the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court deciding to deny taking up the challenge to Maryland's gun ban, leaving open the door to a challenge to Cook County and Illinois' gun ban. This as Illinois legislators pass more measures impacting gun owners. false full 530 8321b340-b9ba-4789-b544-0f7efd01defa Illinois in Focus Daily | June 2nd, 2025 - Taxpayers Wake Up to Largest Budget in Illinois History After Long Legislative Weekend Greg Bishop provides a roundup of the long weekend at the Illinois Statehouse where the General Assembly approved the largest spending plan in state history with $1 billion more in tax revenue collections.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 2 Jun 2025 15:51:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop provides a roundup of the long weekend at the Illinois Statehouse where the General Assembly approved the largest spending plan in state history with $1 billion more in tax revenue collections.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 2nd, 2025 - Taxpayers Wake Up to Largest Budget in Illinois History After Long Legislative Weekend The Center Square 00:41:45 Greg Bishop provides a roundup of the long weekend at the Illinois Statehouse where the General Assembly approved the largest spending plan in state history with $1 billion more in tax revenue collections. Greg Bishop provides a roundup of the long weekend at the Illinois Statehouse where the General Assembly approved the largest spending plan in state history with $1 billion more in tax revenue collections. false full 529 59031af2-62ee-40b4-8ccb-8454368b7301 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 30th, 2025 - IL Shell Bills: Empty Budget ‘Vehicle,’ Food Safety Bill Replaced With ‘Medical Aid in Dying Greg Bishop reviews some shell bill action happening at the Illinois Statehouse in the final days with an empty budget bill passed to the House by the Senate and a measure about food safety being gutted and replaced in the House to advance "medical aid in dying" legislation.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 30 May 2025 19:04:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some shell bill action happening at the Illinois Statehouse in the final days with an empty budget bill passed to the House by the Senate and a measure about food safety being gutted and replaced in the House to advance "medical aid in dying" legislation.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 30th, 2025 - IL Shell Bills: Empty Budget ‘Vehicle,’ Food Safety Bill Replaced With ‘Medical Aid in Dying The Center Square 00:48:00 Greg Bishop reviews some shell bill action happening at the Illinois Statehouse in the final days with an empty budget bill passed to the House by the Senate and a measure about food safety being gutted and replaced in the House to advance "medical aid in dying" legislation. Greg Bishop reviews some shell bill action happening at the Illinois Statehouse in the final days with an empty budget bill passed to the House by the Senate and a measure about food safety being gutted and replaced in the House to advance "medical aid in dying" legislation. false full 528 baea2620-dae5-44c1-8c99-21d899cac491 Weekend Edition | Some Question Pritzker’s Tax ‘Veto’ Pledge, Say Trump Should Cut Funding Fri, 30 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Some Question Pritzker’s Tax ‘Veto’ Pledge, Say Trump Should Cut Funding The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois taxpayers still don’t know how much of their money will be spent by the state of Illinois next fiscal year or whether they’ll be charged higher taxes to pay for it. Saturday is the deadline for legislators to approve the annual spending plan that begins July 1. Wednesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker explained what he would veto if it’s included. “I've been opposed to any taxes. They're broad based, or that would affect working families in this budget,” Pritzker told reporters. (The Center Square) – Illinois taxpayers still don’t know how much of their money will be spent by the state of Illinois next fiscal year or whether they’ll be charged higher taxes to pay for it. Saturday is the deadline for legislators to approve the annual spending plan that begins July 1. Wednesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker explained what he would veto if it’s included. “I've been opposed to any taxes. They're broad based, or that would affect working families in this budget,” Pritzker told reporters. false full 527 506e5cd3-7b28-48d1-8b57-65f8d8f65076 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 29th, 2025 - Illinois House Approves ‘Safe Gun Storage’ Bill; Republicans Promise Lawsuits Greg Bishop airs some of the floor debate from the Illinois House approving the "safe gun storage" measure, the final step before the bill can be sent to the governor's desk.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 29 May 2025 16:14:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop airs some of the floor debate from the Illinois House approving the "safe gun storage" measure, the final step before the bill can be sent to the governor's desk.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 29th, 2025 - Illinois House Approves ‘Safe Gun Storage’ Bill; Republicans Promise Lawsuits The Center Square 00:37:26 Greg Bishop airs some of the floor debate from the Illinois House approving the "safe gun storage" measure, the final step before the bill can be sent to the governor's desk. Greg Bishop airs some of the floor debate from the Illinois House approving the "safe gun storage" measure, the final step before the bill can be sent to the governor's desk. false full 526 bfc6527d-16f6-4190-9b09-6c51887aa6ab Illinois in Focus Daily | May 28th, 2025 - ‘Safe Gun Storage’ Bill Passes House Committee, Ready for Final Passage Greg Bishop reviews stories impacting firearms owners with the passage of a "safe gun storage" bill out of the Illinois House Gun Violence Prevention Committee and and upcoming appeals court oral argument in the case challenging Illinois' ban on carrying concealed on mass transit.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 28 May 2025 15:43:43 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews stories impacting firearms owners with the passage of a "safe gun storage" bill out of the Illinois House Gun Violence Prevention Committee and and upcoming appeals court oral argument in the case challenging Illinois' ban on carrying concealed on mass transit.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 28th, 2025 - ‘Safe Gun Storage’ Bill Passes House Committee, Ready for Final Passage The Center Square 00:30:59 Greg Bishop reviews stories impacting firearms owners with the passage of a "safe gun storage" bill out of the Illinois House Gun Violence Prevention Committee and and upcoming appeals court oral argument in the case challenging Illinois' ban on carrying concealed on mass transit. Greg Bishop reviews stories impacting firearms owners with the passage of a "safe gun storage" bill out of the Illinois House Gun Violence Prevention Committee and and upcoming appeals court oral argument in the case challenging Illinois' ban on carrying concealed on mass transit. false full 525 f955bbf3-18eb-4462-a7ef-9993c5dff1ad Illinois in Focus Daily | May 27th, 2025 - Illinois Legislators Have Days Left Before Adjournment With Budget Still Elusive Greg Bishop reviews some of the back and forth on where the Illinois legislature is with the annual spending plan with just a handful of days left before scheduled adjournment.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 27 May 2025 15:53:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the back and forth on where the Illinois legislature is with the annual spending plan with just a handful of days left before scheduled adjournment.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 27th, 2025 - Illinois Legislators Have Days Left Before Adjournment With Budget Still Elusive The Center Square 00:29:00 Greg Bishop reviews some of the back and forth on where the Illinois legislature is with the annual spending plan with just a handful of days left before scheduled adjournment. Greg Bishop reviews some of the back and forth on where the Illinois legislature is with the annual spending plan with just a handful of days left before scheduled adjournment. false full 524 9e08d902-e297-482d-987c-f9ad62d9991b Weekend Edition | Gov. Pritzker Says ‘Funding Is There’ for Budget Sat, 24 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Gov. Pritzker Says ‘Funding Is There’ for Budget The Center Square 00:24:00 When legislators return to the Illinois State Capitol Tuesday, they’ll have just 11 days before the deadline to pass an annual plan on how to spend taxpayers’ money. Gov. J.B. Pritzker proposed his budget of nearly $55 billion in February. If approved, that’d be the most expensive spending plan in state history. Despite revenue projections coming in lower than anticipated, Pritzker said last week they already plan a tight budget. “I’m just saying, you know, we’ll get there,” Pritzker said at an unrelated event. “Nobody likes to have to, you know, tighten the belt and make it all work, but our tightening is, I think, reasonable.” When legislators return to the Illinois State Capitol Tuesday, they’ll have just 11 days before the deadline to pass an annual plan on how to spend taxpayers’ money. Gov. J.B. Pritzker proposed his budget of nearly $55 billion in February. If approved, that’d be the most expensive spending plan in state history. Despite revenue projections coming in lower than anticipated, Pritzker said last week they already plan a tight budget. “I’m just saying, you know, we’ll get there,” Pritzker said at an unrelated event. “Nobody likes to have to, you know, tighten the belt and make it all work, but our tightening is, I think, reasonable.” false full 522 94783c8b-d54a-4b79-ad00-7e174dacb299 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 23rd, 2025 - ‘Big, Beautiful’ Bill to Impact Illinois’ Non-citizen Health Care Subsides, State and Local Taxes Greg Bishop shares some of the reaction from Illinois legislators to the passage by the U.S. House of President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful" bill and how it will impact taxpayer subsidies for non-citizen health care subsidies and the state and local tax deduction for high tax states like Illinois.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 23 May 2025 20:38:40 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares some of the reaction from Illinois legislators to the passage by the U.S. House of President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful" bill and how it will impact taxpayer subsidies for non-citizen health care subsidies and the state and local tax deduction for high tax states like Illinois.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 23rd, 2025 - ‘Big, Beautiful’ Bill to Impact Illinois’ Non-citizen Health Care Subsides, State and Local Taxes The Center Square 00:24:44 Greg Bishop shares some of the reaction from Illinois legislators to the passage by the U.S. House of President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful" bill and how it will impact taxpayer subsidies for non-citizen health care subsidies and the state and local tax deduction for high tax states like Illinois. Greg Bishop shares some of the reaction from Illinois legislators to the passage by the U.S. House of President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful" bill and how it will impact taxpayer subsidies for non-citizen health care subsidies and the state and local tax deduction for high tax states like Illinois. false full 523 6b6c0b81-6924-40d9-98c7-2242e7463af2 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 22nd, 2025 - Transgender Sports Debate Continue Erupting on Illinois House Floor Greg Bishop reviews the latest debate from the Illinois House around the issue of transgender students competing in the sport opposite of the gender they were born.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 22 May 2025 16:35:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest debate from the Illinois House around the issue of transgender students competing in the sport opposite of the gender they were born.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 22nd, 2025 - Transgender Sports Debate Continue Erupting on Illinois House Floor The Center Square 00:30:17 Greg Bishop reviews the latest debate from the Illinois House around the issue of transgender students competing in the sport opposite of the gender they were born. Greg Bishop reviews the latest debate from the Illinois House around the issue of transgender students competing in the sport opposite of the gender they were born. false full 521 1fa94219-32ee-4d0c-92f6-ea6de239cb0c Illinois in Focus Daily | May 21st, 2025 - Illinois Legislator Begin to Approve Bills for Governor’s Signature in Final Days of Session Greg Bishop discusses several bills the Illinois House approved to be sent to Gov. J.B. Pritzker in the final days of legislation session, including changes to the Illinois Prisoner Review Board and protections for a crucial drinking water aquifer.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 21 May 2025 19:20:34 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses several bills the Illinois House approved to be sent to Gov. J.B. Pritzker in the final days of legislation session, including changes to the Illinois Prisoner Review Board and protections for a crucial drinking water aquifer.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 21st, 2025 - Illinois Legislator Begin to Approve Bills for Governor’s Signature in Final Days of Session The Center Square 00:28:34 Greg Bishop discusses several bills the Illinois House approved to be sent to Gov. J.B. Pritzker in the final days of legislation session, including changes to the Illinois Prisoner Review Board and protections for a crucial drinking water aquifer. Greg Bishop discusses several bills the Illinois House approved to be sent to Gov. J.B. Pritzker in the final days of legislation session, including changes to the Illinois Prisoner Review Board and protections for a crucial drinking water aquifer. false full 520 61cb51f8-555c-4860-bf5d-a84e067b7b4b Illinois in Focus Daily | May 20th, 2025 - As IL GOP Slams Possible Tax Hikes, Pritzker Says ‘Funding Is There’ for Budget Tue, 20 May 2025 14:15:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | May 20th, 2025 - As IL GOP Slams Possible Tax Hikes, Pritzker Says ‘Funding Is There’ for Budget The Center Square 00:31:57 (The Center Square) – When legislators return to the Illinois State Capitol Tuesday, they’ll have just 11 days before the deadline to pass an annual plan on how to spend taxpayers’ money. Gov. J.B. Pritzker proposed his budget of nearly $55 billion in February. If approved, that’d be the most expensive spending plan in state history. Despite revenue projections coming in lower than anticipated, Pritzker said last week they already plan a tight budget. “I’m just saying, you know, we’ll get there,” Pritzker said at an unrelated event. “Nobody likes to have to, you know, tighten the belt and make it all work, but our tightening is, I think, reasonable.” (The Center Square) – When legislators return to the Illinois State Capitol Tuesday, they’ll have just 11 days before the deadline to pass an annual plan on how to spend taxpayers’ money. Gov. J.B. Pritzker proposed his budget of nearly $55 billion in February. If approved, that’d be the most expensive spending plan in state history. Despite revenue projections coming in lower than anticipated, Pritzker said last week they already plan a tight budget. “I’m just saying, you know, we’ll get there,” Pritzker said at an unrelated event. “Nobody likes to have to, you know, tighten the belt and make it all work, but our tightening is, I think, reasonable.” false full 519 cd2d211d-df2a-4ef0-abfc-0b2bb0be9b52 Weekend Edition | IL House Republicans Call Out $1B for NGOs, Plan Their Own Budget Proposal Sat, 17 May 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | IL House Republicans Call Out $1B for NGOs, Plan Their Own Budget Proposal The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois Republicans say there is more than $1 billion of Illinois taxpayer funds going to non-government organizations with little oversight and accountability. Among the spending some members of the Illinois House Republicans highlighted was more than $14 million going to the Indo American Center. State Rep. Brad Halbrook, R-Shelbyville, said that’s just a drop in the bucket. “Today, we’re turning our attention to a staggering amount of taxpayer money, over $1 billion that’s been funneled into politically connected non-government organizations, or NGOs,” Halbrook said during a news conference in Springfield Tuesday. (The Center Square) – Illinois Republicans say there is more than $1 billion of Illinois taxpayer funds going to non-government organizations with little oversight and accountability. Among the spending some members of the Illinois House Republicans highlighted was more than $14 million going to the Indo American Center. State Rep. Brad Halbrook, R-Shelbyville, said that’s just a drop in the bucket. “Today, we’re turning our attention to a staggering amount of taxpayer money, over $1 billion that’s been funneled into politically connected non-government organizations, or NGOs,” Halbrook said during a news conference in Springfield Tuesday. false full 517 b1b6118b-d81d-443f-ac33-fde9c55112f8 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 16th, 2025 - Republican Says Illinois Should Spend $44 Billion, Not $55 Billion for Annual Budget Greg Bishop talks live with state Rep. Jed Davis about his budget proposal and the process of getting a state spending plan across the finish line.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 16 May 2025 16:55:41 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks live with state Rep. Jed Davis about his budget proposal and the process of getting a state spending plan across the finish line.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 16th, 2025 - Republican Says Illinois Should Spend $44 Billion, Not $55 Billion for Annual Budget The Center Square 00:35:11 Greg Bishop talks live with state Rep. Jed Davis about his budget proposal and the process of getting a state spending plan across the finish line. Greg Bishop talks live with state Rep. Jed Davis about his budget proposal and the process of getting a state spending plan across the finish line. false full 518 d366aa16-ad3e-43b1-ac23-827d74404106 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 15th, 2025 - DOGE IL Finds $1 Billion From State Taxpayers Going to NGOs Greg Bishop talks live with former state Rep. Jeanne Ives about her efforts to highlight a billion Illinois tax dollars being sent to non-government organizations.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 15 May 2025 15:48:34 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks live with former state Rep. Jeanne Ives about her efforts to highlight a billion Illinois tax dollars being sent to non-government organizations.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 15th, 2025 - DOGE IL Finds $1 Billion From State Taxpayers Going to NGOs The Center Square 00:42:56 Greg Bishop talks live with former state Rep. Jeanne Ives about her efforts to highlight a billion Illinois tax dollars being sent to non-government organizations. Greg Bishop talks live with former state Rep. Jeanne Ives about her efforts to highlight a billion Illinois tax dollars being sent to non-government organizations. false full 516 daa79426-d73d-4ad7-8696-aace837a03f7 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 14th, 2025 - Republicans Call for DOGE in Illinois, Highlighting $1B for NGOs Greg Bishop shares concerns raised by members of the Illinois House Republican caucus about more than $1 billion going to non-government organizations.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 14 May 2025 15:50:56 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares concerns raised by members of the Illinois House Republican caucus about more than $1 billion going to non-government organizations.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 14th, 2025 - Republicans Call for DOGE in Illinois, Highlighting $1B for NGOs The Center Square 00:28:34 Greg Bishop shares concerns raised by members of the Illinois House Republican caucus about more than $1 billion going to non-government organizations. Greg Bishop shares concerns raised by members of the Illinois House Republican caucus about more than $1 billion going to non-government organizations. false full 515 1e6ebc9a-b83f-424f-9e20-4dc134da0140 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 13th, 2025 - Gun Control Group Files Appeals Brief in Illinois’ Gun Ban Challenge Greg Bishop reviews the latest filing in the challenge against Illinois' gun and magazine ban in the federal appeals court.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 13 May 2025 15:18:45 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest filing in the challenge against Illinois' gun and magazine ban in the federal appeals court.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 13th, 2025 - Gun Control Group Files Appeals Brief in Illinois’ Gun Ban Challenge The Center Square 00:29:21 Greg Bishop reviews the latest filing in the challenge against Illinois' gun and magazine ban in the federal appeals court. Greg Bishop reviews the latest filing in the challenge against Illinois' gun and magazine ban in the federal appeals court. false full 514 9ec44a3e-1bd8-4728-b76c-c9944e71a004 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 12th, 2025 - IL Statehouse Recognizes New Pope, Discusses Cannabis Odor, Hears Pushback Against Tax Increases Greg Bishop reviews some of the happenings out of the Illinois Statehouse late last week, including a discussion about the smell of raw cannabis being grounds for a vehicle search and pushback against more proposed tax increases.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 12 May 2025 15:34:32 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the happenings out of the Illinois Statehouse late last week, including a discussion about the smell of raw cannabis being grounds for a vehicle search and pushback against more proposed tax increases.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 12th, 2025 - IL Statehouse Recognizes New Pope, Discusses Cannabis Odor, Hears Pushback Against Tax Increases The Center Square 00:38:51 Greg Bishop reviews some of the happenings out of the Illinois Statehouse late last week, including a discussion about the smell of raw cannabis being grounds for a vehicle search and pushback against more proposed tax increases. Greg Bishop reviews some of the happenings out of the Illinois Statehouse late last week, including a discussion about the smell of raw cannabis being grounds for a vehicle search and pushback against more proposed tax increases. false full 513 abcb5b15-694e-43aa-8d5e-9d44ac1ac421 Weekend Edition | Noem’s Illinois Visit Sparks Debate Over State’s Migrant Sanctuary Laws Sat, 10 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Noem’s Illinois Visit Sparks Debate Over State’s Migrant Sanctuary Laws The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – A visit to Springfield Wednesday by U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is sparking debate over Illinois’ migrant sanctuary policies. Noem flew into Springfield’s airport and then went to a Springfield DHS processing center to talk with federal agents and two non-citizens being processed. The motorcade then stopped in a residential area of Springfield near downtown, where she stood with family of Illinoisans who lost lives allegedly at the hands of illegal immigrants or by fentanyl overdose. Noem urged Gov. J.B. Pritzker to cooperate with federal officials. (The Center Square) – A visit to Springfield Wednesday by U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is sparking debate over Illinois’ migrant sanctuary policies. Noem flew into Springfield’s airport and then went to a Springfield DHS processing center to talk with federal agents and two non-citizens being processed. The motorcade then stopped in a residential area of Springfield near downtown, where she stood with family of Illinoisans who lost lives allegedly at the hands of illegal immigrants or by fentanyl overdose. Noem urged Gov. J.B. Pritzker to cooperate with federal officials. false full 512 c6ca7942-4503-4c82-864e-4c10496fb33e Illinois in Focus Daily | May 8th, 2025 - Politics Erupt With Noem’s Illinois Visit Focused On Migrant Sanctuaries Greg Bishop reviews the debate around public safety and politics in Illinois with a Springfield visit from U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 8 May 2025 16:34:56 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the debate around public safety and politics in Illinois with a Springfield visit from U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 8th, 2025 - Politics Erupt With Noem’s Illinois Visit Focused On Migrant Sanctuaries The Center Square 00:35:58 Greg Bishop reviews the debate around public safety and politics in Illinois with a Springfield visit from U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Greg Bishop reviews the debate around public safety and politics in Illinois with a Springfield visit from U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. false full 511 e4783452-1503-442a-b433-a6674cb6faf0 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 7th, 2025 - DHS Secretary Noem Visiting IL to Highlight State’s Migrant Sanctuary Policies Greg Bishop discusses the pending arrival of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to Springfield, Illinois Wednesday. Noem is expected to discuss the state's migrant sanctuary policies the Trump administration says harms public safety.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 7 May 2025 14:01:43 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the pending arrival of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to Springfield, Illinois Wednesday. Noem is expected to discuss the state's migrant sanctuary policies the Trump administration says harms public safety.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 7th, 2025 - DHS Secretary Noem Visiting IL to Highlight State’s Migrant Sanctuary Policies The Center Square 00:13:17 Greg Bishop discusses the pending arrival of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to Springfield, Illinois Wednesday. Noem is expected to discuss the state's migrant sanctuary policies the Trump administration says harms public safety. Greg Bishop discusses the pending arrival of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to Springfield, Illinois Wednesday. Noem is expected to discuss the state's migrant sanctuary policies the Trump administration says harms public safety. false full 510 318c39ef-2cdd-41a8-a1ce-61dcb6617e52 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 6th, 2025 - Illinois Hemp Regulations Elusive as Ban on Styrofoam Advances Greg Bishop discusses how there are three weeks left in the Illinois Legislature's calendar with budget details not yet fully revealed. The legislature is advancing a ban on polystyrene food containers with others discussing regulating the hemp industry.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 6 May 2025 16:40:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses how there are three weeks left in the Illinois Legislature's calendar with budget details not yet fully revealed. The legislature is advancing a ban on polystyrene food containers with others discussing regulating the hemp industry.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 6th, 2025 - Illinois Hemp Regulations Elusive as Ban on Styrofoam Advances The Center Square 00:25:11 Greg Bishop discusses how there are three weeks left in the Illinois Legislature's calendar with budget details not yet fully revealed. The legislature is advancing a ban on polystyrene food containers with others discussing regulating the hemp industry. Greg Bishop discusses how there are three weeks left in the Illinois Legislature's calendar with budget details not yet fully revealed. The legislature is advancing a ban on polystyrene food containers with others discussing regulating the hemp industry. false full 509 f550f11b-0fd3-4e53-9bc9-dcbd4604b582 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 5th, 2025 - IL Summonsed to Federal Court to Answer DOJ’s Challenge to State’s E-Verify Law Greg Bishop discusses a new lawsuit the U.S. Department of Justice filed against Illinois over the state's law the DOJ says punishes employers and obscures federal employment verification practices to weed out non-citizens that are ineligible to work in the United States.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 5 May 2025 16:30:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses a new lawsuit the U.S. Department of Justice filed against Illinois over the state's law the DOJ says punishes employers and obscures federal employment verification practices to weed out non-citizens that are ineligible to work in the United States.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 5th, 2025 - IL Summonsed to Federal Court to Answer DOJ’s Challenge to State’s E-Verify Law The Center Square 00:32:38 Greg Bishop discusses a new lawsuit the U.S. Department of Justice filed against Illinois over the state's law the DOJ says punishes employers and obscures federal employment verification practices to weed out non-citizens that are ineligible to work in the United States. Greg Bishop discusses a new lawsuit the U.S. Department of Justice filed against Illinois over the state's law the DOJ says punishes employers and obscures federal employment verification practices to weed out non-citizens that are ineligible to work in the United States. false full 508 c5486f22-47d6-45e8-8704-a035ccf44b6e Weekend Edition | Pritzker Defends Controversial Comments as Republican Calls for Incitement Investigation Sat, 3 May 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker Defends Controversial Comments as Republican Calls for Incitement Investigation The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's defended comments he made over the weekend in New Hampshire and there was reaction from Illinois GOP Chairman Kathy Salvi. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's defended comments he made over the weekend in New Hampshire and there was reaction from Illinois GOP Chairman Kathy Salvi. false full 506 1adb8cd7-65c0-4a3c-9328-c02f316e3355 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 2nd, 2025 - Illinois Budget Talks Continue With One Month Left Greg Bishop discusses the status of the annual Illinois state budget with the deadline set for May 31. Legislators discuss tax and spend policies, including funding for non-citizen health care subsidies.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 2 May 2025 19:00:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the status of the annual Illinois state budget with the deadline set for May 31. Legislators discuss tax and spend policies, including funding for non-citizen health care subsidies.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 2nd, 2025 - Illinois Budget Talks Continue With One Month Left The Center Square 00:28:17 Greg Bishop discusses the status of the annual Illinois state budget with the deadline set for May 31. Legislators discuss tax and spend policies, including funding for non-citizen health care subsidies. Greg Bishop discusses the status of the annual Illinois state budget with the deadline set for May 31. Legislators discuss tax and spend policies, including funding for non-citizen health care subsidies. false full 507 a2d2e0d8-5fa8-4ceb-8b36-881e9316ea50 Illinois in Focus Daily | May 1st, 2025 - Chicago, Cook County Officials Defend Migrant Sanctuary Policies Amid DOJ Lawsuit Greg Bishop shares comments he got asking Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle about the ongoing U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit against the state's migrant sanctuary policies.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 1 May 2025 16:44:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares comments he got asking Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle about the ongoing U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit against the state's migrant sanctuary policies.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | May 1st, 2025 - Chicago, Cook County Officials Defend Migrant Sanctuary Policies Amid DOJ Lawsuit The Center Square 00:31:28 Greg Bishop shares comments he got asking Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle about the ongoing U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit against the state's migrant sanctuary policies. Greg Bishop shares comments he got asking Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle about the ongoing U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit against the state's migrant sanctuary policies. false full 505 3fb1ea27-96d0-4ae7-b538-03e227695b26 Illinois in Focus Daily | April 30th, 2025 - Family Battles Illinois State Agency in Court to Keep Child With Disabilities Closer to Home Greg Bishop shares the story of William and Danita Dorsey who are expected back in court to keep their son Gregory in a state-run facility for individuals with disabilities closer to their southern Illinois home, rather than nearly four hours away.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:11:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares the story of William and Danita Dorsey who are expected back in court to keep their son Gregory in a state-run facility for individuals with disabilities closer to their southern Illinois home, rather than nearly four hours away.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 30th, 2025 - Family Battles Illinois State Agency in Court to Keep Child With Disabilities Closer to Home The Center Square 00:27:36 Greg Bishop shares the story of William and Danita Dorsey who are expected back in court to keep their son Gregory in a state-run facility for individuals with disabilities closer to their southern Illinois home, rather than nearly four hours away. Greg Bishop shares the story of William and Danita Dorsey who are expected back in court to keep their son Gregory in a state-run facility for individuals with disabilities closer to their southern Illinois home, rather than nearly four hours away. false full 504 94537891-0ba6-4159-9cad-7b5b265c5d74 Illinois in Focus Daily | April 29th, 2025 - Trump Celebrates Immigration Enforcement for First 100 Days Greg Bishop reviews some of the points the Trump administration is highlighting 100 days into his second non consecutive term, and reaction from both sides of the aisle.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 29 Apr 2025 16:31:08 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the points the Trump administration is highlighting 100 days into his second non consecutive term, and reaction from both sides of the aisle.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 29th, 2025 - Trump Celebrates Immigration Enforcement for First 100 Days The Center Square 00:30:23 Greg Bishop reviews some of the points the Trump administration is highlighting 100 days into his second non consecutive term, and reaction from both sides of the aisle. Greg Bishop reviews some of the points the Trump administration is highlighting 100 days into his second non consecutive term, and reaction from both sides of the aisle. false full 503 2a29a543-332c-4f71-b9f0-384595a2c492 Illinois in Focus Daily | April 28th, 2025 - Property Taxes, Tariffs, & Gov. Pritzker Mon, 28 Apr 2025 14:53:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | April 28th, 2025 - Property Taxes, Tariffs, & Gov. Pritzker The Center Square 00:41:33 The Center Square's Greg Bishop looks at the conversations around property taxes, tariffs, and more. The Center Square's Greg Bishop looks at the conversations around property taxes, tariffs, and more. false full 502 6e397e02-7d78-4a79-9dad-001a64dfd4a0 Weekend Edition | Lawmaker: Cut Non-citizen Spending to Reform Family Farms Estate Tax Sat, 26 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Lawmaker: Cut Non-citizen Spending to Reform Family Farms Estate Tax The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois House Republicans are calling for reforms to the state’s estate tax on farmers, saying it’s up to Democrats to find savings to make up for potentially millions of dollars in lost state revenue. Earlier this month, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said he would support a change to the estate tax for family farms as long as proponents bring forward cuts to state spending to make up for possibly lost revenue. “It’s a couple few hundred million dollars of revenue to the state,” Pritzker said after Ag Day events at the Illinois State Capitol. “So … if he’s able to come with his ideas about how to pay for it, then we ought to talk about it.” (The Center Square) – Illinois House Republicans are calling for reforms to the state’s estate tax on farmers, saying it’s up to Democrats to find savings to make up for potentially millions of dollars in lost state revenue. Earlier this month, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said he would support a change to the estate tax for family farms as long as proponents bring forward cuts to state spending to make up for possibly lost revenue. “It’s a couple few hundred million dollars of revenue to the state,” Pritzker said after Ag Day events at the Illinois State Capitol. “So … if he’s able to come with his ideas about how to pay for it, then we ought to talk about it.” false full 500 6df98718-39c3-4abf-8139-971a3c9c1499 Illinois in Focus Daily | April 25th, 2025 - Pritzker’s El Salvador Moves Criticized for Lack of Focus on Illinois Issues Greg Bishop looks at the agenda Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has in dealing with El Salvador as Republicans criticize the move.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 25 Apr 2025 18:51:10 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop looks at the agenda Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has in dealing with El Salvador as Republicans criticize the move.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 25th, 2025 - Pritzker’s El Salvador Moves Criticized for Lack of Focus on Illinois Issues The Center Square 00:31:21 Greg Bishop looks at the agenda Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has in dealing with El Salvador as Republicans criticize the move. Greg Bishop looks at the agenda Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has in dealing with El Salvador as Republicans criticize the move. false full 501 cf34b23d-e0ef-4a35-83d4-2b30946c3c27 Illinois in Focus Daily | April 24th, 2025 - Illinoisans Have Open U.S. Senate Seat for 2026 as Durbin Retiring Greg Bishop discusses the news of Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin announcing he's not seeking reelection, which opens up the seat for voters to pick a new Senator in 2026.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 24 Apr 2025 17:34:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the news of Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin announcing he's not seeking reelection, which opens up the seat for voters to pick a new Senator in 2026.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 24th, 2025 - Illinoisans Have Open U.S. Senate Seat for 2026 as Durbin Retiring The Center Square 00:30:02 Greg Bishop discusses the news of Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin announcing he's not seeking reelection, which opens up the seat for voters to pick a new Senator in 2026. Greg Bishop discusses the news of Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin announcing he's not seeking reelection, which opens up the seat for voters to pick a new Senator in 2026. false full 499 83bcb780-34a6-450a-bbb5-bc5c2afab08a Illinois in Focus Daily | April 23rd, 2025 - Pritzker Reacts to DOJ Assertion Migrant Released From IL Jail Later Arrested for Murder Greg Bishop delves into the latest court filings challenging Illinois' migrant sanctuary policies from the U.S. Department of Justice and jointly from the state of Illinois, Cook County and the city of Chicago. He also shares Gov. J.B. Pritzker's reaction to DOJ assertions.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 23 Apr 2025 18:13:02 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop delves into the latest court filings challenging Illinois' migrant sanctuary policies from the U.S. Department of Justice and jointly from the state of Illinois, Cook County and the city of Chicago. He also shares Gov. J.B. Pritzker's reaction to DOJ assertions.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 23rd, 2025 - Pritzker Reacts to DOJ Assertion Migrant Released From IL Jail Later Arrested for Murder The Center Square 00:23:44 Greg Bishop delves into the latest court filings challenging Illinois' migrant sanctuary policies from the U.S. Department of Justice and jointly from the state of Illinois, Cook County and the city of Chicago. He also shares Gov. J.B. Pritzker's reaction to DOJ assertions. Greg Bishop delves into the latest court filings challenging Illinois' migrant sanctuary policies from the U.S. Department of Justice and jointly from the state of Illinois, Cook County and the city of Chicago. He also shares Gov. J.B. Pritzker's reaction to DOJ assertions. false full 498 b216568b-701e-4027-9bec-aac146423bfa Illinois in Focus Daily | April 22nd, 2025 - 'New Illinois’ Members Say ‘No Thanks’ to Joining Indiana Greg Bishop tracks the latest in Indiana's efforts to create a commission with Illinois to investigate redrawing the two state's boundaries to wrap some Illinois counties into Indiana, and gets reaction from members of New Illinois to that prospect.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 22 Apr 2025 15:09:12 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop tracks the latest in Indiana's efforts to create a commission with Illinois to investigate redrawing the two state's boundaries to wrap some Illinois counties into Indiana, and gets reaction from members of New Illinois to that prospect.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 22nd, 2025 - 'New Illinois’ Members Say ‘No Thanks’ to Joining Indiana The Center Square 00:24:00 Greg Bishop tracks the latest in Indiana's efforts to create a commission with Illinois to investigate redrawing the two state's boundaries to wrap some Illinois counties into Indiana, and gets reaction from members of New Illinois to that prospect. Greg Bishop tracks the latest in Indiana's efforts to create a commission with Illinois to investigate redrawing the two state's boundaries to wrap some Illinois counties into Indiana, and gets reaction from members of New Illinois to that prospect. false full 497 48caeb35-c528-4713-8f56-6b3edadb4029 Illinois in Focus Daily | April 21st, 2025 - Pritzker: “Trump Is Okay if People in Chicago Die” Mon, 21 Apr 2025 13:57:44 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | April 21st, 2025 - Pritzker: “Trump Is Okay if People in Chicago Die” The Center Square 00:35:00 Join The Center Square's Greg Bishop as he is back at it discussing the happenings in Springfield and across the state last week. Join The Center Square's Greg Bishop as he is back at it discussing the happenings in Springfield and across the state last week. false full 496 ddc6bf4c-be73-4b4f-94f7-1a0be2cc1888 Weekend Edition | Pritzker: Public Safety ‘Under Attack’ by Trump Fri, 18 Apr 2025 12:43:46 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker: Public Safety ‘Under Attack’ by Trump The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker says public safety is under attack by the Trump administration. The governor spoke Thursday at a news conference intended to highlight violence intervention efforts on Chicago’s Far South Side. “Public safety is under attack by the Trump administration. Over the past few months, the White House has dissolved the Office of Gun Violence Prevention, they’ve threatened dramatic cuts to ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives), they’ve repealed the policy of zero tolerance for rogue gun dealers. They’re making it easier for guns to flow into our communities and harder for us to fight back,” Pritzker said. (The Center Square) – Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker says public safety is under attack by the Trump administration. The governor spoke Thursday at a news conference intended to highlight violence intervention efforts on Chicago’s Far South Side. “Public safety is under attack by the Trump administration. Over the past few months, the White House has dissolved the Office of Gun Violence Prevention, they’ve threatened dramatic cuts to ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives), they’ve repealed the policy of zero tolerance for rogue gun dealers. They’re making it easier for guns to flow into our communities and harder for us to fight back,” Pritzker said. false full 495 4944bca4-9d86-41d9-80ef-d2c7529c99ab Weekend Edition | Illinois Legislators Could Advance Pilot Program to Tax Drivers by Mile Sat, 12 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Illinois Legislators Could Advance Pilot Program to Tax Drivers by Mile The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois drivers could be taxed by the mile under a pilot program being considered at the statehouse. Senate Bill 1938 is to be discussed by members of the Transportation committee before April 11. The proposed Road Usage Charge Act would create a pilot program to test a mileage-based fee instead of motor fuel taxes for funding highways. Opponents, like Illinois Trucking Association Executive Director Matt Hart, argue the state of Illinois already has a well-functioning system in place to fund the construction of the state’s roads and bridges. “That's why we supported the 2019 capital bill that has put us on the pathway to where we are today, with the state of Illinois having nearly $6 billion in road funds – $3.5 billion in the road fund and $2.3 billion in the state construction account,” Hart told The Center Square. “Clearly, the actions we took in 2019 are providing us with ample revenues for our state.” (The Center Square) – Illinois drivers could be taxed by the mile under a pilot program being considered at the statehouse. Senate Bill 1938 is to be discussed by members of the Transportation committee before April 11. The proposed Road Usage Charge Act would create a pilot program to test a mileage-based fee instead of motor fuel taxes for funding highways. Opponents, like Illinois Trucking Association Executive Director Matt Hart, argue the state of Illinois already has a well-functioning system in place to fund the construction of the state’s roads and bridges. “That's why we supported the 2019 capital bill that has put us on the pathway to where we are today, with the state of Illinois having nearly $6 billion in road funds – $3.5 billion in the road fund and $2.3 billion in the state construction account,” Hart told The Center Square. “Clearly, the actions we took in 2019 are providing us with ample revenues for our state.” false full 493 3bf8080a-b4cc-4db9-8c8a-7e6156bd2f2c Illinois in Focus Daily | April 11th, 2025 - IL Senate Approves Measure Requiring Safe Gun Storage Over Gun Rights Advocates’ Objections Greg Bishop airs some of the debate from Thursday evening where the Illinois Senate approved a measure requiring safe gun storage with penalties for not reporting lost and stolen firearms.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 11 Apr 2025 20:33:42 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop airs some of the debate from Thursday evening where the Illinois Senate approved a measure requiring safe gun storage with penalties for not reporting lost and stolen firearms.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 11th, 2025 - IL Senate Approves Measure Requiring Safe Gun Storage Over Gun Rights Advocates’ Objections The Center Square 00:23:14 Greg Bishop airs some of the debate from Thursday evening where the Illinois Senate approved a measure requiring safe gun storage with penalties for not reporting lost and stolen firearms. Greg Bishop airs some of the debate from Thursday evening where the Illinois Senate approved a measure requiring safe gun storage with penalties for not reporting lost and stolen firearms. false full 494 d3910550-c2a9-4bcd-896d-b04ac0b1ee0b Illinois in Focus Daily | April 10th, 2025 - Republicans Raise Conflict of Interest Concern After IL Supreme Court Rules Against Map Challenge Greg Bishop discusses the ruling from the Illinois Supreme Court against Republicans' challenges of the state's legislative maps drawn and approved by Democrats and concerns about conflicts of interest.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 10 Apr 2025 18:58:07 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop discusses the ruling from the Illinois Supreme Court against Republicans' challenges of the state's legislative maps drawn and approved by Democrats and concerns about conflicts of interest.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 10th, 2025 - Republicans Raise Conflict of Interest Concern After IL Supreme Court Rules Against Map Challenge The Center Square 00:25:59 Greg Bishop discusses the ruling from the Illinois Supreme Court against Republicans' challenges of the state's legislative maps drawn and approved by Democrats and concerns about conflicts of interest. Greg Bishop discusses the ruling from the Illinois Supreme Court against Republicans' challenges of the state's legislative maps drawn and approved by Democrats and concerns about conflicts of interest. false full 492 bdfec66a-73ad-4e2e-a3a7-31e8e5648540 Illinois in Focus Daily | April 9th, 2025 - Pritzker Defends National Spotlight as GOP Criticize Handling of IL Child Welfare Greg Bishop provides the back and forth between Illinois House Republicans and Gov. J.B. Pritzker over criticism of the governor's handling of child welfare and developmental disability housing agencies.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 9 Apr 2025 17:32:06 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop provides the back and forth between Illinois House Republicans and Gov. J.B. Pritzker over criticism of the governor's handling of child welfare and developmental disability housing agencies.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 9th, 2025 - Pritzker Defends National Spotlight as GOP Criticize Handling of IL Child Welfare The Center Square 00:23:46 Greg Bishop provides the back and forth between Illinois House Republicans and Gov. J.B. Pritzker over criticism of the governor's handling of child welfare and developmental disability housing agencies. Greg Bishop provides the back and forth between Illinois House Republicans and Gov. J.B. Pritzker over criticism of the governor's handling of child welfare and developmental disability housing agencies. false full 491 4dac5037-9864-4c82-b75d-b128232f460b Illinois in Focus Daily | April 8th, 2025 - Appeals Court Lays Out Gun Ban Briefing Schedule Months After Getting Case The Center Square's Greg Bishop delves into the update to the legal challenge against Illinois' gun ban with the appeals court laying out the briefing schedule months after getting the case.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 8 Apr 2025 17:03:32 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop delves into the update to the legal challenge against Illinois' gun ban with the appeals court laying out the briefing schedule months after getting the case.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 8th, 2025 - Appeals Court Lays Out Gun Ban Briefing Schedule Months After Getting Case The Center Square 00:33:25 The Center Square's Greg Bishop delves into the update to the legal challenge against Illinois' gun ban with the appeals court laying out the briefing schedule months after getting the case. The Center Square's Greg Bishop delves into the update to the legal challenge against Illinois' gun ban with the appeals court laying out the briefing schedule months after getting the case. false full 490 a085943b-4cbf-4122-9df8-966a350c9b71 Illinois in Focus Daily | April 7th, 2025 - Illinois Homeschool Act Opponent Warns Measure Could Make Parents Criminals The Center Square's Greg Bishop talks with Illinois state Rep. La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, about his opposition to the Illinois Homeschool Act. Ford also discusses the witness slip and shell bill process.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 7 Apr 2025 16:54:50 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop talks with Illinois state Rep. La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, about his opposition to the Illinois Homeschool Act. Ford also discusses the witness slip and shell bill process.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 7th, 2025 - Illinois Homeschool Act Opponent Warns Measure Could Make Parents Criminals The Center Square 00:23:14 The Center Square's Greg Bishop talks with Illinois state Rep. La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, about his opposition to the Illinois Homeschool Act. Ford also discusses the witness slip and shell bill process. The Center Square's Greg Bishop talks with Illinois state Rep. La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, about his opposition to the Illinois Homeschool Act. Ford also discusses the witness slip and shell bill process. false full 489 8adf902a-f86e-4df3-8a49-a3f4e3eba072 Weekend Edition | Professor: Forfeiture Might Be Deterrent as Prosecutors Seek $3M From Madigan Sat, 5 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Professor: Forfeiture Might Be Deterrent as Prosecutors Seek $3M From Madigan The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – According to a professor who has studied public corruption, it might be a good thing that prosecutors are seeking $3.14 million in forfeiture proceeds from convicted former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Connie Mixon, professor of political science and director of the Urban Studies Program at Elmhurst University, said convictions and prison sentences have not kept many of the state’s elected officials from committing crimes up to this point. “We keep having these guilty corruption cases over and over and over again, but corruption persists,” Mixon told The Center Square. (The Center Square) – According to a professor who has studied public corruption, it might be a good thing that prosecutors are seeking $3.14 million in forfeiture proceeds from convicted former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Connie Mixon, professor of political science and director of the Urban Studies Program at Elmhurst University, said convictions and prison sentences have not kept many of the state’s elected officials from committing crimes up to this point. “We keep having these guilty corruption cases over and over and over again, but corruption persists,” Mixon told The Center Square. false full 488 e81e27df-6a2e-4afa-940f-00eea33ab860 Illinois in Focus Daily | April 3rd, 2025 - Trump’s Tariffs to Onshore Manufacturing Criticized by Illinois Democrats The Center Square's Greg Bishop discusses the back and forth between President Donald Trump announcing tariffs and the reaction from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 3 Apr 2025 19:32:44 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop discusses the back and forth between President Donald Trump announcing tariffs and the reaction from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 3rd, 2025 - Trump’s Tariffs to Onshore Manufacturing Criticized by Illinois Democrats The Center Square 00:33:19 The Center Square's Greg Bishop discusses the back and forth between President Donald Trump announcing tariffs and the reaction from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and Gov. J.B. Pritzker. The Center Square's Greg Bishop discusses the back and forth between President Donald Trump announcing tariffs and the reaction from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and Gov. J.B. Pritzker. false full 487 9657da06-d456-4414-aa4a-3221718e6806 Illinois in Focus Daily | April 2nd, 2025 - DOJ Responds to Illinois’ Motion to Dismiss Sanctuary State Challenge The Center Square's Greg Bishop delves into the latest federal court filing against Illinois' migrant sanctuary policies from the U.S. Department of Justice. The state, Cook County and Chicago all motioned to dismiss the case.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 2 Apr 2025 19:32:27 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop delves into the latest federal court filing against Illinois' migrant sanctuary policies from the U.S. Department of Justice. The state, Cook County and Chicago all motioned to dismiss the case.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 2nd, 2025 - DOJ Responds to Illinois’ Motion to Dismiss Sanctuary State Challenge The Center Square 00:32:49 The Center Square's Greg Bishop delves into the latest federal court filing against Illinois' migrant sanctuary policies from the U.S. Department of Justice. The state, Cook County and Chicago all motioned to dismiss the case. The Center Square's Greg Bishop delves into the latest federal court filing against Illinois' migrant sanctuary policies from the U.S. Department of Justice. The state, Cook County and Chicago all motioned to dismiss the case. false full 486 db560c17-5f01-4e3b-b31b-28043b655e6d Illinois in Focus Daily | April 1st, 2025 - Illinois State Rifle Association Urges U.S. Attorney General to Review State’s Gun Rights The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares some of a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association's Ed Sullivan about their call for U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to come to Illinois and address policies restrictive of residents' Second Amendment Rights.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 1 Apr 2025 17:10:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares some of a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association's Ed Sullivan about their call for U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to come to Illinois and address policies restrictive of residents' Second Amendment Rights.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | April 1st, 2025 - Illinois State Rifle Association Urges U.S. Attorney General to Review State’s Gun Rights The Center Square 00:32:13 The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares some of a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association's Ed Sullivan about their call for U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to come to Illinois and address policies restrictive of residents' Second Amendment Rights. The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares some of a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association's Ed Sullivan about their call for U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to come to Illinois and address policies restrictive of residents' Second Amendment Rights. false full 485 0a702c4c-45fb-4bde-a661-f9431e8889ae Illinois in Focus Daily | March 31st, 2025 - Illinois Economy Lags Nation as Pritzker Travels to Mexico The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of Illinois’ economic indicators lagging the national average while Gov. J.B. Pritzker takes more than 70 people on a trade and economic partnership mission to Mexico.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 31 Mar 2025 15:44:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of Illinois’ economic indicators lagging the national average while Gov. J.B. Pritzker takes more than 70 people on a trade and economic partnership mission to Mexico.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 31st, 2025 - Illinois Economy Lags Nation as Pritzker Travels to Mexico The Center Square 00:33:51 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of Illinois’ economic indicators lagging the national average while Gov. J.B. Pritzker takes more than 70 people on a trade and economic partnership mission to Mexico. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of Illinois’ economic indicators lagging the national average while Gov. J.B. Pritzker takes more than 70 people on a trade and economic partnership mission to Mexico. false full 484 a9608158-f93f-4f40-a1e7-231340ba87f9 Weekend Edition | Trump’s Election Integrity Order Expected to Impact Illinois Sat, 29 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Trump’s Election Integrity Order Expected to Impact Illinois The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Opinions differ at the Illinois Statehouse about the motive behind President Donald Trump’s executive order on election integrity. Trump’s order signed Tuesday said the patchwork of voting methods across the country can lead to basic chain-of-custody problems. The order was also critical of mass voting by mail. “Further, while countries like Denmark and Sweden sensibly limit mail-in voting to those unable to vote in person and do not count late-arriving votes regardless of the date of postmark, many American elections now feature mass voting by mail, with many officials accepting ballots without postmarks or those received well after Election Day,” the order said. (The Center Square) – Opinions differ at the Illinois Statehouse about the motive behind President Donald Trump’s executive order on election integrity. Trump’s order signed Tuesday said the patchwork of voting methods across the country can lead to basic chain-of-custody problems. The order was also critical of mass voting by mail. “Further, while countries like Denmark and Sweden sensibly limit mail-in voting to those unable to vote in person and do not count late-arriving votes regardless of the date of postmark, many American elections now feature mass voting by mail, with many officials accepting ballots without postmarks or those received well after Election Day,” the order said. false full 482 21b2bc88-48ac-4adb-b213-a53487688da9 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 28th, 2025 - Illinois Bill Protects Non-citizen Students in Illinois Schools From Immigration Enforcement The Center Square's Greg Bishop revisits an Illinois House education committee hearing to pick up on a bill that would protect non-citizen children in Illinois schools from immigration enforcement.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 28 Mar 2025 17:31:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop revisits an Illinois House education committee hearing to pick up on a bill that would protect non-citizen children in Illinois schools from immigration enforcement.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 28th, 2025 - Illinois Bill Protects Non-citizen Students in Illinois Schools From Immigration Enforcement The Center Square 00:38:59 The Center Square's Greg Bishop revisits an Illinois House education committee hearing to pick up on a bill that would protect non-citizen children in Illinois schools from immigration enforcement. The Center Square's Greg Bishop revisits an Illinois House education committee hearing to pick up on a bill that would protect non-citizen children in Illinois schools from immigration enforcement. false full 483 b7bdac68-5713-439b-a2e0-286516567112 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 27th, 2025 - As GOP Focuses on Taxpayer Funds for PBS, NPR, Democrats Aim At Trump’s Signal Mishap The Center Square's Greg Bishop discusses the main points coming out of a U.S. House committee looking into taxpayer funding of NPR and PBS as Democrats maintain focus on military discussions via an encrypted messaging app.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 27 Mar 2025 17:23:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop discusses the main points coming out of a U.S. House committee looking into taxpayer funding of NPR and PBS as Democrats maintain focus on military discussions via an encrypted messaging app.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 27th, 2025 - As GOP Focuses on Taxpayer Funds for PBS, NPR, Democrats Aim At Trump’s Signal Mishap The Center Square 00:39:34 The Center Square's Greg Bishop discusses the main points coming out of a U.S. House committee looking into taxpayer funding of NPR and PBS as Democrats maintain focus on military discussions via an encrypted messaging app. The Center Square's Greg Bishop discusses the main points coming out of a U.S. House committee looking into taxpayer funding of NPR and PBS as Democrats maintain focus on military discussions via an encrypted messaging app. false full 481 2400e5aa-7f5e-4105-a440-c70261f77172 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 26th, 2025 - Illinois’ DEI Policies Expected to Impact Federal Tax Funds for Education The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares the back-and-forth about the possible impacts on Illinois' education funds following President Donald Trump's executive orders to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 26 Mar 2025 16:11:05 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares the back-and-forth about the possible impacts on Illinois' education funds following President Donald Trump's executive orders to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 26th, 2025 - Illinois’ DEI Policies Expected to Impact Federal Tax Funds for Education The Center Square 00:40:19 The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares the back-and-forth about the possible impacts on Illinois' education funds following President Donald Trump's executive orders to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares the back-and-forth about the possible impacts on Illinois' education funds following President Donald Trump's executive orders to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. false full 480 c7621de7-9b0e-4c43-8149-800beb905653 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 24th, 2025 - Rural vs. Urban Divide Drives Desire by Many to Split Illinois Into Two The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares a conversation with New Illinois Chairman G.H. Merritt about an upcoming convention for her group and the overall movement to split the state into two.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 24 Mar 2025 14:32:59 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares a conversation with New Illinois Chairman G.H. Merritt about an upcoming convention for her group and the overall movement to split the state into two.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 24th, 2025 - Rural vs. Urban Divide Drives Desire by Many to Split Illinois Into Two The Center Square 00:36:58 The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares a conversation with New Illinois Chairman G.H. Merritt about an upcoming convention for her group and the overall movement to split the state into two. The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares a conversation with New Illinois Chairman G.H. Merritt about an upcoming convention for her group and the overall movement to split the state into two. false full 479 b77716a9-2bd7-408a-9dc3-4af221f1653d Weekend Edition | Despite Flood of Opposition, Homeschool Act Advances Out of Committee (The Center Square) – Despite an historic amount of witness slips in opposition to the Illinois Homeschool Act, the controversial legislation is advancing. Hundreds of homeschool families were in Springfield Wednesday to oppose the measure that adds more regulations on homeschooling families. Among the requirements are that families report to the state that they are homeschooling. If not, the child could be listed as truant with penalties applying. It also would require "a homeschool administrator to have a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent at a minimum. Requires the homeschool administrator to provide proof of, among other options, any degree obtained from an institution of higher education."

Full story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_dedd17e5-3e7b-4e63-86d1-a7c08ee73285.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Sat, 22 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) – Despite an historic amount of witness slips in opposition to the Illinois Homeschool Act, the controversial legislation is advancing. Hundreds of homeschool families were in Springfield Wednesday to oppose the measure that adds more regulations on homeschooling families. Among the requirements are that families report to the state that they are homeschooling. If not, the child could be listed as truant with penalties applying. It also would require "a homeschool administrator to have a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent at a minimum. Requires the homeschool administrator to provide proof of, among other options, any degree obtained from an institution of higher education."

Full story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_dedd17e5-3e7b-4e63-86d1-a7c08ee73285.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Despite Flood of Opposition, Homeschool Act Advances Out of Committee The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Despite an historic amount of witness slips in opposition to the Illinois Homeschool Act, the controversial legislation is advancing. Hundreds of homeschool families were in Springfield Wednesday to oppose the measure that adds more regulations on homeschooling families. Among the requirements are that families report to the state that they are homeschooling. If not, the child could be listed as truant with penalties applying. It also would require "a homeschool administrator to have a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent at a minimum. Requires the homeschool administrator to provide proof of, among other options, any degree obtained from an institution of higher education." (The Center Square) – Despite an historic amount of witness slips in opposition to the Illinois Homeschool Act, the controversial legislation is advancing. Hundreds of homeschool families were in Springfield Wednesday to oppose the measure that adds more regulations on homeschooling families. Among the requirements are that families report to the state that they are homeschooling. If not, the child could be listed as truant with penalties applying. It also would require "a homeschool administrator to have a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent at a minimum. Requires the homeschool administrator to provide proof of, among other options, any degree obtained from an institution of higher education." false full 478 089b00b6-e5be-41c4-91e8-305cb8d1e8ee Illinois in Focus Daily | March 21st, 2025 - Trump’s Ed Dept. Keeps Funds Intact Despite Illinois Democrats’ Concerns The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the back and forth over President Donald Trump's executive order to begin the process of closing down the U.S. Department of Education and the possible impacts on Illinois.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 21 Mar 2025 18:47:07 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the back and forth over President Donald Trump's executive order to begin the process of closing down the U.S. Department of Education and the possible impacts on Illinois.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 21st, 2025 - Trump’s Ed Dept. Keeps Funds Intact Despite Illinois Democrats’ Concerns The Center Square 00:42:40 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the back and forth over President Donald Trump's executive order to begin the process of closing down the U.S. Department of Education and the possible impacts on Illinois. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the back and forth over President Donald Trump's executive order to begin the process of closing down the U.S. Department of Education and the possible impacts on Illinois. false full 477 420a33b0-31fc-4412-a749-16565a9a9d65 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 20th, 2025 - Illinois Homeschoolers Mount Historic Opposition to Regulations as Bill Advances The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the debate inside and outside the committee which passed the Illinois Homeschool Act.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx  

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:28:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the debate inside and outside the committee which passed the Illinois Homeschool Act.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx  

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 20th, 2025 - Illinois Homeschoolers Mount Historic Opposition to Regulations as Bill Advances The Center Square 00:23:41 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the debate inside and outside the committee which passed the Illinois Homeschool Act. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the debate inside and outside the committee which passed the Illinois Homeschool Act. false full 476 7a216e1a-9dfa-4465-8e57-0341649e0e64 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 19th, 2025 - Illinois Homeschool Regulation Bill Finds Stiff Opposition Ahead of Hearing The Center Square's Greg Bishop airs some of the debate in Illinois around education, from the potential closure of the U.S. Department of Education to a bill looking to regulate Illinois homeschool families.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:58:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop airs some of the debate in Illinois around education, from the potential closure of the U.S. Department of Education to a bill looking to regulate Illinois homeschool families.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 19th, 2025 - Illinois Homeschool Regulation Bill Finds Stiff Opposition Ahead of Hearing The Center Square 00:30:15 The Center Square's Greg Bishop airs some of the debate in Illinois around education, from the potential closure of the U.S. Department of Education to a bill looking to regulate Illinois homeschool families. The Center Square's Greg Bishop airs some of the debate in Illinois around education, from the potential closure of the U.S. Department of Education to a bill looking to regulate Illinois homeschool families. false full 475 e1fa64fb-d825-4aa1-a9de-483ab81b4f71 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 18th, 2025 - Homeschool Supporters Flood Witness Slips With Opposition to Proposed Illinois Regulations The Center Square's Greg Bishop takes a look at the proposed Illinois Homeschool Act that's set for a public hearing Wednesday morning and the flood of witness slips filed by the public in opposition to the proposed regulations.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 18 Mar 2025 14:59:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop takes a look at the proposed Illinois Homeschool Act that's set for a public hearing Wednesday morning and the flood of witness slips filed by the public in opposition to the proposed regulations.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 18th, 2025 - Homeschool Supporters Flood Witness Slips With Opposition to Proposed Illinois Regulations The Center Square 00:44:53 The Center Square's Greg Bishop takes a look at the proposed Illinois Homeschool Act that's set for a public hearing Wednesday morning and the flood of witness slips filed by the public in opposition to the proposed regulations. The Center Square's Greg Bishop takes a look at the proposed Illinois Homeschool Act that's set for a public hearing Wednesday morning and the flood of witness slips filed by the public in opposition to the proposed regulations. false full 474 fa3e1adb-db4f-487c-a1af-6bc35235655c Illinois in Focus Daily | March 17th, 2025 - Is Pritzker Running for a Third Term as Illinois Governor or for President? The Center Square's Greg Bishop takes an look at the continued questioning of Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and whether he plans to run for a third term as governor and then for president in 2028.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 17 Mar 2025 16:03:56 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop takes an look at the continued questioning of Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and whether he plans to run for a third term as governor and then for president in 2028.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 17th, 2025 - Is Pritzker Running for a Third Term as Illinois Governor or for President? The Center Square 00:27:42 The Center Square's Greg Bishop takes an look at the continued questioning of Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and whether he plans to run for a third term as governor and then for president in 2028. The Center Square's Greg Bishop takes an look at the continued questioning of Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and whether he plans to run for a third term as governor and then for president in 2028. false full 473 4a922f37-f589-4752-8ab3-012e03235d0d Weekend Edition | Lawmakers Debate Education as Pritzker Urges Union to ‘Fight’ Trump Admin Sat, 15 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Lawmakers Debate Education as Pritzker Urges Union to ‘Fight’ Trump Admin The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Although most Illinois public school students test below grade level in reading and math, Gov. J.B. Pritzker is touting his administration’s record spending on public education. Pritzker addressed the Illinois Education Association Representative Assembly in Rosemont Thursday. The governor encouraged union members to fight back against potential cuts to the U.S. Department of Education by President Donald Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency. “IEA, are you ready for the fight? Let’s go get ‘em everybody. Let’s go beat ‘em,” Pritzker said. (The Center Square) – Although most Illinois public school students test below grade level in reading and math, Gov. J.B. Pritzker is touting his administration’s record spending on public education. Pritzker addressed the Illinois Education Association Representative Assembly in Rosemont Thursday. The governor encouraged union members to fight back against potential cuts to the U.S. Department of Education by President Donald Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency. “IEA, are you ready for the fight? Let’s go get ‘em everybody. Let’s go beat ‘em,” Pritzker said. false full 471 0cb77f08-59ca-41b8-8165-6b0a4e8fb068 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 14th, 2025 - Illinois Governor, Legislators Debate Dismantling of U.S. Dept. Of Ed The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares some of the recent debate from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and state legislators about the ongoing Trump administration changes at the U.S. Department of Education.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 14 Mar 2025 17:58:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares some of the recent debate from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and state legislators about the ongoing Trump administration changes at the U.S. Department of Education.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 14th, 2025 - Illinois Governor, Legislators Debate Dismantling of U.S. Dept. Of Ed The Center Square 00:21:57 The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares some of the recent debate from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and state legislators about the ongoing Trump administration changes at the U.S. Department of Education. The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares some of the recent debate from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and state legislators about the ongoing Trump administration changes at the U.S. Department of Education. false full 472 0490d0a9-ce9a-44bd-a059-3fb85dc9461c Illinois in Focus Daily | March 13th, 2025 - Trump’s Tariffs, DOGE, and Border Control Ripple Across Economy, Politics The Center Square Associate Editor Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Casey Harper from the Washington D.C. bureau about Trump administration tariffs, DOGE and the border.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 13 Mar 2025 15:31:48 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square Associate Editor Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Casey Harper from the Washington D.C. bureau about Trump administration tariffs, DOGE and the border.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 13th, 2025 - Trump’s Tariffs, DOGE, and Border Control Ripple Across Economy, Politics The Center Square 00:38:34 The Center Square Associate Editor Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Casey Harper from the Washington D.C. bureau about Trump administration tariffs, DOGE and the border. The Center Square Associate Editor Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Casey Harper from the Washington D.C. bureau about Trump administration tariffs, DOGE and the border. false full 470 de1263dd-ac9c-4d61-a888-da0cf391536a Illinois in Focus Daily | March 12th, 2025 - Trump Buys a Tesla as Illinois Toys With Banning New Gas-Powered Vehicles by 2035 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews Jim Talamonti's story "NFIB: Businesses would consider leaving if IL imposes non-electric vehicle ban" and watches some statements President Donald Trump made while purchasing a Tesla with Elon Musk at the White House.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:15:47 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews Jim Talamonti's story "NFIB: Businesses would consider leaving if IL imposes non-electric vehicle ban" and watches some statements President Donald Trump made while purchasing a Tesla with Elon Musk at the White House.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 12th, 2025 - Trump Buys a Tesla as Illinois Toys With Banning New Gas-Powered Vehicles by 2035 The Center Square 00:42:49 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews Jim Talamonti's story "NFIB: Businesses would consider leaving if IL imposes non-electric vehicle ban" and watches some statements President Donald Trump made while purchasing a Tesla with Elon Musk at the White House. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews Jim Talamonti's story "NFIB: Businesses would consider leaving if IL imposes non-electric vehicle ban" and watches some statements President Donald Trump made while purchasing a Tesla with Elon Musk at the White House. false full 469 9e1f51a2-570c-4fc4-a5c4-8d5dd828fe84 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 10th, 2025 - Full Docket for Bills in Committees at Illinois Statehouse Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:54:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | March 10th, 2025 - Full Docket for Bills in Committees at Illinois Statehouse The Center Square 00:31:52 false full 468 c7aae2dd-4db8-483c-bda4-010948161690 Weekend Edition | Chicago Mayor Defends Sanctuary Policies at Congressional Hearing Sat, 8 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Chicago Mayor Defends Sanctuary Policies at Congressional Hearing The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – The mayor of Chicago testified during a congressional hearing Wednesday that his city is safer because of its Welcoming City ordinance. “Any actions that amplify fears of deportations make Chicago more dangerous. Those fears cause witnesses and victims to avoid cooperating with police,” Mayor Brandon Johnson said. Johnson joined mayors from Boston, Denver and New York City before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Kentucky, said sanctuary policies risk the safety of federal agents and the public. (The Center Square) – The mayor of Chicago testified during a congressional hearing Wednesday that his city is safer because of its Welcoming City ordinance. “Any actions that amplify fears of deportations make Chicago more dangerous. Those fears cause witnesses and victims to avoid cooperating with police,” Mayor Brandon Johnson said. Johnson joined mayors from Boston, Denver and New York City before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Kentucky, said sanctuary policies risk the safety of federal agents and the public. false full 466 1c473cc8-8ecc-4bfb-8bcc-dfce9073f44c Illinois in Focus Daily | March 7th, 2025 - Legislator: Pritzker Spreads Fear and Anxiety as Trump Aims to Dismantle U.S. Dep. Of Ed The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest on expected efforts of President Donald Trump to order the closing of the U.S. Department of Education, and the reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and state Rep. Chris Miller, R-Oakland, to the prospect.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 7 Mar 2025 18:31:43 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest on expected efforts of President Donald Trump to order the closing of the U.S. Department of Education, and the reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and state Rep. Chris Miller, R-Oakland, to the prospect.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 7th, 2025 - Legislator: Pritzker Spreads Fear and Anxiety as Trump Aims to Dismantle U.S. Dep. Of Ed The Center Square 00:36:44 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest on expected efforts of President Donald Trump to order the closing of the U.S. Department of Education, and the reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and state Rep. Chris Miller, R-Oakland, to the prospect. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest on expected efforts of President Donald Trump to order the closing of the U.S. Department of Education, and the reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and state Rep. Chris Miller, R-Oakland, to the prospect. false full 467 5b6dbd25-ae2c-43d3-a9de-29777c35a592 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 6th, 2025 - IL Republican Says ‘Get Out of the Way’ as Democrats Defend Migrant Sanctuary Policies The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the U.S. House hearing on migrant sanctuary jurisdictions featuring Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and others. He also shares some of a conversation with Illinois state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, about the state seeking to dismiss the U.S. Department of Justice's lawsuit against the state.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 6 Mar 2025 16:55:13 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the U.S. House hearing on migrant sanctuary jurisdictions featuring Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and others. He also shares some of a conversation with Illinois state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, about the state seeking to dismiss the U.S. Department of Justice's lawsuit against the state.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 6th, 2025 - IL Republican Says ‘Get Out of the Way’ as Democrats Defend Migrant Sanctuary Policies The Center Square 00:41:31 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the U.S. House hearing on migrant sanctuary jurisdictions featuring Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and others. He also shares some of a conversation with Illinois state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, about the state seeking to dismiss the U.S. Department of Justice's lawsuit against the state. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the U.S. House hearing on migrant sanctuary jurisdictions featuring Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and others. He also shares some of a conversation with Illinois state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, about the state seeking to dismiss the U.S. Department of Justice's lawsuit against the state. false full 465 aec811e9-9168-46b4-bfa3-b2b27b141143 Illinois in Focus Daily | March 5th, 2025 - Trump’s Congressional Speech Draws Rebuke From Illinois Democrats The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of President Donald Trump’s speech in front of a joint session of Congress and provides some of the responses from Illinois elected officials.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 5 Mar 2025 16:41:32 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of President Donald Trump’s speech in front of a joint session of Congress and provides some of the responses from Illinois elected officials.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 5th, 2025 - Trump’s Congressional Speech Draws Rebuke From Illinois Democrats The Center Square 00:46:38 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of President Donald Trump’s speech in front of a joint session of Congress and provides some of the responses from Illinois elected officials. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of President Donald Trump’s speech in front of a joint session of Congress and provides some of the responses from Illinois elected officials. false full 464 55a03ad4-ce83-4420-8bc5-21660cb52f4a Illinois in Focus Daily | March 4th, 2025 - Trump’s Tariffs to Encourage Investment in US Criticized by Pritzker as Taxes on Consumers The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of President Donald Trump’s comments about the tariffs he’s imposing on Mexico and Canada and the reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 4 Mar 2025 15:53:21 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of President Donald Trump’s comments about the tariffs he’s imposing on Mexico and Canada and the reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 4th, 2025 - Trump’s Tariffs to Encourage Investment in US Criticized by Pritzker as Taxes on Consumers The Center Square 00:34:08 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of President Donald Trump’s comments about the tariffs he’s imposing on Mexico and Canada and the reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of President Donald Trump’s comments about the tariffs he’s imposing on Mexico and Canada and the reaction from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. false full 463 8a1165ef-ffdd-4738-9ff6-c2aa44ff566f Illinois in Focus Daily | March 3rd, 2025 - Trump’s Zelenskyy Meeting Sparks Criticism From Illinois Democrats The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the comments from Illinois' elected officials over the contentious televised meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and also reviews the back and forth over federal spending on health care.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 3 Mar 2025 17:58:05 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the comments from Illinois' elected officials over the contentious televised meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and also reviews the back and forth over federal spending on health care.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | March 3rd, 2025 - Trump’s Zelenskyy Meeting Sparks Criticism From Illinois Democrats The Center Square 00:34:06 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the comments from Illinois' elected officials over the contentious televised meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and also reviews the back and forth over federal spending on health care. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the comments from Illinois' elected officials over the contentious televised meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and also reviews the back and forth over federal spending on health care. false full 462 b510fc86-81c8-4fea-8035-75a74a51bc43 Weekend Edition | IL Bills Would Increase Gun Transfer Fees, Investigate Insurance Mandate Sat, 1 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | IL Bills Would Increase Gun Transfer Fees, Investigate Insurance Mandate The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – The Illinois House Gun Violence Prevention Committee continues to hear proposals involving further gun control measures. One would create a task force to investigate insurance mandates for gun owners. The other would increase fees for transferring firearms. State Rep. Bob Morgan, D-Deerfield, has House Bill 33 to increase the fee from $2 to $10 for when someone transfers a firearm to someone else. He said the extra funds would be used to go after those with expired or revoked Firearm Owner’s ID cards. “The question is whether we’re getting those resources to law enforcement to do the job that we’re charging them to do, that’s what this legislation is about,” Morgan told the committee. (The Center Square) – The Illinois House Gun Violence Prevention Committee continues to hear proposals involving further gun control measures. One would create a task force to investigate insurance mandates for gun owners. The other would increase fees for transferring firearms. State Rep. Bob Morgan, D-Deerfield, has House Bill 33 to increase the fee from $2 to $10 for when someone transfers a firearm to someone else. He said the extra funds would be used to go after those with expired or revoked Firearm Owner’s ID cards. “The question is whether we’re getting those resources to law enforcement to do the job that we’re charging them to do, that’s what this legislation is about,” Morgan told the committee. false full 460 c91562ab-5e59-4cb6-b0ed-de37f1fcbcbd Illinois in Focus Daily | February 28th, 2025 - Democrats allege Trump presidency threatening Democracy The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the recent comments from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker complaining about the administration of President Donald Trump.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 28 Feb 2025 17:53:16 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the recent comments from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker complaining about the administration of President Donald Trump.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 28th, 2025 - Democrats allege Trump presidency threatening Democracy The Center Square 00:36:11 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the recent comments from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker complaining about the administration of President Donald Trump. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the recent comments from Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker complaining about the administration of President Donald Trump. false full 461 c8fe0a8a-0d5a-4d25-857e-8c7c816db6e7 Illinois in Focus Daily | February 27th, 2025 - Audit Finds Illinois’ Non-citizen Health Care Subsidies Ballooned as Group Pushes for More The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the highlights from an Illinois Auditor General report on the state’s Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors and Adults which found large cost overruns from what was estimated. This comes as groups push for more subsidies for non-citizens.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 27 Feb 2025 16:46:07 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the highlights from an Illinois Auditor General report on the state’s Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors and Adults which found large cost overruns from what was estimated. This comes as groups push for more subsidies for non-citizens.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 27th, 2025 - Audit Finds Illinois’ Non-citizen Health Care Subsidies Ballooned as Group Pushes for More The Center Square 00:37:57 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the highlights from an Illinois Auditor General report on the state’s Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors and Adults which found large cost overruns from what was estimated. This comes as groups push for more subsidies for non-citizens. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the highlights from an Illinois Auditor General report on the state’s Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors and Adults which found large cost overruns from what was estimated. This comes as groups push for more subsidies for non-citizens. false full 459 5e1f4690-7b40-424d-adb4-be2450c4d2dd Illinois in Focus Daily | February 26th, 2025 - u.s. House Passes Spending Plan as Pritzker Complains About Withheld Funds The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the headlines out the U.S. Congress with the passage of a spending plan and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s complaint to the Trump administration over the withholding of federal funds.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 26 Feb 2025 16:10:29 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the headlines out the U.S. Congress with the passage of a spending plan and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s complaint to the Trump administration over the withholding of federal funds.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 26th, 2025 - u.s. House Passes Spending Plan as Pritzker Complains About Withheld Funds The Center Square 00:36:31 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the headlines out the U.S. Congress with the passage of a spending plan and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s complaint to the Trump administration over the withholding of federal funds. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the headlines out the U.S. Congress with the passage of a spending plan and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s complaint to the Trump administration over the withholding of federal funds. false full 458 85c4c42d-7cd4-4532-8252-10bb5c9d6fc1 Illinois in Focus Daily | February 25th, 2025 - Plenty of Follow up Expected After Madigan Convictions Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about his coverage of the historic corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan resulting in 10 convictions.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 25 Feb 2025 15:50:59 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about his coverage of the historic corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan resulting in 10 convictions.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 25th, 2025 - Plenty of Follow up Expected After Madigan Convictions The Center Square 00:42:54 Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about his coverage of the historic corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan resulting in 10 convictions. Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about his coverage of the historic corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan resulting in 10 convictions. false full 457 7ebd846a-d18a-4a37-9e50-1e842eb913d8 Illinois in Focus Daily | February 24th, 2025 - Pritzker’s ‘Nazi’ Comments, Budget Proposal Gets Pushback The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews comments Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker made during his budget address, including spending five minutes talking about Nazis.

Support this podcast:  https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 24 Feb 2025 17:57:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews comments Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker made during his budget address, including spending five minutes talking about Nazis.

Support this podcast:  https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | February 24th, 2025 - Pritzker’s ‘Nazi’ Comments, Budget Proposal Gets Pushback The Center Square 00:49:08 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews comments Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker made during his budget address, including spending five minutes talking about Nazis. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews comments Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker made during his budget address, including spending five minutes talking about Nazis. false full 456 d17675a7-88a6-4d71-b020-46860fe28668 Weekend Edition | Fallout Continues After Pritzker’s Nazi Comments During Budget Speech

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:21:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Fallout Continues After Pritzker’s Nazi Comments During Budget Speech The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – The fallout over comments Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker made about Nazis during his budget address spilled onto the House floor Thursday. For more than five minutes Wednesday, Pritzker ended his address talking about the history of Nazi Germany and warned what he sees as the looming threat in America under the Trump administration. “It took the Nazis one month, three weeks, two days, eight hours and 40 minutes to dismantle a constitutional republic,” Pritzker said. “All I’m saying is when the five-alarm fire starts to burn, every good person better be ready to man a post with a bucket of water if you want to stop it from raging out of control.” (The Center Square) – The fallout over comments Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker made about Nazis during his budget address spilled onto the House floor Thursday. For more than five minutes Wednesday, Pritzker ended his address talking about the history of Nazi Germany and warned what he sees as the looming threat in America under the Trump administration. “It took the Nazis one month, three weeks, two days, eight hours and 40 minutes to dismantle a constitutional republic,” Pritzker said. “All I’m saying is when the five-alarm fire starts to burn, every good person better be ready to man a post with a bucket of water if you want to stop it from raging out of control.” false full 455 a2ffadc8-c791-4397-9366-9072e21b9753 Weekend Edition | Jury Convicts Former Speaker Madigan on 10 Corruption-Related Charges Fri, 14 Feb 2025 12:09:40 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Jury Convicts Former Speaker Madigan on 10 Corruption-Related Charges The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Longtime former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was convicted Wednesday on 10 corruption-related charges, but the jury could not reach a unanimous decision on an overarching racketeering conspiracy. The jury also deadlocked on all six counts that Madigan's codefendant, Michael McClain, was charged with. Madigan, 82, was charged in March 2022 with 23 counts of bribery, racketeering and official misconduct in connection with a scheme that federal prosecutors referred to as "Madigan Enterprise." Codefendant Michael McClain was charged in six of those counts. (The Center Square) – Longtime former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was convicted Wednesday on 10 corruption-related charges, but the jury could not reach a unanimous decision on an overarching racketeering conspiracy. The jury also deadlocked on all six counts that Madigan's codefendant, Michael McClain, was charged with. Madigan, 82, was charged in March 2022 with 23 counts of bribery, racketeering and official misconduct in connection with a scheme that federal prosecutors referred to as "Madigan Enterprise." Codefendant Michael McClain was charged in six of those counts. false full 454 b96964da-419c-4208-8b76-ce45eb7608f8 Weekend Edition | Trump’s DOJ Sues Illinois, Others Over Sanctuary Policies Fri, 7 Feb 2025 14:37:36 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Trump’s DOJ Sues Illinois, Others Over Sanctuary Policies The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the state of Illinois, the city of Chicago, and local officials alleging they are exacerbating the border crisis and thwarting federal officials with sanctuary city policies. The Justice Department asked a judge to declare the state and local laws unconstitutional under the federal government's supremacy clause. The complaint, filed Thursday, specifically referenced the Illinois Way Forward Act and the 2017 TRUST Act alongside Chicago's Welcoming City Ordinance and Cook County policies. It further names Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart. (The Center Square) – The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the state of Illinois, the city of Chicago, and local officials alleging they are exacerbating the border crisis and thwarting federal officials with sanctuary city policies. The Justice Department asked a judge to declare the state and local laws unconstitutional under the federal government's supremacy clause. The complaint, filed Thursday, specifically referenced the Illinois Way Forward Act and the 2017 TRUST Act alongside Chicago's Welcoming City Ordinance and Cook County policies. It further names Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart. false full 453 4bde36e8-86bd-4809-9cac-1ed3e5831c00 Weekend Edition | Madigan Case: Jury To Decide Fate of Alleged ‘Grand Masters of Corruption’ Fri, 31 Jan 2025 14:11:19 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Madigan Case: Jury To Decide Fate of Alleged ‘Grand Masters of Corruption’ The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Jurors started deliberating at the public corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan in Chicago. Judge John Robert Blakey handed the case to the jury shortly after 3 p.m. Wednesday at the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse. The judge first provided a few final instructions about communications and asked jurors to choose a foreperson once they were in the jury room. He also displayed the verdict forms each juror would receive and said the verdict must be unanimous. St. Xavier University Professor David Parker said it’s hard to say what the jury will do. (The Center Square) – Jurors started deliberating at the public corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan in Chicago. Judge John Robert Blakey handed the case to the jury shortly after 3 p.m. Wednesday at the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse. The judge first provided a few final instructions about communications and asked jurors to choose a foreperson once they were in the jury room. He also displayed the verdict forms each juror would receive and said the verdict must be unanimous. St. Xavier University Professor David Parker said it’s hard to say what the jury will do. false full 452 193291a5-5e14-484a-9484-48f042d29760 Weekend Edition | Pritzker Clashes with Trump on Immigration, Economy Sat, 25 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker Clashes with Trump on Immigration, Economy The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is already butting heads with the Trump administration about immigration and more. Pritzker said he had heard reports of about 2,000 initial immigration enforcement actions coming, but said he’s heard nothing from the Trump administration as of Day 2 of the new presidency. Pritzker also said Trump’s actions against birthright citizenship are unconstitutional. “We will not follow an unconstitutional executive order but we will follow the law in this state,” Pritzker said during an unrelated news conference Tuesday. (The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is already butting heads with the Trump administration about immigration and more. Pritzker said he had heard reports of about 2,000 initial immigration enforcement actions coming, but said he’s heard nothing from the Trump administration as of Day 2 of the new presidency. Pritzker also said Trump’s actions against birthright citizenship are unconstitutional. “We will not follow an unconstitutional executive order but we will follow the law in this state,” Pritzker said during an unrelated news conference Tuesday. false full 450 e14bdf0d-0b51-428a-b38c-3e36a24fe8e7 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 23rd, 2025 - Legislator Rips Illinois Law Prohibiting Local Law Enforcement From Working With Ice The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, about Gov. J.B. Pritzker and leading Democrats holding up state law prohibiting local law enforcement from working federal immigration officials.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 23 Jan 2025 22:03:14 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, about Gov. J.B. Pritzker and leading Democrats holding up state law prohibiting local law enforcement from working federal immigration officials.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 23rd, 2025 - Legislator Rips Illinois Law Prohibiting Local Law Enforcement From Working With Ice The Center Square 00:27:05 The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, about Gov. J.B. Pritzker and leading Democrats holding up state law prohibiting local law enforcement from working federal immigration officials. The Center Square's Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, about Gov. J.B. Pritzker and leading Democrats holding up state law prohibiting local law enforcement from working federal immigration officials. false full 449 6650644c-11f7-4f30-8e5d-c97ac8f94dde Illinois in Focus Daily | January 22nd, 2025 - ‘Vindicated’ Jan. 6 Defendant Exploring Lawsuit Against Prosecutors After Trump Pardons The Center Square's Greg Bishop talks live with Larry Ligas, a Jan. 6 defendant, about the sweeping pardons of around 1,500 defendants by President Donald Trump.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 22 Jan 2025 19:43:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop talks live with Larry Ligas, a Jan. 6 defendant, about the sweeping pardons of around 1,500 defendants by President Donald Trump.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 22nd, 2025 - ‘Vindicated’ Jan. 6 Defendant Exploring Lawsuit Against Prosecutors After Trump Pardons The Center Square 00:35:53 The Center Square's Greg Bishop talks live with Larry Ligas, a Jan. 6 defendant, about the sweeping pardons of around 1,500 defendants by President Donald Trump. The Center Square's Greg Bishop talks live with Larry Ligas, a Jan. 6 defendant, about the sweeping pardons of around 1,500 defendants by President Donald Trump. false full 448 4ec96b05-842e-44a7-83a7-fae592c5aed8 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 21st, 2025 - President Trump Signs Executive Orders on Immigration; Pritzker Reacts President Donald Trump signed a slew of executive orders on Day 1 of his presidency, including things impacting immigration. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker reacted on social media.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 21 Jan 2025 16:23:01 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ President Donald Trump signed a slew of executive orders on Day 1 of his presidency, including things impacting immigration. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker reacted on social media.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 21st, 2025 - President Trump Signs Executive Orders on Immigration; Pritzker Reacts The Center Square 00:32:11 President Donald Trump signed a slew of executive orders on Day 1 of his presidency, including things impacting immigration. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker reacted on social media. President Donald Trump signed a slew of executive orders on Day 1 of his presidency, including things impacting immigration. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker reacted on social media. false full 447 ac303b6b-facf-4758-b18a-9ad3ebbfaa14 Weekend Edition | Defense Rests and Rebuttal Concludes at Ex-Illinois House Speaker’s Corruption Trial Sat, 18 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Defense Rests and Rebuttal Concludes at Ex-Illinois House Speaker’s Corruption Trial The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Closing arguments are scheduled to begin next Wednesday at the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and codefendant Michael McClain. U.S. government attorneys wrapped up their rebuttal about 30 minutes after the Madigan defense team rested its case Thursday at the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago. FBI Special Agent Ryan McDonald reported to the witness stand for a fourth time during the trial. Before testifying during the rebuttal case, McDonald had previously been called twice by the government and once by Madigan’s defense team. (The Center Square) – Closing arguments are scheduled to begin next Wednesday at the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and codefendant Michael McClain. U.S. government attorneys wrapped up their rebuttal about 30 minutes after the Madigan defense team rested its case Thursday at the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago. FBI Special Agent Ryan McDonald reported to the witness stand for a fourth time during the trial. Before testifying during the rebuttal case, McDonald had previously been called twice by the government and once by Madigan’s defense team. false full 445 59d7c69a-9891-47eb-a09e-2c62c6ca543c Illinois in Focus Daily | January 17th, 2025 - Concerned About Due Process of Illegal Immigrants, Several AGs Oppose Laken Riley Act The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews a recent letter Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul signed with other attorneys general urging the U.S. Senate to oppose the Laken Riley Act, a measure to require the detention of illegal immigrants accused of things like robbery.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 17 Jan 2025 21:44:01 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews a recent letter Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul signed with other attorneys general urging the U.S. Senate to oppose the Laken Riley Act, a measure to require the detention of illegal immigrants accused of things like robbery.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 17th, 2025 - Concerned About Due Process of Illegal Immigrants, Several AGs Oppose Laken Riley Act The Center Square 00:17:09 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews a recent letter Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul signed with other attorneys general urging the U.S. Senate to oppose the Laken Riley Act, a measure to require the detention of illegal immigrants accused of things like robbery. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews a recent letter Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul signed with other attorneys general urging the U.S. Senate to oppose the Laken Riley Act, a measure to require the detention of illegal immigrants accused of things like robbery. false full 446 c8b9c10f-d951-4c8a-978d-571ed07de5f1 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 15th, 2025 - Illinois Supreme Court Hears Arguments About Whether to Toss Law Prohibiting Open Carry Greg Bishop reviews some of the oral arguments in the Illinois Supreme Court case whether to find a state firearms statute prohibiting open carry unconstitutional. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_e8486efe-d2ac-11ef-ba5d-b350ddcd6572.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 15 Jan 2025 22:27:14 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the oral arguments in the Illinois Supreme Court case whether to find a state firearms statute prohibiting open carry unconstitutional. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_e8486efe-d2ac-11ef-ba5d-b350ddcd6572.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 15th, 2025 - Illinois Supreme Court Hears Arguments About Whether to Toss Law Prohibiting Open Carry The Center Square 00:23:41 Greg Bishop reviews some of the oral arguments in the Illinois Supreme Court case whether to find a state firearms statute prohibiting open carry unconstitutional. Greg Bishop reviews some of the oral arguments in the Illinois Supreme Court case whether to find a state firearms statute prohibiting open carry unconstitutional. false full 444 57649ce4-a4d6-4161-b414-13ea3c628a0f Illinois in Focus Daily | January 14th, 2025 - Cook County Judge Sides With Guns Save Life in Gun, Ammo Tax Challenge Tue, 14 Jan 2025 16:20:51 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | January 14th, 2025 - Cook County Judge Sides With Guns Save Life in Gun, Ammo Tax Challenge The Center Square 00:25:36 Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Guns Save Life Executive Director John Boch about Monday's decision from a Cook County judge siding with gun rights advocates over the county in a case challenging the county's gun and ammo tax. Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Guns Save Life Executive Director John Boch about Monday's decision from a Cook County judge siding with gun rights advocates over the county in a case challenging the county's gun and ammo tax. false full 443 68d9df0c-50bb-4a48-b8f7-b1bad23d0b54 Some Illinois Republicans Join Democrats in Voting for Gun Confiscation Bill The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the debate around Illinois House bill 4144 that would require police confiscate firearms from subjects of domestic orders of protection. While some Republicans supported the measure, others raised concerns it violates individuals' Second Amendment rights.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 13 Jan 2025 17:50:01 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the debate around Illinois House bill 4144 that would require police confiscate firearms from subjects of domestic orders of protection. While some Republicans supported the measure, others raised concerns it violates individuals' Second Amendment rights.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Some Illinois Republicans Join Democrats in Voting for Gun Confiscation Bill The Center Square 00:36:05 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the debate around Illinois House bill 4144 that would require police confiscate firearms from subjects of domestic orders of protection. While some Republicans supported the measure, others raised concerns it violates individuals' Second Amendment rights. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the debate around Illinois House bill 4144 that would require police confiscate firearms from subjects of domestic orders of protection. While some Republicans supported the measure, others raised concerns it violates individuals' Second Amendment rights. false full 442 260cfa84-5a1c-4419-b8c6-dc83e6bf0526 Weekend Edition | Former Illinois House Speaker Discusses Codefendant, ‘Quid Pro Quo’ at Corruption Trial Fri, 10 Jan 2025 12:12:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Former Illinois House Speaker Discusses Codefendant, ‘Quid Pro Quo’ at Corruption Trial The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan addressed his former friendship with codefendant Michael McClain as the two men face corruption charges in federal court. In cross-examination with McClain defense attorney Patrick Cotter Wednesday, Madigan said he developed a friendship with McClain during their early years in the Illinois House during the 1970s. Madigan said their friendship survived until recently. Cotter asked Madigan if McClain had been his political adviser. “At times,” Madigan answered. (The Center Square) – Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan addressed his former friendship with codefendant Michael McClain as the two men face corruption charges in federal court. In cross-examination with McClain defense attorney Patrick Cotter Wednesday, Madigan said he developed a friendship with McClain during their early years in the Illinois House during the 1970s. Madigan said their friendship survived until recently. Cotter asked Madigan if McClain had been his political adviser. “At times,” Madigan answered. false full 441 043c8e3c-eeea-4d40-9757-06c05f1eb818 Illinois in Focus Daily | January 6th, 2025 - Illinois Senate Passes Name Change Bill Republicans Say Will Hide Illegal Immigrants The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the debate Sunday in the Illinois Senate around a bill repealing the requirement to publish a legal name change that Republican argue will allow illegal immigrants to hide their past.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 6 Jan 2025 16:19:24 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the debate Sunday in the Illinois Senate around a bill repealing the requirement to publish a legal name change that Republican argue will allow illegal immigrants to hide their past.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | January 6th, 2025 - Illinois Senate Passes Name Change Bill Republicans Say Will Hide Illegal Immigrants The Center Square 00:24:16 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the debate Sunday in the Illinois Senate around a bill repealing the requirement to publish a legal name change that Republican argue will allow illegal immigrants to hide their past. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the debate Sunday in the Illinois Senate around a bill repealing the requirement to publish a legal name change that Republican argue will allow illegal immigrants to hide their past. false full 440 b15e8a90-9e8e-42ae-b6d2-b8e5e0673663 Weekend Edition | Legislators Present Issues They Want Addressed for Illinois’ Lame Duck Session Sat, 4 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Legislators Present Issues They Want Addressed for Illinois’ Lame Duck Session The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois legislators return Saturday for the start of the final days of the 103rd General Assembly. One Republican legislator says that’s an opportunity to address economic concerns for taxpayers. State Rep. Jed Davis, R-Newark, said he’s excited for the so-called “lame duck session.” “So I’m like, ‘let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work,’” Davis told The Center Square. “We’ve got a lot of work to do. We’ve got looming budget deficits. We’ve got families that are struggling to put food on the tables. I mean, this inflation is out of control.” Davis notes that Illinois is among the states with the highest tax burdens. He also noted a recent Governor’s Office of Management and Budget report showing the coming fiscal year that starts July 1 with an estimated $3 billion deficit. (The Center Square) – Illinois legislators return Saturday for the start of the final days of the 103rd General Assembly. One Republican legislator says that’s an opportunity to address economic concerns for taxpayers. State Rep. Jed Davis, R-Newark, said he’s excited for the so-called “lame duck session.” “So I’m like, ‘let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work,’” Davis told The Center Square. “We’ve got a lot of work to do. We’ve got looming budget deficits. We’ve got families that are struggling to put food on the tables. I mean, this inflation is out of control.” Davis notes that Illinois is among the states with the highest tax burdens. He also noted a recent Governor’s Office of Management and Budget report showing the coming fiscal year that starts July 1 with an estimated $3 billion deficit. false full 439 0a4d9f50-439c-4984-b3d5-43516def3119 Weekend Edition | A Look Back at the Top Illinois News in 2024 Sat, 28 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | A Look Back at the Top Illinois News in 2024 The Center Square 00:24:00 The Center Square's Illinois 2024 Year in Review including the trial of former Illinois Speaker Michael Madigan, Trump made gains in Illinois, gun ban, & more. Keep up with all of the Illinois news in 2025 at The Center Square: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois The Center Square's Illinois 2024 Year in Review including the trial of former Illinois Speaker Michael Madigan, Trump made gains in Illinois, gun ban, & more. Keep up with all of the Illinois news in 2025 at The Center Square: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois false full 438 4bc01f8a-497d-44dd-9c36-76701603b279 Illinois 2024 Year in Review: Madigan Corruption Trial, Gun Ban, & More Fri, 27 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois 2024 Year in Review: Madigan Corruption Trial, Gun Ban, & More The Center Square 00:07:09 The Center Square's Illinois 2024 Year in Review including the trial of former Illinois Speaker Michael Madigan, Trump made gains in Illinois, gun ban, & more. Keep up with all of the Illinois news in 2025 at The Center Square: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois The Center Square's Illinois 2024 Year in Review including the trial of former Illinois Speaker Michael Madigan, Trump made gains in Illinois, gun ban, & more. Keep up with all of the Illinois news in 2025 at The Center Square: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois false full 436 607a8710-44fe-4e06-b8f3-dd73cfee4d99 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 26th, 2024 - Illinois Legislators Warn About Looming ‘Lame Duck’ Session The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the concerns Illinois legislators raised about the coming 'lame duck' session, the final days of the 103rd General Assembly.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 26 Dec 2024 16:26:34 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the concerns Illinois legislators raised about the coming 'lame duck' session, the final days of the 103rd General Assembly.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 26th, 2024 - Illinois Legislators Warn About Looming ‘Lame Duck’ Session The Center Square 00:23:56 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the concerns Illinois legislators raised about the coming 'lame duck' session, the final days of the 103rd General Assembly The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the concerns Illinois legislators raised about the coming 'lame duck' session, the final days of the 103rd General Assembly false full 437 b8bf3a50-27e0-44d9-87e5-4e45057c7b33 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 23th, 2024 - Nearly 300 New Illinois Laws Take Effect Jan. 1 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the 297 laws that go into effect Jan. 1, in Illinois, including measures impacting health insurance, employers, drivers, schools, parents and more. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:38:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the 297 laws that go into effect Jan. 1, in Illinois, including measures impacting health insurance, employers, drivers, schools, parents and more. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 23th, 2024 - Nearly 300 New Illinois Laws Take Effect Jan. 1 The Center Square 00:42:38 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the 297 laws that go into effect Jan. 1, in Illinois, including measures impacting health insurance, employers, drivers, schools, parents and more. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the 297 laws that go into effect Jan. 1, in Illinois, including measures impacting health insurance, employers, drivers, schools, parents and more. false full 435 8311f012-8e13-460f-aede-18bf4a2e5d19 Weekend Edition | Illinois Appeals Court Hears Challenge to Illinois’ Gun ID Law Sat, 21 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Illinois Appeals Court Hears Challenge to Illinois’ Gun ID Law The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Whether Illinois’ Firearm Owner’s ID card is constitutional is now up to a state appellate court. Illinois is one of only a handful of states that requires individuals to have a specific permit or ID to purchase firearms and one of only two states that requires one to possess firearms or ammunition. Guns Save Life brought the case against the state, saying the law violates the Second Amendment. The Sangamon County court sided with the state. A three-judge panel of the Illinois Fourth District Appellate Court heard the case Thursday. Plaintiffs argued the law violates the plain text of the Second Amendment and the only comparable historical laws the state has are defunct loyalty oath laws and race-based prohibitions on specific firearms. (The Center Square) – Whether Illinois’ Firearm Owner’s ID card is constitutional is now up to a state appellate court. Illinois is one of only a handful of states that requires individuals to have a specific permit or ID to purchase firearms and one of only two states that requires one to possess firearms or ammunition. Guns Save Life brought the case against the state, saying the law violates the Second Amendment. The Sangamon County court sided with the state. A three-judge panel of the Illinois Fourth District Appellate Court heard the case Thursday. Plaintiffs argued the law violates the plain text of the Second Amendment and the only comparable historical laws the state has are defunct loyalty oath laws and race-based prohibitions on specific firearms. false full 433 862bbdf3-5436-48f7-a443-8b71e2022de3 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 20th, 2024 - People From Other Countries Moving to Illinois Offset People Who Moved to Other States The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest U.S. Census Bureau data showing the state gaining population, but that growth was driven by people moving to Illinois from other countries. Ted Dabrowski, president of Wirepoints, provides reaction. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 20 Dec 2024 21:05:37 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest U.S. Census Bureau data showing the state gaining population, but that growth was driven by people moving to Illinois from other countries. Ted Dabrowski, president of Wirepoints, provides reaction. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 20th, 2024 - People From Other Countries Moving to Illinois Offset People Who Moved to Other States The Center Square 00:38:04 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest U.S. Census Bureau data showing the state gaining population, but that growth was driven by people moving to Illinois from other countries. Ted Dabrowski, president of Wirepoints, provides reaction. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest U.S. Census Bureau data showing the state gaining population, but that growth was driven by people moving to Illinois from other countries. Ted Dabrowski, president of Wirepoints, provides reaction. false full 434 7b3c3692-6d96-400d-8c61-66ac3d7b2d0e Illinois in Focus Daily | December 19th, 2024 - Illinois Appeals Court Set to Hear Gun ID Challenge Today The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the status of a challenge to Illinois’ Firearm Owners ID card law set to be heard Thursday afternoon in a state appeals court. Another case challenging Maryland’s gun owner ID law is in front of the U.S. Supreme Court for their possible consideration.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 19 Dec 2024 16:49:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the status of a challenge to Illinois’ Firearm Owners ID card law set to be heard Thursday afternoon in a state appeals court. Another case challenging Maryland’s gun owner ID law is in front of the U.S. Supreme Court for their possible consideration.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 19th, 2024 - Illinois Appeals Court Set to Hear Gun ID Challenge Today The Center Square 00:28:12 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the status of a challenge to Illinois’ Firearm Owners ID card law set to be heard Thursday afternoon in a state appeals court. Another case challenging Maryland’s gun owner ID law is in front of the U.S. Supreme Court for their possible consideration. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the status of a challenge to Illinois’ Firearm Owners ID card law set to be heard Thursday afternoon in a state appeals court. Another case challenging Maryland’s gun owner ID law is in front of the U.S. Supreme Court for their possible consideration. false full 432 0100c179-d619-4b19-9a6e-b047cf4cd797 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 18th, 2024 - How Can Illinois Boost State’s Sluggish Economy? The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews recent comments about Illinois' sluggish economy from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, state Sen. Andrew Chesney, R-Freeport, and Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 18 Dec 2024 15:33:21 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews recent comments about Illinois' sluggish economy from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, state Sen. Andrew Chesney, R-Freeport, and Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 18th, 2024 - How Can Illinois Boost State’s Sluggish Economy? The Center Square 00:34:53 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews recent comments about Illinois' sluggish economy from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, state Sen. Andrew Chesney, R-Freeport, and Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews recent comments about Illinois' sluggish economy from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, state Sen. Andrew Chesney, R-Freeport, and Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski. false full 431 d7c1b284-b3a7-46e8-9e4d-c7f57a63e8ce Illinois in Focus Daily | December 17th, 2024 - Aldermen Say Chicago’s $17.3 Billion Budget Delays Property Tax Increase The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews Monday's Chicago City Council meeting, including public comments and alderman voicing concerns about the budget that ultimately passed.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 17 Dec 2024 15:56:01 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews Monday's Chicago City Council meeting, including public comments and alderman voicing concerns about the budget that ultimately passed.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 17th, 2024 - Aldermen Say Chicago’s $17.3 Billion Budget Delays Property Tax Increase The Center Square 00:31:05 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews Monday's Chicago City Council meeting, including public comments and alderman voicing concerns about the budget that ultimately passed. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews Monday's Chicago City Council meeting, including public comments and alderman voicing concerns about the budget that ultimately passed. false full 430 8fd95f7a-e395-4f13-99ad-3ab512aa22a3 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 16th, 2024 - Homan Says Chicago First in Deportation Efforts as Mayor Remains Defiant The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews recent comments of President-Donald Trump’s border czar Tom Homan and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson about plans to deport non-citizen migrants.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 16 Dec 2024 15:42:53 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews recent comments of President-Donald Trump’s border czar Tom Homan and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson about plans to deport non-citizen migrants.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 16th, 2024 - Homan Says Chicago First in Deportation Efforts as Mayor Remains Defiant The Center Square 00:35:33 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews recent comments of President-Donald Trump’s border czar Tom Homan and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson about plans to deport non-citizen migrants. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews recent comments of President-Donald Trump’s border czar Tom Homan and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson about plans to deport non-citizen migrants. false full 429 f15add23-96ca-4e93-8878-fd323007474d Weekend Edition | Illinois’ Pension Debt Grows Sat, 14 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Illinois’ Pension Debt Grows The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois unfunded pension liability is growing. The Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability reports the latest unfunded liability is $143.7 billion. That’s $1.5 billion higher than last year and the second highest since 2020 when the total was $144.2 billion. Wednesday, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said they’re doing good things with pensions. “Our funded ratio for our pensions is much better today than it was when I took office and it continues to go in the right direction,” Pritzker said. The funding ratio in 2019 was 40.3%. The most recent funding ratio was 46%. Actuaries suggest a funding level of 100%. (The Center Square) – Illinois unfunded pension liability is growing. The Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability reports the latest unfunded liability is $143.7 billion. That’s $1.5 billion higher than last year and the second highest since 2020 when the total was $144.2 billion. Wednesday, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said they’re doing good things with pensions. “Our funded ratio for our pensions is much better today than it was when I took office and it continues to go in the right direction,” Pritzker said. The funding ratio in 2019 was 40.3%. The most recent funding ratio was 46%. Actuaries suggest a funding level of 100%. false full 427 7d90fe13-a493-4e45-9888-b61408bcda08 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 13th, 2024 - Illinois Pension Funding Ratio Grows, but So Does Total Unfunded Liability The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews a recent Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability report on Illinois unfunded pension liability and shares separate comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 13 Dec 2024 15:28:44 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews a recent Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability report on Illinois unfunded pension liability and shares separate comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 13th, 2024 - Illinois Pension Funding Ratio Grows, but So Does Total Unfunded Liability The Center Square 00:35:06 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews a recent Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability report on Illinois unfunded pension liability and shares separate comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews a recent Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability report on Illinois unfunded pension liability and shares separate comments from Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski. false full 428 444beb1c-cdec-40ae-8f95-096b6392ca2c Illinois in Focus Daily | December 12th, 2024 - District Judge Amends Final Gun Ban Judgement, Permanent Injunction With Stay Pending Appeal The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest from the federal judiciary in the case against Illinois’ gun and magazine ban with the Southern District of Illinois federal judge issuing an amended final judgement and permanent injunction against the law, but acknowledging the stay on the injunction pending the outcome in the appeals court. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 12 Dec 2024 15:57:44 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest from the federal judiciary in the case against Illinois’ gun and magazine ban with the Southern District of Illinois federal judge issuing an amended final judgement and permanent injunction against the law, but acknowledging the stay on the injunction pending the outcome in the appeals court. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 12th, 2024 - District Judge Amends Final Gun Ban Judgement, Permanent Injunction With Stay Pending Appeal The Center Square 00:38:07 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest from the federal judiciary in the case against Illinois’ gun and magazine ban with the Southern District of Illinois federal judge issuing an amended final judgement and permanent injunction against the law, but acknowledging the stay on the injunction pending the outcome in the appeals court. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the latest from the federal judiciary in the case against Illinois’ gun and magazine ban with the Southern District of Illinois federal judge issuing an amended final judgement and permanent injunction against the law, but acknowledging the stay on the injunction pending the outcome in the appeals court. false full 426 218c0a26-6dea-4149-a07a-95accb508d5f Illinois in Focus Daily | December 11th, 2024 - Debate Around Deportations, Immigration Reform, Border Security in Separate Congressional Committees The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews two separate congressional committees in the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House tacking issues around immigration and border security.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_58b7f248-b72f-11ef-9975-9b2508953ffc.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 11 Dec 2024 16:19:33 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews two separate congressional committees in the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House tacking issues around immigration and border security.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_58b7f248-b72f-11ef-9975-9b2508953ffc.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 11th, 2024 - Debate Around Deportations, Immigration Reform, Border Security in Separate Congressional Committees The Center Square 00:39:39 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews two separate congressional committees in the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House tacking issues around immigration and border security. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews two separate congressional committees in the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House tacking issues around immigration and border security. false full 425 f45d873c-5e2c-4c2b-99db-e8f20c4edc8c Illinois in Focus Daily | December 10th, 2024 - Trump’s Border Czar Threatens Chicago’s Mayor With Prosecution as Immigration Debate Heats Up The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest debate around border security and immigration policies, including recent comments from Trump border czar Tom Homan, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and others.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 10 Dec 2024 15:27:21 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest debate around border security and immigration policies, including recent comments from Trump border czar Tom Homan, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and others.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 10th, 2024 - Trump’s Border Czar Threatens Chicago’s Mayor With Prosecution as Immigration Debate Heats Up The Center Square 00:38:13 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest debate around border security and immigration policies, including recent comments from Trump border czar Tom Homan, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and others. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest debate around border security and immigration policies, including recent comments from Trump border czar Tom Homan, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and others. false full 424 32e8a6dc-9c65-4e0b-be7a-2581d8bb1c40 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 9th, 2024 - IL’s Gun Ban Could Be a 2026 SCOTUS Case, State Rifle Association Warns The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews more of the reaction to a federal appeals court holding a district court injunction against Illinois' gun ban back while the case proceeds on appeal, including a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association's Ed Sullivan.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 9 Dec 2024 16:48:08 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews more of the reaction to a federal appeals court holding a district court injunction against Illinois' gun ban back while the case proceeds on appeal, including a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association's Ed Sullivan.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 9th, 2024 - IL’s Gun Ban Could Be a 2026 SCOTUS Case, State Rifle Association Warns The Center Square 00:20:58 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews more of the reaction to a federal appeals court holding a district court injunction against Illinois' gun ban back while the case proceeds on appeal, including a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association's Ed Sullivan. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews more of the reaction to a federal appeals court holding a district court injunction against Illinois' gun ban back while the case proceeds on appeal, including a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association's Ed Sullivan. false full 423 09648dd8-20bd-4a3d-99f1-b55100a2e8cc Weekend Edition | Appeals Court Keep Illinois’ Gun Ban in Place as Case Proceeds Sat, 7 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Appeals Court Keep Illinois’ Gun Ban in Place as Case Proceeds The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Illinois’ gun and magazine ban will stay in effect pending the outcome in the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, the appeals court ruled Thursday. Illinois banned the sale and possession of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities in January 2023. Lawsuits in federal court followed, challenging the ban based on the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms and other grounds. Four cases in the Southern District of Illinois were consolidated into Barnett, et al. v. Raoul, et al. After preliminary issues went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, Justice Clarence Thomas said the case was not ripe because it was not on final judgement. The Southern District of Illinois consequently found the law unconstitutional. Judge Stephen McGlynn issued an injunction against the law last month but put a 30 day hold on his order. That stay would have lifted Dec. 9. (The Center Square) – Illinois’ gun and magazine ban will stay in effect pending the outcome in the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, the appeals court ruled Thursday. Illinois banned the sale and possession of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities in January 2023. Lawsuits in federal court followed, challenging the ban based on the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms and other grounds. Four cases in the Southern District of Illinois were consolidated into Barnett, et al. v. Raoul, et al. After preliminary issues went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, Justice Clarence Thomas said the case was not ripe because it was not on final judgement. The Southern District of Illinois consequently found the law unconstitutional. Judge Stephen McGlynn issued an injunction against the law last month but put a 30 day hold on his order. That stay would have lifted Dec. 9. false full 421 8af73e44-b678-4152-9633-f95265934d50 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 6th, 2024 - IL’s Gun Ban a District Court Declared Unconstitutional Remains in Effect Pending Appeal The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ordering a continued hold of the district court’s ruling against Illinois’ gun and magazine ban. He also reviews the status of similar cases in the court system.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 6 Dec 2024 17:20:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ordering a continued hold of the district court’s ruling against Illinois’ gun and magazine ban. He also reviews the status of similar cases in the court system.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 6th, 2024 - IL’s Gun Ban a District Court Declared Unconstitutional Remains in Effect Pending Appeal The Center Square 00:46:05 The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ordering a continued hold of the district court’s ruling against Illinois’ gun and magazine ban. He also reviews the status of similar cases in the court system. The Center Square's Greg Bishop reviews the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ordering a continued hold of the district court’s ruling against Illinois’ gun and magazine ban. He also reviews the status of similar cases in the court system. false full 422 8956f1c7-999a-45ce-a7e1-3ae0e13c3e69 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 5th, 2024 - Madigan’s Former Chief of Staff Testifies in Corruption Trial Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

Read more:  https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_85bf34ba-b28c-11ef-aca3-eb1762df4e38.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 5 Dec 2024 15:23:13 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

Read more:  https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_85bf34ba-b28c-11ef-aca3-eb1762df4e38.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 5th, 2024 - Madigan’s Former Chief of Staff Testifies in Corruption Trial The Center Square 00:27:47 Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Greg Bishop reviews the latest in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. false full 420 45227356-c262-4f8a-ba30-1a7a4ce8669d Illinois in Focus Daily | December 4th, 2024 - Illinois Continues Arguing for Stay of District Judge’s Gun Ban Injunction Greg Bishop reviews the latest filing made Tuesday evening by the state of Illinois in the case challenging Illinois' gun and magazine ban.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 4 Dec 2024 16:24:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest filing made Tuesday evening by the state of Illinois in the case challenging Illinois' gun and magazine ban.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 4th, 2024 - Illinois Continues Arguing for Stay of District Judge’s Gun Ban Injunction The Center Square 00:25:45 Greg Bishop reviews the latest filing made Tuesday evening by the state of Illinois in the case challenging Illinois' gun and magazine ban. Greg Bishop reviews the latest filing made Tuesday evening by the state of Illinois in the case challenging Illinois' gun and magazine ban. false full 419 6f9fbd28-39c2-4b80-b354-d4ac1a652d38 Illinois in Focus Daily | December 3rd, 2024 - Status of Illinois’ Gun Ban Injunction Unclear as Appeals Court Reviews Filings Greg Bishop reviews the latest filings in the challenge to Illinois’ gun and magazine ban with the appeals court getting separate filings from the state and plaintiffs on whether to remand the case for more clear judgement from the district court, or whether there should be a continued holding at bay the district court’s injunction against the law.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 3 Dec 2024 16:56:26 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest filings in the challenge to Illinois’ gun and magazine ban with the appeals court getting separate filings from the state and plaintiffs on whether to remand the case for more clear judgement from the district court, or whether there should be a continued holding at bay the district court’s injunction against the law.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 3rd, 2024 - Status of Illinois’ Gun Ban Injunction Unclear as Appeals Court Reviews Filings The Center Square 00:40:23 Greg Bishop reviews the latest filings in the challenge to Illinois’ gun and magazine ban with the appeals court getting separate filings from the state and plaintiffs on whether to remand the case for more clear judgement from the district court, or whether there should be a continued holding at bay the district court’s injunction against the law. Greg Bishop reviews the latest filings in the challenge to Illinois’ gun and magazine ban with the appeals court getting separate filings from the state and plaintiffs on whether to remand the case for more clear judgement from the district court, or whether there should be a continued holding at bay the district court’s injunction against the law. false full 418 642d442d-90e5-4111-ae3c-468cbc67565a Illinois in Focus Daily | December 2nd, 2024 - Witness Admits to ‘Lying All the Time’ to People Government Was Investigating Following the Thanksgiving recess that began Wednesday afternoon, Madigan defense attorney Dan Collins began cross-examination of government cooperating witness and former Chicago Alderman Daniel Solis on Monday morning. Solis admitted to Collins that he committed many crimes while serving as an alderman. Solis said he recorded many people over a period of two-and-a-half years while cooperating with federal investigators. “When I was undercover, I was basically lying all the time,” Solis told Collins, “to people who the government was investigating.”

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 2 Dec 2024 16:58:15 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Following the Thanksgiving recess that began Wednesday afternoon, Madigan defense attorney Dan Collins began cross-examination of government cooperating witness and former Chicago Alderman Daniel Solis on Monday morning. Solis admitted to Collins that he committed many crimes while serving as an alderman. Solis said he recorded many people over a period of two-and-a-half years while cooperating with federal investigators. “When I was undercover, I was basically lying all the time,” Solis told Collins, “to people who the government was investigating.”

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | December 2nd, 2024 - Witness Admits to ‘Lying All the Time’ to People Government Was Investigating The Center Square 00:45:35 Following the Thanksgiving recess that began Wednesday afternoon, Madigan defense attorney Dan Collins began cross-examination of government cooperating witness and former Chicago Alderman Daniel Solis on Monday morning. Solis admitted to Collins that he committed many crimes while serving as an alderman. Solis said he recorded many people over a period of two-and-a-half years while cooperating with federal investigators. “When I was undercover, I was basically lying all the time,” Solis told Collins, “to people who the government was investigating.” Following the Thanksgiving recess that began Wednesday afternoon, Madigan defense attorney Dan Collins began cross-examination of government cooperating witness and former Chicago Alderman Daniel Solis on Monday morning. Solis admitted to Collins that he committed many crimes while serving as an alderman. Solis said he recorded many people over a period of two-and-a-half years while cooperating with federal investigators. “When I was undercover, I was basically lying all the time,” Solis told Collins, “to people who the government was investigating.” false full 417 4ea3d646-665d-4b77-8768-3de81bd44a04 Weekend Edition | Madigan Talks Development, Law Business on Secret Recordings At the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, former Chicago Alderman Daniel Solis has testified that he was able to steer real estate tax business to Madigan’s private law firm. Prosecutor Diane MacArthur played a recording of Madigan calling Solis to ask about a development called Peoria Park in Chicago’s West Loop. Solis testified that he knew Madigan was interested in an introduction with the developers to get business for his private firm, Madigan and Getzendanner.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:54:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ At the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, former Chicago Alderman Daniel Solis has testified that he was able to steer real estate tax business to Madigan’s private law firm. Prosecutor Diane MacArthur played a recording of Madigan calling Solis to ask about a development called Peoria Park in Chicago’s West Loop. Solis testified that he knew Madigan was interested in an introduction with the developers to get business for his private firm, Madigan and Getzendanner.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition | Madigan Talks Development, Law Business on Secret Recordings The Center Square 00:24:00 At the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, former Chicago Alderman Daniel Solis has testified that he was able to steer real estate tax business to Madigan’s private law firm. Prosecutor Diane MacArthur played a recording of Madigan calling Solis to ask about a development called Peoria Park in Chicago’s West Loop. Solis testified that he knew Madigan was interested in an introduction with the developers to get business for his private firm, Madigan and Getzendanner. At the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, former Chicago Alderman Daniel Solis has testified that he was able to steer real estate tax business to Madigan’s private law firm. Prosecutor Diane MacArthur played a recording of Madigan calling Solis to ask about a development called Peoria Park in Chicago’s West Loop. Solis testified that he knew Madigan was interested in an introduction with the developers to get business for his private firm, Madigan and Getzendanner. false full 416 6763732b-295f-4582-b845-4d7022124ae4 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 26th, 2024 - Undercover Video Shows Madigan and Prosecution Witness Discussing ‘Quid Pro Quo' Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest undercover video and phone wiretap conversations federal prosecutors revealed in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 26 Nov 2024 15:24:01 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest undercover video and phone wiretap conversations federal prosecutors revealed in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 26th, 2024 - Undercover Video Shows Madigan and Prosecution Witness Discussing ‘Quid Pro Quo' The Center Square 00:31:22 Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest undercover video and phone wiretap conversations federal prosecutors revealed in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest undercover video and phone wiretap conversations federal prosecutors revealed in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. false full 415 6d884b25-f4d3-47f1-b2f3-dbab1a101adb Illinois in Focus Daily | November 25th, 2024 - Fitch Pegs Illinois’ Unfunded Pension Liability Second Worst in Nation Greg Bishop reviews some of a recent report from Fitch Ratings about states' pension liabilities compared to personal income and Illinois has the second worst. He gets reaction from state Rep. Blaine Wilhour and state Sen. Robert Martwick.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 25 Nov 2024 16:34:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of a recent report from Fitch Ratings about states' pension liabilities compared to personal income and Illinois has the second worst. He gets reaction from state Rep. Blaine Wilhour and state Sen. Robert Martwick.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 25th, 2024 - Fitch Pegs Illinois’ Unfunded Pension Liability Second Worst in Nation The Center Square 00:38:09 Greg Bishop reviews some of a recent report from Fitch Ratings about states' pension liabilities compared to personal income and Illinois has the second worst. He gets reaction from state Rep. Blaine Wilhour and state Sen. Robert Martwick. Greg Bishop reviews some of a recent report from Fitch Ratings about states' pension liabilities compared to personal income and Illinois has the second worst. He gets reaction from state Rep. Blaine Wilhour and state Sen. Robert Martwick. false full 414 5f0dfe32-b781-4a1e-a678-2df8d9474146 Weekend Edition | IL Legislators Adjourn Veto Session as Some Warn About ‘Risky Lame Duck’ Sat, 23 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | IL Legislators Adjourn Veto Session as Some Warn About ‘Risky Lame Duck’ The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois legislators are done for the year, but they’ll be back in early January before the new General Assembly is seated. Republicans are issuing warnings. There were no vetoes to override during veto session the past two weeks. That didn’t prevent legislators from passing several bills that were gutted and replaced with other measures. Wednesday, state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, carried a bill impacting various state statutes, including unemployment insurance. “This is agreed by business and labor and I think it’s very important that we do in order to avoid an increase in taxes on employers and a decrease in benefits to employees,” Hoffman said. Illinois legislators are done for the year, but they’ll be back in early January before the new General Assembly is seated. Republicans are issuing warnings. There were no vetoes to override during veto session the past two weeks. That didn’t prevent legislators from passing several bills that were gutted and replaced with other measures. Wednesday, state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, carried a bill impacting various state statutes, including unemployment insurance. “This is agreed by business and labor and I think it’s very important that we do in order to avoid an increase in taxes on employers and a decrease in benefits to employees,” Hoffman said. false full 412 baca7db2-a5bb-4001-887d-055d9de306c1 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 22nd, 2024 - Familiar Names and Voices Continue to Arise During Madigan Corruption Trial Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about the latest in the corruption case against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 22 Nov 2024 19:27:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about the latest in the corruption case against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 22nd, 2024 - Familiar Names and Voices Continue to Arise During Madigan Corruption Trial The Center Square 00:48:29 Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about the latest in the corruption case against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about the latest in the corruption case against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. false full 413 0e6890a2-7512-4ae8-92bd-a9f27c96dd4c Illinois in Focus Daily | November 21st, 2024 - What Is Happening at the Illinois State Capitol This Week? Greg Bishop reviews Wednesday's action at the Illinois General Assembly as legislators continue with fall veto session.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 21 Nov 2024 17:46:27 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews Wednesday's action at the Illinois General Assembly as legislators continue with fall veto session.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 21st, 2024 - What Is Happening at the Illinois State Capitol This Week? The Center Square 00:30:04 Greg Bishop reviews Wednesday's action at the Illinois General Assembly as legislators continue with fall veto session. Greg Bishop reviews Wednesday's action at the Illinois General Assembly as legislators continue with fall veto session. false full 411 0ab661b1-7ba3-4bce-b6cb-ccab7baeea4c Illinois in Focus Daily | November 20th, 2024 - What’s Coming up at the Illinois Statehouse Wednesday? Greg BIshop previews some of the stories expected Wednesday at the Illinois Statehouse. Get updates at thecentersquare.com/illinois

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:02:16 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg BIshop previews some of the stories expected Wednesday at the Illinois Statehouse. Get updates at thecentersquare.com/illinois

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 20th, 2024 - What’s Coming up at the Illinois Statehouse Wednesday? The Center Square 00:25:27 Greg BIshop previews some of the stories expected Wednesday at the Illinois Statehouse. Get updates at thecentersquare.com/illinois Greg BIshop previews some of the stories expected Wednesday at the Illinois Statehouse. Get updates at thecentersquare.com/illinois false full 410 5aa917a3-c926-4ac7-a17f-ac0e954bc440 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 19th, 2024 - Despite His Own Migrant Disaster Proclamations, Pritzker Call’s Trump’s ‘Unconstitutional' Greg Bishop reviews Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's recent reaction to President-elect Donald Trump confirming he plans to issue a national emergency declaration to assist in his planned mass deportation operation.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 19 Nov 2024 16:28:05 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's recent reaction to President-elect Donald Trump confirming he plans to issue a national emergency declaration to assist in his planned mass deportation operation.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 19th, 2024 - Despite His Own Migrant Disaster Proclamations, Pritzker Call’s Trump’s ‘Unconstitutional' The Center Square 00:34:25 Greg Bishop reviews Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's recent reaction to President-elect Donald Trump confirming he plans to issue a national emergency declaration to assist in his planned mass deportation operation. Greg Bishop reviews Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's recent reaction to President-elect Donald Trump confirming he plans to issue a national emergency declaration to assist in his planned mass deportation operation. false full 409 246728d1-d4f4-4514-a1e7-167b2100b6af Illinois in Focus Daily | November 18th, 2024 - Trump’s Cabinet Picks Continue Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Casey Harper about President-Elect Donald Trump's latest cabinet picks.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 18 Nov 2024 17:07:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Casey Harper about President-Elect Donald Trump's latest cabinet picks.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 18th, 2024 - Trump’s Cabinet Picks Continue The Center Square 00:30:29 Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Casey Harper about President-Elect Donald Trump's latest cabinet picks. Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Casey Harper about President-Elect Donald Trump's latest cabinet picks. false full 408 5b38e552-b084-4777-a70a-07fdf3578945 Weekend Edition | Pritzker Adamant on Appealing Judge’s Ruling Against Illinois’ Gun Ban Sat, 16 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker Adamant on Appealing Judge’s Ruling Against Illinois’ Gun Ban The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is adamant the state must appeal a federal judge’s ruling that its gun and magazine ban is unconstitutional. On the House floor Tuesday, state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, said the state’s gun ban was deemed unconstitutional by Southern District of Illinois federal Judge Stephen McGlynn. He said the Pritzker administration needs to drop the appeal. “We’re going to spend a lot of time and a lot of money fighting against a law that is blatantly unconstitutional,” Caulkins said. “We’ve spent millions of dollars fighting against this law that you know, we know and now a judge has said is unconstitutional.” Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is adamant the state must appeal a federal judge’s ruling that its gun and magazine ban is unconstitutional. On the House floor Tuesday, state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, said the state’s gun ban was deemed unconstitutional by Southern District of Illinois federal Judge Stephen McGlynn. He said the Pritzker administration needs to drop the appeal. “We’re going to spend a lot of time and a lot of money fighting against a law that is blatantly unconstitutional,” Caulkins said. “We’ve spent millions of dollars fighting against this law that you know, we know and now a judge has said is unconstitutional.” false full 406 2c5fbe08-22bb-4484-b5f9-ca17e2f39bc6 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 15th, 2024 - Delay Granted in Appeal of Ruling Against Illinois’ Concealed Carry Mass Transit Prohibition Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest in several cases challenging Illinois gun laws, including the status of the state’s gun ban, the status of the challenge to the prohibition of concealed carry on mass transit, the appeal in the case challenging the state’s Firearm Owner’s ID card and the city of Chicago’s case against Glock.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 15 Nov 2024 18:19:14 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest in several cases challenging Illinois gun laws, including the status of the state’s gun ban, the status of the challenge to the prohibition of concealed carry on mass transit, the appeal in the case challenging the state’s Firearm Owner’s ID card and the city of Chicago’s case against Glock.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 15th, 2024 - Delay Granted in Appeal of Ruling Against Illinois’ Concealed Carry Mass Transit Prohibition The Center Square 00:41:21 Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest in several cases challenging Illinois gun laws, including the status of the state’s gun ban, the status of the challenge to the prohibition of concealed carry on mass transit, the appeal in the case challenging the state’s Firearm Owner’s ID card and the city of Chicago’s case against Glock. Greg Bishop reviews some of the latest in several cases challenging Illinois gun laws, including the status of the state’s gun ban, the status of the challenge to the prohibition of concealed carry on mass transit, the appeal in the case challenging the state’s Firearm Owner’s ID card and the city of Chicago’s case against Glock. false full 407 a3528916-0973-422e-8d06-20e5a5b84170 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 14th, 2024 - Pritzker on Gun Ban Ruling, Incoming Trump Admin and More Greg Bishop reviews some of the questions Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker fielded Wednesday at an event in Springfield.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 14 Nov 2024 16:23:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the questions Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker fielded Wednesday at an event in Springfield.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 14th, 2024 - Pritzker on Gun Ban Ruling, Incoming Trump Admin and More The Center Square 00:34:22 Greg Bishop reviews some of the questions Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker fielded Wednesday at an event in Springfield. Greg Bishop reviews some of the questions Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker fielded Wednesday at an event in Springfield. false full 405 906a5909-f2c0-447e-b33e-ea0824a064b4 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 13th, 2024 - Illinois AG Vows to Appeal Ruling State’s Gun Ban Is Unconstitutional Greg Bishop reviews the latests comments around litigation against gun control laws in Illinois, including moments from an appeals court on Cook County's gun ban and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul vowing to appeal a district court's ruling the state's ban is unconstitutional.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 13 Nov 2024 16:43:38 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latests comments around litigation against gun control laws in Illinois, including moments from an appeals court on Cook County's gun ban and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul vowing to appeal a district court's ruling the state's ban is unconstitutional.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 13th, 2024 - Illinois AG Vows to Appeal Ruling State’s Gun Ban Is Unconstitutional The Center Square 00:30:10 Greg Bishop reviews the latests comments around litigation against gun control laws in Illinois, including moments from an appeals court on Cook County's gun ban and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul vowing to appeal a district court's ruling the state's ban is unconstitutional. Greg Bishop reviews the latests comments around litigation against gun control laws in Illinois, including moments from an appeals court on Cook County's gun ban and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul vowing to appeal a district court's ruling the state's ban is unconstitutional. false full 404 a3c5267d-5304-4bf5-91ff-ae4ecd6abc9f Illinois in Focus Daily | November 12th, 2024 - Illinois Files Notice of Appeal of Ruling State’s Gun Ban Is Unconstitutional Greg Bishop reviews some of the ruling out of the Southern District of Illinois federal court that Illinois' gun and magazine ban is unconstitutional. Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois' Dan Eldridge shares comments on the ruling and what happens next.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 12 Nov 2024 15:57:40 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the ruling out of the Southern District of Illinois federal court that Illinois' gun and magazine ban is unconstitutional. Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois' Dan Eldridge shares comments on the ruling and what happens next.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 12th, 2024 - Illinois Files Notice of Appeal of Ruling State’s Gun Ban Is Unconstitutional The Center Square 00:40:27 Greg Bishop reviews some of the ruling out of the Southern District of Illinois federal court that Illinois' gun and magazine ban is unconstitutional. Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois' Dan Eldridge shares comments on the ruling and what happens next. Greg Bishop reviews some of the ruling out of the Southern District of Illinois federal court that Illinois' gun and magazine ban is unconstitutional. Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois' Dan Eldridge shares comments on the ruling and what happens next. false full 403 e42b7481-80e5-48f6-825d-da7a72b0bdc6 Weekend Edition | Pritzker Reacts to Trump Election, Won’t Share Political Aspirations Sat, 9 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker Reacts to Trump Election, Won’t Share Political Aspirations The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he’s disappointed in Tuesday’s election outcome with Donald Trump retaking the White House, but he is prepared for what may come. While Illinois went to Vice President Kamala Harris 53% to 45%, Trump did win most of the state’s counties. Regardless, Trump swept swing states and captured the necessary Electoral College votes and the popular vote. Republicans also captured the U.S. Senate and are predicted to hold onto the House, with several dozen races still to be decided nationwide. “Donald Trump will be our next president. He won the election and we must all be willing to work together for the common good,” Pritzker said Thursday. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he’s disappointed in Tuesday’s election outcome with Donald Trump retaking the White House, but he is prepared for what may come. While Illinois went to Vice President Kamala Harris 53% to 45%, Trump did win most of the state’s counties. Regardless, Trump swept swing states and captured the necessary Electoral College votes and the popular vote. Republicans also captured the U.S. Senate and are predicted to hold onto the House, with several dozen races still to be decided nationwide. “Donald Trump will be our next president. He won the election and we must all be willing to work together for the common good,” Pritzker said Thursday. false full 401 0a6d4af1-3d19-4d7a-8b0d-34cae172d060 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 8th, 2024 - Trump, Illinois Agendas Could Clash With Tax Funds Involved Fri, 8 Nov 2024 15:41:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | November 8th, 2024 - Trump, Illinois Agendas Could Clash With Tax Funds Involved The Center Square 00:33:15 Illinois could be at the center of conflicting agendas under a Trump presidency and Democrat-controlled state. With a Trump administration looking to end sanctuary city policies nationwide, Illinois could be ground zero in the fight. Illinois law prohibits local and state police from assisting federal agencies in enforcing federal immigration law. The state also uses taxpayer funds to subsidize health care coverage for non-citizens, something that has cost taxpayers more than $1 billion. Costs are expected to continue. Illinois could be at the center of conflicting agendas under a Trump presidency and Democrat-controlled state. With a Trump administration looking to end sanctuary city policies nationwide, Illinois could be ground zero in the fight. Illinois law prohibits local and state police from assisting federal agencies in enforcing federal immigration law. The state also uses taxpayer funds to subsidize health care coverage for non-citizens, something that has cost taxpayers more than $1 billion. Costs are expected to continue. false full 402 26a92e45-3f22-4b24-8275-79e2919fab3d Illinois in Focus Daily | November 7th, 2024 - Illinois Legislators Discuss Trump Effect on Policy, Politics Greg Bishop shares separate conversations with Illinois state Reps. Adam Niemerg, R-Dieterich, and La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, about the election of former President Donald Trump to be the next Commander in Chief.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 7 Nov 2024 16:37:48 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares separate conversations with Illinois state Reps. Adam Niemerg, R-Dieterich, and La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, about the election of former President Donald Trump to be the next Commander in Chief.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 7th, 2024 - Illinois Legislators Discuss Trump Effect on Policy, Politics The Center Square 00:32:37 Greg Bishop shares separate conversations with Illinois state Reps. Adam Niemerg, R-Dieterich, and La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, about the election of former President Donald Trump to be the next Commander in Chief. Greg Bishop shares separate conversations with Illinois state Reps. Adam Niemerg, R-Dieterich, and La Shawn Ford, D-Chicago, about the election of former President Donald Trump to be the next Commander in Chief. false full 400 ac1f8bd2-e5af-4d9e-ab06-079fdacfe488 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 6th, 2024 - Trump Declared President-Elect Greg Bishop reviews some of the numbers from Tuesday's General Election where former President Donald Trump made history by being the second former President to win two nonconsecutive terms to the White House.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 6 Nov 2024 14:59:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the numbers from Tuesday's General Election where former President Donald Trump made history by being the second former President to win two nonconsecutive terms to the White House.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 6th, 2024 - Trump Declared President-Elect The Center Square 00:31:15 Greg Bishop reviews some of the numbers from Tuesday's General Election where former President Donald Trump made history by being the second former President to win two nonconsecutive terms to the White House. Greg Bishop reviews some of the numbers from Tuesday's General Election where former President Donald Trump made history by being the second former President to win two nonconsecutive terms to the White House. false full 399 09bf7751-2dc8-45b9-8658-81ac4a28598c Illinois in Focus Daily | November 5th, 2024 - Election Day Across America Tue, 5 Nov 2024 15:52:26 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | November 5th, 2024 - Election Day Across America The Center Square 00:42:11 Polls are now open across the country as voters decide who the next president of United States will be. Also at stake on ballots across the U.S. is control of Congress: which party will win majorities in the U.S. House and Senate. Heading into Election Day, the race between Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican former President Donald Trump remains extremely close, according to polling. Polls are now open across the country as voters decide who the next president of United States will be. Also at stake on ballots across the U.S. is control of Congress: which party will win majorities in the U.S. House and Senate. Heading into Election Day, the race between Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican former President Donald Trump remains extremely close, according to polling. false full 398 0b0433a9-2293-4c40-8164-0d14c2b0e207 Illinois in Focus Daily | November 4th, 2024 - More Than 2.1 Million Illinois Voters Have Already Cast Their Ballots Greg Bishop reviews the latest early voting totals from the Illinois State Board of Elections and reviews several nonbinding referendum the state's voters are being asked to sound off on.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 4 Nov 2024 17:33:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest early voting totals from the Illinois State Board of Elections and reviews several nonbinding referendum the state's voters are being asked to sound off on.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 4th, 2024 - More Than 2.1 Million Illinois Voters Have Already Cast Their Ballots The Center Square 00:25:22 Greg Bishop reviews the latest early voting totals from the Illinois State Board of Elections and reviews several nonbinding referendum the state's voters are being asked to sound off on. Greg Bishop reviews the latest early voting totals from the Illinois State Board of Elections and reviews several nonbinding referendum the state's voters are being asked to sound off on. false full 397 9bf220a8-88f8-4723-b864-1690fb104580 Weekend Edition | Voter Confidence Rattled After Voting Machines Malfunction Across Illinois Sat, 2 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Voter Confidence Rattled After Voting Machines Malfunction Across Illinois The Center Square 00:24:00 Voter confidence has been shaken with voting machines malfunctioning in several Illinois jurisdictions. In McLean County, 34 ballots were placed in what the County Clerk Kathy Michael called “an emergency bin,” which is located underneath the voting machine used to tabulate ballots. At the Eastland Mall, an early voting location, the machine “glitched” for 30 minutes. Affected voter Wayne Henrichs called the clerk's office after putting his ballot in the bin and was connected with an assistant county clerk. “She indicated that they [the ballots in the emergency bin] are considered mail in ballots and they will be counted on election day rather than being counted early,” said Henrichs. Voter confidence has been shaken with voting machines malfunctioning in several Illinois jurisdictions. In McLean County, 34 ballots were placed in what the County Clerk Kathy Michael called “an emergency bin,” which is located underneath the voting machine used to tabulate ballots. At the Eastland Mall, an early voting location, the machine “glitched” for 30 minutes. Affected voter Wayne Henrichs called the clerk's office after putting his ballot in the bin and was connected with an assistant county clerk. “She indicated that they [the ballots in the emergency bin] are considered mail in ballots and they will be counted on election day rather than being counted early,” said Henrichs. false full 395 5bfcac85-7df1-454e-81eb-184c6634b3fe Illinois in Focus Daily | November 1st, 2024 - Testimony Highlights Madigan’s Influence in Getting Do-Nothing Jobs for Associates Greg Bishop talks with Jim Talamonti about this past week's testimony in the case charging former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and codefendant Michael McClain with corruption.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 1 Nov 2024 18:46:23 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks with Jim Talamonti about this past week's testimony in the case charging former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and codefendant Michael McClain with corruption.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | November 1st, 2024 - Testimony Highlights Madigan’s Influence in Getting Do-Nothing Jobs for Associates The Center Square 00:44:12 Greg Bishop talks with Jim Talamonti about this past week's testimony in the case charging former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and codefendant Michael McClain with corruption. Greg Bishop talks with Jim Talamonti about this past week's testimony in the case charging former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and codefendant Michael McClain with corruption. false full 396 eecc7ae4-44b7-4760-bbfa-c8b24799913e Illinois in Focus Daily | October 31st, 2024 - Pritzker Says Biden’s ‘Garbage’ Comment Misunderstood; Trump Answers Questions From Garbage Truck Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker reacting to political rhetoric from President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 31 Oct 2024 16:47:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker reacting to political rhetoric from President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 31st, 2024 - Pritzker Says Biden’s ‘Garbage’ Comment Misunderstood; Trump Answers Questions From Garbage Truck The Center Square 00:33:19 Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker reacting to political rhetoric from President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker reacting to political rhetoric from President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. false full 394 89e98f9e-53b0-446f-8c40-a2036f83c926 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 30th, 2024 - Group Lays Out Plan to Make ‘New Illinois’ State Greg Bishop shares a conversation with New Illinois Chairman G.H. Merrit about ballot questions on several county ballots across Illinois and the path she sees of making "New Illinois" a new state out of Illinois that excludes Cook County and Chicago.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 30 Oct 2024 15:59:48 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares a conversation with New Illinois Chairman G.H. Merrit about ballot questions on several county ballots across Illinois and the path she sees of making "New Illinois" a new state out of Illinois that excludes Cook County and Chicago.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 30th, 2024 - Group Lays Out Plan to Make ‘New Illinois’ State The Center Square 00:36:24 Greg Bishop shares a conversation with New Illinois Chairman G.H. Merrit about ballot questions on several county ballots across Illinois and the path she sees of making "New Illinois" a new state out of Illinois that excludes Cook County and Chicago. Greg Bishop shares a conversation with New Illinois Chairman G.H. Merrit about ballot questions on several county ballots across Illinois and the path she sees of making "New Illinois" a new state out of Illinois that excludes Cook County and Chicago. false full 393 c2cc3db8-dba7-4ddc-9cad-3e8568816a90 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 29th, 2024 - Pritzker Reacts to Trump’s Promise of Deporting Violent Non-citizen Migrants Greg Bishop reviews comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker following former President Donald Trump's Madison Square Garden rally and calls for mass deportation of violent non-citizen migrants.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 29 Oct 2024 15:02:36 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker following former President Donald Trump's Madison Square Garden rally and calls for mass deportation of violent non-citizen migrants.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 29th, 2024 - Pritzker Reacts to Trump’s Promise of Deporting Violent Non-citizen Migrants The Center Square 00:23:06 Greg Bishop reviews comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker following former President Donald Trump's Madison Square Garden rally and calls for mass deportation of violent non-citizen migrants. Greg Bishop reviews comments from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker following former President Donald Trump's Madison Square Garden rally and calls for mass deportation of violent non-citizen migrants. false full 392 c0576c0f-83bb-4c99-bd1b-abae9bc30d44 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 28th, 2024 - Prosecutors Release More Audio in Corruption Trial Against Former Illinois House Speaker Greg Bishop reviews some of the recently released audio at the center of the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and codefendant Michael McClain.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 28 Oct 2024 16:30:26 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the recently released audio at the center of the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and codefendant Michael McClain.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 28th, 2024 - Prosecutors Release More Audio in Corruption Trial Against Former Illinois House Speaker The Center Square 00:33:12 Greg Bishop reviews some of the recently released audio at the center of the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and codefendant Michael McClain. Greg Bishop reviews some of the recently released audio at the center of the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and codefendant Michael McClain. false full 391 e8802188-7c5e-42ea-92cf-31534b6b5fa8 Weekend Edition | Prosecutors Play Wiretaps Displaying Former Illinois House Speaker’s Power Sat, 26 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Prosecutors Play Wiretaps Displaying Former Illinois House Speaker’s Power The Center Square 00:24:00 Wiretapped conversations have taken center stage at the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. Prosecutors played a series of recordings during testimony from FBI Special Agent Ryan McDonald Thursday afternoon. McDonald said he had been working on the Madigan investigation since 2014. He also said that the COVID-19 pandemic caused delays for investigators. Wiretapped conversations have taken center stage at the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. Prosecutors played a series of recordings during testimony from FBI Special Agent Ryan McDonald Thursday afternoon. McDonald said he had been working on the Madigan investigation since 2014. He also said that the COVID-19 pandemic caused delays for investigators. false full 389 c09f2307-e878-4190-97ff-3a972fd15995 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 25th, 2024 - Prosecutors Play Wiretaps Displaying Former Illinois House Speaker’s Power Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about his coverage of the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 25 Oct 2024 15:13:13 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about his coverage of the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 25th, 2024 - Prosecutors Play Wiretaps Displaying Former Illinois House Speaker’s Power The Center Square 00:23:33 Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about his coverage of the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about his coverage of the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. false full 390 8cf6ed0a-4e92-4ca0-9e9e-674239af4ee9 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 24th, 2024 - IL State Rifle Assoc. Offers Free Lessons to Former Congressman After Shrapnel Incident Greg Bishop reviews the statement from the Illinois State Rifle Association reacting to a shooting incident involving former Illinois Republican U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger at a Democratic Missouri U.S. senate candidate's event where a fired bullet sent shrapnel, injuring a local reporter.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 24 Oct 2024 16:44:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the statement from the Illinois State Rifle Association reacting to a shooting incident involving former Illinois Republican U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger at a Democratic Missouri U.S. senate candidate's event where a fired bullet sent shrapnel, injuring a local reporter.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 24th, 2024 - IL State Rifle Assoc. Offers Free Lessons to Former Congressman After Shrapnel Incident The Center Square 00:33:19 Greg Bishop reviews the statement from the Illinois State Rifle Association reacting to a shooting incident involving former Illinois Republican U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger at a Democratic Missouri U.S. senate candidate's event where a fired bullet sent shrapnel, injuring a local reporter. Greg Bishop reviews the statement from the Illinois State Rifle Association reacting to a shooting incident involving former Illinois Republican U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger at a Democratic Missouri U.S. senate candidate's event where a fired bullet sent shrapnel, injuring a local reporter. false full 388 74544b68-8a0a-4c07-9a5b-0fe6ea3f42d7 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 23rd, 2024 - Witness Testimony Continues in Corruption Trial of Former Illinois House Speaker Wed, 23 Oct 2024 18:34:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | October 23rd, 2024 - Witness Testimony Continues in Corruption Trial of Former Illinois House Speaker The Center Square 00:37:22 Witness testimony has resumed in the bribery and racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. Former State Rep. Scott Drury, D-Highwood, returned to the stand for additional cross-examination Wednesday morning after beginning his testimony on Tuesday. Drury and Madigan defense attorney Todd Pugh had several combative exchanges over a variety of issues. U.S. government prosecutor Amarjeet Bhachu said the prosecution planned to call utility company executive Scott Vogt next, followed by former State Rep, Lou Lang, D-Skokie. Lang was on Madigan's leadership team before stepping down in 2019 amid harassment allegations. Witness testimony has resumed in the bribery and racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. Former State Rep. Scott Drury, D-Highwood, returned to the stand for additional cross-examination Wednesday morning after beginning his testimony on Tuesday. Drury and Madigan defense attorney Todd Pugh had several combative exchanges over a variety of issues. U.S. government prosecutor Amarjeet Bhachu said the prosecution planned to call utility company executive Scott Vogt next, followed by former State Rep, Lou Lang, D-Skokie. Lang was on Madigan's leadership team before stepping down in 2019 amid harassment allegations. false full 387 983f6c63-437f-48ba-b140-2b071531e9c0 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 21st, 2024 - Opening Statements Set to Begin in Madigan Corruption Trial Mon, 21 Oct 2024 21:14:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | October 21st, 2024 - Opening Statements Set to Begin in Madigan Corruption Trial The Center Square 00:25:09 Prosecutors and defense attorneys selected a jury along with six alternates on Monday before breaking for lunch, making way for opening arguments to begin this afternoon in the high-profile corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Madigan appeared in court Monday with his legal team. He also had some supporters in the gallery. His daughter, former Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, and wife, Shirley. Prosecutors and defense attorneys selected a jury along with six alternates on Monday before breaking for lunch, making way for opening arguments to begin this afternoon in the high-profile corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Madigan appeared in court Monday with his legal team. He also had some supporters in the gallery. His daughter, former Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, and wife, Shirley. false full 386 8437655d-f8d9-4100-8b85-634326e84d85 Weekend Edition | Ruling on Illinois’ Gun Ban Expected Sometime After Monday Sat, 19 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Ruling on Illinois’ Gun Ban Expected Sometime After Monday The Center Square 00:24:00 A ruling on whether Illinois’ gun and magazine ban is unconstitutional is expected to come sometime after Monday. Illinois banned the sale and possession of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities during lame duck session of the Illinois General Assembly in January 2023. Federal lawsuits were then filed against the law. Southern District of Illinois federal Judge Stephen McGlynn gave litigants in the consolidated case a month to file final briefs when he wrapped up the four-day bench trial last month. He closed out the trial in East St. Louis, questioning what would have been different from the 1917 race riot in that city if the Black victims were able to protect themselves with the very firearms being debated. A ruling on whether Illinois’ gun and magazine ban is unconstitutional is expected to come sometime after Monday. Illinois banned the sale and possession of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities during lame duck session of the Illinois General Assembly in January 2023. Federal lawsuits were then filed against the law. Southern District of Illinois federal Judge Stephen McGlynn gave litigants in the consolidated case a month to file final briefs when he wrapped up the four-day bench trial last month. He closed out the trial in East St. Louis, questioning what would have been different from the 1917 race riot in that city if the Black victims were able to protect themselves with the very firearms being debated. false full 384 d33b7d50-ef5f-4128-bd90-f361f227b8fd Illinois in Focus Daily | October 18th, 2024 - Jury for Madigan Corruption Trial Forming With Opening Statements Expected Monday Afternoon Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Jim Talamonti about the jury for former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's corruption trial and the expectation for opening statements Monday afternoon.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 18 Oct 2024 17:14:50 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Jim Talamonti about the jury for former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's corruption trial and the expectation for opening statements Monday afternoon.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 18th, 2024 - Jury for Madigan Corruption Trial Forming With Opening Statements Expected Monday Afternoon The Center Square 00:33:45 Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Jim Talamonti about the jury for former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's corruption trial and the expectation for opening statements Monday afternoon. Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square's Jim Talamonti about the jury for former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's corruption trial and the expectation for opening statements Monday afternoon. false full 385 66f6c3ab-4434-4b59-9621-38a9b892d23e Illinois in Focus Daily | October 17th, 2024 - Gun Stores Expect Different Impacts From Potential Ruling Against Illinois’ Ban Thu, 17 Oct 2024 13:26:40 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | October 17th, 2024 - Gun Stores Expect Different Impacts From Potential Ruling Against Illinois’ Ban The Center Square 00:09:15 Gun stores across Illinois are preparing for the possible outcome of a federal court striking down the state’s gun and magazine ban. Sometime after Oct. 20, Southern District of Illinois federal Judge Stephen McGlynn could rule on the consolidated case challenging the ban. Some expect he will issue a permanent injunction. This could be his second strike against the law. On preliminary grounds last year, McGlynn issued an injunction that lasted six days before the appeals court put a hold on his order. The appeals court eventually overturned the preliminary injunction and remanded the case to McGlynn’s court to get a final judgment. A bench trial on the case wrapped up Sept. 20. McGlynn gave both sides 30 days to filed final briefs on the issues. Gun stores across Illinois are preparing for the possible outcome of a federal court striking down the state’s gun and magazine ban. Sometime after Oct. 20, Southern District of Illinois federal Judge Stephen McGlynn could rule on the consolidated case challenging the ban. Some expect he will issue a permanent injunction. This could be his second strike against the law. On preliminary grounds last year, McGlynn issued an injunction that lasted six days before the appeals court put a hold on his order. The appeals court eventually overturned the preliminary injunction and remanded the case to McGlynn’s court to get a final judgment. A bench trial on the case wrapped up Sept. 20. McGlynn gave both sides 30 days to filed final briefs on the issues. false full 383 a8ff79a7-54b5-4d69-9456-8badb4198d3b Illinois in Focus Daily | October 16th, 2024 - Illinois Gun Store Prepares for Another Possible Gun Ban Injunction Greg Bishop shares conversations he had with Nicole from GAT Guns in East Dundee about being prepared for another possible injunction against Illinois' gun ban. ‪@WashingtonGunLaw‬ host William Kirk shares some of his thoughts on the importance of representation and the trajectory of the gun ban case.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 16 Oct 2024 15:13:42 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares conversations he had with Nicole from GAT Guns in East Dundee about being prepared for another possible injunction against Illinois' gun ban. ‪@WashingtonGunLaw‬ host William Kirk shares some of his thoughts on the importance of representation and the trajectory of the gun ban case.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 16th, 2024 - Illinois Gun Store Prepares for Another Possible Gun Ban Injunction The Center Square 00:28:29 Greg Bishop shares conversations he had with Nicole from GAT Guns in East Dundee about being prepared for another possible injunction against Illinois' gun ban. ‪@WashingtonGunLaw‬ host William Kirk shares some of his thoughts on the importance of representation and the trajectory of the gun ban case. Greg Bishop shares conversations he had with Nicole from GAT Guns in East Dundee about being prepared for another possible injunction against Illinois' gun ban. ‪@WashingtonGunLaw‬ host William Kirk shares some of his thoughts on the importance of representation and the trajectory of the gun ban case. false full 382 5110bbaa-ff10-4c94-93ff-e71e9d4181fe Illinois in Focus Daily | October 15th, 2024 - Gun rights group calls proposed Illinois 'safe storage,' lost and stolen enhancements a 'hot mess' Tue, 15 Oct 2024 12:52:32 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | October 15th, 2024 - Gun rights group calls proposed Illinois 'safe storage,' lost and stolen enhancements a 'hot mess' The Center Square 00:15:20 Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association's Ed Sullivan about proposed legislation from gun control groups to enhance safe storage of firearms and lost and stolen reporting requirements. Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association's Ed Sullivan about proposed legislation from gun control groups to enhance safe storage of firearms and lost and stolen reporting requirements. false full 381 b3ce463d-fded-4ee6-8e30-be5f203751c2 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 14th, 2024 - Database: At Least 418 Illinois Youth Have Had Gender Transition Since 2019 Mon, 14 Oct 2024 17:49:33 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | October 14th, 2024 - Database: At Least 418 Illinois Youth Have Had Gender Transition Since 2019 The Center Square 00:35:20 A newly released database of gender transition procedures on children reveals at least 418 patients in Illinois received such treatment since 2019. Billing to insurance companies totaled at least $644,000. The Stop The Harm Database from the national group Do No Harm analyzed billing codes from insurance companies in regards to gender transition and youth. Nationwide, they found nearly 14,000 minors underwent sex change treatments. Of that, more than a third had surgeries and more than half had hormones or puberty blockers for a total of $120 million in submitted charges. A newly released database of gender transition procedures on children reveals at least 418 patients in Illinois received such treatment since 2019. Billing to insurance companies totaled at least $644,000. The Stop The Harm Database from the national group Do No Harm analyzed billing codes from insurance companies in regards to gender transition and youth. Nationwide, they found nearly 14,000 minors underwent sex change treatments. Of that, more than a third had surgeries and more than half had hormones or puberty blockers for a total of $120 million in submitted charges. false full 380 8407401c-a1cd-4d04-990f-47307a8ad0f7 Weekend Edition | Quinn Continues ‘Millionaire Surcharge’ Push for Illinois Property Tax Relief Sat, 12 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Quinn Continues ‘Millionaire Surcharge’ Push for Illinois Property Tax Relief The Center Square 00:24:00 Former Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn continues to push for voters to approve a non-binding question on the Nov. 5 ballot to bring about a “millionaire surcharge.” Illinoisans pay the second highest property taxes in the United States, according to multiple nationwide surveys. The total amount paid annually by Illinois property tax payers is $23.2 billion, according to Quinn. With early voting ongoing, one of the advisory questions voters are being asked is whether those making more than $1 million should be taxed an additional 3% to pay for a fund for property tax relief. “The unfortunate thing is there’s no money in the property tax relief trust fund,” Quinn told reporters at a news conference in Springfield on Wednesday. “It has never been appropriated any money to give out these annual rebates.” Former Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn continues to push for voters to approve a non-binding question on the Nov. 5 ballot to bring about a “millionaire surcharge.” Illinoisans pay the second highest property taxes in the United States, according to multiple nationwide surveys. The total amount paid annually by Illinois property tax payers is $23.2 billion, according to Quinn. With early voting ongoing, one of the advisory questions voters are being asked is whether those making more than $1 million should be taxed an additional 3% to pay for a fund for property tax relief. “The unfortunate thing is there’s no money in the property tax relief trust fund,” Quinn told reporters at a news conference in Springfield on Wednesday. “It has never been appropriated any money to give out these annual rebates.” false full 378 752b7b86-6b0c-4608-9e38-ed01d7d5f664 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 11th, 2024 - Madigan Trial Reporter Discusses Ongoing Jury Selection in Historic Corruption Case Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about the first week of coverage of the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 11 Oct 2024 20:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about the first week of coverage of the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 11th, 2024 - Madigan Trial Reporter Discusses Ongoing Jury Selection in Historic Corruption Case The Center Square 00:45:48 Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about the first week of coverage of the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Greg Bishop talks with The Center Square reporter Jim Talamonti about the first week of coverage of the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. false full 379 a77eda59-524c-453d-a8f4-cce960e6f3d9 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 10th, 2024 - Madigan Jury Being Selected as Corruption Case Continues in Chicago Greg Bishop reviews the latest update from Wednesday's court session in the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan where prosecutors and defense questioned potential jurors. Jury selection continues Thursday. Former Gov. Pat Quinn shared some of his thoughts on the ordeal.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 11 Oct 2024 13:50:21 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest update from Wednesday's court session in the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan where prosecutors and defense questioned potential jurors. Jury selection continues Thursday. Former Gov. Pat Quinn shared some of his thoughts on the ordeal.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 10th, 2024 - Madigan Jury Being Selected as Corruption Case Continues in Chicago The Center Square 00:37:07 Greg Bishop reviews the latest update from Wednesday's court session in the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan where prosecutors and defense questioned potential jurors. Jury selection continues Thursday. Former Gov. Pat Quinn shared some of his thoughts on the ordeal. Greg Bishop reviews the latest update from Wednesday's court session in the corruption trial against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan where prosecutors and defense questioned potential jurors. Jury selection continues Thursday. Former Gov. Pat Quinn shared some of his thoughts on the ordeal. false full 377 104be2e0-ce8a-4abb-94e8-d04ec87e41a3 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 9th, 2024 - Potential Jurors Report for Madigan Trial, Attorneys Appear in Court Wed, 9 Oct 2024 14:33:01 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | October 9th, 2024 - Potential Jurors Report for Madigan Trial, Attorneys Appear in Court The Center Square 00:34:36 Jury selection is scheduled to begin Wednesday morning in the bribery and racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Potential jurors reported to court Tuesday morning and filled out questionnaires. United States of America v. Madigan et al is being held at the Everett McKinley Dirksen United States Courthouse in Chicago. Attorneys appeared in Courtroom 1203 on Tuesday afternoon to discuss pretrial issues after a schedule change. Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain did not appear in court Tuesday, but both are expected to be in Courtroom 1203 on Wednesday morning. Jury selection is scheduled to begin Wednesday morning in the bribery and racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Potential jurors reported to court Tuesday morning and filled out questionnaires. United States of America v. Madigan et al is being held at the Everett McKinley Dirksen United States Courthouse in Chicago. Attorneys appeared in Courtroom 1203 on Tuesday afternoon to discuss pretrial issues after a schedule change. Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain did not appear in court Tuesday, but both are expected to be in Courtroom 1203 on Wednesday morning. false full 376 5e01a510-2d42-4142-819b-db583ecd17c5 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 8th, 2024 - Jury Selection Set to Begin in Corruption Trial of Former Illinois House Speaker Tue, 8 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | October 8th, 2024 - Jury Selection Set to Begin in Corruption Trial of Former Illinois House Speaker The Center Square 00:11:30 Tuesday is Day One of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's and co-defendant Michael McClain’s trial on racketeering and bribery charges. U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois John Lausch announced a federal jury’s indictment of Madigan on March 2, 2022. “The indictment accuses Madigan of leading, for nearly a decade, a criminal enterprise whose purpose was to enhance Madigan’s political power and financial well-being while also generating income for his political allies and associates,” Lausch stated. Illinois state Sen. Andrew Chesney, R-Freeport, issued a statement before the upcoming trial. Tuesday is Day One of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's and co-defendant Michael McClain’s trial on racketeering and bribery charges. U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois John Lausch announced a federal jury’s indictment of Madigan on March 2, 2022. “The indictment accuses Madigan of leading, for nearly a decade, a criminal enterprise whose purpose was to enhance Madigan’s political power and financial well-being while also generating income for his political allies and associates,” Lausch stated. Illinois state Sen. Andrew Chesney, R-Freeport, issued a statement before the upcoming trial. false full 375 918f12b2-d2db-4495-9f49-0f23e0fc0005 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 7th, 2024 - Federal Agency Files Against Illinois’ Swipe Fee Prohibition for Tax and Tips Tue, 8 Oct 2024 12:36:51 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | October 7th, 2024 - Federal Agency Files Against Illinois’ Swipe Fee Prohibition for Tax and Tips The Center Square 00:39:36 Several groups have filed legal challenges against an Illinois law regarding interchange fees. The Interchange Fee Prohibition Act doesn’t ban or restrict credit card swipe fees, but it limits banks from charging interchange fees on tax and tip revenues. The law, which was backed by the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, was the first such statute in the country. Banking trade groups argued in court that the law would “throw well-operating payment card systems into chaos.” Several groups have filed legal challenges against an Illinois law regarding interchange fees. The Interchange Fee Prohibition Act doesn’t ban or restrict credit card swipe fees, but it limits banks from charging interchange fees on tax and tip revenues. The law, which was backed by the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, was the first such statute in the country. Banking trade groups argued in court that the law would “throw well-operating payment card systems into chaos.” false full 374 1247dd1a-5f30-42c8-be71-f19e865a397f Weekend Edition | Judge Denies Defense Motions as Madigan Case Heads to Trial Next Week Sat, 5 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Judge Denies Defense Motions as Madigan Case Heads to Trial Next Week The Center Square 00:24:00 A judge on Wednesday denied former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's motion to dismiss some of the charges he faces before trial next week. Judge John Robert Blakey also denied a motion from Madigan's co-defendant in the case, Michael McClain, for a separate trial. McClain, a former state lawmaker, lobbyist and longtime Madigan ally, had asked for his own trial without Madigan because Madigan's defense team plans to blame McClain for the multi-year corruption scheme. A judge on Wednesday denied former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's motion to dismiss some of the charges he faces before trial next week. Judge John Robert Blakey also denied a motion from Madigan's co-defendant in the case, Michael McClain, for a separate trial. McClain, a former state lawmaker, lobbyist and longtime Madigan ally, had asked for his own trial without Madigan because Madigan's defense team plans to blame McClain for the multi-year corruption scheme. false full 372 a770d5f2-0a01-4fc1-8702-884279fa0a39 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 4th, 2024 - Madigan Corruption Trial Begins in Chicago Next Week Greg Bishop reviews the history of charges against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan who faces trail in Chicago starting next week.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 4 Oct 2024 16:34:08 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the history of charges against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan who faces trail in Chicago starting next week.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 4th, 2024 - Madigan Corruption Trial Begins in Chicago Next Week The Center Square 00:33:24 Greg Bishop reviews the history of charges against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan who faces trail in Chicago starting next week. Greg Bishop reviews the history of charges against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan who faces trail in Chicago starting next week. false full 373 9a6d301d-856f-4cf0-ba3b-28b2e0edb586 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 3rd, 2024 - Judge Denies Illinois’ Motion to Hold Ruling Against Transit Carry Ban, Lashes State’s Attorneys Greg Bishop reviews a rough play-by-play from Wednesday's federal court hearing in the Northern District of Illinois where Judge Iain Johnston took attorneys for Illinois and Cook County to task over implying his ruling against the state's prohibition of canceled carry creates a public safety risk.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 3 Oct 2024 14:30:43 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews a rough play-by-play from Wednesday's federal court hearing in the Northern District of Illinois where Judge Iain Johnston took attorneys for Illinois and Cook County to task over implying his ruling against the state's prohibition of canceled carry creates a public safety risk.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 3rd, 2024 - Judge Denies Illinois’ Motion to Hold Ruling Against Transit Carry Ban, Lashes State’s Attorneys The Center Square 00:44:55 Greg Bishop reviews a rough play-by-play from Wednesday's federal court hearing in the Northern District of Illinois where Judge Iain Johnston took attorneys for Illinois and Cook County to task over implying his ruling against the state's prohibition of canceled carry creates a public safety risk. Greg Bishop reviews a rough play-by-play from Wednesday's federal court hearing in the Northern District of Illinois where Judge Iain Johnston took attorneys for Illinois and Cook County to task over implying his ruling against the state's prohibition of canceled carry creates a public safety risk. false full 371 18d6ce4f-df47-4aff-9709-db773a87d205 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 2nd, 2024 - IL Apologizes After Inferring ‘Safety Implications’ From Judge’s Ruling Against Transit Carry Ban The Illinois Attorney General’s office has apologized to a federal judge demanding answers after implying his ruling against the state’s mass transit concealed carry ban has “safety implications.” Northern District of Illinois federal Judge Iain Johnston ruled the Second Amendment is violated by the state’s prohibition of people carrying concealed firearms on mass transit. The state appealed and in a motion said the “the potential safety implications of the Court’s order are highlighted by a recent mass shooting on the CTAs Blue Line, in which four people were murdered with firearms three days after the Court’s order was entered.” Johnston demanded whoever wrote that to answer questions during a hearing scheduled Wednesday.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 2 Oct 2024 15:17:55 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Illinois Attorney General’s office has apologized to a federal judge demanding answers after implying his ruling against the state’s mass transit concealed carry ban has “safety implications.” Northern District of Illinois federal Judge Iain Johnston ruled the Second Amendment is violated by the state’s prohibition of people carrying concealed firearms on mass transit. The state appealed and in a motion said the “the potential safety implications of the Court’s order are highlighted by a recent mass shooting on the CTAs Blue Line, in which four people were murdered with firearms three days after the Court’s order was entered.” Johnston demanded whoever wrote that to answer questions during a hearing scheduled Wednesday.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 2nd, 2024 - IL Apologizes After Inferring ‘Safety Implications’ From Judge’s Ruling Against Transit Carry Ban The Center Square 00:40:03 The Illinois Attorney General’s office has apologized to a federal judge demanding answers after implying his ruling against the state’s mass transit concealed carry ban has “safety implications.” Northern District of Illinois federal Judge Iain Johnston ruled the Second Amendment is violated by the state’s prohibition of people carrying concealed firearms on mass transit. The state appealed and in a motion said the “the potential safety implications of the Court’s order are highlighted by a recent mass shooting on the CTAs Blue Line, in which four people were murdered with firearms three days after the Court’s order was entered.” Johnston demanded whoever wrote that to answer questions during a hearing scheduled Wednesday. The Illinois Attorney General’s office has apologized to a federal judge demanding answers after implying his ruling against the state’s mass transit concealed carry ban has “safety implications.” Northern District of Illinois federal Judge Iain Johnston ruled the Second Amendment is violated by the state’s prohibition of people carrying concealed firearms on mass transit. The state appealed and in a motion said the “the potential safety implications of the Court’s order are highlighted by a recent mass shooting on the CTAs Blue Line, in which four people were murdered with firearms three days after the Court’s order was entered.” Johnston demanded whoever wrote that to answer questions during a hearing scheduled Wednesday. false full 370 fee1b0b6-2b72-4078-87b5-d43254627fa2 Illinois in Focus Daily | October 1st, 2024 - IL State Rifle Assoc. Aims to Expand Transit Carry Ruling to Everyone Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson about the legal fight over Illinois' prohibition of concealed carry on mass transit as the state appeals a district court ruling.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 1 Oct 2024 15:44:10 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson about the legal fight over Illinois' prohibition of concealed carry on mass transit as the state appeals a district court ruling.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | October 1st, 2024 - IL State Rifle Assoc. Aims to Expand Transit Carry Ruling to Everyone The Center Square 00:35:52 Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson about the legal fight over Illinois' prohibition of concealed carry on mass transit as the state appeals a district court ruling. Greg Bishop shares a conversation with Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson about the legal fight over Illinois' prohibition of concealed carry on mass transit as the state appeals a district court ruling. false full 369 a4a3b3d9-ebcd-414b-883f-dd9195b508a8 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 30th, 2024 - IL House Hearing Discusses Taxing Millionaires More to Relieve State’s High Property Taxes Greg Bishop reviews some of the moments from a recent Illinois House hearing about the state's high property taxes where witnesses discussed a nonbinding resolution on the Nov. 5 ballot to ask voters whether millionaires should be taxed a surcharge to fund a property tax relief fund.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 30 Sep 2024 15:15:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the moments from a recent Illinois House hearing about the state's high property taxes where witnesses discussed a nonbinding resolution on the Nov. 5 ballot to ask voters whether millionaires should be taxed a surcharge to fund a property tax relief fund.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 30th, 2024 - IL House Hearing Discusses Taxing Millionaires More to Relieve State’s High Property Taxes The Center Square 00:38:01 Greg Bishop reviews some of the moments from a recent Illinois House hearing about the state's high property taxes where witnesses discussed a nonbinding resolution on the Nov. 5 ballot to ask voters whether millionaires should be taxed a surcharge to fund a property tax relief fund. Greg Bishop reviews some of the moments from a recent Illinois House hearing about the state's high property taxes where witnesses discussed a nonbinding resolution on the Nov. 5 ballot to ask voters whether millionaires should be taxed a surcharge to fund a property tax relief fund. false full 368 2c6087d2-167e-4426-bc17-ab4d067ea419 Weekend Edition |Retail Merchants, Banks Continue Battle Over Credit Card Transaction Fees Businesses and banks are at odds over a pending Illinois law banning credit card fees when customers pay for taxes and tips. Illinois Retail Merchants Association President and CEO Rob Karr said recent polling shows overwhelming public support for the Interchange Fee Prohibition Act. The law slated to take effect next July prohibits banks and credit card companies from charging swipe fees on the state and local sales tax and tip portion of a transaction when the consumer pays with a credit or debit card. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 27 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Businesses and banks are at odds over a pending Illinois law banning credit card fees when customers pay for taxes and tips. Illinois Retail Merchants Association President and CEO Rob Karr said recent polling shows overwhelming public support for the Interchange Fee Prohibition Act. The law slated to take effect next July prohibits banks and credit card companies from charging swipe fees on the state and local sales tax and tip portion of a transaction when the consumer pays with a credit or debit card. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Weekend Edition |Retail Merchants, Banks Continue Battle Over Credit Card Transaction Fees The Center Square 00:24:00 Businesses and banks are at odds over a pending Illinois law banning credit card fees when customers pay for taxes and tips. Illinois Retail Merchants Association President and CEO Rob Karr said recent polling shows overwhelming public support for the Interchange Fee Prohibition Act. The law slated to take effect next July prohibits banks and credit card companies from charging swipe fees on the state and local sales tax and tip portion of a transaction when the consumer pays with a credit or debit card. Financial institutions can still impose fees on transactions using debit or credit cards for goods and services. Businesses and banks are at odds over a pending Illinois law banning credit card fees when customers pay for taxes and tips. Illinois Retail Merchants Association President and CEO Rob Karr said recent polling shows overwhelming public support for the Interchange Fee Prohibition Act. The law slated to take effect next July prohibits banks and credit card companies from charging swipe fees on the state and local sales tax and tip portion of a transaction when the consumer pays with a credit or debit card. Financial institutions can still impose fees on transactions using debit or credit cards for goods and services. false full 367 b5a0317b-d148-49b7-b2e1-d916fe0c3355 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 26th, 2024 - IL Gun Cases Update: Gun/Ammo Tax, Concealed Carry Mass Transit, Gun Owner ID Challenge Greg Bishop talks with Todd Vandermyde to review recent filings in separate cases impacting Cook County's gun and ammo tax and the mass transit concealed carry prohibition case. He also reviews a recent appeals court decision denying the state's motion to stay a case challenging the Firearm Owner's ID card.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 26 Sep 2024 17:54:13 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop talks with Todd Vandermyde to review recent filings in separate cases impacting Cook County's gun and ammo tax and the mass transit concealed carry prohibition case. He also reviews a recent appeals court decision denying the state's motion to stay a case challenging the Firearm Owner's ID card.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 26th, 2024 - IL Gun Cases Update: Gun/Ammo Tax, Concealed Carry Mass Transit, Gun Owner ID Challenge The Center Square 00:32:59 Greg Bishop talks with Todd Vandermyde to review recent filings in separate cases impacting Cook County's gun and ammo tax and the mass transit concealed carry prohibition case. He also reviews a recent appeals court decision denying the state's motion to stay a case challenging the Firearm Owner's ID card. Greg Bishop talks with Todd Vandermyde to review recent filings in separate cases impacting Cook County's gun and ammo tax and the mass transit concealed carry prohibition case. He also reviews a recent appeals court decision denying the state's motion to stay a case challenging the Firearm Owner's ID card. false full 366 36e4893b-3afd-49e2-beff-6c68b4461120 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 25th, 2024 - Illinois Supreme Court Rules in Gun ID Case Greg Bishop reviews a recent ruling from the Illinois Supreme Court in a case challenging a provision of Illinois' Firearm Owner's ID card law.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 25 Sep 2024 16:33:42 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews a recent ruling from the Illinois Supreme Court in a case challenging a provision of Illinois' Firearm Owner's ID card law.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 25th, 2024 - Illinois Supreme Court Rules in Gun ID Case The Center Square 00:36:20 Greg Bishop reviews a recent ruling from the Illinois Supreme Court in a case challenging a provision of Illinois' Firearm Owner's ID card law. Greg Bishop reviews a recent ruling from the Illinois Supreme Court in a case challenging a provision of Illinois' Firearm Owner's ID card law. false full 365 51cf74f9-ea10-46d1-bbd9-4814db3be3a1 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 24th, 2024 - Illinois to Appeal Decision That Transit Concealed Carry Ban Unconstitutional The state of Illinois is appealing a ruling that the ban on carrying concealed firearms on public transit is unconstitutional. The case Schoenthal v. Raoul, filed two years ago, challenges Illinois’ concealed carry law that carves out places like mass transit where people licensed to carry firearms concealed are prohibited from carrying. Late last month, a Northern District of Illinois federal judge sided with plaintiffs, saying the law violates the Second Amendment.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 24 Sep 2024 14:07:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The state of Illinois is appealing a ruling that the ban on carrying concealed firearms on public transit is unconstitutional. The case Schoenthal v. Raoul, filed two years ago, challenges Illinois’ concealed carry law that carves out places like mass transit where people licensed to carry firearms concealed are prohibited from carrying. Late last month, a Northern District of Illinois federal judge sided with plaintiffs, saying the law violates the Second Amendment.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 24th, 2024 - Illinois to Appeal Decision That Transit Concealed Carry Ban Unconstitutional The Center Square 00:24:49 The state of Illinois is appealing a ruling that the ban on carrying concealed firearms on public transit is unconstitutional. The case Schoenthal v. Raoul, filed two years ago, challenges Illinois’ concealed carry law that carves out places like mass transit where people licensed to carry firearms concealed are prohibited from carrying. Late last month, a Northern District of Illinois federal judge sided with plaintiffs, saying the law violates the Second Amendment. The state of Illinois is appealing a ruling that the ban on carrying concealed firearms on public transit is unconstitutional. The case Schoenthal v. Raoul, filed two years ago, challenges Illinois’ concealed carry law that carves out places like mass transit where people licensed to carry firearms concealed are prohibited from carrying. Late last month, a Northern District of Illinois federal judge sided with plaintiffs, saying the law violates the Second Amendment. false full 364 a4ff4f3c-c80f-4ebb-8ad3-817874bc9719 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 23rd, 2024 - Gun Ban Trial Touches on Banned Features Plaintiffs Say Facilitate Self Defense While the bench trial for Illinois’ gun and magazine ban is over, the reverberations could impact a separate lawsuit against banning firearm silencers. Litigants in the trial that wrapped up Thursday argued over the difference and similarities of now banned semi-automatic only firearms and military rifles that go full auto or burst. Plaintiffs worked to address the issues raised by the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals that sided with the state on preliminary grounds last year, saying semi-automatic firearms are too similar to military firearms and can be banned.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 23 Sep 2024 15:52:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ While the bench trial for Illinois’ gun and magazine ban is over, the reverberations could impact a separate lawsuit against banning firearm silencers. Litigants in the trial that wrapped up Thursday argued over the difference and similarities of now banned semi-automatic only firearms and military rifles that go full auto or burst. Plaintiffs worked to address the issues raised by the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals that sided with the state on preliminary grounds last year, saying semi-automatic firearms are too similar to military firearms and can be banned.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 23rd, 2024 - Gun Ban Trial Touches on Banned Features Plaintiffs Say Facilitate Self Defense The Center Square 00:33:17 While the bench trial for Illinois’ gun and magazine ban is over, the reverberations could impact a separate lawsuit against banning firearm silencers. Litigants in the trial that wrapped up Thursday argued over the difference and similarities of now banned semi-automatic only firearms and military rifles that go full auto or burst. Plaintiffs worked to address the issues raised by the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals that sided with the state on preliminary grounds last year, saying semi-automatic firearms are too similar to military firearms and can be banned. While the bench trial for Illinois’ gun and magazine ban is over, the reverberations could impact a separate lawsuit against banning firearm silencers. Litigants in the trial that wrapped up Thursday argued over the difference and similarities of now banned semi-automatic only firearms and military rifles that go full auto or burst. Plaintiffs worked to address the issues raised by the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals that sided with the state on preliminary grounds last year, saying semi-automatic firearms are too similar to military firearms and can be banned. false full 363 ae5cb731-570d-49f0-87e1-cedbcfdf04c7 Weekend Edition | Illinois Gun Ban Trial: State Works to Defend Law Sat, 21 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Illinois Gun Ban Trial: State Works to Defend Law The Center Square 00:24:00 The bench trial for the challenge to Illinois’ gun and magazine ban continues in East St. Louis. Illinois enacted a ban on semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities in January 2023. Lawsuits challenging the law in federal court went all the way up to the U.S. Supreme Court on preliminary grounds. Justices denied the request, saying they wanted a full case on final judgment. Monday began the trial to get to final judgment in the courtroom of federal Judge Stephen McGlynn. The bench trial for the challenge to Illinois’ gun and magazine ban continues in East St. Louis. Illinois enacted a ban on semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities in January 2023. Lawsuits challenging the law in federal court went all the way up to the U.S. Supreme Court on preliminary grounds. Justices denied the request, saying they wanted a full case on final judgment. Monday began the trial to get to final judgment in the courtroom of federal Judge Stephen McGlynn. false full 361 8f00534a-8741-4e6a-903c-bf528bfeb7a2 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 20th, 2024 - Gun Ban Judge: What if Black Victims of Historic Race Riots Had Such Weapons Greg Bishop reviews the closing arguments from the plaintiffs and defense in the bench trial of Illinois' gun and magazine ban, as well as some of the closing comments from federal Judge Stephen McGlynn about historic riots where Black residents were victimized.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 20 Sep 2024 14:19:22 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the closing arguments from the plaintiffs and defense in the bench trial of Illinois' gun and magazine ban, as well as some of the closing comments from federal Judge Stephen McGlynn about historic riots where Black residents were victimized.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 20th, 2024 - Gun Ban Judge: What if Black Victims of Historic Race Riots Had Such Weapons The Center Square 00:37:27 Greg Bishop reviews the closing arguments from the plaintiffs and defense in the bench trial of Illinois' gun and magazine ban, as well as some of the closing comments from federal Judge Stephen McGlynn about historic riots where Black residents were victimized. Greg Bishop reviews the closing arguments from the plaintiffs and defense in the bench trial of Illinois' gun and magazine ban, as well as some of the closing comments from federal Judge Stephen McGlynn about historic riots where Black residents were victimized. false full 362 8daa9665-c7ac-4c59-8f30-233673de34a9 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 19th, 2024 - Retired Col. Doesn’t Recommend Ridding Full Auto in Military Attorneys for the state of Illinois called their first witness to the stand in the trial against the state’s gun and magazine ban. Day 3 of the bench trial featured plaintiffs’ final witness Randy Watt. Day 3 of the trial also had the state call its first witness. Retired Col. Craig Tucker, who served overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan and trained other soldiers for combat, testified that semi-automatic fire is preferred in a military setting for accuracy and not wasting ammo. But, he testified he would not recommend getting rid of full auto from military rifles.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 19 Sep 2024 14:14:05 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Attorneys for the state of Illinois called their first witness to the stand in the trial against the state’s gun and magazine ban. Day 3 of the bench trial featured plaintiffs’ final witness Randy Watt. Day 3 of the trial also had the state call its first witness. Retired Col. Craig Tucker, who served overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan and trained other soldiers for combat, testified that semi-automatic fire is preferred in a military setting for accuracy and not wasting ammo. But, he testified he would not recommend getting rid of full auto from military rifles.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 19th, 2024 - Retired Col. Doesn’t Recommend Ridding Full Auto in Military The Center Square 00:12:12 Attorneys for the state of Illinois called their first witness to the stand in the trial against the state’s gun and magazine ban. Day 3 of the bench trial featured plaintiffs’ final witness Randy Watt. Day 3 of the trial also had the state call its first witness. Retired Col. Craig Tucker, who served overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan and trained other soldiers for combat, testified that semi-automatic fire is preferred in a military setting for accuracy and not wasting ammo. But, he testified he would not recommend getting rid of full auto from military rifles. Attorneys for the state of Illinois called their first witness to the stand in the trial against the state’s gun and magazine ban. Day 3 of the bench trial featured plaintiffs’ final witness Randy Watt. Day 3 of the trial also had the state call its first witness. Retired Col. Craig Tucker, who served overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan and trained other soldiers for combat, testified that semi-automatic fire is preferred in a military setting for accuracy and not wasting ammo. But, he testified he would not recommend getting rid of full auto from military rifles. false full 360 69d56994-a192-40d0-abdd-52b2e5c55017 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 18th, 2024 - Distinction of Military, Civilian Firearms Made During Day 2 of IL Gun Ban Trial Whether commercially available semi-automatic rifles now banned in Illinois are common or too similar to military grade firearms was the focus of Day 2 of the bench trial of Illinois’ gun and magazine ban. On preliminary grounds, the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the state last year, saying commercially available rifles that Illinois banned in January 2023 are too similar to military grade rifles and are able to be regulated. Now up for final judgment in the Southern District of Illinois federal court, day two of the bench trial was dominated by James Ronkainen, a former longtime engineer and director of firearms development and production for Remington. He said there are material differences between modern sporting rifles and military spec firearms.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 18 Sep 2024 14:23:04 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Whether commercially available semi-automatic rifles now banned in Illinois are common or too similar to military grade firearms was the focus of Day 2 of the bench trial of Illinois’ gun and magazine ban. On preliminary grounds, the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the state last year, saying commercially available rifles that Illinois banned in January 2023 are too similar to military grade rifles and are able to be regulated. Now up for final judgment in the Southern District of Illinois federal court, day two of the bench trial was dominated by James Ronkainen, a former longtime engineer and director of firearms development and production for Remington. He said there are material differences between modern sporting rifles and military spec firearms.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 18th, 2024 - Distinction of Military, Civilian Firearms Made During Day 2 of IL Gun Ban Trial The Center Square 00:14:20 Whether commercially available semi-automatic rifles now banned in Illinois are common or too similar to military grade firearms was the focus of Day 2 of the bench trial of Illinois’ gun and magazine ban. On preliminary grounds, the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the state last year, saying commercially available rifles that Illinois banned in January 2023 are too similar to military grade rifles and are able to be regulated. Now up for final judgment in the Southern District of Illinois federal court, day two of the bench trial was dominated by James Ronkainen, a former longtime engineer and director of firearms development and production for Remington. He said there are material differences between modern sporting rifles and military spec firearms. Whether commercially available semi-automatic rifles now banned in Illinois are common or too similar to military grade firearms was the focus of Day 2 of the bench trial of Illinois’ gun and magazine ban. On preliminary grounds, the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the state last year, saying commercially available rifles that Illinois banned in January 2023 are too similar to military grade rifles and are able to be regulated. Now up for final judgment in the Southern District of Illinois federal court, day two of the bench trial was dominated by James Ronkainen, a former longtime engineer and director of firearms development and production for Remington. He said there are material differences between modern sporting rifles and military spec firearms. false full 359 27113e65-6685-4079-9ebb-754922a4f4b9 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 17th, 2024 - Are Semi-autos for Self Defense, Military? Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 17 Sep 2024 15:01:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 17th, 2024 - Are Semi-autos for Self Defense, Military? The Center Square 00:14:26 Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. false full 358 58701a18-8a81-4018-b5d8-0fe858b081f7 Illinois in Focus Daily | September 16th, 2024 - Bench Trial for Illinois’ Gun Ban Begins Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 16 Sep 2024 13:54:18 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | September 16th, 2024 - Bench Trial for Illinois’ Gun Ban Begins The Center Square 00:12:20 Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. Greg Bishop, Illinois editor for The Center Square, hosts Illinois In Focus Daily, a review of some of the top Illinois headlines with timely and relevant news and interviews. false full 357 20a068a2-f648-4fd6-859b-ffa3de82ad0b Weekend Edition | Economics Professor Questions Effectiveness of Chicago Budget Changes Fri, 13 Sep 2024 12:59:47 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Economics Professor Questions Effectiveness of Chicago Budget Changes The Center Square 00:24:00 A Chicago economics professor has questions about the potential effectiveness of the city’s new budget restrictions. City Budget Director Annette Guzman outlined the changes this week, after Mayor Brandon Johnson projected a budget deficit of nearly a billion dollars in 2025. Guzman said a citywide hiring freeze would take effect immediately. Frances Lee is an economics professor at Loyola University of Chicago. Lee said economists have a saying when it comes to hiring. “We can achieve full employment if we hire half of the population to dig a hole and the other half to fill it. If we are eliminating these kinds of government jobs, then, yes, by all means do the hiring freeze,” Lee said. A Chicago economics professor has questions about the potential effectiveness of the city’s new budget restrictions. City Budget Director Annette Guzman outlined the changes this week, after Mayor Brandon Johnson projected a budget deficit of nearly a billion dollars in 2025. Guzman said a citywide hiring freeze would take effect immediately. Frances Lee is an economics professor at Loyola University of Chicago. Lee said economists have a saying when it comes to hiring. “We can achieve full employment if we hire half of the population to dig a hole and the other half to fill it. If we are eliminating these kinds of government jobs, then, yes, by all means do the hiring freeze,” Lee said. false full 356 1097bb7e-d8e2-4c8c-872d-df59f7523879 Weekend Edition | Madigan Doesn’t Want the Word ‘Corruption’ Used in Upcoming Corruption Trial Fri, 6 Sep 2024 14:01:19 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Madigan Doesn’t Want the Word ‘Corruption’ Used in Upcoming Corruption Trial The Center Square 00:24:00 Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan doesn't want the word "corruption" mentioned at his upcoming corruption trial. Madigan laid out a litany of things he wants excluded from his upcoming racketeering trial in October. The words Madigan's defense team doesn't want the jury to hear are "patronage," "political machine," "Shakman Litigation," "corrupt politicians," "corruption," and "Public Corruption Task Force," and their derivatives, according to a motion pending before Judge Manish Shah. Those words are too prejudicial, the defense argued. Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan doesn't want the word "corruption" mentioned at his upcoming corruption trial. Madigan laid out a litany of things he wants excluded from his upcoming racketeering trial in October. The words Madigan's defense team doesn't want the jury to hear are "patronage," "political machine," "Shakman Litigation," "corrupt politicians," "corruption," and "Public Corruption Task Force," and their derivatives, according to a motion pending before Judge Manish Shah. Those words are too prejudicial, the defense argued. false full 355 1a764661-fa61-4725-8ba5-3ee2d3ba09ec Weekend Edition | Convicted ComEd 4 Defendants Ask Judge to Drop Case After Supreme Court Ruling Fri, 30 Aug 2024 13:23:08 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Convicted ComEd 4 Defendants Ask Judge to Drop Case After Supreme Court Ruling The Center Square 00:24:00 Defense attorneys for the four former Commonwealth Edison executives and lobbyists convicted of bribing one of the state's most powerful politicians have asked a judge to drop the case. The four defendants, who have not be sentenced, want Judge Manish Shah to dismiss the indictment against them and issue an acquittal after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on the federal bribery statute. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down part of a federal bribery statute that makes it a crime for state and local officials to accept gifts valued at over $5,000 from a donor who had previously been awarded contracts or other government benefits thanks to the official's efforts. The 6-3 decision could affect how prosecutors across the country pursue public corruption cases. Defense attorneys for the four former Commonwealth Edison executives and lobbyists convicted of bribing one of the state's most powerful politicians have asked a judge to drop the case. The four defendants, who have not be sentenced, want Judge Manish Shah to dismiss the indictment against them and issue an acquittal after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on the federal bribery statute. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down part of a federal bribery statute that makes it a crime for state and local officials to accept gifts valued at over $5,000 from a donor who had previously been awarded contracts or other government benefits thanks to the official's efforts. The 6-3 decision could affect how prosecutors across the country pursue public corruption cases. false full 354 60c5600f-7033-4a89-81a0-ddf4608e77b2 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 28th, 2024 - Illinois Elections Board Responds to Election Integrity Group’s Concerns Greg Bishop reviews the response from the Illinois State Board of Election to concerns raised by the Illinois Election Integrity Project.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 28 Aug 2024 15:26:09 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the response from the Illinois State Board of Election to concerns raised by the Illinois Election Integrity Project.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 28th, 2024 - Illinois Elections Board Responds to Election Integrity Group’s Concerns The Center Square 00:37:38 Greg Bishop reviews the response from the Illinois State Board of Election to concerns raised by the Illinois Election Integrity Project. Greg Bishop reviews the response from the Illinois State Board of Election to concerns raised by the Illinois Election Integrity Project. false full 353 0a9c8aa6-3925-4947-8a4b-660ec1188237 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 27th, 2024 - With Conventions in Rearview Mirror, Illinois’ Parties Work to Get out the Vote With the national parties’ conventions over, it’s a mad dash to the general election finish line. Leaders from both of Illinois’ major political parties are laying out their get-out-the-vote efforts. Democrats officially nominated Kamala Harris for president last week in Chicago. Republicans nominated Donald Trump in Milwaukee last month. The Illinois State Board of Elections certified the ballot Friday that included keeping independent candidate Robert Kennedy on. Kennedy has now endorsed Trump, taking his name off battleground states’ ballots while staying on in states like Illinois where it could negatively impact Harris.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 27 Aug 2024 13:57:40 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With the national parties’ conventions over, it’s a mad dash to the general election finish line. Leaders from both of Illinois’ major political parties are laying out their get-out-the-vote efforts. Democrats officially nominated Kamala Harris for president last week in Chicago. Republicans nominated Donald Trump in Milwaukee last month. The Illinois State Board of Elections certified the ballot Friday that included keeping independent candidate Robert Kennedy on. Kennedy has now endorsed Trump, taking his name off battleground states’ ballots while staying on in states like Illinois where it could negatively impact Harris.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 27th, 2024 - With Conventions in Rearview Mirror, Illinois’ Parties Work to Get out the Vote The Center Square 00:33:44 With the national parties’ conventions over, it’s a mad dash to the general election finish line. Leaders from both of Illinois’ major political parties are laying out their get-out-the-vote efforts. Democrats officially nominated Kamala Harris for president last week in Chicago. Republicans nominated Donald Trump in Milwaukee last month. The Illinois State Board of Elections certified the ballot Friday that included keeping independent candidate Robert Kennedy on. Kennedy has now endorsed Trump, taking his name off battleground states’ ballots while staying on in states like Illinois where it could negatively impact Harris. With the national parties’ conventions over, it’s a mad dash to the general election finish line. Leaders from both of Illinois’ major political parties are laying out their get-out-the-vote efforts. Democrats officially nominated Kamala Harris for president last week in Chicago. Republicans nominated Donald Trump in Milwaukee last month. The Illinois State Board of Elections certified the ballot Friday that included keeping independent candidate Robert Kennedy on. Kennedy has now endorsed Trump, taking his name off battleground states’ ballots while staying on in states like Illinois where it could negatively impact Harris. false full 352 7470de6a-b54f-421e-a20d-4f46e265f2e3 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 26th, 2024 - Democrats Focused on Trump at DNC While Having to React to Border, Economic Issues Greg Bishop reviews some of the themes heard around last week's Democratic National Convention, including reaction from party leaders to concerns about the economy and border security.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 26 Aug 2024 16:06:48 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the themes heard around last week's Democratic National Convention, including reaction from party leaders to concerns about the economy and border security.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 26th, 2024 - Democrats Focused on Trump at DNC While Having to React to Border, Economic Issues The Center Square 00:40:57 Greg Bishop reviews some of the themes heard around last week's Democratic National Convention, including reaction from party leaders to concerns about the economy and border security. Greg Bishop reviews some of the themes heard around last week's Democratic National Convention, including reaction from party leaders to concerns about the economy and border security. false full 351 68385ff3-2c78-417e-82ef-b6e43deff9fa Weekend Edition | Pritzker Criticizes Trump on National Stage as GOP Says He’s Failed Illinois Sat, 24 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker Criticizes Trump on National Stage as GOP Says He’s Failed Illinois The Center Square 00:24:00 While Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker didn’t get selected to be Kamala Harris’ vice presidential candidate, he did get a primetime spot on the stage of the Democratic National Convention Tuesday. Chicago plays host to the convention this week where an array of speakers addressed Democratic delegates. Among the speakers on the national stage was former President Barack Obama. Before that and shortly after the states’ roll call giving Harris the official nomination, Pritzker took the stage and said Democrats are for lower taxes, higher wages, less inflation and more business growth. While Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker didn’t get selected to be Kamala Harris’ vice presidential candidate, he did get a primetime spot on the stage of the Democratic National Convention Tuesday. Chicago plays host to the convention this week where an array of speakers addressed Democratic delegates. Among the speakers on the national stage was former President Barack Obama. Before that and shortly after the states’ roll call giving Harris the official nomination, Pritzker took the stage and said Democrats are for lower taxes, higher wages, less inflation and more business growth. false full 349 7608ae9c-9bfb-4150-bfb8-0bf3638fcf51 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 23rd, 2024 - Illinois Politicians Play Role in Final Day of DNC in Chicago Greg Bishop reviews some of the moments from the final day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago featuring several Illinois politicians on the main stage.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 23 Aug 2024 17:53:02 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the moments from the final day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago featuring several Illinois politicians on the main stage.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 23rd, 2024 - Illinois Politicians Play Role in Final Day of DNC in Chicago The Center Square 00:24:13 Greg Bishop reviews some of the moments from the final day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago featuring several Illinois politicians on the main stage. Greg Bishop reviews some of the moments from the final day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago featuring several Illinois politicians on the main stage. false full 350 7d2d79bf-7b56-431c-a995-62f647405e7a Illinois in Focus Daily | August 22nd, 2024 - Union Leaders Discuss Politics, Economy, Education at Day 3 of DNC in Chicago Greg Bishop reviews some of the themes discussed at Day 3 of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago with the Illinois delegations.


Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 22 Aug 2024 13:47:21 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the themes discussed at Day 3 of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago with the Illinois delegations.


Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 22nd, 2024 - Union Leaders Discuss Politics, Economy, Education at Day 3 of DNC in Chicago The Center Square 00:31:33 Greg Bishop reviews some of the themes discussed at Day 3 of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago with the Illinois delegations. Greg Bishop reviews some of the themes discussed at Day 3 of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago with the Illinois delegations. false full 348 1ecfba25-3c46-4b37-b7bd-26c2054e169c Illinois in Focus Daily | August 21st, 2024 - Illinois Democrats Continue Rallying as Republicans Counter Greg Bishop reviews some of the questions and answers from Illinois Democrats during Tuesday's breakfast in Chicago as part of the Democratic National Convention. He also shares comments from Republican state representative candidates Leslie Collazo and Fredrick Walls.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 21 Aug 2024 14:22:29 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the questions and answers from Illinois Democrats during Tuesday's breakfast in Chicago as part of the Democratic National Convention. He also shares comments from Republican state representative candidates Leslie Collazo and Fredrick Walls.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 21st, 2024 - Illinois Democrats Continue Rallying as Republicans Counter The Center Square 00:26:12 Greg Bishop reviews some of the questions and answers from Illinois Democrats during Tuesday's breakfast in Chicago as part of the Democratic National Convention. He also shares comments from Republican state representative candidates Leslie Collazo and Fredrick Walls. Greg Bishop reviews some of the questions and answers from Illinois Democrats during Tuesday's breakfast in Chicago as part of the Democratic National Convention. He also shares comments from Republican state representative candidates Leslie Collazo and Fredrick Walls. false full 347 18ceca39-a27d-415f-a203-3fad9e82c878 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 20th, 2024 - Illinois Democrats: Biden Like FDR and Carter, to Be More Active After Stepping Aside The mantra on the first day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago from Illinois' Democratic party leaders was “when we fight, we win.” Monday evening’s speeches included President Joe Biden seemingly passing the torch to Kamala Harris. Earlier in the day, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who was not selected to be Harris’ running mate, hinted at vying for a third term for governor.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 20 Aug 2024 13:24:14 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The mantra on the first day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago from Illinois' Democratic party leaders was “when we fight, we win.” Monday evening’s speeches included President Joe Biden seemingly passing the torch to Kamala Harris. Earlier in the day, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who was not selected to be Harris’ running mate, hinted at vying for a third term for governor.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 20th, 2024 - Illinois Democrats: Biden Like FDR and Carter, to Be More Active After Stepping Aside The Center Square 00:25:21 The mantra on the first day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago from Illinois' Democratic party leaders was “when we fight, we win.” Monday evening’s speeches included President Joe Biden seemingly passing the torch to Kamala Harris. Earlier in the day, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who was not selected to be Harris’ running mate, hinted at vying for a third term for governor. The mantra on the first day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago from Illinois' Democratic party leaders was “when we fight, we win.” Monday evening’s speeches included President Joe Biden seemingly passing the torch to Kamala Harris. Earlier in the day, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who was not selected to be Harris’ running mate, hinted at vying for a third term for governor. false full 346 3898f39a-18a9-4232-ab17-0e3e8b69be16 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 19th, 2024 - Ahead of DNC in Chicago, Democrats and Republicans preview messaging Monday begins the Democratic National Convention in Chicago and leaders from both parties in Illinois are outlining how they see the major event impacting taxpayers. Just as with the Republican National Convention last month in Milwaukee, the DNC in Chicago will cost taxpayers $75 million. Law enforcement agencies from around the area are on the ground with security perimeters around the United Center and McCormick Place. Tens of thousands of protesters are also expected. Rallying Democrats at the Illinois State Fair Wednesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker previewed his plans to showcase the policies he and Democrats have enacted in the Land of Lincoln to those visiting Chicago.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 19 Aug 2024 13:20:28 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Monday begins the Democratic National Convention in Chicago and leaders from both parties in Illinois are outlining how they see the major event impacting taxpayers. Just as with the Republican National Convention last month in Milwaukee, the DNC in Chicago will cost taxpayers $75 million. Law enforcement agencies from around the area are on the ground with security perimeters around the United Center and McCormick Place. Tens of thousands of protesters are also expected. Rallying Democrats at the Illinois State Fair Wednesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker previewed his plans to showcase the policies he and Democrats have enacted in the Land of Lincoln to those visiting Chicago.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 19th, 2024 - Ahead of DNC in Chicago, Democrats and Republicans preview messaging The Center Square 00:29:56 Monday begins the Democratic National Convention in Chicago and leaders from both parties in Illinois are outlining how they see the major event impacting taxpayers. Just as with the Republican National Convention last month in Milwaukee, the DNC in Chicago will cost taxpayers $75 million. Law enforcement agencies from around the area are on the ground with security perimeters around the United Center and McCormick Place. Tens of thousands of protesters are also expected. Rallying Democrats at the Illinois State Fair Wednesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker previewed his plans to showcase the policies he and Democrats have enacted in the Land of Lincoln to those visiting Chicago. Monday begins the Democratic National Convention in Chicago and leaders from both parties in Illinois are outlining how they see the major event impacting taxpayers. Just as with the Republican National Convention last month in Milwaukee, the DNC in Chicago will cost taxpayers $75 million. Law enforcement agencies from around the area are on the ground with security perimeters around the United Center and McCormick Place. Tens of thousands of protesters are also expected. Rallying Democrats at the Illinois State Fair Wednesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker previewed his plans to showcase the policies he and Democrats have enacted in the Land of Lincoln to those visiting Chicago. false full 345 6facbfd6-82e7-45da-a0c4-495e90cb0ba3 Weekend Edition | Illinois Democrats Share Excitement, Challenges Ahead Sat, 17 Aug 2024 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Illinois Democrats Share Excitement, Challenges Ahead The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois Democrats rallying at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield are pushing for more power at the statehouse while making the case for a Kamala Harris presidency. Early voting for the Nov. 5 election begins Sept. 26. Ahead of that and next week’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker told party officials during a breakfast program in Springfield Wednesday that Illinois Republicans have the wrong policies. “It’s embarrassing for them,” Pritzker said. “No wonder the Illinois GOP is a super minority party.” Illinois Democrats rallying at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield are pushing for more power at the statehouse while making the case for a Kamala Harris presidency. Early voting for the Nov. 5 election begins Sept. 26. Ahead of that and next week’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker told party officials during a breakfast program in Springfield Wednesday that Illinois Republicans have the wrong policies. “It’s embarrassing for them,” Pritzker said. “No wonder the Illinois GOP is a super minority party.” false full 343 42ca261a-91c6-4e21-a3eb-74072d9ac4b1 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 16th, 2024 - Illinois Republicans Use State Fair Rally to Respond to Democrats Politics continued taking over the Illinois State Fair Thursday with Republican Day. In Springfield at the fairgrounds Wednesday, Democrats during Governor's Day said their piece on why they need more power. Thursday, Illinois GOP Chair Kathy Salvi said Democrats bring taxpayers “one big hurt.”

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:15:08 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Politics continued taking over the Illinois State Fair Thursday with Republican Day. In Springfield at the fairgrounds Wednesday, Democrats during Governor's Day said their piece on why they need more power. Thursday, Illinois GOP Chair Kathy Salvi said Democrats bring taxpayers “one big hurt.”

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 16th, 2024 - Illinois Republicans Use State Fair Rally to Respond to Democrats The Center Square 00:27:10 Politics continued taking over the Illinois State Fair Thursday with Republican Day. In Springfield at the fairgrounds Wednesday, Democrats during Governor's Day said their piece on why they need more power. Thursday, Illinois GOP Chair Kathy Salvi said Democrats bring taxpayers “one big hurt.” Politics continued taking over the Illinois State Fair Thursday with Republican Day. In Springfield at the fairgrounds Wednesday, Democrats during Governor's Day said their piece on why they need more power. Thursday, Illinois GOP Chair Kathy Salvi said Democrats bring taxpayers “one big hurt.” false full 344 ff8184e0-e856-4cfd-ad01-4c89ce837156 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 15th, 2024 - Around State Fair, Illinois Democrats Share Excitement, Challenges Ahead  Illinois Democrats rallying at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield are pushing for more power at the statehouse while making the case for a Kamala Harris presidency. Early voting for the Nov. 5 election begins Sept. 26. Ahead of that and next week’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker told party officials during a breakfast program in Springfield Wednesday that Illinois Republicans have the wrong policies.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 15 Aug 2024 18:45:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/  Illinois Democrats rallying at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield are pushing for more power at the statehouse while making the case for a Kamala Harris presidency. Early voting for the Nov. 5 election begins Sept. 26. Ahead of that and next week’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker told party officials during a breakfast program in Springfield Wednesday that Illinois Republicans have the wrong policies.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 15th, 2024 - Around State Fair, Illinois Democrats Share Excitement, Challenges Ahead The Center Square 00:22:09 Illinois Democrats rallying at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield are pushing for more power at the statehouse while making the case for a Kamala Harris presidency. Early voting for the Nov. 5 election begins Sept. 26. Ahead of that and next week’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker told party officials during a breakfast program in Springfield Wednesday that Illinois Republicans have the wrong policies. Illinois Democrats rallying at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield are pushing for more power at the statehouse while making the case for a Kamala Harris presidency. Early voting for the Nov. 5 election begins Sept. 26. Ahead of that and next week’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker told party officials during a breakfast program in Springfield Wednesday that Illinois Republicans have the wrong policies. false full 342 375a1a66-bed0-456e-86c0-c6c92c1d801a Illinois in Focus Daily | August 14th, 2024 - Amid Declining Enrollment Trends and Low Proficiency, Chicago Public Schools Discuss Finances Greg Bishop reviews some of the comments from Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates about the finances of the Chicago Public Schools and ongoing negotiations for a new teachers union contract.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 14 Aug 2024 17:42:35 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the comments from Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates about the finances of the Chicago Public Schools and ongoing negotiations for a new teachers union contract.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 14th, 2024 - Amid Declining Enrollment Trends and Low Proficiency, Chicago Public Schools Discuss Finances The Center Square 00:33:12 Greg Bishop reviews some of the comments from Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates about the finances of the Chicago Public Schools and ongoing negotiations for a new teachers union contract. Greg Bishop reviews some of the comments from Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates about the finances of the Chicago Public Schools and ongoing negotiations for a new teachers union contract. false full 341 a0229ec0-0bd5-440b-9cad-5df4215d7154 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 13th, 2024 - Trump Calls Pritzker ‘Loser’ in X Conversation With Musk Greg Bishop reviews the comments former President Donald Trump and Elon Musk made on X about Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker Monday night.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 13 Aug 2024 14:51:59 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the comments former President Donald Trump and Elon Musk made on X about Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker Monday night.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 13th, 2024 - Trump Calls Pritzker ‘Loser’ in X Conversation With Musk The Center Square 00:26:38 Greg Bishop reviews the comments former President Donald Trump and Elon Musk made on X about Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker Monday night. Greg Bishop reviews the comments former President Donald Trump and Elon Musk made on X about Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker Monday night. false full 340 5cdc82ee-0762-4bfe-8a23-7cf39d4e374a Illinois in Focus Daily | August 12th, 2024 - IL Sheriff to Retire Amid Pressure From Pritzker, Constituents, After Fatal Police-Involved Shooting Greg Bishop reviews a statement from Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell announcing he will retire following pressure from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and others after last month's police involved shooting death of Sonya Massey in Springfield.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:45:50 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews a statement from Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell announcing he will retire following pressure from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and others after last month's police involved shooting death of Sonya Massey in Springfield.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 12th, 2024 - IL Sheriff to Retire Amid Pressure From Pritzker, Constituents, After Fatal Police-Involved Shooting The Center Square 00:40:04 Greg Bishop reviews a statement from Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell announcing he will retire following pressure from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and others after last month's police involved shooting death of Sonya Massey in Springfield. Greg Bishop reviews a statement from Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell announcing he will retire following pressure from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and others after last month's police involved shooting death of Sonya Massey in Springfield. false full 339 63a64793-17d3-404d-96e9-1d4ddf51c7d5 Weekend Edition | After Being Upheld, Maryland’s Gun Ban Law Expected Before SCOTUS Before Others Sat, 10 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | After Being Upheld, Maryland’s Gun Ban Law Expected Before SCOTUS Before Others The Center Square 00:24:00 A challenge against Maryland’s gun ban is likely to make it to the U.S. Supreme Court before gun ban challenges from other states. Tuesday, the Fourth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals upheld Maryland’s ban on semi-automatic firearms. “The assault weapons at issue fall outside the ambit of protection offered by the Second Amendment because, in essence, they are military-style weapons designed for sustained combat operations that are ill-suited and disproportionate to the need for self-defense,” the opinion stated. A challenge against Maryland’s gun ban is likely to make it to the U.S. Supreme Court before gun ban challenges from other states. Tuesday, the Fourth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals upheld Maryland’s ban on semi-automatic firearms. “The assault weapons at issue fall outside the ambit of protection offered by the Second Amendment because, in essence, they are military-style weapons designed for sustained combat operations that are ill-suited and disproportionate to the need for self-defense,” the opinion stated. false full 337 e76559f8-84ff-418c-a3f5-5eb51eafd33f Illinois in Focus Daily | August 9th, 2024 - Reforms After Massey Shooting Could Include Better Police Employment Screening There is agreement from all sides about the need for reforms for how police are hired in Illinois, but what reforms there need to be is still unclear. Gov. J.B. Pritzker continued taking questions Thursday about the aftermath of the police-involved shooting death of Sonya Massey last month in Springfield by then-Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson, and what policies could change to prevent such events in the future.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 9 Aug 2024 18:56:48 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ There is agreement from all sides about the need for reforms for how police are hired in Illinois, but what reforms there need to be is still unclear. Gov. J.B. Pritzker continued taking questions Thursday about the aftermath of the police-involved shooting death of Sonya Massey last month in Springfield by then-Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson, and what policies could change to prevent such events in the future.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 9th, 2024 - Reforms After Massey Shooting Could Include Better Police Employment Screening The Center Square 00:38:48 There is agreement from all sides about the need for reforms for how police are hired in Illinois, but what reforms there need to be is still unclear. Gov. J.B. Pritzker continued taking questions Thursday about the aftermath of the police-involved shooting death of Sonya Massey last month in Springfield by then-Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson, and what policies could change to prevent such events in the future. There is agreement from all sides about the need for reforms for how police are hired in Illinois, but what reforms there need to be is still unclear. Gov. J.B. Pritzker continued taking questions Thursday about the aftermath of the police-involved shooting death of Sonya Massey last month in Springfield by then-Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson, and what policies could change to prevent such events in the future. false full 338 bf9769d2-f410-44b6-8c69-70f63ffdb77e Illinois in Focus Daily | August 8th, 2024 - Sangamon County Sheriff Responds to Pritzker’s Calls He Resign Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell says he will continue leading the office he was elected to despite calls from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker to resign. In the early morning hours in Springfield on July 6, Sonya Massey was shot and killed by sheriff’s deputy Sean Grasyon. Massey had called for help with a suspected prowler, but body camera footage shows Grayson shooting Massey in her home. He was fired and faces murder charges. For having hired Grayson, calls for Campbell to resign are growing. Several members of the Sangamon County Board are looking to place an advisory question on the November ballot asking voters if Campbell should resign. Campbell is up for reelection in 2026. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 8 Aug 2024 16:49:27 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell says he will continue leading the office he was elected to despite calls from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker to resign. In the early morning hours in Springfield on July 6, Sonya Massey was shot and killed by sheriff’s deputy Sean Grasyon. Massey had called for help with a suspected prowler, but body camera footage shows Grayson shooting Massey in her home. He was fired and faces murder charges. For having hired Grayson, calls for Campbell to resign are growing. Several members of the Sangamon County Board are looking to place an advisory question on the November ballot asking voters if Campbell should resign. Campbell is up for reelection in 2026. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 8th, 2024 - Sangamon County Sheriff Responds to Pritzker’s Calls He Resign The Center Square 00:41:29 Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell says he will continue leading the office he was elected to despite calls from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker to resign. In the early morning hours in Springfield on July 6, Sonya Massey was shot and killed by sheriff’s deputy Sean Grasyon. Massey had called for help with a suspected prowler, but body camera footage shows Grayson shooting Massey in her home. He was fired and faces murder charges. Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell says he will continue leading the office he was elected to despite calls from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker to resign. In the early morning hours in Springfield on July 6, Sonya Massey was shot and killed by sheriff’s deputy Sean Grasyon. Massey had called for help with a suspected prowler, but body camera footage shows Grayson shooting Massey in her home. He was fired and faces murder charges. false full 336 5a119b1e-f9fd-4d8f-8f45-0286b9bf43fc Illinois in Focus Daily | August 7th, 2024 - Harris Picks Minnesota’s Walz; Pritzker Reacts; Trump Campaign Responds Vice President Kamala Harris chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate over a handful of other prominent Democrats that included Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. President Joe Biden announced last month he was not seeking reelection and endorsed Harris to be the party’s nominee. Speculation on who would be her running mate surrounded several prominent Democrats including Pritzker. Tuesday morning, Harris chose Walz.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 7 Aug 2024 14:14:36 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Vice President Kamala Harris chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate over a handful of other prominent Democrats that included Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. President Joe Biden announced last month he was not seeking reelection and endorsed Harris to be the party’s nominee. Speculation on who would be her running mate surrounded several prominent Democrats including Pritzker. Tuesday morning, Harris chose Walz.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx 


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 7th, 2024 - Harris Picks Minnesota’s Walz; Pritzker Reacts; Trump Campaign Responds The Center Square 00:29:18 Vice President Kamala Harris chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate over a handful of other prominent Democrats that included Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. President Joe Biden announced last month he was not seeking reelection and endorsed Harris to be the party’s nominee. Speculation on who would be her running mate surrounded several prominent Democrats including Pritzker. Tuesday morning, Harris chose Walz. Vice President Kamala Harris chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate over a handful of other prominent Democrats that included Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. President Joe Biden announced last month he was not seeking reelection and endorsed Harris to be the party’s nominee. Speculation on who would be her running mate surrounded several prominent Democrats including Pritzker. Tuesday morning, Harris chose Walz. false full 335 d93489ff-68ab-4468-8521-ad9efdff6c1d Illinois in Focus Daily | August 6th, 2024 - Local Taxes Can Increase Now With Law Eliminating Illinois’ Grocery Tax in 2026 There’s a lot more to the newly enacted law eliminating Illinois’ grocery tax in 2026. Local governments can now impose their own 1% tax, along with other sales tax increases. Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Monday he signed House Bill 3144, touting relief he said the measure will bring. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 6 Aug 2024 16:47:42 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ There’s a lot more to the newly enacted law eliminating Illinois’ grocery tax in 2026. Local governments can now impose their own 1% tax, along with other sales tax increases. Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Monday he signed House Bill 3144, touting relief he said the measure will bring. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 6th, 2024 - Local Taxes Can Increase Now With Law Eliminating Illinois’ Grocery Tax in 2026 The Center Square 00:40:30 There’s a lot more to the newly enacted law eliminating Illinois’ grocery tax in 2026. Local governments can now impose their own 1% tax, along with other sales tax increases. Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Monday he signed House Bill 3144, touting relief he said the measure will bring. There’s a lot more to the newly enacted law eliminating Illinois’ grocery tax in 2026. Local governments can now impose their own 1% tax, along with other sales tax increases. Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Monday he signed House Bill 3144, touting relief he said the measure will bring. false full 334 e4e762ab-1cc7-4c87-ac9a-bee2f35b4c29 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 5th, 2024 - Pritzker Signs BIPA Update, ‘Justice-Impacted Individual’ Measure, 57 Other Bills  Dozens of measures impacting employers, education, health care, criminal justice and more are now law after Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted 59 bills Friday. The Illinois General Assembly approved more than 450 measures during spring session that ended in May. Pritzker has been holding bill signing ceremonies for some measures, but others are announced enacted in news releases. Late Friday, Pritzker’s office announced the signing of 23 House bills and 36 Senate bills.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 5 Aug 2024 14:30:23 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/  Dozens of measures impacting employers, education, health care, criminal justice and more are now law after Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted 59 bills Friday. The Illinois General Assembly approved more than 450 measures during spring session that ended in May. Pritzker has been holding bill signing ceremonies for some measures, but others are announced enacted in news releases. Late Friday, Pritzker’s office announced the signing of 23 House bills and 36 Senate bills.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 5th, 2024 - Pritzker Signs BIPA Update, ‘Justice-Impacted Individual’ Measure, 57 Other Bills The Center Square 00:40:39 Dozens of measures impacting employers, education, health care, criminal justice and more are now law after Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted 59 bills Friday. The Illinois General Assembly approved more than 450 measures during spring session that ended in May. Pritzker has been holding bill signing ceremonies for some measures, but others are announced enacted in news releases. Late Friday, Pritzker’s office announced the signing of 23 House bills and 36 Senate bills. Dozens of measures impacting employers, education, health care, criminal justice and more are now law after Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted 59 bills Friday. The Illinois General Assembly approved more than 450 measures during spring session that ended in May. Pritzker has been holding bill signing ceremonies for some measures, but others are announced enacted in news releases. Late Friday, Pritzker’s office announced the signing of 23 House bills and 36 Senate bills. false full 333 3a89bfea-6374-49c6-9b62-ea67584c8f50 Weekend Edition | Trump Talks Border, Inflation With National Association of Black Journalists in Chicago Sat, 3 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Trump Talks Border, Inflation With National Association of Black Journalists in Chicago The Center Square 00:24:00 Former President Donald Trump said Wednesday that illegal immigration and inflation are devastating the Black community. The former president engaged in conversation with political journalists at the National Association of Black Journalists Convention in Chicago on Wednesday. Trump said he wants to stop people from invading the country illegally. Former President Donald Trump said Wednesday that illegal immigration and inflation are devastating the Black community. The former president engaged in conversation with political journalists at the National Association of Black Journalists Convention in Chicago on Wednesday. Trump said he wants to stop people from invading the country illegally. false full 331 a776a0f8-db69-4fa1-942e-09bbdd7b2435 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 2nd, 2024 - Pritzker Confirms Vetting for Democrat’s Vice Presidential Slot but Shapiro Seen as Favorite Greg Bishop reviews the latest headlines around Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and who could be the Democratic party's pick for Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 2 Aug 2024 18:22:44 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the latest headlines around Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and who could be the Democratic party's pick for Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 2nd, 2024 - Pritzker Confirms Vetting for Democrat’s Vice Presidential Slot but Shapiro Seen as Favorite The Center Square 00:37:51 Greg Bishop reviews the latest headlines around Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and who could be the Democratic party's pick for Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate. Greg Bishop reviews the latest headlines around Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and who could be the Democratic party's pick for Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate. false full 332 63311be5-95e5-4a23-a8e9-73659b53f9f4 Illinois in Focus Daily | August 1st, 2024 - Pritzker Says America Deserves Better After Trump Calls Harris ‘Fake' Illinois took center stage in national politics this week after former President Donald Trump made comments about Vice President Kamala Harris’ race. Trump made headlines for comments about Harris in Chicago with the National Association of Black Journalists Wednesday. Harris later said it’s the “same old show” from Trump. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 1 Aug 2024 19:30:37 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois took center stage in national politics this week after former President Donald Trump made comments about Vice President Kamala Harris’ race. Trump made headlines for comments about Harris in Chicago with the National Association of Black Journalists Wednesday. Harris later said it’s the “same old show” from Trump. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | August 1st, 2024 - Pritzker Says America Deserves Better After Trump Calls Harris ‘Fake' The Center Square 00:30:38 Illinois took center stage in national politics this week after former President Donald Trump made comments about Vice President Kamala Harris’ race. Trump made headlines for comments about Harris in Chicago with the National Association of Black Journalists Wednesday. Harris later said it’s the “same old show” from Trump. Illinois took center stage in national politics this week after former President Donald Trump made comments about Vice President Kamala Harris’ race. Trump made headlines for comments about Harris in Chicago with the National Association of Black Journalists Wednesday. Harris later said it’s the “same old show” from Trump. false full 330 a494497b-372c-4769-800e-0d5faa2d4843 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 31st, 2024 - Failures of Secret Service Mount as Senators Demand Accountability The failures of the Secret Service around the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump are mounting but members of Congress say there’s not been enough accountability. Trump suffered a wound to the ear, a spectator was killed and two others were critically wounded when a sniper opened fire in Butler, Pennsylvania, at a campaign rally on July 13. Former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned last week after a U.S. House hearing failed to get answers. On Tuesday in a U.S. Senate hearing, Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe told U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, those on the ground making decisions that day have not been fired.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 31 Jul 2024 15:21:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The failures of the Secret Service around the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump are mounting but members of Congress say there’s not been enough accountability. Trump suffered a wound to the ear, a spectator was killed and two others were critically wounded when a sniper opened fire in Butler, Pennsylvania, at a campaign rally on July 13. Former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned last week after a U.S. House hearing failed to get answers. On Tuesday in a U.S. Senate hearing, Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe told U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, those on the ground making decisions that day have not been fired.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 31st, 2024 - Failures of Secret Service Mount as Senators Demand Accountability The Center Square 00:38:15 The failures of the Secret Service around the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump are mounting but members of Congress say there’s not been enough accountability. Trump suffered a wound to the ear, a spectator was killed and two others were critically wounded when a sniper opened fire in Butler, Pennsylvania, at a campaign rally on July 13. Former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned last week after a U.S. House hearing failed to get answers. On Tuesday in a U.S. Senate hearing, Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe told U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, those on the ground making decisions that day have not been fired. The failures of the Secret Service around the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump are mounting but members of Congress say there’s not been enough accountability. Trump suffered a wound to the ear, a spectator was killed and two others were critically wounded when a sniper opened fire in Butler, Pennsylvania, at a campaign rally on July 13. Former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned last week after a U.S. House hearing failed to get answers. On Tuesday in a U.S. Senate hearing, Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe told U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, those on the ground making decisions that day have not been fired. false full 329 2182e315-90a5-4c6b-b2a0-8fa93ed18fc6 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 30th, 2024 - Assassination Hearing Underway Members of Congress, including Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, are working to get answers to what happened before, during and after the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump on July 13. A joint hearing is underway unpacking the failures of the Secret Service that day in Butler, Pennsylvania. Durbin wants to know what changes are being made leading up to the Democratic National Convention next month in Chicago.  

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 30 Jul 2024 15:39:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Members of Congress, including Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, are working to get answers to what happened before, during and after the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump on July 13. A joint hearing is underway unpacking the failures of the Secret Service that day in Butler, Pennsylvania. Durbin wants to know what changes are being made leading up to the Democratic National Convention next month in Chicago.  

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 30th, 2024 - Assassination Hearing Underway The Center Square 00:37:34 Members of Congress, including Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, are working to get answers to what happened before, during and after the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump on July 13. A joint hearing is underway unpacking the failures of the Secret Service that day in Butler, Pennsylvania. Durbin wants to know what changes are being made leading up to the Democratic National Convention next month in Chicago. Members of Congress, including Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, are working to get answers to what happened before, during and after the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump on July 13. A joint hearing is underway unpacking the failures of the Secret Service that day in Butler, Pennsylvania. Durbin wants to know what changes are being made leading up to the Democratic National Convention next month in Chicago. false full 328 268eec85-c6ee-4038-afb1-c7a04b600cac Illinois in Focus Daily | July 29th, 2024 - Pritzker Continues to Sidestep VP Vetting Questions Greg Bishop reviews some of the ongoing questions Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is getting about whether he's being vetted by Vice President Kamala Harris to be her vice presidential running mate in the 2024 election.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 29 Jul 2024 17:32:43 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the ongoing questions Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is getting about whether he's being vetted by Vice President Kamala Harris to be her vice presidential running mate in the 2024 election.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 29th, 2024 - Pritzker Continues to Sidestep VP Vetting Questions The Center Square 00:30:15 Greg Bishop reviews some of the ongoing questions Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is getting about whether he's being vetted by Vice President Kamala Harris to be her vice presidential running mate in the 2024 election. Greg Bishop reviews some of the ongoing questions Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is getting about whether he's being vetted by Vice President Kamala Harris to be her vice presidential running mate in the 2024 election. false full 327 78630300-d708-4c61-8093-8f694bde1d47 Weekend Edition | Pritzker Works to Clarify Whether He’s Being Vetted for Harris Running Mate Sat, 27 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Pritzker Works to Clarify Whether He’s Being Vetted for Harris Running Mate The Center Square 00:24:00 Questions persist around whether Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is or is not being vetted as a possible vice presidential candidate for Kamala Harris. President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was not seeking reelection. He later endorsed Vice President Harris to be the nominee. Democratic leaders, including Pritzker, followed suit with endorsements of Harris. Alongside the names of Democratic governors from several other states, Pritzker’s name was brought up in reports earlier this week as a potential vice presidential candidate. Questions persist around whether Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is or is not being vetted as a possible vice presidential candidate for Kamala Harris. President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was not seeking reelection. He later endorsed Vice President Harris to be the nominee. Democratic leaders, including Pritzker, followed suit with endorsements of Harris. Alongside the names of Democratic governors from several other states, Pritzker’s name was brought up in reports earlier this week as a potential vice presidential candidate. false full 325 45bce78f-67fe-437c-8c8c-d766a17bce3c Illinois in Focus Daily | July 26th, 2024 - Pritzker Works to Clarify Whether He’s Being Vetted for Harris Running Mate Questions persist around whether Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is or is not being vetted as a possible vice presidential candidate for Kamala Harris. President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was not seeking reelection. He later endorsed Vice President Harris to be the nominee. Democratic leaders, including Pritzker, followed suit with endorsements of Harris. Alongside the names of Democratic governors from several other states, Pritzker’s name was brought up in reports earlier this week as a potential vice presidential candidate.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 26 Jul 2024 17:08:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Questions persist around whether Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is or is not being vetted as a possible vice presidential candidate for Kamala Harris. President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was not seeking reelection. He later endorsed Vice President Harris to be the nominee. Democratic leaders, including Pritzker, followed suit with endorsements of Harris. Alongside the names of Democratic governors from several other states, Pritzker’s name was brought up in reports earlier this week as a potential vice presidential candidate.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 26th, 2024 - Pritzker Works to Clarify Whether He’s Being Vetted for Harris Running Mate The Center Square 00:27:17 Questions persist around whether Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is or is not being vetted as a possible vice presidential candidate for Kamala Harris. President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was not seeking reelection. He later endorsed Vice President Harris to be the nominee. Democratic leaders, including Pritzker, followed suit with endorsements of Harris. Alongside the names of Democratic governors from several other states, Pritzker’s name was brought up in reports earlier this week as a potential vice presidential candidate. Questions persist around whether Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is or is not being vetted as a possible vice presidential candidate for Kamala Harris. President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was not seeking reelection. He later endorsed Vice President Harris to be the nominee. Democratic leaders, including Pritzker, followed suit with endorsements of Harris. Alongside the names of Democratic governors from several other states, Pritzker’s name was brought up in reports earlier this week as a potential vice presidential candidate. false full 326 c78b124c-14ac-46f3-9374-877f741f556a Illinois in Focus Daily | July 25th, 2024 - Pritzker Would Consider VP Nomination, but Some Unhappy With Party Leadership As the Illinois governor weighs in on a potential vice presidential nomination, a socialist alderman from Chicago is expressing frustration with the Democratic Party. Gov. J.B. Pritzker told CNN he’d be reluctant to give up his post as governor of Illinois, but the possibility of being vice president would be appealing. “It’d be hard to resist a call and consideration if the nominee called me to ask to be considered for vice president,” Pritzker said Wednesday. He told MSNBC Tuesday that he had not received any vetting materials from the Harris campaign. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 25 Jul 2024 14:56:02 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ As the Illinois governor weighs in on a potential vice presidential nomination, a socialist alderman from Chicago is expressing frustration with the Democratic Party. Gov. J.B. Pritzker told CNN he’d be reluctant to give up his post as governor of Illinois, but the possibility of being vice president would be appealing. “It’d be hard to resist a call and consideration if the nominee called me to ask to be considered for vice president,” Pritzker said Wednesday. He told MSNBC Tuesday that he had not received any vetting materials from the Harris campaign. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 25th, 2024 - Pritzker Would Consider VP Nomination, but Some Unhappy With Party Leadership The Center Square 00:35:10 As the Illinois governor weighs in on a potential vice presidential nomination, a socialist alderman from Chicago is expressing frustration with the Democratic Party. Gov. J.B. Pritzker told CNN he’d be reluctant to give up his post as governor of Illinois, but the possibility of being vice president would be appealing. “It’d be hard to resist a call and consideration if the nominee called me to ask to be considered for vice president,” Pritzker said Wednesday. As the Illinois governor weighs in on a potential vice presidential nomination, a socialist alderman from Chicago is expressing frustration with the Democratic Party. Gov. J.B. Pritzker told CNN he’d be reluctant to give up his post as governor of Illinois, but the possibility of being vice president would be appealing. “It’d be hard to resist a call and consideration if the nominee called me to ask to be considered for vice president,” Pritzker said Wednesday. false full 324 01ee7d3a-9564-4314-a66b-4a746b250fbd Illinois in Focus Daily | July 24th, 2024 - Reports: Potential Running Mates Get Vetting Materials From Harris Campaign Vetting for potential candidates to run alongside Kamala Harris in her bid for president is underway, with a number of prominent elected Democrats under consideration, according to published reports. A Tuesday afternoon report by the Wall Street Journal said the Harris campaign sent vetting materials to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, and U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona. But Gov. J.B. Pritzker has denied receiving any vetting materials.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 24 Jul 2024 14:34:02 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Vetting for potential candidates to run alongside Kamala Harris in her bid for president is underway, with a number of prominent elected Democrats under consideration, according to published reports. A Tuesday afternoon report by the Wall Street Journal said the Harris campaign sent vetting materials to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, and U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona. But Gov. J.B. Pritzker has denied receiving any vetting materials.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 24th, 2024 - Reports: Potential Running Mates Get Vetting Materials From Harris Campaign The Center Square 00:37:40 Vetting for potential candidates to run alongside Kamala Harris in her bid for president is underway, with a number of prominent elected Democrats under consideration, according to published reports. A Tuesday afternoon report by the Wall Street Journal said the Harris campaign sent vetting materials to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, and U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona. A separate report from USA Today listed the same names but added former Louisiana Rep. Cedric Richmond as a possible candidate. Vetting for potential candidates to run alongside Kamala Harris in her bid for president is underway, with a number of prominent elected Democrats under consideration, according to published reports. A Tuesday afternoon report by the Wall Street Journal said the Harris campaign sent vetting materials to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, and U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona. A separate report from USA Today listed the same names but added former Louisiana Rep. Cedric Richmond as a possible candidate. false full 323 258d70f2-3efd-4f9f-890c-d0131aefdb24 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 23rd, 2024 - Illinois Political Officials React to Pritzker’s Possible Spot on Presidential Ticket Greg Bishop reviews some of the recent headlines around whether Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker could be the running mate for presumptive Democratic Presidential candidate Kamala Harris.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 23 Jul 2024 15:42:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the recent headlines around whether Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker could be the running mate for presumptive Democratic Presidential candidate Kamala Harris.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 23rd, 2024 - Illinois Political Officials React to Pritzker’s Possible Spot on Presidential Ticket The Center Square 00:31:15 Greg Bishop reviews some of the recent headlines around whether Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker could be the running mate for presumptive Democratic Presidential candidate Kamala Harris. Greg Bishop reviews some of the recent headlines around whether Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker could be the running mate for presumptive Democratic Presidential candidate Kamala Harris. false full 322 5fcdb49f-3c8f-4a92-85f2-18da4744b340 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 22nd, 2024 - Illinois Political Leaders React to Biden Dropping Out of Race Ahead of DNC Illinois political leaders are reacting to President Joe Biden announcing he won’t run for president and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic party’s nominee. Biden made the announcement Sunday afternoon, saying the move is in the “best interest of my party and the country.” Biden’s announcement throws the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next month into uncertainty, though he endorsed Harris to get the nomination.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 22 Jul 2024 17:27:55 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois political leaders are reacting to President Joe Biden announcing he won’t run for president and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic party’s nominee. Biden made the announcement Sunday afternoon, saying the move is in the “best interest of my party and the country.” Biden’s announcement throws the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next month into uncertainty, though he endorsed Harris to get the nomination.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 22nd, 2024 - Illinois Political Leaders React to Biden Dropping Out of Race Ahead of DNC The Center Square 00:40:01 Illinois political leaders are reacting to President Joe Biden announcing he won’t run for president and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic party’s nominee. Biden made the announcement Sunday afternoon, saying the move is in the “best interest of my party and the country.” Biden’s announcement throws the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next month into uncertainty, though he endorsed Harris to get the nomination. Illinois political leaders are reacting to President Joe Biden announcing he won’t run for president and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic party’s nominee. Biden made the announcement Sunday afternoon, saying the move is in the “best interest of my party and the country.” Biden’s announcement throws the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next month into uncertainty, though he endorsed Harris to get the nomination. false full 321 8039c33a-ec2a-4f1a-86f9-6b8a88786f29 Weekend Edition | Illinois Republicans Decry Biden’s Border Policies, Chicago Crime Sat, 20 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weekend Edition | Illinois Republicans Decry Biden’s Border Policies, Chicago Crime The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois Republicans are making the case for more public safety in the Land of Lincoln while attending the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Tuesday’s theme at the RNC was “Make America Safe Again.” Earlier in the day, Illinois Republicans gathered for their breakfast off site. U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, R-Hindsboro, said the Biden administration’s open border is allowing crime, drugs, human trafficking and terrorists in. Illinois Republicans are making the case for more public safety in the Land of Lincoln while attending the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Tuesday’s theme at the RNC was “Make America Safe Again.” Earlier in the day, Illinois Republicans gathered for their breakfast off site. U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, R-Hindsboro, said the Biden administration’s open border is allowing crime, drugs, human trafficking and terrorists in. false full 319 51a89e49-8272-44c9-9169-05afc4de7c17 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 19th, 2024 - Illinois Republicans Discuss Election Integrity, Secret Service Investigation Outgoing Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy, U.S. Rep. Darin Lahood and other state GOP leaders answered questions about election integrity, the Secret Service's handling of the security detail at the campaign event Saturday where former President Donald Trump was grazed by a bullet and another man was killed, and other issues Thursday at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 19 Jul 2024 20:20:54 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Outgoing Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy, U.S. Rep. Darin Lahood and other state GOP leaders answered questions about election integrity, the Secret Service's handling of the security detail at the campaign event Saturday where former President Donald Trump was grazed by a bullet and another man was killed, and other issues Thursday at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 19th, 2024 - Illinois Republicans Discuss Election Integrity, Secret Service Investigation The Center Square 00:29:05 Outgoing Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy, U.S. Rep. Darin Lahood and other state GOP leaders answered questions about election integrity, the Secret Service's handling of the security detail at the campaign event Saturday where former President Donald Trump was grazed by a bullet and another man was killed, and other issues Thursday at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Outgoing Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy, U.S. Rep. Darin Lahood and other state GOP leaders answered questions about election integrity, the Secret Service's handling of the security detail at the campaign event Saturday where former President Donald Trump was grazed by a bullet and another man was killed, and other issues Thursday at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. false full 320 3b8e8fc9-d276-418d-9318-365a4222079c Illinois in Focus Daily | July 18th, 2024 - Black Leaders Ditching Illinois Democrats, Stand With GOP State’s Attorney Candidate Some Black leaders from the Chicago area are urging others to ditch Democrats and vote Republican. After Wednesday’s GOP breakfast outside the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee Wednesday, Republican Cook County State’s Attorney candidate Bob Fioretti made his case to the media that he will bring back law and order. Pastor David Lowery Jr., a pastor with Universal Baptist Church in Harvey, stood alongside Fioretti and said Black voters should join him in ditching the Democratic party.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 18 Jul 2024 17:37:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Some Black leaders from the Chicago area are urging others to ditch Democrats and vote Republican. After Wednesday’s GOP breakfast outside the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee Wednesday, Republican Cook County State’s Attorney candidate Bob Fioretti made his case to the media that he will bring back law and order. Pastor David Lowery Jr., a pastor with Universal Baptist Church in Harvey, stood alongside Fioretti and said Black voters should join him in ditching the Democratic party.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 18th, 2024 - Black Leaders Ditching Illinois Democrats, Stand With GOP State’s Attorney Candidate The Center Square 00:37:57 Some Black leaders from the Chicago area are urging others to ditch Democrats and vote Republican. After Wednesday’s GOP breakfast outside the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee Wednesday, Republican Cook County State’s Attorney candidate Bob Fioretti made his case to the media that he will bring back law and order. Pastor David Lowery Jr., a pastor with Universal Baptist Church in Harvey, stood alongside Fioretti and said Black voters should join him in ditching the Democratic party. Some Black leaders from the Chicago area are urging others to ditch Democrats and vote Republican. After Wednesday’s GOP breakfast outside the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee Wednesday, Republican Cook County State’s Attorney candidate Bob Fioretti made his case to the media that he will bring back law and order. Pastor David Lowery Jr., a pastor with Universal Baptist Church in Harvey, stood alongside Fioretti and said Black voters should join him in ditching the Democratic party. false full 318 39ff2a89-493c-43f0-ab4c-0b0a53bfedc6 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 17th, 2024 - Illinois GOP Officials Answer Media Questions at RNC in Milwaukee Illinois elected members of Congress and the state legislature answered questions from the media Tuesday during a gaggle at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 17 Jul 2024 19:19:19 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois elected members of Congress and the state legislature answered questions from the media Tuesday during a gaggle at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 17th, 2024 - Illinois GOP Officials Answer Media Questions at RNC in Milwaukee The Center Square 00:31:48 Illinois elected members of Congress and the state legislature answered questions from the media Tuesday during a gaggle at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Illinois elected members of Congress and the state legislature answered questions from the media Tuesday during a gaggle at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. false full 317 ac1f49e1-36ae-4654-b9f0-63f21cb463c1 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 16th, 2024 - Aftermath of Attempted Trump Assassination Impacts Political Rhetoric in Illinois Politics continue in the aftermath of the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump with both sides in Illinois taking stock of the temperature of the rhetoric this election cycle. In Pennsylvania Saturday, a Trump rally attendee was shot and killed and Trump was injured after a would-be assassin opened fire minutes into the former president’s speech to a crowd in an open air field. The assailant was shot and killed by law enforcement. At an unrelated event in Springfield, Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Springfield, said it was a miracle Trump survived.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 16 Jul 2024 17:32:09 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Politics continue in the aftermath of the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump with both sides in Illinois taking stock of the temperature of the rhetoric this election cycle. In Pennsylvania Saturday, a Trump rally attendee was shot and killed and Trump was injured after a would-be assassin opened fire minutes into the former president’s speech to a crowd in an open air field. The assailant was shot and killed by law enforcement. At an unrelated event in Springfield, Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Springfield, said it was a miracle Trump survived.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 16th, 2024 - Aftermath of Attempted Trump Assassination Impacts Political Rhetoric in Illinois The Center Square 00:19:09 Politics continue in the aftermath of the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump with both sides in Illinois taking stock of the temperature of the rhetoric this election cycle. In Pennsylvania Saturday, a Trump rally attendee was shot and killed and Trump was injured after a would-be assassin opened fire minutes into the former president’s speech to a crowd in an open air field. The assailant was shot and killed by law enforcement. At an unrelated event in Springfield, Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Springfield, said it was a miracle Trump survived. Politics continue in the aftermath of the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump with both sides in Illinois taking stock of the temperature of the rhetoric this election cycle. In Pennsylvania Saturday, a Trump rally attendee was shot and killed and Trump was injured after a would-be assassin opened fire minutes into the former president’s speech to a crowd in an open air field. The assailant was shot and killed by law enforcement. At an unrelated event in Springfield, Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Springfield, said it was a miracle Trump survived. false full 316 9e7ebf2e-40df-464a-953e-f0bb5c7401a7 Pritzker Says ‘Don’t Like Where We’re At’ Hot Mic Moment About Presidential Polling Sat, 13 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Pritzker Says ‘Don’t Like Where We’re At’ Hot Mic Moment About Presidential Polling The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is responding to questions about a hot mic comment this week where he said of the presidential race, “I don't like where we are.” Every appearance Pritzker has in front of the media this week, he’s been peppered with questions about President Joe Biden’s physical and mental fitness to serve. Biden’s fitness to serve as president has been the major national political story since his poor debate performance late last month. Some are looking to a Biden news conference later in the day Thursday as a make or break moment. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is responding to questions about a hot mic comment this week where he said of the presidential race, “I don't like where we are.” Every appearance Pritzker has in front of the media this week, he’s been peppered with questions about President Joe Biden’s physical and mental fitness to serve. Biden’s fitness to serve as president has been the major national political story since his poor debate performance late last month. Some are looking to a Biden news conference later in the day Thursday as a make or break moment. false full 314 8045d288-43cb-4ee2-88dd-e40ee502a4e8 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 12th, 2024 - More Fallout Around Biden’s Performance as Pritzker Doubles Down Support Greg Bishop reviews a few moments of President Joe Biden's performance at separate events Thursday and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's continued questioning about Biden's fitness to be the Democrats' candidate for the November election.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:59:42 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews a few moments of President Joe Biden's performance at separate events Thursday and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's continued questioning about Biden's fitness to be the Democrats' candidate for the November election.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 12th, 2024 - More Fallout Around Biden’s Performance as Pritzker Doubles Down Support The Center Square 00:22:13 Greg Bishop reviews a few moments of President Joe Biden's performance at separate events Thursday and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's continued questioning about Biden's fitness to be the Democrats' candidate for the November election. Greg Bishop reviews a few moments of President Joe Biden's performance at separate events Thursday and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's continued questioning about Biden's fitness to be the Democrats' candidate for the November election. false full 315 39672c71-a637-4d28-a25f-058ba1866d42 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 11th, 2024 - Pritzker Continues Support for Biden Amid Hot Mic Moment Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about their support for President Joe Biden, despite concerns of his fitness to serve. Pritzker was caught in a hot mic moment saying "I don't like where we are."

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 11 Jul 2024 17:29:08 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about their support for President Joe Biden, despite concerns of his fitness to serve. Pritzker was caught in a hot mic moment saying "I don't like where we are."

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 11th, 2024 - Pritzker Continues Support for Biden Amid Hot Mic Moment The Center Square 00:31:29 Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about their support for President Joe Biden, despite concerns of his fitness to serve. Pritzker was caught in a hot mic moment saying "I don't like where we are." Greg Bishop reviews recent comments from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker about their support for President Joe Biden, despite concerns of his fitness to serve. Pritzker was caught in a hot mic moment saying "I don't like where we are." false full 313 e71d6fa7-0123-4d46-b985-9ad6dd046437 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 10th, 2024 - Pritzker Reinforces Support for Biden as Others Remain Unsure Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker remains steadfast in his support of President Joe Biden despite concerns about the president’s fitness. Pritzker was in front of the media for the first time Tuesday since he met with other governors and Biden last week at the White House. He shared what his message to Biden was. “I said, ‘you need to go out there and talk to the American public more,’” Pritzker said. “It was important. I think they took too long. I think he admitted this, to after the debate for him to really go out and do press that would get national attention. I know they did rallies along the way but it’s important for him to answer questions and talk about the issues.”

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 10 Jul 2024 18:33:53 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker remains steadfast in his support of President Joe Biden despite concerns about the president’s fitness. Pritzker was in front of the media for the first time Tuesday since he met with other governors and Biden last week at the White House. He shared what his message to Biden was. “I said, ‘you need to go out there and talk to the American public more,’” Pritzker said. “It was important. I think they took too long. I think he admitted this, to after the debate for him to really go out and do press that would get national attention. I know they did rallies along the way but it’s important for him to answer questions and talk about the issues.”

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 10th, 2024 - Pritzker Reinforces Support for Biden as Others Remain Unsure The Center Square 00:30:11 Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker remains steadfast in his support of President Joe Biden despite concerns about the president’s fitness. Pritzker was in front of the media for the first time Tuesday since he met with other governors and Biden last week at the White House. He shared what his message to Biden was. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker remains steadfast in his support of President Joe Biden despite concerns about the president’s fitness. Pritzker was in front of the media for the first time Tuesday since he met with other governors and Biden last week at the White House. He shared what his message to Biden was. false full 312 46ece804-b145-4145-8efd-5363bcf96f35 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 9th, 2024 - Biden Illinois Delegate Says President Is Failing to Unify Democrats Greg Bishop reviews the recent headlines about Democrats saying President Joe Biden should step down ahead of the party's convention this August. Illinois state Rep. La Shawn Ford, a Biden delegate, provides some insight.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 9 Jul 2024 15:24:12 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews the recent headlines about Democrats saying President Joe Biden should step down ahead of the party's convention this August. Illinois state Rep. La Shawn Ford, a Biden delegate, provides some insight.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 9th, 2024 - Biden Illinois Delegate Says President Is Failing to Unify Democrats The Center Square 00:18:46 Greg Bishop reviews the recent headlines about Democrats saying President Joe Biden should step down ahead of the party's convention this August. Illinois state Rep. La Shawn Ford, a Biden delegate, provides some insight. Greg Bishop reviews the recent headlines about Democrats saying President Joe Biden should step down ahead of the party's convention this August. Illinois state Rep. La Shawn Ford, a Biden delegate, provides some insight. false full 311 d395d7d0-d05e-4b2f-b663-84daba8d4705 Illinois in Focus Daily | July 8th, 2024 - Illinois Biden Delegate Says Contested Convention Will Further Divide Democrats Amid concerns of President Joe Biden’s fitness to serve another four years in office, an Illinois congressman says he should step down. But a delegate says the party must unite ahead of the convention. Speaking with MSNBC Friday, Illinois U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley said Biden should secure his legacy. “The only thing that you can do now to cement that for all time and to prevent utter catastrophe is to step down and let somebody else do this,” Quigley said.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 8 Jul 2024 21:37:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Amid concerns of President Joe Biden’s fitness to serve another four years in office, an Illinois congressman says he should step down. But a delegate says the party must unite ahead of the convention. Speaking with MSNBC Friday, Illinois U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley said Biden should secure his legacy. “The only thing that you can do now to cement that for all time and to prevent utter catastrophe is to step down and let somebody else do this,” Quigley said.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 8th, 2024 - Illinois Biden Delegate Says Contested Convention Will Further Divide Democrats The Center Square 00:21:35 Amid concerns of President Joe Biden’s fitness to serve another four years in office, an Illinois congressman says he should step down. But a delegate says the party must unite ahead of the convention. Speaking with MSNBC Friday, Illinois U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley said Biden should secure his legacy. “The only thing that you can do now to cement that for all time and to prevent utter catastrophe is to step down and let somebody else do this,” Quigley said. Amid concerns of President Joe Biden’s fitness to serve another four years in office, an Illinois congressman says he should step down. But a delegate says the party must unite ahead of the convention. Speaking with MSNBC Friday, Illinois U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley said Biden should secure his legacy. “The only thing that you can do now to cement that for all time and to prevent utter catastrophe is to step down and let somebody else do this,” Quigley said. false full 310 b802388a-c42d-4c0a-a0a4-8bddcd37955d Illinois in Focus Daily | July 5th, 2024 - Concern About Biden’s White House Bid Grows as Pritzker Long Denies Bid for Oval Office Greg Bishop reviews some of the headlines and comments after Democratic governors met privately with the Biden administration Wednesday and reviews the many times Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker was asked about his presidential aspirations.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 Jul 2024 15:53:30 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the headlines and comments after Democratic governors met privately with the Biden administration Wednesday and reviews the many times Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker was asked about his presidential aspirations.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 5th, 2024 - Concern About Biden’s White House Bid Grows as Pritzker Long Denies Bid for Oval Office The Center Square 00:11:41 Greg Bishop reviews some of the headlines and comments after Democratic governors met privately with the Biden administration Wednesday and reviews the many times Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker was asked about his presidential aspirations. Greg Bishop reviews some of the headlines and comments after Democratic governors met privately with the Biden administration Wednesday and reviews the many times Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker was asked about his presidential aspirations. false full 309 5e2060ad-481c-422b-8d4f-47767fe9f4a6 SCOTUS Denies Illinois’ Gun Ban Challenge as Not Ready Yet Thu, 4 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ SCOTUS Denies Illinois’ Gun Ban Challenge as Not Ready Yet The Center Square 00:24:00 The U.S. Supreme Court declined taking up the cases challenging Illinois' gun ban, saying they aren’t ready yet but also criticizing an appeals court’s rationale for denying a preliminary injunction. Tuesday, Justice Clarence Thomas denied writs of certiorari for the six cases challenging gun bans in Illinois. “Petitioners sought a preliminary injunction against the enforcement of the law, arguing that the law violates their Second Amendment right to ‘keep and bear Arms.’” Thomas wrote. “This Court is rightly wary of taking cases in an interlocutory posture. But, I hope we will consider the important issues presented by these petitions after the cases reach final judgment.” The U.S. Supreme Court declined taking up the cases challenging Illinois' gun ban, saying they aren’t ready yet but also criticizing an appeals court’s rationale for denying a preliminary injunction. Tuesday, Justice Clarence Thomas denied writs of certiorari for the six cases challenging gun bans in Illinois. “Petitioners sought a preliminary injunction against the enforcement of the law, arguing that the law violates their Second Amendment right to ‘keep and bear Arms.’” Thomas wrote. “This Court is rightly wary of taking cases in an interlocutory posture. But, I hope we will consider the important issues presented by these petitions after the cases reach final judgment.” false full 308 4f1f8b20-feb8-4a97-9ccf-ef24828e8f4a Illinois in Focus Daily | July 3rd, 2024 - Illinois’ Gun Ban Remains in Place, but Rights Advocates Say Days Are Numbered Now that the U.S. Supreme Court has said it won’t take unfinished cases challenging Illinois’ gun ban without final judgment from the appeals court, it’s back to the lower courts. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas declined to hear cases from Illinoisans suing over gun bans. The opposing sides of the debate see Tuesday’s outcome differently. Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Illinois’ ban on the sale and possession of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazine capacities in January 2023.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 3 Jul 2024 16:01:02 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Now that the U.S. Supreme Court has said it won’t take unfinished cases challenging Illinois’ gun ban without final judgment from the appeals court, it’s back to the lower courts. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas declined to hear cases from Illinoisans suing over gun bans. The opposing sides of the debate see Tuesday’s outcome differently. Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Illinois’ ban on the sale and possession of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazine capacities in January 2023.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 3rd, 2024 - Illinois’ Gun Ban Remains in Place, but Rights Advocates Say Days Are Numbered The Center Square 00:29:49 Now that the U.S. Supreme Court has said it won’t take unfinished cases challenging Illinois’ gun ban without final judgment from the appeals court, it’s back to the lower courts. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas declined to hear cases from Illinoisans suing over gun bans. The opposing sides of the debate see Tuesday’s outcome differently. Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Illinois’ ban on the sale and possession of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazine capacities in January 2023. Now that the U.S. Supreme Court has said it won’t take unfinished cases challenging Illinois’ gun ban without final judgment from the appeals court, it’s back to the lower courts. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas declined to hear cases from Illinoisans suing over gun bans. The opposing sides of the debate see Tuesday’s outcome differently. Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted Illinois’ ban on the sale and possession of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazine capacities in January 2023. false full 307 e57355aa-5e82-44de-80e3-fa8c7c04a5cb Illinois in Focus Daily | July 2nd, 2024 - Illinois Officials React to SCOTUS Presidential Immunity Ruling Reaction to the U.S. Supreme Court granting "absolute immunity" to the president of the United States when acting in his core constitutional duty is getting reaction from Illinois elected officials. Monday’s ruling comes in response to former President Donald Trump's claim that he has presidential immunity against the charges brought against him over actions he took as president. He is the first former president to face criminal charges.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 2 Jul 2024 15:56:42 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Reaction to the U.S. Supreme Court granting "absolute immunity" to the president of the United States when acting in his core constitutional duty is getting reaction from Illinois elected officials. Monday’s ruling comes in response to former President Donald Trump's claim that he has presidential immunity against the charges brought against him over actions he took as president. He is the first former president to face criminal charges.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 2nd, 2024 - Illinois Officials React to SCOTUS Presidential Immunity Ruling The Center Square 00:18:51 Reaction to the U.S. Supreme Court granting "absolute immunity" to the president of the United States when acting in his core constitutional duty is getting reaction from Illinois elected officials. Monday’s ruling comes in response to former President Donald Trump's claim that he has presidential immunity against the charges brought against him over actions he took as president. He is the first former president to face criminal charges. Reaction to the U.S. Supreme Court granting "absolute immunity" to the president of the United States when acting in his core constitutional duty is getting reaction from Illinois elected officials. Monday’s ruling comes in response to former President Donald Trump's claim that he has presidential immunity against the charges brought against him over actions he took as president. He is the first former president to face criminal charges. false full 306 4f5e5537-6ce0-43af-9ad2-4f8a4bbefbdf Illinois in Focus Daily | July 1st, 2024 - Several Tax Hikes Begin in Illinois July 1, Including for Gasoline An annual rite of summer in Illinois is approaching soon with another increase in the state’s gas tax along with a slew of other tax increases. In total, Illinois will see $1.1 billion in tax hikes over the next year. They will support a record-high $53.1 billion state budget. Taxes for gasoline will be 47 cents per gallon and 54 cents per gallon for diesel.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 1 Jul 2024 14:36:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ An annual rite of summer in Illinois is approaching soon with another increase in the state’s gas tax along with a slew of other tax increases. In total, Illinois will see $1.1 billion in tax hikes over the next year. They will support a record-high $53.1 billion state budget. Taxes for gasoline will be 47 cents per gallon and 54 cents per gallon for diesel.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | July 1st, 2024 - Several Tax Hikes Begin in Illinois July 1, Including for Gasoline The Center Square 00:22:23 An annual rite of summer in Illinois is approaching soon with another increase in the state’s gas tax along with a slew of other tax increases. In total, Illinois will see $1.1 billion in tax hikes over the next year. They will support a record-high $53.1 billion state budget. Taxes for gasoline will be 47 cents per gallon and 54 cents per gallon for diesel. An annual rite of summer in Illinois is approaching soon with another increase in the state’s gas tax along with a slew of other tax increases. In total, Illinois will see $1.1 billion in tax hikes over the next year. They will support a record-high $53.1 billion state budget. Taxes for gasoline will be 47 cents per gallon and 54 cents per gallon for diesel. false full 305 7071c629-4371-49ee-a597-9df477947de4 Recent U.S. Supreme Court Rulings Could Impact Illinois Gun Laws Sat, 29 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Recent U.S. Supreme Court Rulings Could Impact Illinois Gun Laws The Center Square 00:24:00 Recent rulings from the U.S. Supreme Court impacting firearms has those in Illinois’ gun control debate declaring their sides are bolstered. In the case Garland v. Cargill, the majority opinion said federal government agencies cannot create laws through rulemaking, as was done with the ATF banning devices that can connect to a semi-automatic rifle to increase the rate of fire. Recent rulings from the U.S. Supreme Court impacting firearms has those in Illinois’ gun control debate declaring their sides are bolstered. In the case Garland v. Cargill, the majority opinion said federal government agencies cannot create laws through rulemaking, as was done with the ATF banning devices that can connect to a semi-automatic rifle to increase the rate of fire. false full 303 fb99a238-1bd0-4ad1-923e-191e60295cb6 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 28th, 2024 - Illinois Officials React to Presidential Debate Greg Bishop reviews some of the reaction from Illinois Democrats and Republicans to Thursday evening's presidential debate between incumbent President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 28 Jun 2024 17:07:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Greg Bishop reviews some of the reaction from Illinois Democrats and Republicans to Thursday evening's presidential debate between incumbent President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 28th, 2024 - Illinois Officials React to Presidential Debate The Center Square 00:33:05 Greg Bishop reviews some of the reaction from Illinois Democrats and Republicans to Thursday evening's presidential debate between incumbent President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. Greg Bishop reviews some of the reaction from Illinois Democrats and Republicans to Thursday evening's presidential debate between incumbent President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. false full 304 255c7867-fa1d-4582-b1f7-9f5364a6b31f Illinois in Focus Daily | June 27th, 2024 - SCOTUS Bribery Ruling Expected to Impact Madigan, ComEd Four Cases A ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court about a federal bribery statute is expected to impact the high profile trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan as a defense attorney for the ComEd Four found guilty last year expects a retrial. Madigan was charged with 22 counts of corruption in 2022 in a case federal authorities called “Madigan Enterprise.” They alleged over nearly a decade, Madigan used his position as House Speaker to steer contracts and no-show jobs from Commonwealth Edison to his associates in exchange for legislation favorable to the utility company. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 27 Jun 2024 15:18:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court about a federal bribery statute is expected to impact the high profile trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan as a defense attorney for the ComEd Four found guilty last year expects a retrial. Madigan was charged with 22 counts of corruption in 2022 in a case federal authorities called “Madigan Enterprise.” They alleged over nearly a decade, Madigan used his position as House Speaker to steer contracts and no-show jobs from Commonwealth Edison to his associates in exchange for legislation favorable to the utility company. 

Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois in Focus Daily | June 27th, 2024 - SCOTUS Bribery Ruling Expected to Impact Madigan, ComEd Four Cases The Center Square 00:28:26 A ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court about a federal bribery statute is expected to impact the high profile trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan as a defense attorney for the ComEd Four found guilty last year expects a retrial. Madigan was charged with 22 counts of corruption in 2022 in a case federal authorities called “Madigan Enterprise.” They alleged over nearly a decade, Madigan used his position as House Speaker to steer contracts and no-show jobs from Commonwealth Edison to his associates in exchange for legislation favorable to the utility company. A ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court about a federal bribery statute is expected to impact the high profile trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan as a defense attorney for the ComEd Four found guilty last year expects a retrial. Madigan was charged with 22 counts of corruption in 2022 in a case federal authorities called “Madigan Enterprise.” They alleged over nearly a decade, Madigan used his position as House Speaker to steer contracts and no-show jobs from Commonwealth Edison to his associates in exchange for legislation favorable to the utility company. false full 302 a9a23e1b-af0b-4c9a-93ed-81311833d8d7 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 26th, 2024 - Pritzker Enacts New State Agency Some Worry Has Unknown Taxpayer Cost Wed, 26 Jun 2024 17:41:06 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | June 26th, 2024 - Pritzker Enacts New State Agency Some Worry Has Unknown Taxpayer Cost The Center Square 00:36:36 Beginning July 1, Illinois will have a new state agency set to roll out over the next three years to handle all things early childhood development. Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1 Tuesday in Chicago. He said transferring early childhood services from three different state agencies to a new one will streamline things for parents. “The Department of Early Childhood, our first ever unified state agency dedicated to supporting Illinois’ youngest children and their parents,” Pritzker said. Beginning July 1, Illinois will have a new state agency set to roll out over the next three years to handle all things early childhood development. Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1 Tuesday in Chicago. He said transferring early childhood services from three different state agencies to a new one will streamline things for parents. “The Department of Early Childhood, our first ever unified state agency dedicated to supporting Illinois’ youngest children and their parents,” Pritzker said. false full 301 a0e714cd-c220-4d22-a9ac-6cc2d50cad88 Illinois in Focus Daily | June 25th, 2024 - Ed Burke Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison, $2 Million Fine Tue, 25 Jun 2024 20:45:59 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Daily | June 25th, 2024 - Ed Burke Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison, $2 Million Fine The Center Square 00:28:19 Former Chicago Alderman Ed Burke was sentenced to prison on corruption charges Monday. The judge gave the 80-year-old a two-year sentence and $2 million dollar fine. Federal prosecutors said Burke corruptly sought to steer tax-appeals work to his private law firm by pressuring developers of the Old Post Office, the owner of a Binny’s Beverage Depot, and a Burger King in his district. Former Chicago Alderman Ed Burke was sentenced to prison on corruption charges Monday. The judge gave the 80-year-old a two-year sentence and $2 million dollar fine. Federal prosecutors said Burke corruptly sought to steer tax-appeals work to his private law firm by pressuring developers of the Old Post Office, the owner of a Binny’s Beverage Depot, and a Burger King in his district. false full 300 d2b800fb-b04b-4542-a3e0-4520e720db20 Data Expert: Illinois Government ‘Bloat’ Is Unsustainable for Taxpayers Fri, 21 Jun 2024 13:50:28 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Data Expert: Illinois Government ‘Bloat’ Is Unsustainable for Taxpayers The Center Square 00:24:00 More than 140,000 Illinois government-sector workers and retirees received more than $100,000 in annual compensation in 2023, according to a new report from Wirepoints. Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski said Illinois residents are forced to pay among the nation’s highest property taxes, and one of the highest tax burdens overall, to fund the $100,000-plus government salaries and pensions of the public sector. Dabrowski explained how taxpayers paying these large salaries for a growing number of government workers is unsustainable. More than 140,000 Illinois government-sector workers and retirees received more than $100,000 in annual compensation in 2023, according to a new report from Wirepoints. Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski said Illinois residents are forced to pay among the nation’s highest property taxes, and one of the highest tax burdens overall, to fund the $100,000-plus government salaries and pensions of the public sector. Dabrowski explained how taxpayers paying these large salaries for a growing number of government workers is unsustainable. false full 299 c6620cdc-75e4-4b03-a1ae-05195a308328 Plans to Raze and Replace Stateville Prison Get Public Hearing Fri, 14 Jun 2024 13:16:01 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Plans to Raze and Replace Stateville Prison Get Public Hearing The Center Square 00:24:00 The state is moving ahead with plans to tear down and reconstruct Stateville Correctional Center in Will County. The facility was built in 1925, but conditions were described as “decrepit, unsafe and inhumane” by the prison watchdog group John Howard Association. During a Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability meeting Tuesday night in Joliet, Department of Corrections Acting Director Latoya Hughes said Stateville is too far gone to be repaired. The state is moving ahead with plans to tear down and reconstruct Stateville Correctional Center in Will County. The facility was built in 1925, but conditions were described as “decrepit, unsafe and inhumane” by the prison watchdog group John Howard Association. During a Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability meeting Tuesday night in Joliet, Department of Corrections Acting Director Latoya Hughes said Stateville is too far gone to be repaired. false full 298 30b2ade5-4438-416f-9bc1-11b39d510053 Slated Candidates Get Win After Pritzker-Signed Election Law Deemed Unconstitutional A Sangamon County Circuit Court judge made a temporary injunction permanent, finding that enforcing a recently signed law that eliminates “slating” for General Assembly races in the 2024 election is unconstitutional. Last month, the Illinois General Assembly gutted and replaced a child welfare bill with changes to election law. They prohibited the slating of candidates for the November general election ballot if that candidate did not run in the March primary. Within three days of the idea surfacing and passing both chambers, Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted the measure. 

Support this podcast: 

https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

Full stories:

https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_f4e10c0a-2377-11ef-bc2a-0f8e13d8773e.html

https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_50683a1a-2370-11ef-a0a3-d796345f8613.html

https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_8b05a132-22b0-11ef-a703-cfc82236aa4a.html

https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_a6445ae8-2282-11ef-9386-3751a7f37c51.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 7 Jun 2024 11:35:09 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A Sangamon County Circuit Court judge made a temporary injunction permanent, finding that enforcing a recently signed law that eliminates “slating” for General Assembly races in the 2024 election is unconstitutional. Last month, the Illinois General Assembly gutted and replaced a child welfare bill with changes to election law. They prohibited the slating of candidates for the November general election ballot if that candidate did not run in the March primary. Within three days of the idea surfacing and passing both chambers, Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted the measure. 

Support this podcast: 

https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx

Full stories:

https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_f4e10c0a-2377-11ef-bc2a-0f8e13d8773e.html

https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_50683a1a-2370-11ef-a0a3-d796345f8613.html

https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_8b05a132-22b0-11ef-a703-cfc82236aa4a.html

https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_a6445ae8-2282-11ef-9386-3751a7f37c51.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Slated Candidates Get Win After Pritzker-Signed Election Law Deemed Unconstitutional The Center Square 00:24:00 A Sangamon County Circuit Court judge made a temporary injunction permanent, finding that enforcing a recently signed law that eliminates “slating” for General Assembly races in the 2024 election is unconstitutional. Last month, the Illinois General Assembly gutted and replaced a child welfare bill with changes to election law. They prohibited the slating of candidates for the November general election ballot if that candidate did not run in the March primary. Within three days of the idea surfacing and passing both chambers, Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted the measure. A Sangamon County Circuit Court judge made a temporary injunction permanent, finding that enforcing a recently signed law that eliminates “slating” for General Assembly races in the 2024 election is unconstitutional. Last month, the Illinois General Assembly gutted and replaced a child welfare bill with changes to election law. They prohibited the slating of candidates for the November general election ballot if that candidate did not run in the March primary. Within three days of the idea surfacing and passing both chambers, Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted the measure. false full 297 247e6b03-c5eb-42aa-9a2c-396cf664e414 Pritzker Says Budget Passed Early Morning Because ‘Everybody Wanted to Go Home’ Fri, 31 May 2024 12:55:27 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Pritzker Says Budget Passed Early Morning Because ‘Everybody Wanted to Go Home’ The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is heralding a budget that Republicans say was crammed down taxpayers throats in the dead of night. After the Senate approved the state budget package late in the evening Sunday, the House took the measure up in the early morning hours Wednesday. The measure spends $53.1 billion and increases a variety of taxes on businesses by about $730 million. State Rep. Patrick Windhorst, R-Metropolis, called out Democrats in the supermajority for violating their own rules by attempting to concur on one of the measures three times when rules only allow two attempts. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is heralding a budget that Republicans say was crammed down taxpayers throats in the dead of night. After the Senate approved the state budget package late in the evening Sunday, the House took the measure up in the early morning hours Wednesday. The measure spends $53.1 billion and increases a variety of taxes on businesses by about $730 million. State Rep. Patrick Windhorst, R-Metropolis, called out Democrats in the supermajority for violating their own rules by attempting to concur on one of the measures three times when rules only allow two attempts. false full 296 c3db4da6-95cc-4f48-ae1a-cf87717b9187 Illinois Taxpayers in Dark on Budget Details Before Adjournment Fri, 24 May 2024 13:48:06 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois Taxpayers in Dark on Budget Details Before Adjournment The Center Square 00:24:00 With the final scheduled session day on Friday, Illinois taxpayers remain in the dark about how state lawmakers plan to spend billions in taxes. Earlier in the day Thursday, at an unrelated event in Pontoon Beach, Gov. J.B. Pritzker gave scant details about the budget. But he was asked about his proposed tax increase on sports betting companies. “Most of the pushback of course is by the sportsbook companies that have made literally tens of millions of dollars from the state of Illinois and all we’re asking is they pay a little more of their fair share,” Pritzker said. “It keeps our tax rate at below the other of the top sportsbook states in the country, New York and New Jersey.” With the final scheduled session day on Friday, Illinois taxpayers remain in the dark about how state lawmakers plan to spend billions in taxes. Earlier in the day Thursday, at an unrelated event in Pontoon Beach, Gov. J.B. Pritzker gave scant details about the budget. But he was asked about his proposed tax increase on sports betting companies. “Most of the pushback of course is by the sportsbook companies that have made literally tens of millions of dollars from the state of Illinois and all we’re asking is they pay a little more of their fair share,” Pritzker said. “It keeps our tax rate at below the other of the top sportsbook states in the country, New York and New Jersey.” false full 295 c7cdd442-6cf0-4792-8e30-c3f761dc30e0 Illinois Legislators Considering Tax and Spend Policies in Final Days of Session Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_438aa328-12f9-11ef-be51-0357e350a26f.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 17 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_438aa328-12f9-11ef-be51-0357e350a26f.html


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Legislators Considering Tax and Spend Policies in Final Days of Session The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois legislators continue to consider tax increases on businesses heading into the final nine days of scheduled session. Conversations also continue about zeroing out Illinois’ grocery tax and whether local governments will get state taxpayer funds to offset losses to local coffers. Last week, Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office told state agencies his proposed $1 billion in tax increases aren’t popular and to prepare for $800 million in cuts. Monday, Pritzker reiterated his position. “It’s really up to the legislature at that point to make decisions about whether they like what was in that original budget, what they might want to change,” Pritzker said. Illinois legislators continue to consider tax increases on businesses heading into the final nine days of scheduled session. Conversations also continue about zeroing out Illinois’ grocery tax and whether local governments will get state taxpayer funds to offset losses to local coffers. Last week, Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office told state agencies his proposed $1 billion in tax increases aren’t popular and to prepare for $800 million in cuts. Monday, Pritzker reiterated his position. “It’s really up to the legislature at that point to make decisions about whether they like what was in that original budget, what they might want to change,” Pritzker said. false full 294 143eb54a-83a5-4a1a-b781-0bfd5215d93f Pritzker Directs State Agencies to Prepare for $800 Million Less for Proposed Budget Illinois state agencies are being directed to prepare for $800 million less than what Gov. J.B. Pritzker proposed for the fiscal year 2025 budget. The General Assembly has until May 31 to pass a budget with simple majorities. Fiscal 2025 begins July 1. Pritzker proposed a $52.7 billion budget in February that included about $1 billion in tax increases. In a memo obtained by The Center Square sent out to state agency directors Wednesday, Deputy Gov. Andy Manar said it has "become clear that opposition to proposed revenue is significant enough to direct agencies to prepare for the possibility of reductions to proposed spending" and "we must prepare to implement a potential balanced budget scenario with $800 million less in available revenue."

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 10 May 2024 14:35:45 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois state agencies are being directed to prepare for $800 million less than what Gov. J.B. Pritzker proposed for the fiscal year 2025 budget. The General Assembly has until May 31 to pass a budget with simple majorities. Fiscal 2025 begins July 1. Pritzker proposed a $52.7 billion budget in February that included about $1 billion in tax increases. In a memo obtained by The Center Square sent out to state agency directors Wednesday, Deputy Gov. Andy Manar said it has "become clear that opposition to proposed revenue is significant enough to direct agencies to prepare for the possibility of reductions to proposed spending" and "we must prepare to implement a potential balanced budget scenario with $800 million less in available revenue."

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Pritzker Directs State Agencies to Prepare for $800 Million Less for Proposed Budget The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois state agencies are being directed to prepare for $800 million less than what Gov. J.B. Pritzker proposed for the fiscal year 2025 budget. The General Assembly has until May 31 to pass a budget with simple majorities. Fiscal 2025 begins July 1. Pritzker proposed a $52.7 billion budget in February that included about $1 billion in tax increases. In a memo obtained by The Center Square sent out to state agency directors Wednesday, Deputy Gov. Andy Manar said it has "become clear that opposition to proposed revenue is significant enough to direct agencies to prepare for the possibility of reductions to proposed spending" and "we must prepare to implement a potential balanced budget scenario with $800 million less in available revenue." --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois state agencies are being directed to prepare for $800 million less than what Gov. J.B. Pritzker proposed for the fiscal year 2025 budget. The General Assembly has until May 31 to pass a budget with simple majorities. Fiscal 2025 begins July 1. Pritzker proposed a $52.7 billion budget in February that included about $1 billion in tax increases. In a memo obtained by The Center Square sent out to state agency directors Wednesday, Deputy Gov. Andy Manar said it has "become clear that opposition to proposed revenue is significant enough to direct agencies to prepare for the possibility of reductions to proposed spending" and "we must prepare to implement a potential balanced budget scenario with $800 million less in available revenue." --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 293 c098d80a-1dc2-42f1-ab94-134db3d9a9c4 Illinois Democrats Approve Changes to Election Law in Less Than 24 Hours In less than 24 hours, Illinois Statehouse Democrats passed a measure that changes election law, a move Republicans say is a slap in the face of voters in the middle of an election cycle. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signaled support.  Senate Bill 2412 originally started as a measure impacting child welfare, but late Wednesday, House Democrats gutted the bill to bring about an elections measure. House Republicans voted present and walked off the floor in protest, saying the measure was dropped on them last minute. 


Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_2b607af8-08cb-11ef-be4b-4314e8b49453.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 3 May 2024 12:54:41 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ In less than 24 hours, Illinois Statehouse Democrats passed a measure that changes election law, a move Republicans say is a slap in the face of voters in the middle of an election cycle. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signaled support.  Senate Bill 2412 originally started as a measure impacting child welfare, but late Wednesday, House Democrats gutted the bill to bring about an elections measure. House Republicans voted present and walked off the floor in protest, saying the measure was dropped on them last minute. 


Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_2b607af8-08cb-11ef-be4b-4314e8b49453.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Democrats Approve Changes to Election Law in Less Than 24 Hours The Center Square 00:24:00 In less than 24 hours, Illinois Statehouse Democrats passed a measure that changes election law, a move Republicans say is a slap in the face of voters in the middle of an election cycle. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signaled support.  Senate Bill 2412 originally started as a measure impacting child welfare, but late Wednesday, House Democrats gutted the bill to bring about an elections measure. House Republicans voted present and walked off the floor in protest, saying the measure was dropped on them last minute.  Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_2b607af8-08cb-11ef-be4b-4314e8b49453.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support In less than 24 hours, Illinois Statehouse Democrats passed a measure that changes election law, a move Republicans say is a slap in the face of voters in the middle of an election cycle. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signaled support.  Senate Bill 2412 originally started as a measure impacting child welfare, but late Wednesday, House Democrats gutted the bill to bring about an elections measure. House Republicans voted present and walked off the floor in protest, saying the measure was dropped on them last minute.  Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_2b607af8-08cb-11ef-be4b-4314e8b49453.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 292 9a42744b-1cec-4241-9795-7137bc64872b Chicago Bears Look for Public Financing in Building a New Stadium The Chicago Bears on Wednesday unveiled details about a proposed new stadium complex on the lakefront in which the NFL team will seek taxpayer funding, something that is not sitting well with Illinois' governor and legislative leaders.

The team is planning to build a state-of-the-art, domed lakefront stadium near Soldier Field, its current stadium. The Bears said they'd provide over $2 billion for the project, which they said would cover over 70% of the costs. But projections put the total price tag at around $4.7 billion.

Full stories:

Chicago Bears look for public financing in building a new stadium

Education expert analyzes Invest in Kids’ record-breaking numbers for final year

State senator: Pritzker ‘gaslighting’ Illinoisans he says engage in migrant ‘hysteria'

Pritzker: State prepared for possible protests at Democrat's convention

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 26 Apr 2024 16:32:50 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Chicago Bears on Wednesday unveiled details about a proposed new stadium complex on the lakefront in which the NFL team will seek taxpayer funding, something that is not sitting well with Illinois' governor and legislative leaders.

The team is planning to build a state-of-the-art, domed lakefront stadium near Soldier Field, its current stadium. The Bears said they'd provide over $2 billion for the project, which they said would cover over 70% of the costs. But projections put the total price tag at around $4.7 billion.

Full stories:

Chicago Bears look for public financing in building a new stadium

Education expert analyzes Invest in Kids’ record-breaking numbers for final year

State senator: Pritzker ‘gaslighting’ Illinoisans he says engage in migrant ‘hysteria'

Pritzker: State prepared for possible protests at Democrat's convention

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Chicago Bears Look for Public Financing in Building a New Stadium The Center Square 00:24:00 The Chicago Bears on Wednesday unveiled details about a proposed new stadium complex on the lakefront in which the NFL team will seek taxpayer funding, something that is not sitting well with Illinois' governor and legislative leaders. The team is planning to build a state-of-the-art, domed lakefront stadium near Soldier Field, its current stadium. The Bears said they'd provide over $2 billion for the project, which they said would cover over 70% of the costs. But projections put the total price tag at around $4.7 billion. Full stories: Chicago Bears look for public financing in building a new stadium Education expert analyzes Invest in Kids’ record-breaking numbers for final year State senator: Pritzker ‘gaslighting’ Illinoisans he says engage in migrant ‘hysteria' Pritzker: State prepared for possible protests at Democrat's convention --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The Chicago Bears on Wednesday unveiled details about a proposed new stadium complex on the lakefront in which the NFL team will seek taxpayer funding, something that is not sitting well with Illinois' governor and legislative leaders. The team is planning to build a state-of-the-art, domed lakefront stadium near Soldier Field, its current stadium. The Bears said they'd provide over $2 billion for the project, which they said would cover over 70% of the costs. But projections put the total price tag at around $4.7 billion. Full stories: Chicago Bears look for public financing in building a new stadium Education expert analyzes Invest in Kids’ record-breaking numbers for final year State senator: Pritzker ‘gaslighting’ Illinoisans he says engage in migrant ‘hysteria' Pritzker: State prepared for possible protests at Democrat's convention --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 291 1a6b7fbd-e25a-4071-86f5-18353a45c8b2 Advocates on Both Sides of Gun Debate Take to Illinois Capitol Advocates on both sides of the debate around gun control are using this week to champion their issues at the Illinois Statehouse. On Tuesday, hundreds of gun control advocates from Everytown for Gun Safety, Moms Demand Action and others, including some from Minnesota, discussed their priorities during a rally at the Illinois Statehouse. One Aim Illinois Deputy Director Yolanda Androzzo pushed for gun control measures. “Illinois state legislators have the opportunity, it’s an opportunity to ensure protection through protection and justice for survivors of gun violence,” she said.


Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_c646ec30-fced-11ee-8aba-8bfbc4e273cd.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 19 Apr 2024 14:23:26 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Advocates on both sides of the debate around gun control are using this week to champion their issues at the Illinois Statehouse. On Tuesday, hundreds of gun control advocates from Everytown for Gun Safety, Moms Demand Action and others, including some from Minnesota, discussed their priorities during a rally at the Illinois Statehouse. One Aim Illinois Deputy Director Yolanda Androzzo pushed for gun control measures. “Illinois state legislators have the opportunity, it’s an opportunity to ensure protection through protection and justice for survivors of gun violence,” she said.


Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_c646ec30-fced-11ee-8aba-8bfbc4e273cd.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Advocates on Both Sides of Gun Debate Take to Illinois Capitol The Center Square 00:24:00 Advocates on both sides of the debate around gun control are using this week to champion their issues at the Illinois Statehouse. On Tuesday, hundreds of gun control advocates from Everytown for Gun Safety, Moms Demand Action and others, including some from Minnesota, discussed their priorities during a rally at the Illinois Statehouse. One Aim Illinois Deputy Director Yolanda Androzzo pushed for gun control measures. “Illinois state legislators have the opportunity, it’s an opportunity to ensure protection through protection and justice for survivors of gun violence,” she said. Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_c646ec30-fced-11ee-8aba-8bfbc4e273cd.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Advocates on both sides of the debate around gun control are using this week to champion their issues at the Illinois Statehouse. On Tuesday, hundreds of gun control advocates from Everytown for Gun Safety, Moms Demand Action and others, including some from Minnesota, discussed their priorities during a rally at the Illinois Statehouse. One Aim Illinois Deputy Director Yolanda Androzzo pushed for gun control measures. “Illinois state legislators have the opportunity, it’s an opportunity to ensure protection through protection and justice for survivors of gun violence,” she said. Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_c646ec30-fced-11ee-8aba-8bfbc4e273cd.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 290 f222d9a6-9a15-4308-a70c-e93651211b30 Illinois Taxpayer Costs for State Workers’ ‘Cadillac’ Health Plans Increase 16% Illinois taxpayers will be paying significantly more so state employees can have "Cadillac" health insurance coverage. 

The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability met Tuesday in Springfield to review the fiscal year 2025 state employees’ group insurance program. According to the 2025 budget plan, the State Employee Group Health and Life Insurance program is proposed to receive more than $6.9 billion, a 21% overall increase from last year, when the program received $5.7 billion.

The state's taxpayers and workers share in the cost of the program.

Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_17c2197c-f69a-11ee-8063-234d44daa3dd.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 12 Apr 2024 13:18:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois taxpayers will be paying significantly more so state employees can have "Cadillac" health insurance coverage. 

The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability met Tuesday in Springfield to review the fiscal year 2025 state employees’ group insurance program. According to the 2025 budget plan, the State Employee Group Health and Life Insurance program is proposed to receive more than $6.9 billion, a 21% overall increase from last year, when the program received $5.7 billion.

The state's taxpayers and workers share in the cost of the program.

Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_17c2197c-f69a-11ee-8063-234d44daa3dd.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Taxpayer Costs for State Workers’ ‘Cadillac’ Health Plans Increase 16% The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois taxpayers will be paying significantly more so state employees can have "Cadillac" health insurance coverage.  The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability met Tuesday in Springfield to review the fiscal year 2025 state employees’ group insurance program. According to the 2025 budget plan, the State Employee Group Health and Life Insurance program is proposed to receive more than $6.9 billion, a 21% overall increase from last year, when the program received $5.7 billion. The state's taxpayers and workers share in the cost of the program. Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_17c2197c-f69a-11ee-8063-234d44daa3dd.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois taxpayers will be paying significantly more so state employees can have "Cadillac" health insurance coverage.  The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability met Tuesday in Springfield to review the fiscal year 2025 state employees’ group insurance program. According to the 2025 budget plan, the State Employee Group Health and Life Insurance program is proposed to receive more than $6.9 billion, a 21% overall increase from last year, when the program received $5.7 billion. The state's taxpayers and workers share in the cost of the program. Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_17c2197c-f69a-11ee-8063-234d44daa3dd.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 289 22e33b4a-4d2e-477e-93b5-4beb381f0eec Migrant Shelter Tuberculosis Cases ‘Isolated,’ Measles Cases Rise to 56 As Illinois public health officials handle the ongoing outbreak of measles originating in a Chicago shelter for noncitizens, the state’s public health director said Thursday that two cases of tuberculosis also have been identified at a migrant shelter. Last month, the first cases of measles were discovered at a migrant shelter in Chicago. Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra reported to legislators in Springfield Thursday.


Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_ba23dd58-f2a9-11ee-8c1f-130add289b2b.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 Apr 2024 13:30:41 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ As Illinois public health officials handle the ongoing outbreak of measles originating in a Chicago shelter for noncitizens, the state’s public health director said Thursday that two cases of tuberculosis also have been identified at a migrant shelter. Last month, the first cases of measles were discovered at a migrant shelter in Chicago. Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra reported to legislators in Springfield Thursday.


Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_ba23dd58-f2a9-11ee-8c1f-130add289b2b.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Migrant Shelter Tuberculosis Cases ‘Isolated,’ Measles Cases Rise to 56 The Center Square 00:24:00 As Illinois public health officials handle the ongoing outbreak of measles originating in a Chicago shelter for noncitizens, the state’s public health director said Thursday that two cases of tuberculosis also have been identified at a migrant shelter. Last month, the first cases of measles were discovered at a migrant shelter in Chicago. Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra reported to legislators in Springfield Thursday. Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_ba23dd58-f2a9-11ee-8c1f-130add289b2b.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support As Illinois public health officials handle the ongoing outbreak of measles originating in a Chicago shelter for noncitizens, the state’s public health director said Thursday that two cases of tuberculosis also have been identified at a migrant shelter. Last month, the first cases of measles were discovered at a migrant shelter in Chicago. Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra reported to legislators in Springfield Thursday. Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_ba23dd58-f2a9-11ee-8c1f-130add289b2b.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 288 405cb992-7d20-413e-a835-ce048c06c8ad Republicans Want Change After Pritzker Board Paroles Now Alleged Murderer A shakeup at the Illinois Prisoner Review Board has Republicans calling for reforms. Illinois Senate Minority Leader John Curran, R-Downers Grove, said the resignation of two people from the PRB Monday, member LeAnn Miller and Chair Donald Shelton, following a recent parolee allegedly murdering a child and stabbing their mother is “another example of [Gov. J.B. Pritzker] failing to oversee an agency under his control.” State Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, said the PRB shouldn’t be under Pritzker’s control.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 29 Mar 2024 12:37:02 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A shakeup at the Illinois Prisoner Review Board has Republicans calling for reforms. Illinois Senate Minority Leader John Curran, R-Downers Grove, said the resignation of two people from the PRB Monday, member LeAnn Miller and Chair Donald Shelton, following a recent parolee allegedly murdering a child and stabbing their mother is “another example of [Gov. J.B. Pritzker] failing to oversee an agency under his control.” State Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, said the PRB shouldn’t be under Pritzker’s control.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Republicans Want Change After Pritzker Board Paroles Now Alleged Murderer The Center Square 00:24:00 A shakeup at the Illinois Prisoner Review Board has Republicans calling for reforms. Illinois Senate Minority Leader John Curran, R-Downers Grove, said the resignation of two people from the PRB Monday, member LeAnn Miller and Chair Donald Shelton, following a recent parolee allegedly murdering a child and stabbing their mother is “another example of [Gov. J.B. Pritzker] failing to oversee an agency under his control.” State Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, said the PRB shouldn’t be under Pritzker’s control. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A shakeup at the Illinois Prisoner Review Board has Republicans calling for reforms. Illinois Senate Minority Leader John Curran, R-Downers Grove, said the resignation of two people from the PRB Monday, member LeAnn Miller and Chair Donald Shelton, following a recent parolee allegedly murdering a child and stabbing their mother is “another example of [Gov. J.B. Pritzker] failing to oversee an agency under his control.” State Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, said the PRB shouldn’t be under Pritzker’s control. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 287 ada72c84-1861-4109-a011-e85da7ca95c6 Chicago’s Mayor Not Giving up on Failed Tax Hike on Real Estate (The Center Square) – Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson vows to continue with his agenda despite an apparent defeat of his Bring Chicago Home referendum this week.   The measure, which would have increased the city’s real estate transfer tax on properties over $1 million and, according to Johnson, use the funds to pay for homelessness programs, now appears to be rejected by voters. Fifty-four percent of voters said “no” to 46% “yes” with 98% of precincts reporting. “All the votes have not been counted so it has not been declared just yet,” Johnson said. “Look, there are 68,000 people unhoused, that’s the focus.”

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 22 Mar 2024 15:14:12 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ (The Center Square) – Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson vows to continue with his agenda despite an apparent defeat of his Bring Chicago Home referendum this week.   The measure, which would have increased the city’s real estate transfer tax on properties over $1 million and, according to Johnson, use the funds to pay for homelessness programs, now appears to be rejected by voters. Fifty-four percent of voters said “no” to 46% “yes” with 98% of precincts reporting. “All the votes have not been counted so it has not been declared just yet,” Johnson said. “Look, there are 68,000 people unhoused, that’s the focus.”

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Chicago’s Mayor Not Giving up on Failed Tax Hike on Real Estate The Center Square 00:24:00 (The Center Square) – Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson vows to continue with his agenda despite an apparent defeat of his Bring Chicago Home referendum this week.   The measure, which would have increased the city’s real estate transfer tax on properties over $1 million and, according to Johnson, use the funds to pay for homelessness programs, now appears to be rejected by voters. Fifty-four percent of voters said “no” to 46% “yes” with 98% of precincts reporting. “All the votes have not been counted so it has not been declared just yet,” Johnson said. “Look, there are 68,000 people unhoused, that’s the focus.” --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support (The Center Square) – Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson vows to continue with his agenda despite an apparent defeat of his Bring Chicago Home referendum this week.   The measure, which would have increased the city’s real estate transfer tax on properties over $1 million and, according to Johnson, use the funds to pay for homelessness programs, now appears to be rejected by voters. Fifty-four percent of voters said “no” to 46% “yes” with 98% of precincts reporting. “All the votes have not been counted so it has not been declared just yet,” Johnson said. “Look, there are 68,000 people unhoused, that’s the focus.” --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 286 751ae45e-c6fa-4592-9fca-1011a55fee1d Illinois Businesses Brace for Potential Tax Increase in Pritzker’s Budget Plan Illinois business owners are bracing for a potential tax hit from Gov. J.B. Pritzker. The governor’s proposed budget extends the cap on business net operating losses, but increases the cap to $500,000. His office estimates the “revenue adjustment” will raise $526 million, the bulk of the nearly $900 million of tax increases in his $52.7 billion spending proposal.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 15 Mar 2024 14:06:32 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois business owners are bracing for a potential tax hit from Gov. J.B. Pritzker. The governor’s proposed budget extends the cap on business net operating losses, but increases the cap to $500,000. His office estimates the “revenue adjustment” will raise $526 million, the bulk of the nearly $900 million of tax increases in his $52.7 billion spending proposal.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Businesses Brace for Potential Tax Increase in Pritzker’s Budget Plan The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois business owners are bracing for a potential tax hit from Gov. J.B. Pritzker. The governor’s proposed budget extends the cap on business net operating losses, but increases the cap to $500,000. His office estimates the “revenue adjustment” will raise $526 million, the bulk of the nearly $900 million of tax increases in his $52.7 billion spending proposal. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois business owners are bracing for a potential tax hit from Gov. J.B. Pritzker. The governor’s proposed budget extends the cap on business net operating losses, but increases the cap to $500,000. His office estimates the “revenue adjustment” will raise $526 million, the bulk of the nearly $900 million of tax increases in his $52.7 billion spending proposal. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 285 d451d869-4ba0-44d7-b9ad-47ab34a611f8 CTU President Suggests New Teacher Contract Could Cost Taxpayers $50 Billion The Chicago Teachers Union is preparing for collective bargaining talks with the city, and the union's president suggested the new terms would cost taxpayers $50 billion. “We are asking you to give us an opportunity to tell our story. It will cost $50 billion, and three cent,” CTU President Stacy Davis Gates said Tuesday at the City Club of Chicago this week, setting the stage for upcoming negotiations with the city. "And so what? That's audacity." Some media outlets reported that Gates was "joking" when citing the $50 billion figure.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 8 Mar 2024 14:55:23 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Chicago Teachers Union is preparing for collective bargaining talks with the city, and the union's president suggested the new terms would cost taxpayers $50 billion. “We are asking you to give us an opportunity to tell our story. It will cost $50 billion, and three cent,” CTU President Stacy Davis Gates said Tuesday at the City Club of Chicago this week, setting the stage for upcoming negotiations with the city. "And so what? That's audacity." Some media outlets reported that Gates was "joking" when citing the $50 billion figure.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> CTU President Suggests New Teacher Contract Could Cost Taxpayers $50 Billion The Center Square 00:24:00 The Chicago Teachers Union is preparing for collective bargaining talks with the city, and the union's president suggested the new terms would cost taxpayers $50 billion. “We are asking you to give us an opportunity to tell our story. It will cost $50 billion, and three cent,” CTU President Stacy Davis Gates said Tuesday at the City Club of Chicago this week, setting the stage for upcoming negotiations with the city. "And so what? That's audacity." Some media outlets reported that Gates was "joking" when citing the $50 billion figure. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The Chicago Teachers Union is preparing for collective bargaining talks with the city, and the union's president suggested the new terms would cost taxpayers $50 billion. “We are asking you to give us an opportunity to tell our story. It will cost $50 billion, and three cent,” CTU President Stacy Davis Gates said Tuesday at the City Club of Chicago this week, setting the stage for upcoming negotiations with the city. "And so what? That's audacity." Some media outlets reported that Gates was "joking" when citing the $50 billion figure. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 284 f1d72c1b-9135-4309-b875-01f8c7d68c15 Judge Rules Trump off Illinois Primary Ballot but Stays Decision Pending Appeal A Cook County judge decided former President Donald Trump’s name should be removed from the Illinois primary ballot, but put a hold on the order expecting an appeal. Trump’s campaign said it will “quickly appeal.” In a 38-page ruling, the circuit court judge said the Illinois State Board of Elections’ unanimous decision to keep Trump on the ballot is overturned. A group of objectors challenged Trump’s access to the March 19 Illinois primary ballot alleging the former Republican president instigated an insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and is ineligible to be elected president. Last month, the state elections board denied their objection. The group appealed to the state circuit court in Cook County.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 1 Mar 2024 13:48:57 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A Cook County judge decided former President Donald Trump’s name should be removed from the Illinois primary ballot, but put a hold on the order expecting an appeal. Trump’s campaign said it will “quickly appeal.” In a 38-page ruling, the circuit court judge said the Illinois State Board of Elections’ unanimous decision to keep Trump on the ballot is overturned. A group of objectors challenged Trump’s access to the March 19 Illinois primary ballot alleging the former Republican president instigated an insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and is ineligible to be elected president. Last month, the state elections board denied their objection. The group appealed to the state circuit court in Cook County.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Judge Rules Trump off Illinois Primary Ballot but Stays Decision Pending Appeal The Center Square 00:24:00 A Cook County judge decided former President Donald Trump’s name should be removed from the Illinois primary ballot, but put a hold on the order expecting an appeal. Trump’s campaign said it will “quickly appeal.” In a 38-page ruling, the circuit court judge said the Illinois State Board of Elections’ unanimous decision to keep Trump on the ballot is overturned. A group of objectors challenged Trump’s access to the March 19 Illinois primary ballot alleging the former Republican president instigated an insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and is ineligible to be elected president. Last month, the state elections board denied their objection. The group appealed to the state circuit court in Cook County. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A Cook County judge decided former President Donald Trump’s name should be removed from the Illinois primary ballot, but put a hold on the order expecting an appeal. Trump’s campaign said it will “quickly appeal.” In a 38-page ruling, the circuit court judge said the Illinois State Board of Elections’ unanimous decision to keep Trump on the ballot is overturned. A group of objectors challenged Trump’s access to the March 19 Illinois primary ballot alleging the former Republican president instigated an insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and is ineligible to be elected president. Last month, the state elections board denied their objection. The group appealed to the state circuit court in Cook County. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 283 fd289477-ac73-4f70-af76-6bd40a878a82 Tax Hikes, Migrant Funding, Medical Debt Retirement Part of Pritzker’s Proposed Budget With a projected deficit of close to $900 million, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker presented his sixth State of the State and budget address Wednesday. The plan includes $52.7 billion in spending, roughly a 2% increase over the current fiscal year budget. What is sure to be a talking point in the coming months, the budget includes an additional $182 million for the care of migrants on top of what has already been spent.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 23 Feb 2024 15:09:38 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With a projected deficit of close to $900 million, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker presented his sixth State of the State and budget address Wednesday. The plan includes $52.7 billion in spending, roughly a 2% increase over the current fiscal year budget. What is sure to be a talking point in the coming months, the budget includes an additional $182 million for the care of migrants on top of what has already been spent.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tax Hikes, Migrant Funding, Medical Debt Retirement Part of Pritzker’s Proposed Budget The Center Square 00:24:00 With a projected deficit of close to $900 million, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker presented his sixth State of the State and budget address Wednesday. The plan includes $52.7 billion in spending, roughly a 2% increase over the current fiscal year budget. What is sure to be a talking point in the coming months, the budget includes an additional $182 million for the care of migrants on top of what has already been spent. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With a projected deficit of close to $900 million, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker presented his sixth State of the State and budget address Wednesday. The plan includes $52.7 billion in spending, roughly a 2% increase over the current fiscal year budget. What is sure to be a talking point in the coming months, the budget includes an additional $182 million for the care of migrants on top of what has already been spent. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 282 76ab2af8-3202-4e15-bb07-b2c89f0cb254 Illinois’ Corporate Income Tax Rate Now 2nd Highest in U.S. A new Tax Foundation study finds Illinois with the second highest corporate tax rate in the country. Some say that signals more struggles ahead for the Land of Lincoln. The nonpartisan Tax Foundation ranked states by their corporate income tax rates as of Jan. 1, 2024. Six states, Texas, Nevada, Washington, Wyoming, South Dakota and Ohio, do not levy a corporate income tax. Of the 44 that do, Illinois’ 9.5% rate put the state at No. 2, up from No. 3 in last year’s report. The top spot in 2024 goes to Minnesota at 9.8%. The state with the lowest rate outside of the states that do not have such taxes is North Carolina at 2.5%. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 16 Feb 2024 14:22:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A new Tax Foundation study finds Illinois with the second highest corporate tax rate in the country. Some say that signals more struggles ahead for the Land of Lincoln. The nonpartisan Tax Foundation ranked states by their corporate income tax rates as of Jan. 1, 2024. Six states, Texas, Nevada, Washington, Wyoming, South Dakota and Ohio, do not levy a corporate income tax. Of the 44 that do, Illinois’ 9.5% rate put the state at No. 2, up from No. 3 in last year’s report. The top spot in 2024 goes to Minnesota at 9.8%. The state with the lowest rate outside of the states that do not have such taxes is North Carolina at 2.5%. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois’ Corporate Income Tax Rate Now 2nd Highest in U.S. The Center Square 00:24:00 A new Tax Foundation study finds Illinois with the second highest corporate tax rate in the country. Some say that signals more struggles ahead for the Land of Lincoln. The nonpartisan Tax Foundation ranked states by their corporate income tax rates as of Jan. 1, 2024. Six states, Texas, Nevada, Washington, Wyoming, South Dakota and Ohio, do not levy a corporate income tax. Of the 44 that do, Illinois’ 9.5% rate put the state at No. 2, up from No. 3 in last year’s report. The top spot in 2024 goes to Minnesota at 9.8%. The state with the lowest rate outside of the states that do not have such taxes is North Carolina at 2.5%.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A new Tax Foundation study finds Illinois with the second highest corporate tax rate in the country. Some say that signals more struggles ahead for the Land of Lincoln. The nonpartisan Tax Foundation ranked states by their corporate income tax rates as of Jan. 1, 2024. Six states, Texas, Nevada, Washington, Wyoming, South Dakota and Ohio, do not levy a corporate income tax. Of the 44 that do, Illinois’ 9.5% rate put the state at No. 2, up from No. 3 in last year’s report. The top spot in 2024 goes to Minnesota at 9.8%. The state with the lowest rate outside of the states that do not have such taxes is North Carolina at 2.5%.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 281 bd0a66ab-3446-4774-aaba-61c28277dd8c Switching From Tipped to Minimum Wage Would Be ‘Catastrophic,’ Restauranter Says Battle lines are being drawn at the Illinois statehouse over whether to get rid of a lower minimum wage for tipped workers statewide. While some are advocating for tipped workers to get the minimum wage with tips on top, a legislator who also owns restaurants says such a move would be devastating to the economy. Advocates from the group One Fair Wage organized a rally outside of the Illinois statehouse Tuesday as legislators were returning.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 9 Feb 2024 15:39:45 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Battle lines are being drawn at the Illinois statehouse over whether to get rid of a lower minimum wage for tipped workers statewide. While some are advocating for tipped workers to get the minimum wage with tips on top, a legislator who also owns restaurants says such a move would be devastating to the economy. Advocates from the group One Fair Wage organized a rally outside of the Illinois statehouse Tuesday as legislators were returning.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Switching From Tipped to Minimum Wage Would Be ‘Catastrophic,’ Restauranter Says The Center Square 00:24:00 Battle lines are being drawn at the Illinois statehouse over whether to get rid of a lower minimum wage for tipped workers statewide. While some are advocating for tipped workers to get the minimum wage with tips on top, a legislator who also owns restaurants says such a move would be devastating to the economy. Advocates from the group One Fair Wage organized a rally outside of the Illinois statehouse Tuesday as legislators were returning. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Battle lines are being drawn at the Illinois statehouse over whether to get rid of a lower minimum wage for tipped workers statewide. While some are advocating for tipped workers to get the minimum wage with tips on top, a legislator who also owns restaurants says such a move would be devastating to the economy. Advocates from the group One Fair Wage organized a rally outside of the Illinois statehouse Tuesday as legislators were returning. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 280 996f3e5f-d06b-4798-94a7-22faeade303c Trump to Remain on Illinois Ballot After Elections Board Declines to Remove Him Former President Donald Trump has scored a victory in his battle to be included on the primary ballot in Illinois.  The Illinois State Board of Elections voted 8-0 Tuesday to reject a challenge to Trump’s candidacy.  Several Illinois voters contend that Trump encouraged the Jan. 6 violence at the U.S. Capitol during protests of the 2020 election results and the 14th Amendment would apply to him. “He took a leading role in organizing, facilitating, supporting, directing and protecting a conservative armed and violent invasion, seizure and disruption of the United States Congress on January 6,” said attorney Matthew Piers, who represented the challengers. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 2 Feb 2024 13:33:05 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Former President Donald Trump has scored a victory in his battle to be included on the primary ballot in Illinois.  The Illinois State Board of Elections voted 8-0 Tuesday to reject a challenge to Trump’s candidacy.  Several Illinois voters contend that Trump encouraged the Jan. 6 violence at the U.S. Capitol during protests of the 2020 election results and the 14th Amendment would apply to him. “He took a leading role in organizing, facilitating, supporting, directing and protecting a conservative armed and violent invasion, seizure and disruption of the United States Congress on January 6,” said attorney Matthew Piers, who represented the challengers. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Trump to Remain on Illinois Ballot After Elections Board Declines to Remove Him The Center Square 00:24:00 Former President Donald Trump has scored a victory in his battle to be included on the primary ballot in Illinois.  The Illinois State Board of Elections voted 8-0 Tuesday to reject a challenge to Trump’s candidacy.  Several Illinois voters contend that Trump encouraged the Jan. 6 violence at the U.S. Capitol during protests of the 2020 election results and the 14th Amendment would apply to him. “He took a leading role in organizing, facilitating, supporting, directing and protecting a conservative armed and violent invasion, seizure and disruption of the United States Congress on January 6,” said attorney Matthew Piers, who represented the challengers.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Former President Donald Trump has scored a victory in his battle to be included on the primary ballot in Illinois.  The Illinois State Board of Elections voted 8-0 Tuesday to reject a challenge to Trump’s candidacy.  Several Illinois voters contend that Trump encouraged the Jan. 6 violence at the U.S. Capitol during protests of the 2020 election results and the 14th Amendment would apply to him. “He took a leading role in organizing, facilitating, supporting, directing and protecting a conservative armed and violent invasion, seizure and disruption of the United States Congress on January 6,” said attorney Matthew Piers, who represented the challengers.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 279 8e8fd41a-42d7-405c-9fc3-8b020773c6fd Some Worry Illinois Spending Priorities Under Pressure by Ongoing Migrant Care With limited Illinois tax dollars, state officials are laying out their priorities amid ongoing budget pressures such as the hundreds of millions of dollars for migrant care. Promoting the taxpayer-funded $250 million Smart Start early childhood education initiative, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said the state will have to balance such future spending with other pressures. “And, if we don’t have enough resources for everything that everybody wants, what can we look to do in the future or what should we stop doing in order to make sure that we’re balancing expenditures with revenues,” Pritzker said at an event in Rochester Thursday.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 26 Jan 2024 15:20:43 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With limited Illinois tax dollars, state officials are laying out their priorities amid ongoing budget pressures such as the hundreds of millions of dollars for migrant care. Promoting the taxpayer-funded $250 million Smart Start early childhood education initiative, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said the state will have to balance such future spending with other pressures. “And, if we don’t have enough resources for everything that everybody wants, what can we look to do in the future or what should we stop doing in order to make sure that we’re balancing expenditures with revenues,” Pritzker said at an event in Rochester Thursday.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Some Worry Illinois Spending Priorities Under Pressure by Ongoing Migrant Care The Center Square 00:24:00 With limited Illinois tax dollars, state officials are laying out their priorities amid ongoing budget pressures such as the hundreds of millions of dollars for migrant care. Promoting the taxpayer-funded $250 million Smart Start early childhood education initiative, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said the state will have to balance such future spending with other pressures. “And, if we don’t have enough resources for everything that everybody wants, what can we look to do in the future or what should we stop doing in order to make sure that we’re balancing expenditures with revenues,” Pritzker said at an event in Rochester Thursday. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With limited Illinois tax dollars, state officials are laying out their priorities amid ongoing budget pressures such as the hundreds of millions of dollars for migrant care. Promoting the taxpayer-funded $250 million Smart Start early childhood education initiative, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said the state will have to balance such future spending with other pressures. “And, if we don’t have enough resources for everything that everybody wants, what can we look to do in the future or what should we stop doing in order to make sure that we’re balancing expenditures with revenues,” Pritzker said at an event in Rochester Thursday. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 278 dee3dadb-b28d-4a3a-93ca-c1121b6cf3b0 Migrant Influx to Illinois Being Felt in Downstate Communities The migrant crisis in Illinois is prompting some policymakers around the state to take action. Tens of thousands of migrants have been transported to the state from the southern U.S. border. The city of Chicago reports about 33,000 asylum seekers have arrived since August 2022. The state of Illinois has provided $640 million to address the migrant influx. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said the city is facing a projected $538 million budget deficit for 2024, a financial burden his administration blamed in part on the growing cost of caring for migrants.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 19 Jan 2024 14:21:05 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The migrant crisis in Illinois is prompting some policymakers around the state to take action. Tens of thousands of migrants have been transported to the state from the southern U.S. border. The city of Chicago reports about 33,000 asylum seekers have arrived since August 2022. The state of Illinois has provided $640 million to address the migrant influx. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said the city is facing a projected $538 million budget deficit for 2024, a financial burden his administration blamed in part on the growing cost of caring for migrants.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Migrant Influx to Illinois Being Felt in Downstate Communities The Center Square 00:24:00 The migrant crisis in Illinois is prompting some policymakers around the state to take action. Tens of thousands of migrants have been transported to the state from the southern U.S. border. The city of Chicago reports about 33,000 asylum seekers have arrived since August 2022. The state of Illinois has provided $640 million to address the migrant influx. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said the city is facing a projected $538 million budget deficit for 2024, a financial burden his administration blamed in part on the growing cost of caring for migrants. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The migrant crisis in Illinois is prompting some policymakers around the state to take action. Tens of thousands of migrants have been transported to the state from the southern U.S. border. The city of Chicago reports about 33,000 asylum seekers have arrived since August 2022. The state of Illinois has provided $640 million to address the migrant influx. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said the city is facing a projected $538 million budget deficit for 2024, a financial burden his administration blamed in part on the growing cost of caring for migrants. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 277 2630d80d-62f5-4498-b88b-d5bfc6761549 Illinois Limited in Regulating Migrant Buses as Blame for Crisis Continues As communities across the state continue to evaluate how to deal with the prospect of buses dropped off migrants from the southern border, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritkzer says the state is limited in what it can do. A patchwork of ordinances across the state either regulate buses and hotel stays to deter migrant arrivals, or declare non-sanctuary status. In McClean County, Emergency Management Agency Director Cathy Beck asked local officials for rural places to put shelters if needed. Reached for comment Wednesday, Beck said they have yet received any buses.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 12 Jan 2024 14:23:12 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ As communities across the state continue to evaluate how to deal with the prospect of buses dropped off migrants from the southern border, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritkzer says the state is limited in what it can do. A patchwork of ordinances across the state either regulate buses and hotel stays to deter migrant arrivals, or declare non-sanctuary status. In McClean County, Emergency Management Agency Director Cathy Beck asked local officials for rural places to put shelters if needed. Reached for comment Wednesday, Beck said they have yet received any buses.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Limited in Regulating Migrant Buses as Blame for Crisis Continues The Center Square 00:24:00 As communities across the state continue to evaluate how to deal with the prospect of buses dropped off migrants from the southern border, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritkzer says the state is limited in what it can do. A patchwork of ordinances across the state either regulate buses and hotel stays to deter migrant arrivals, or declare non-sanctuary status. In McClean County, Emergency Management Agency Director Cathy Beck asked local officials for rural places to put shelters if needed. Reached for comment Wednesday, Beck said they have yet received any buses. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support As communities across the state continue to evaluate how to deal with the prospect of buses dropped off migrants from the southern border, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritkzer says the state is limited in what it can do. A patchwork of ordinances across the state either regulate buses and hotel stays to deter migrant arrivals, or declare non-sanctuary status. In McClean County, Emergency Management Agency Director Cathy Beck asked local officials for rural places to put shelters if needed. Reached for comment Wednesday, Beck said they have yet received any buses. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 276 e8e7aa42-869f-491e-bf73-92baedf11634 Judge Moves Madigan Trial Date to October A judge on Wednesday pushed back the start of the state's most high-profile public corruption case to October, citing a pending U.S. Supreme Court case focused on the federal bribery statute. U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey set former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's racketeering case for Oct. 8, a six-month delay from the initial April start date. Madigan's defense team had asked for a stay in the case after the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to review Snyder v. United States, which focuses on an Indiana mayor convicted of accepting a bribe.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 Jan 2024 15:48:01 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A judge on Wednesday pushed back the start of the state's most high-profile public corruption case to October, citing a pending U.S. Supreme Court case focused on the federal bribery statute. U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey set former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's racketeering case for Oct. 8, a six-month delay from the initial April start date. Madigan's defense team had asked for a stay in the case after the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to review Snyder v. United States, which focuses on an Indiana mayor convicted of accepting a bribe.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Judge Moves Madigan Trial Date to October The Center Square 00:24:00 A judge on Wednesday pushed back the start of the state's most high-profile public corruption case to October, citing a pending U.S. Supreme Court case focused on the federal bribery statute. U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey set former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's racketeering case for Oct. 8, a six-month delay from the initial April start date. Madigan's defense team had asked for a stay in the case after the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to review Snyder v. United States, which focuses on an Indiana mayor convicted of accepting a bribe. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A judge on Wednesday pushed back the start of the state's most high-profile public corruption case to October, citing a pending U.S. Supreme Court case focused on the federal bribery statute. U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey set former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's racketeering case for Oct. 8, a six-month delay from the initial April start date. Madigan's defense team had asked for a stay in the case after the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to review Snyder v. United States, which focuses on an Indiana mayor convicted of accepting a bribe. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 275 5aced9da-1a56-4d50-85e4-a1ca7c8b48e9 Jan. 4 Status Hearing Ordered in 5th Amendment Challenge to Illinois’ Gun Ban With courts denying requests to delay the Jan. 1 deadline for Illinois gun owners to register now banned firearms with the state, lawsuits against the gun ban will continue in the new year. Last week, Southern District of Illinois federal Judge Stephen McGlynn denied a preliminary request for the Jan. 1 deadline to be delayed. Also last week, Attorney Thomas Maag filed for summary judgment against the law, alleging it violates citizens’ Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination. Months ago, Maag hinted at the looming challenge.  

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 29 Dec 2023 13:31:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With courts denying requests to delay the Jan. 1 deadline for Illinois gun owners to register now banned firearms with the state, lawsuits against the gun ban will continue in the new year. Last week, Southern District of Illinois federal Judge Stephen McGlynn denied a preliminary request for the Jan. 1 deadline to be delayed. Also last week, Attorney Thomas Maag filed for summary judgment against the law, alleging it violates citizens’ Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination. Months ago, Maag hinted at the looming challenge.  

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Jan. 4 Status Hearing Ordered in 5th Amendment Challenge to Illinois’ Gun Ban The Center Square 00:24:00 With courts denying requests to delay the Jan. 1 deadline for Illinois gun owners to register now banned firearms with the state, lawsuits against the gun ban will continue in the new year. Last week, Southern District of Illinois federal Judge Stephen McGlynn denied a preliminary request for the Jan. 1 deadline to be delayed. Also last week, Attorney Thomas Maag filed for summary judgment against the law, alleging it violates citizens’ Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination. Months ago, Maag hinted at the looming challenge.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With courts denying requests to delay the Jan. 1 deadline for Illinois gun owners to register now banned firearms with the state, lawsuits against the gun ban will continue in the new year. Last week, Southern District of Illinois federal Judge Stephen McGlynn denied a preliminary request for the Jan. 1 deadline to be delayed. Also last week, Attorney Thomas Maag filed for summary judgment against the law, alleging it violates citizens’ Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination. Months ago, Maag hinted at the looming challenge.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 274 3d079002-df75-432f-8746-2cdfdfdf0973 Judge Orders Madigan to Appear in Court in Corruption Case A federal judge wants to see all parties in his courtroom when he considers a motion to stay proceedings in the state's most high-profile corruption case. U.S. District Court Judge John Robert Blakey issued an order Wednesday for former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan to appear in court along with co-defendant Michael McClain, a former state lawmaker and close confidante of Madigan. The judge will consider the defendant's joint motion to stay proceedings at a hearing at 2 p.m. on Jan. 3 in Courtroom 1203. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 22 Dec 2023 14:56:06 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A federal judge wants to see all parties in his courtroom when he considers a motion to stay proceedings in the state's most high-profile corruption case. U.S. District Court Judge John Robert Blakey issued an order Wednesday for former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan to appear in court along with co-defendant Michael McClain, a former state lawmaker and close confidante of Madigan. The judge will consider the defendant's joint motion to stay proceedings at a hearing at 2 p.m. on Jan. 3 in Courtroom 1203. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Judge Orders Madigan to Appear in Court in Corruption Case The Center Square 00:24:00 A federal judge wants to see all parties in his courtroom when he considers a motion to stay proceedings in the state's most high-profile corruption case. U.S. District Court Judge John Robert Blakey issued an order Wednesday for former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan to appear in court along with co-defendant Michael McClain, a former state lawmaker and close confidante of Madigan. The judge will consider the defendant's joint motion to stay proceedings at a hearing at 2 p.m. on Jan. 3 in Courtroom 1203.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A federal judge wants to see all parties in his courtroom when he considers a motion to stay proceedings in the state's most high-profile corruption case. U.S. District Court Judge John Robert Blakey issued an order Wednesday for former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan to appear in court along with co-defendant Michael McClain, a former state lawmaker and close confidante of Madigan. The judge will consider the defendant's joint motion to stay proceedings at a hearing at 2 p.m. on Jan. 3 in Courtroom 1203.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 273 e44a2d9e-c089-4f52-aeb5-45165bb35461 Legislators Seek to Utilize Non-Citizens for Military and Police Despite Pushback Gov. J.B. Pritzker has already signed a law to allow certain non-citizens to become police officers in Illinois. Now, the state's two U.S. senators want the same for the U.S. military. Many Republicans are opposed to the idea. House Bill 3751, allowing certain non-citizens with work permits or who are Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival recipients to be police officers, passed the Illinois General Assembly with bipartisan support during the spring session. The measure had the backing of the Fraternal Order of Police. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 15 Dec 2023 16:04:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov. J.B. Pritzker has already signed a law to allow certain non-citizens to become police officers in Illinois. Now, the state's two U.S. senators want the same for the U.S. military. Many Republicans are opposed to the idea. House Bill 3751, allowing certain non-citizens with work permits or who are Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival recipients to be police officers, passed the Illinois General Assembly with bipartisan support during the spring session. The measure had the backing of the Fraternal Order of Police. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Legislators Seek to Utilize Non-Citizens for Military and Police Despite Pushback The Center Square 00:24:00 Gov. J.B. Pritzker has already signed a law to allow certain non-citizens to become police officers in Illinois. Now, the state's two U.S. senators want the same for the U.S. military. Many Republicans are opposed to the idea. House Bill 3751, allowing certain non-citizens with work permits or who are Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival recipients to be police officers, passed the Illinois General Assembly with bipartisan support during the spring session. The measure had the backing of the Fraternal Order of Police.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Gov. J.B. Pritzker has already signed a law to allow certain non-citizens to become police officers in Illinois. Now, the state's two U.S. senators want the same for the U.S. military. Many Republicans are opposed to the idea. House Bill 3751, allowing certain non-citizens with work permits or who are Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival recipients to be police officers, passed the Illinois General Assembly with bipartisan support during the spring session. The measure had the backing of the Fraternal Order of Police.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 272 9b27f8e6-c21a-4539-81d6-029e9a5841af Illinois Asks Supreme Court to Deny Injunction in Gun Ban Challenge With the Jan. 1 deadline to register banned firearms approaching, Illinois has responded to a challenge of its gun and magazine ban in the U.S. Supreme Court. Meanwhile, a separate gun ban challenge at the nation’s high court has been forwarded to the full court’s conference next month. Illinois enacted a ban on more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities on Jan. 10. The law also requires those with grandfathered firearms now banned to register them with Illinois State Police by Jan. 1. Failure to comply could lead to felony charges. ISP's second notice emergency rules for the registry were filed this week to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 8 Dec 2023 14:02:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With the Jan. 1 deadline to register banned firearms approaching, Illinois has responded to a challenge of its gun and magazine ban in the U.S. Supreme Court. Meanwhile, a separate gun ban challenge at the nation’s high court has been forwarded to the full court’s conference next month. Illinois enacted a ban on more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities on Jan. 10. The law also requires those with grandfathered firearms now banned to register them with Illinois State Police by Jan. 1. Failure to comply could lead to felony charges. ISP's second notice emergency rules for the registry were filed this week to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Asks Supreme Court to Deny Injunction in Gun Ban Challenge The Center Square 00:24:00 With the Jan. 1 deadline to register banned firearms approaching, Illinois has responded to a challenge of its gun and magazine ban in the U.S. Supreme Court. Meanwhile, a separate gun ban challenge at the nation’s high court has been forwarded to the full court’s conference next month. Illinois enacted a ban on more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities on Jan. 10. The law also requires those with grandfathered firearms now banned to register them with Illinois State Police by Jan. 1. Failure to comply could lead to felony charges. ISP's second notice emergency rules for the registry were filed this week to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With the Jan. 1 deadline to register banned firearms approaching, Illinois has responded to a challenge of its gun and magazine ban in the U.S. Supreme Court. Meanwhile, a separate gun ban challenge at the nation’s high court has been forwarded to the full court’s conference next month. Illinois enacted a ban on more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities on Jan. 10. The law also requires those with grandfathered firearms now banned to register them with Illinois State Police by Jan. 1. Failure to comply could lead to felony charges. ISP's second notice emergency rules for the registry were filed this week to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 271 27392cc2-2180-4b0b-90f3-0c5955576481 U.S. Supreme Court Dockets Another Challenge to Illinois’ Gun Ban The U.S. Supreme Court now has another challenge against Illinois’ gun ban on its docket. Illinois on Jan. 10 banned the possession and sale of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities. A week later, lawsuits started to be filed challenging the constitutionality of the law. Cases are still pending in the district, appeals courts and now the U.S. Supreme Court. Wednesday, the U.S. Supreme Court docketed a case out of Naperville where plaintiffs challenged the city's and state’s gun and magazine ban. Plaintiffs are seeking an emergency appeal of the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals three-judge panel ruling for the state.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 1 Dec 2023 14:36:16 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The U.S. Supreme Court now has another challenge against Illinois’ gun ban on its docket. Illinois on Jan. 10 banned the possession and sale of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities. A week later, lawsuits started to be filed challenging the constitutionality of the law. Cases are still pending in the district, appeals courts and now the U.S. Supreme Court. Wednesday, the U.S. Supreme Court docketed a case out of Naperville where plaintiffs challenged the city's and state’s gun and magazine ban. Plaintiffs are seeking an emergency appeal of the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals three-judge panel ruling for the state.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> U.S. Supreme Court Dockets Another Challenge to Illinois’ Gun Ban The Center Square 00:24:00 The U.S. Supreme Court now has another challenge against Illinois’ gun ban on its docket. Illinois on Jan. 10 banned the possession and sale of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities. A week later, lawsuits started to be filed challenging the constitutionality of the law. Cases are still pending in the district, appeals courts and now the U.S. Supreme Court. Wednesday, the U.S. Supreme Court docketed a case out of Naperville where plaintiffs challenged the city's and state’s gun and magazine ban. Plaintiffs are seeking an emergency appeal of the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals three-judge panel ruling for the state. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The U.S. Supreme Court now has another challenge against Illinois’ gun ban on its docket. Illinois on Jan. 10 banned the possession and sale of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities. A week later, lawsuits started to be filed challenging the constitutionality of the law. Cases are still pending in the district, appeals courts and now the U.S. Supreme Court. Wednesday, the U.S. Supreme Court docketed a case out of Naperville where plaintiffs challenged the city's and state’s gun and magazine ban. Plaintiffs are seeking an emergency appeal of the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals three-judge panel ruling for the state. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 270 c16fe108-0ec1-47f2-947c-43dcd2de4912 Survey: Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner Down Slightly From Last Year’s Record High Thanksgiving dinner shoppers will get a bit of a break in the pocketbook this year. Illinois shoppers participating in the annual American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) Thanksgiving Cost Survey reported the average cost of a traditional Thanksgiving meal is down slightly compared to last year.  Illinois Farm Bureau volunteer shoppers reported a state-wide average price of $63.87 for a classic holiday feast for 10, or around $6.39 per person. That is a decrease from the previous year’s record-high of $64.05.  

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 22 Nov 2023 13:03:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Thanksgiving dinner shoppers will get a bit of a break in the pocketbook this year. Illinois shoppers participating in the annual American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) Thanksgiving Cost Survey reported the average cost of a traditional Thanksgiving meal is down slightly compared to last year.  Illinois Farm Bureau volunteer shoppers reported a state-wide average price of $63.87 for a classic holiday feast for 10, or around $6.39 per person. That is a decrease from the previous year’s record-high of $64.05.  

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Survey: Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner Down Slightly From Last Year’s Record High The Center Square 00:24:00 Thanksgiving dinner shoppers will get a bit of a break in the pocketbook this year. Illinois shoppers participating in the annual American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) Thanksgiving Cost Survey reported the average cost of a traditional Thanksgiving meal is down slightly compared to last year.  Illinois Farm Bureau volunteer shoppers reported a state-wide average price of $63.87 for a classic holiday feast for 10, or around $6.39 per person. That is a decrease from the previous year’s record-high of $64.05.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Thanksgiving dinner shoppers will get a bit of a break in the pocketbook this year. Illinois shoppers participating in the annual American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) Thanksgiving Cost Survey reported the average cost of a traditional Thanksgiving meal is down slightly compared to last year.  Illinois Farm Bureau volunteer shoppers reported a state-wide average price of $63.87 for a classic holiday feast for 10, or around $6.39 per person. That is a decrease from the previous year’s record-high of $64.05.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 269 be841d62-95e6-493f-a26f-256e1a6e437e Prosecutors Want Life in Prison for ComEd 4, Defense Attorneys Say Prosecutors are seeking life sentences for four former Commonwealth Edison leaders convicted of conspiring to bribe former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, a defense attorney said Wednesday. A federal judge on Wednesday denied a request from defense attorneys to delay sentencing. Defense attorneys had asked for more time to deal with what they said were complex issues regarding sentencing guidelines. At a hearing Wednesday, defense attorney Patrick Cotter said prosecutors would be seeking life sentences for the defendants.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 17 Nov 2023 15:54:56 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Prosecutors are seeking life sentences for four former Commonwealth Edison leaders convicted of conspiring to bribe former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, a defense attorney said Wednesday. A federal judge on Wednesday denied a request from defense attorneys to delay sentencing. Defense attorneys had asked for more time to deal with what they said were complex issues regarding sentencing guidelines. At a hearing Wednesday, defense attorney Patrick Cotter said prosecutors would be seeking life sentences for the defendants.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Prosecutors Want Life in Prison for ComEd 4, Defense Attorneys Say The Center Square 00:24:00 Prosecutors are seeking life sentences for four former Commonwealth Edison leaders convicted of conspiring to bribe former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, a defense attorney said Wednesday. A federal judge on Wednesday denied a request from defense attorneys to delay sentencing. Defense attorneys had asked for more time to deal with what they said were complex issues regarding sentencing guidelines. At a hearing Wednesday, defense attorney Patrick Cotter said prosecutors would be seeking life sentences for the defendants. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Prosecutors are seeking life sentences for four former Commonwealth Edison leaders convicted of conspiring to bribe former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, a defense attorney said Wednesday. A federal judge on Wednesday denied a request from defense attorneys to delay sentencing. Defense attorneys had asked for more time to deal with what they said were complex issues regarding sentencing guidelines. At a hearing Wednesday, defense attorney Patrick Cotter said prosecutors would be seeking life sentences for the defendants. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 268 afde6bb4-7215-4791-9be1-b4d04b368d69 Illinois’ Privately Funded School Choice Program Set to End After Legislature Adjourns With the end of the fall veto session, Illinois’ Invest in Kids school choice scholarship program benefiting around 9,600 students will come to a close. Despite families for months lobbying to extend the privately funded program beyond the Dec. 31 sunset, legislators didn’t advance any such measure. Republicans were critical of Democrats they say caved to the teachers’ unions who opposed the program. But, before adjourning, state Rep. Kevin Olickal, D-Skokie, said he’ll continue to fight.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 10 Nov 2023 15:41:50 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With the end of the fall veto session, Illinois’ Invest in Kids school choice scholarship program benefiting around 9,600 students will come to a close. Despite families for months lobbying to extend the privately funded program beyond the Dec. 31 sunset, legislators didn’t advance any such measure. Republicans were critical of Democrats they say caved to the teachers’ unions who opposed the program. But, before adjourning, state Rep. Kevin Olickal, D-Skokie, said he’ll continue to fight.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois’ Privately Funded School Choice Program Set to End After Legislature Adjourns The Center Square 00:24:00 With the end of the fall veto session, Illinois’ Invest in Kids school choice scholarship program benefiting around 9,600 students will come to a close. Despite families for months lobbying to extend the privately funded program beyond the Dec. 31 sunset, legislators didn’t advance any such measure. Republicans were critical of Democrats they say caved to the teachers’ unions who opposed the program. But, before adjourning, state Rep. Kevin Olickal, D-Skokie, said he’ll continue to fight. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With the end of the fall veto session, Illinois’ Invest in Kids school choice scholarship program benefiting around 9,600 students will come to a close. Despite families for months lobbying to extend the privately funded program beyond the Dec. 31 sunset, legislators didn’t advance any such measure. Republicans were critical of Democrats they say caved to the teachers’ unions who opposed the program. But, before adjourning, state Rep. Kevin Olickal, D-Skokie, said he’ll continue to fight. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 267 86c32956-7b4e-40fb-832a-d54bb4b6b95e One Month In, 0.1% Of Illinois Gun Owner ID Holders Have Registered Banned Firearms A full month into Illinois’ gun ban registry and about 2,400 individuals have disclosed they own at least one banned firearm, attachment or some prohibited ammunition. Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly says it’s “been slow, but steady.” For the registry that opened Oct. 1, Illinois State Police report 2,430 individuals disclosed possessing nearly 4,600 banned firearms, around 2,400 banned attachments and 44 disclosures of possessing banned .50 caliber ammunition.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 3 Nov 2023 13:59:54 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A full month into Illinois’ gun ban registry and about 2,400 individuals have disclosed they own at least one banned firearm, attachment or some prohibited ammunition. Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly says it’s “been slow, but steady.” For the registry that opened Oct. 1, Illinois State Police report 2,430 individuals disclosed possessing nearly 4,600 banned firearms, around 2,400 banned attachments and 44 disclosures of possessing banned .50 caliber ammunition.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> One Month In, 0.1% Of Illinois Gun Owner ID Holders Have Registered Banned Firearms The Center Square 00:24:00 A full month into Illinois’ gun ban registry and about 2,400 individuals have disclosed they own at least one banned firearm, attachment or some prohibited ammunition. Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly says it’s “been slow, but steady.” For the registry that opened Oct. 1, Illinois State Police report 2,430 individuals disclosed possessing nearly 4,600 banned firearms, around 2,400 banned attachments and 44 disclosures of possessing banned .50 caliber ammunition. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A full month into Illinois’ gun ban registry and about 2,400 individuals have disclosed they own at least one banned firearm, attachment or some prohibited ammunition. Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly says it’s “been slow, but steady.” For the registry that opened Oct. 1, Illinois State Police report 2,430 individuals disclosed possessing nearly 4,600 banned firearms, around 2,400 banned attachments and 44 disclosures of possessing banned .50 caliber ammunition. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 266 9e3506d4-182a-4bfa-a0de-0c13862b02a9 Families Pushed to Extend Illinois’ School Choice Program at Start of Veto Session As members of each party lay out their priorities with the start of fall veto session at the Illinois statehouse, scores of school kids benefiting from the soon-to-expire Invest in Kids school choice scholarship program were on the scene. But to start the session, House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, advanced a measure out of committee to allow statehouse staffers to unionize. “The way this bill is written, there will be no bargaining over calendars and schedules and how the legislature will operate,” Welch told the committee. “And we have a no strike provision.”

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 27 Oct 2023 13:19:27 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ As members of each party lay out their priorities with the start of fall veto session at the Illinois statehouse, scores of school kids benefiting from the soon-to-expire Invest in Kids school choice scholarship program were on the scene. But to start the session, House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, advanced a measure out of committee to allow statehouse staffers to unionize. “The way this bill is written, there will be no bargaining over calendars and schedules and how the legislature will operate,” Welch told the committee. “And we have a no strike provision.”

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Families Pushed to Extend Illinois’ School Choice Program at Start of Veto Session The Center Square 00:24:00 As members of each party lay out their priorities with the start of fall veto session at the Illinois statehouse, scores of school kids benefiting from the soon-to-expire Invest in Kids school choice scholarship program were on the scene. But to start the session, House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, advanced a measure out of committee to allow statehouse staffers to unionize. “The way this bill is written, there will be no bargaining over calendars and schedules and how the legislature will operate,” Welch told the committee. “And we have a no strike provision.” --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support As members of each party lay out their priorities with the start of fall veto session at the Illinois statehouse, scores of school kids benefiting from the soon-to-expire Invest in Kids school choice scholarship program were on the scene. But to start the session, House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, advanced a measure out of committee to allow statehouse staffers to unionize. “The way this bill is written, there will be no bargaining over calendars and schedules and how the legislature will operate,” Welch told the committee. “And we have a no strike provision.” --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 265 8e9d637d-47cc-437b-a9d0-f05f46b8a307 Illinois to Suspend Enrollment of Non-citizen Health Care as Capacity Nears Just four months into the fiscal year, Illinois’ Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors program will suspend accepting new enrollees starting Nov. 6, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services said Thursday. In 2020, Illinois began subsidizing the health care of non-citizens in the state over the age of 65, estimating the cost to be $1.8 million. Two years later, the state started offering the taxpayer subsidized benefit to non-citizens over the age of 42.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 20 Oct 2023 15:13:18 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Just four months into the fiscal year, Illinois’ Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors program will suspend accepting new enrollees starting Nov. 6, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services said Thursday. In 2020, Illinois began subsidizing the health care of non-citizens in the state over the age of 65, estimating the cost to be $1.8 million. Two years later, the state started offering the taxpayer subsidized benefit to non-citizens over the age of 42.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois to Suspend Enrollment of Non-citizen Health Care as Capacity Nears The Center Square 00:24:00 Just four months into the fiscal year, Illinois’ Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors program will suspend accepting new enrollees starting Nov. 6, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services said Thursday. In 2020, Illinois began subsidizing the health care of non-citizens in the state over the age of 65, estimating the cost to be $1.8 million. Two years later, the state started offering the taxpayer subsidized benefit to non-citizens over the age of 42. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Just four months into the fiscal year, Illinois’ Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors program will suspend accepting new enrollees starting Nov. 6, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services said Thursday. In 2020, Illinois began subsidizing the health care of non-citizens in the state over the age of 65, estimating the cost to be $1.8 million. Two years later, the state started offering the taxpayer subsidized benefit to non-citizens over the age of 42. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 264 78501463-0c22-4737-88ca-04f56f738d47 After Vagueness Hearing, Federal Judge Could Strike Down Illinois’ Gun Ban A federal judge who once ruled plaintiffs challenging Illinois’ gun and magazine ban may be able to prove their case now has the option of striking the law down based on the merits.  Illinois’ ban on more than 170 semi-automatic rifles, shotguns and pistols was enacted on Jan. 10. The law also bans the sale and possession of handgun magazines over 15 rounds and rifle magazines over 10 rounds. Firearms owners with such guns purchased before Jan. 10 have until Jan. 1, 2024 to register their firearms, attachments and .50 caliber ammunition, or face potential criminal penalties.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 13 Oct 2023 12:57:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A federal judge who once ruled plaintiffs challenging Illinois’ gun and magazine ban may be able to prove their case now has the option of striking the law down based on the merits.  Illinois’ ban on more than 170 semi-automatic rifles, shotguns and pistols was enacted on Jan. 10. The law also bans the sale and possession of handgun magazines over 15 rounds and rifle magazines over 10 rounds. Firearms owners with such guns purchased before Jan. 10 have until Jan. 1, 2024 to register their firearms, attachments and .50 caliber ammunition, or face potential criminal penalties.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> After Vagueness Hearing, Federal Judge Could Strike Down Illinois’ Gun Ban The Center Square 00:24:00 A federal judge who once ruled plaintiffs challenging Illinois’ gun and magazine ban may be able to prove their case now has the option of striking the law down based on the merits.  Illinois’ ban on more than 170 semi-automatic rifles, shotguns and pistols was enacted on Jan. 10. The law also bans the sale and possession of handgun magazines over 15 rounds and rifle magazines over 10 rounds. Firearms owners with such guns purchased before Jan. 10 have until Jan. 1, 2024 to register their firearms, attachments and .50 caliber ammunition, or face potential criminal penalties. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A federal judge who once ruled plaintiffs challenging Illinois’ gun and magazine ban may be able to prove their case now has the option of striking the law down based on the merits.  Illinois’ ban on more than 170 semi-automatic rifles, shotguns and pistols was enacted on Jan. 10. The law also bans the sale and possession of handgun magazines over 15 rounds and rifle magazines over 10 rounds. Firearms owners with such guns purchased before Jan. 10 have until Jan. 1, 2024 to register their firearms, attachments and .50 caliber ammunition, or face potential criminal penalties. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 263 fe4892a7-da38-4cdf-9362-efb6b7ac072c Demand on Limited Resources Mounts in Chicago’s Migrant Crisis As non-citizens continue to arrive in Chicago, many have been stuck at O'Hare Airport while awaiting housing. One mutual aid volunteer says even more soon will be without more shelter options. Chicago has seen more than 15,000 migrants from the southern border arrive over the past 12 months. Many of the migrants have traveled from communities in Texas, where resources are stretched thin because of the continued influx of border crossers. In response, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office said Friday the state has contributed $328 million overall to support asylum seekers to date.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 6 Oct 2023 13:17:38 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ As non-citizens continue to arrive in Chicago, many have been stuck at O'Hare Airport while awaiting housing. One mutual aid volunteer says even more soon will be without more shelter options. Chicago has seen more than 15,000 migrants from the southern border arrive over the past 12 months. Many of the migrants have traveled from communities in Texas, where resources are stretched thin because of the continued influx of border crossers. In response, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office said Friday the state has contributed $328 million overall to support asylum seekers to date.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Demand on Limited Resources Mounts in Chicago’s Migrant Crisis The Center Square 00:24:00 As non-citizens continue to arrive in Chicago, many have been stuck at O'Hare Airport while awaiting housing. One mutual aid volunteer says even more soon will be without more shelter options. Chicago has seen more than 15,000 migrants from the southern border arrive over the past 12 months. Many of the migrants have traveled from communities in Texas, where resources are stretched thin because of the continued influx of border crossers. In response, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office said Friday the state has contributed $328 million overall to support asylum seekers to date. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support As non-citizens continue to arrive in Chicago, many have been stuck at O'Hare Airport while awaiting housing. One mutual aid volunteer says even more soon will be without more shelter options. Chicago has seen more than 15,000 migrants from the southern border arrive over the past 12 months. Many of the migrants have traveled from communities in Texas, where resources are stretched thin because of the continued influx of border crossers. In response, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office said Friday the state has contributed $328 million overall to support asylum seekers to date. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 262 a1f81b3e-e936-430e-b61f-a0863ed4754f Chicago Turning Into ‘Gotham City,’ Witness Tells U.S. House Committee The hearing took place not in Washington D.C., but at the Chicago Fraternal Order of Police hall. Testifying was Gianno Caldwell, a Fox News contributor and someone whose teenage brother was shot and killed in Chicago. He said with the end of cash bail and do-not-chase policies, criminals feel emboldened turning The Windy City into Gotham City. Chicago is savable, but he said residents have to make adjustments.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 29 Sep 2023 12:36:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The hearing took place not in Washington D.C., but at the Chicago Fraternal Order of Police hall. Testifying was Gianno Caldwell, a Fox News contributor and someone whose teenage brother was shot and killed in Chicago. He said with the end of cash bail and do-not-chase policies, criminals feel emboldened turning The Windy City into Gotham City. Chicago is savable, but he said residents have to make adjustments.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Chicago Turning Into ‘Gotham City,’ Witness Tells U.S. House Committee The Center Square 00:24:00 The hearing took place not in Washington D.C., but at the Chicago Fraternal Order of Police hall. Testifying was Gianno Caldwell, a Fox News contributor and someone whose teenage brother was shot and killed in Chicago. He said with the end of cash bail and do-not-chase policies, criminals feel emboldened turning The Windy City into Gotham City. Chicago is savable, but he said residents have to make adjustments. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The hearing took place not in Washington D.C., but at the Chicago Fraternal Order of Police hall. Testifying was Gianno Caldwell, a Fox News contributor and someone whose teenage brother was shot and killed in Chicago. He said with the end of cash bail and do-not-chase policies, criminals feel emboldened turning The Windy City into Gotham City. Chicago is savable, but he said residents have to make adjustments. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 261 cad66099-0605-4722-8f73-afe4b459dfc2 Illinois Democrats Celebrate the Abolishment of Cash Bail Illinois Democrats celebrated the end of cash bail statewide on Monday while others worried about an increase in crime. The Safety, Accountability, Fairness, and Equity-Today, or SAFE-T Act, was approved by the General Assembly in January 2021. It makes several changes to the criminal justice system, including eliminating cash bail statewide, making it the first state to do so after being enacted on Monday. The Pretrial Fairness Act was supposed to go into effect Jan. 1, but was delayed by court challenges until two months ago when it was upheld by the Illinois Supreme Court.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 13:20:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois Democrats celebrated the end of cash bail statewide on Monday while others worried about an increase in crime. The Safety, Accountability, Fairness, and Equity-Today, or SAFE-T Act, was approved by the General Assembly in January 2021. It makes several changes to the criminal justice system, including eliminating cash bail statewide, making it the first state to do so after being enacted on Monday. The Pretrial Fairness Act was supposed to go into effect Jan. 1, but was delayed by court challenges until two months ago when it was upheld by the Illinois Supreme Court.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Democrats Celebrate the Abolishment of Cash Bail The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois Democrats celebrated the end of cash bail statewide on Monday while others worried about an increase in crime. The Safety, Accountability, Fairness, and Equity-Today, or SAFE-T Act, was approved by the General Assembly in January 2021. It makes several changes to the criminal justice system, including eliminating cash bail statewide, making it the first state to do so after being enacted on Monday. The Pretrial Fairness Act was supposed to go into effect Jan. 1, but was delayed by court challenges until two months ago when it was upheld by the Illinois Supreme Court. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois Democrats celebrated the end of cash bail statewide on Monday while others worried about an increase in crime. The Safety, Accountability, Fairness, and Equity-Today, or SAFE-T Act, was approved by the General Assembly in January 2021. It makes several changes to the criminal justice system, including eliminating cash bail statewide, making it the first state to do so after being enacted on Monday. The Pretrial Fairness Act was supposed to go into effect Jan. 1, but was delayed by court challenges until two months ago when it was upheld by the Illinois Supreme Court. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 260 f5c61405-4ce1-4f62-a9c4-7465081b32ae Debate Continues Whether Abolishment of Cash Bail Will Help Victims of Crime With the abolishment of cash bail coming to an end in Illinois Monday (Sept. 18), the debate continues on what the effects will be on victims, particularly of domestic violence. Under the new law as part of the controversial SAFE-T Act upheld by the Illinois Supreme Court two months ago, if a judge decides a defendant does not pose a public safety risk, then they will be released pending trial.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 12:06:59 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With the abolishment of cash bail coming to an end in Illinois Monday (Sept. 18), the debate continues on what the effects will be on victims, particularly of domestic violence. Under the new law as part of the controversial SAFE-T Act upheld by the Illinois Supreme Court two months ago, if a judge decides a defendant does not pose a public safety risk, then they will be released pending trial.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Debate Continues Whether Abolishment of Cash Bail Will Help Victims of Crime The Center Square 00:24:00 With the abolishment of cash bail coming to an end in Illinois Monday (Sept. 18), the debate continues on what the effects will be on victims, particularly of domestic violence. Under the new law as part of the controversial SAFE-T Act upheld by the Illinois Supreme Court two months ago, if a judge decides a defendant does not pose a public safety risk, then they will be released pending trial. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With the abolishment of cash bail coming to an end in Illinois Monday (Sept. 18), the debate continues on what the effects will be on victims, particularly of domestic violence. Under the new law as part of the controversial SAFE-T Act upheld by the Illinois Supreme Court two months ago, if a judge decides a defendant does not pose a public safety risk, then they will be released pending trial. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 259 43190491-cff0-4411-b4c8-b00e0774e137 Report: Chicago Teachers’ Union President Sends Child to Private School Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis-Gates, who has been outspoken against the state's school choice program, is sending her child to a private school, according to the Illinois Republican Party and other reports. Davis-Gates took office in 2022 to lead the third largest teachers union in the country. Since taking office, Davis-Gates has publicly spoken out against the Invest in Kids Act, which allows people to pay for scholarships for students to attend private schools rather than attend public schools in Chicago or throughout the state. Donors get a 75% Illinois income tax credit for their contributions to the program. If legislators do not extend the program, it ends at the end of the calendar year. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 8 Sep 2023 12:16:38 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis-Gates, who has been outspoken against the state's school choice program, is sending her child to a private school, according to the Illinois Republican Party and other reports. Davis-Gates took office in 2022 to lead the third largest teachers union in the country. Since taking office, Davis-Gates has publicly spoken out against the Invest in Kids Act, which allows people to pay for scholarships for students to attend private schools rather than attend public schools in Chicago or throughout the state. Donors get a 75% Illinois income tax credit for their contributions to the program. If legislators do not extend the program, it ends at the end of the calendar year. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Report: Chicago Teachers’ Union President Sends Child to Private School The Center Square 00:24:00 Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis-Gates, who has been outspoken against the state's school choice program, is sending her child to a private school, according to the Illinois Republican Party and other reports. Davis-Gates took office in 2022 to lead the third largest teachers union in the country. Since taking office, Davis-Gates has publicly spoken out against the Invest in Kids Act, which allows people to pay for scholarships for students to attend private schools rather than attend public schools in Chicago or throughout the state. Donors get a 75% Illinois income tax credit for their contributions to the program. If legislators do not extend the program, it ends at the end of the calendar year.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis-Gates, who has been outspoken against the state's school choice program, is sending her child to a private school, according to the Illinois Republican Party and other reports. Davis-Gates took office in 2022 to lead the third largest teachers union in the country. Since taking office, Davis-Gates has publicly spoken out against the Invest in Kids Act, which allows people to pay for scholarships for students to attend private schools rather than attend public schools in Chicago or throughout the state. Donors get a 75% Illinois income tax credit for their contributions to the program. If legislators do not extend the program, it ends at the end of the calendar year.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 258 066dd451-70db-4653-ba25-91bed7220b12 School Choice Scholarship Renewal ‘The Fight’ of Illinois’ Veto Session With a new school year underway or about to begin for students in schools across Illinois, some attending a private school using scholarships from the Invest in Kids program could be left in limbo unless lawmakers take action to continue the program. Gov. J.B. Pritzker made a stop at Community STEM Center in Matteson on Thursday to highlight the start of the school year. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 1 Sep 2023 15:36:23 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With a new school year underway or about to begin for students in schools across Illinois, some attending a private school using scholarships from the Invest in Kids program could be left in limbo unless lawmakers take action to continue the program. Gov. J.B. Pritzker made a stop at Community STEM Center in Matteson on Thursday to highlight the start of the school year. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> School Choice Scholarship Renewal ‘The Fight’ of Illinois’ Veto Session The Center Square 00:24:00 With a new school year underway or about to begin for students in schools across Illinois, some attending a private school using scholarships from the Invest in Kids program could be left in limbo unless lawmakers take action to continue the program. Gov. J.B. Pritzker made a stop at Community STEM Center in Matteson on Thursday to highlight the start of the school year.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With a new school year underway or about to begin for students in schools across Illinois, some attending a private school using scholarships from the Invest in Kids program could be left in limbo unless lawmakers take action to continue the program. Gov. J.B. Pritzker made a stop at Community STEM Center in Matteson on Thursday to highlight the start of the school year.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 257 05cea016-4dd7-4f4c-a014-2478846dcddb Illinois Jobs Return to Pre-pandemic Levels, Much Later Than Most of Country After July job numbers are included, Illinois finally returned to pre-pandemic total job levels more than three years after the COVID-19 pandemic began. And the feat was accomplished almost a year after most of the rest of the country. The data from the Illinois Policy Institute show the state gained over 11,000 jobs in July. This job gain brings the state back to its pre-COVID numbers.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 11:27:27 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ After July job numbers are included, Illinois finally returned to pre-pandemic total job levels more than three years after the COVID-19 pandemic began. And the feat was accomplished almost a year after most of the rest of the country. The data from the Illinois Policy Institute show the state gained over 11,000 jobs in July. This job gain brings the state back to its pre-COVID numbers.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Jobs Return to Pre-pandemic Levels, Much Later Than Most of Country The Center Square 00:24:00 After July job numbers are included, Illinois finally returned to pre-pandemic total job levels more than three years after the COVID-19 pandemic began. And the feat was accomplished almost a year after most of the rest of the country. The data from the Illinois Policy Institute show the state gained over 11,000 jobs in July. This job gain brings the state back to its pre-COVID numbers. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support After July job numbers are included, Illinois finally returned to pre-pandemic total job levels more than three years after the COVID-19 pandemic began. And the feat was accomplished almost a year after most of the rest of the country. The data from the Illinois Policy Institute show the state gained over 11,000 jobs in July. This job gain brings the state back to its pre-COVID numbers. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 256 e1847639-d20d-4748-9ed7-83bbd25f087e Chicago Mayor Floats Idea of Sending Migrants to Suburbs Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson says the city of Chicago has had conversations with suburban leaders in Cook and other counties about the possibility of moving migrants into their communities. Thousands of migrant families have arrived in Chicago over the past year. City officials have placed many in police stations, YMCAs and Daley College.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 12:59:09 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson says the city of Chicago has had conversations with suburban leaders in Cook and other counties about the possibility of moving migrants into their communities. Thousands of migrant families have arrived in Chicago over the past year. City officials have placed many in police stations, YMCAs and Daley College.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Chicago Mayor Floats Idea of Sending Migrants to Suburbs The Center Square 00:24:00 Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson says the city of Chicago has had conversations with suburban leaders in Cook and other counties about the possibility of moving migrants into their communities. Thousands of migrant families have arrived in Chicago over the past year. City officials have placed many in police stations, YMCAs and Daley College. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson says the city of Chicago has had conversations with suburban leaders in Cook and other counties about the possibility of moving migrants into their communities. Thousands of migrant families have arrived in Chicago over the past year. City officials have placed many in police stations, YMCAs and Daley College. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 255 d9425e83-ba7b-48c2-9cc7-6897bcecc22a Illinois Supreme Court Upholds State’s Gun and Magazine Ban Illinois’ gun and magazine ban remains in place after being upheld by a split Illinois Supreme Court. The anticipated ruling in the case brought by state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, was released Friday. "First, we hold that the exemptions neither deny equal protection nor constitute special legislation because plaintiffs have not sufficiently alleged that they are similarly situated to and treated differently from the exempt classes," the majority opinion said. "Second, plaintiffs expressly waived in the circuit court any independent claim that the restrictions impermissibly infringe the second amendment. Third, plaintiffs’ failure to cross-appeal is a jurisdictional bar to renewing their three-readings claim. Accordingly, we reverse the circuit court and enter judgment for defendants on the equal protection and special legislation claims. We express no opinion on the potential viability of plaintiffs’ waived claim concerning the second amendment."

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 11 Aug 2023 15:42:30 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois’ gun and magazine ban remains in place after being upheld by a split Illinois Supreme Court. The anticipated ruling in the case brought by state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, was released Friday. "First, we hold that the exemptions neither deny equal protection nor constitute special legislation because plaintiffs have not sufficiently alleged that they are similarly situated to and treated differently from the exempt classes," the majority opinion said. "Second, plaintiffs expressly waived in the circuit court any independent claim that the restrictions impermissibly infringe the second amendment. Third, plaintiffs’ failure to cross-appeal is a jurisdictional bar to renewing their three-readings claim. Accordingly, we reverse the circuit court and enter judgment for defendants on the equal protection and special legislation claims. We express no opinion on the potential viability of plaintiffs’ waived claim concerning the second amendment."

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Supreme Court Upholds State’s Gun and Magazine Ban The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois’ gun and magazine ban remains in place after being upheld by a split Illinois Supreme Court. The anticipated ruling in the case brought by state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, was released Friday. "First, we hold that the exemptions neither deny equal protection nor constitute special legislation because plaintiffs have not sufficiently alleged that they are similarly situated to and treated differently from the exempt classes," the majority opinion said. "Second, plaintiffs expressly waived in the circuit court any independent claim that the restrictions impermissibly infringe the second amendment. Third, plaintiffs’ failure to cross-appeal is a jurisdictional bar to renewing their three-readings claim. Accordingly, we reverse the circuit court and enter judgment for defendants on the equal protection and special legislation claims. We express no opinion on the potential viability of plaintiffs’ waived claim concerning the second amendment." --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois’ gun and magazine ban remains in place after being upheld by a split Illinois Supreme Court. The anticipated ruling in the case brought by state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, was released Friday. "First, we hold that the exemptions neither deny equal protection nor constitute special legislation because plaintiffs have not sufficiently alleged that they are similarly situated to and treated differently from the exempt classes," the majority opinion said. "Second, plaintiffs expressly waived in the circuit court any independent claim that the restrictions impermissibly infringe the second amendment. Third, plaintiffs’ failure to cross-appeal is a jurisdictional bar to renewing their three-readings claim. Accordingly, we reverse the circuit court and enter judgment for defendants on the equal protection and special legislation claims. We express no opinion on the potential viability of plaintiffs’ waived claim concerning the second amendment." --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 254 7bf61e61-228d-4d4b-b87a-e91252c5017c Total Taxpayer Spending for Illinois’ Budget Jumps 95% Since 2018 A new report from the Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting Accountability shows a dramatic increase of overall taxpayer spending over the past six years. COGFA’s report on fiscal year 2024 released Monday reviews the annual budget that began July 1. The report details the budget process and how much each state agency and program is set to receive in annual appropriations. While a lot of reporting focuses on the state spending of $50.4 billion in Illinois General Revenue Funds, overall taxpayer spending is much higher at more than $193.5 billion when taking into account federal and special funds. That’s up from the $99 billion in total spending for fiscal year 2018, or a 95.3% increase.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 4 Aug 2023 12:57:50 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A new report from the Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting Accountability shows a dramatic increase of overall taxpayer spending over the past six years. COGFA’s report on fiscal year 2024 released Monday reviews the annual budget that began July 1. The report details the budget process and how much each state agency and program is set to receive in annual appropriations. While a lot of reporting focuses on the state spending of $50.4 billion in Illinois General Revenue Funds, overall taxpayer spending is much higher at more than $193.5 billion when taking into account federal and special funds. That’s up from the $99 billion in total spending for fiscal year 2018, or a 95.3% increase.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Total Taxpayer Spending for Illinois’ Budget Jumps 95% Since 2018 The Center Square 00:24:00 A new report from the Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting Accountability shows a dramatic increase of overall taxpayer spending over the past six years. COGFA’s report on fiscal year 2024 released Monday reviews the annual budget that began July 1. The report details the budget process and how much each state agency and program is set to receive in annual appropriations. While a lot of reporting focuses on the state spending of $50.4 billion in Illinois General Revenue Funds, overall taxpayer spending is much higher at more than $193.5 billion when taking into account federal and special funds. That’s up from the $99 billion in total spending for fiscal year 2018, or a 95.3% increase. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A new report from the Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting Accountability shows a dramatic increase of overall taxpayer spending over the past six years. COGFA’s report on fiscal year 2024 released Monday reviews the annual budget that began July 1. The report details the budget process and how much each state agency and program is set to receive in annual appropriations. While a lot of reporting focuses on the state spending of $50.4 billion in Illinois General Revenue Funds, overall taxpayer spending is much higher at more than $193.5 billion when taking into account federal and special funds. That’s up from the $99 billion in total spending for fiscal year 2018, or a 95.3% increase. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 253 e6d5f80d-4c70-488e-90bb-b6c9c9de85ee Audit Shows Illinois Unemployment Agency Made $5.2 Billion in ‘Overpayments’ During COVID-19 Illinois lawmakers are calling for accountability into the state's handling of unemployment payments during the COVID-19 pandemic after an audit showed $5.2 billion was overpaid, including tens of millions to some who were incarcerated or deceased. Unemployment spiked at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020 after Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued stay-at-home orders impacting the economy in an effort to slow the spread of the virus.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 28 Jul 2023 16:09:36 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois lawmakers are calling for accountability into the state's handling of unemployment payments during the COVID-19 pandemic after an audit showed $5.2 billion was overpaid, including tens of millions to some who were incarcerated or deceased. Unemployment spiked at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020 after Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued stay-at-home orders impacting the economy in an effort to slow the spread of the virus.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Audit Shows Illinois Unemployment Agency Made $5.2 Billion in ‘Overpayments’ During COVID-19 The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois lawmakers are calling for accountability into the state's handling of unemployment payments during the COVID-19 pandemic after an audit showed $5.2 billion was overpaid, including tens of millions to some who were incarcerated or deceased. Unemployment spiked at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020 after Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued stay-at-home orders impacting the economy in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois lawmakers are calling for accountability into the state's handling of unemployment payments during the COVID-19 pandemic after an audit showed $5.2 billion was overpaid, including tens of millions to some who were incarcerated or deceased. Unemployment spiked at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020 after Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued stay-at-home orders impacting the economy in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 252 7d0cb026-c41a-4c9d-9567-c4820de8f363 Illinois Law Enforcement Prepare for Implementation of First-In-Nation Cashless Bail System With the Illinois Supreme Court decision to end money bond statewide, prosecutors and the law enforcement community are bracing for impact. On Tuesday, the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the Pretrial Fairness Act as constitutional. County court systems across the state have 60 days to implement the law. Supporting the end of cash bail statewide, Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart said there are still sureties a court can require of criminal defendants awaiting trial like requirements they not contact a particular person or not violating other laws.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 21 Jul 2023 14:31:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With the Illinois Supreme Court decision to end money bond statewide, prosecutors and the law enforcement community are bracing for impact. On Tuesday, the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the Pretrial Fairness Act as constitutional. County court systems across the state have 60 days to implement the law. Supporting the end of cash bail statewide, Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart said there are still sureties a court can require of criminal defendants awaiting trial like requirements they not contact a particular person or not violating other laws.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Law Enforcement Prepare for Implementation of First-In-Nation Cashless Bail System The Center Square 00:24:00 With the Illinois Supreme Court decision to end money bond statewide, prosecutors and the law enforcement community are bracing for impact. On Tuesday, the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the Pretrial Fairness Act as constitutional. County court systems across the state have 60 days to implement the law. Supporting the end of cash bail statewide, Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart said there are still sureties a court can require of criminal defendants awaiting trial like requirements they not contact a particular person or not violating other laws. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With the Illinois Supreme Court decision to end money bond statewide, prosecutors and the law enforcement community are bracing for impact. On Tuesday, the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the Pretrial Fairness Act as constitutional. County court systems across the state have 60 days to implement the law. Supporting the end of cash bail statewide, Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart said there are still sureties a court can require of criminal defendants awaiting trial like requirements they not contact a particular person or not violating other laws. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 251 8919fa37-c562-4af5-bd99-66797e6a533e Feds Detail Madigan’s ‘Criminal Enterprise,’ Alleging Corporations Handing Out Bribes to Cronies Motions continue back and forth between former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s attorneys and federal prosecutors alleging Madigan ran a criminal enterprise from through the Illinois Statehouse. In the summer of 2020, federal prosecutors revealed a deferred prosecution agreement between utility ComEd and the government that had the utility agree to pay $200 million for bribing “Public Official A.” It was later revealed through indictments the official was Madigan.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 14 Jul 2023 15:42:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Motions continue back and forth between former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s attorneys and federal prosecutors alleging Madigan ran a criminal enterprise from through the Illinois Statehouse. In the summer of 2020, federal prosecutors revealed a deferred prosecution agreement between utility ComEd and the government that had the utility agree to pay $200 million for bribing “Public Official A.” It was later revealed through indictments the official was Madigan.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Feds Detail Madigan’s ‘Criminal Enterprise,’ Alleging Corporations Handing Out Bribes to Cronies The Center Square 00:24:00 Motions continue back and forth between former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s attorneys and federal prosecutors alleging Madigan ran a criminal enterprise from through the Illinois Statehouse. In the summer of 2020, federal prosecutors revealed a deferred prosecution agreement between utility ComEd and the government that had the utility agree to pay $200 million for bribing “Public Official A.” It was later revealed through indictments the official was Madigan. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Motions continue back and forth between former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s attorneys and federal prosecutors alleging Madigan ran a criminal enterprise from through the Illinois Statehouse. In the summer of 2020, federal prosecutors revealed a deferred prosecution agreement between utility ComEd and the government that had the utility agree to pay $200 million for bribing “Public Official A.” It was later revealed through indictments the official was Madigan. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 250 f702997a-093c-4a30-bf73-86e445ec9ae2 Tentative Agreement Reached With Illinois State Union Workers Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he has reached a tentative agreement with the state's largest union regarding their new contract with the state. However, the taxpayer cost has yet to be revealed, leading some to expect increased taxes as a result. With Illinois’ gun and magazine ban being challenged in a case expected to go to the U.S. Supreme Court, Gov. J.B. Pritzker says there needs to be a federal ban. On the one-year anniversary of the Independence Day parade shooting in Highland Park Tuesday, Pritzker said there needs to be more gun control.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 7 Jul 2023 14:51:35 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he has reached a tentative agreement with the state's largest union regarding their new contract with the state. However, the taxpayer cost has yet to be revealed, leading some to expect increased taxes as a result. With Illinois’ gun and magazine ban being challenged in a case expected to go to the U.S. Supreme Court, Gov. J.B. Pritzker says there needs to be a federal ban. On the one-year anniversary of the Independence Day parade shooting in Highland Park Tuesday, Pritzker said there needs to be more gun control.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tentative Agreement Reached With Illinois State Union Workers The Center Square 00:24:00 Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he has reached a tentative agreement with the state's largest union regarding their new contract with the state. However, the taxpayer cost has yet to be revealed, leading some to expect increased taxes as a result. With Illinois’ gun and magazine ban being challenged in a case expected to go to the U.S. Supreme Court, Gov. J.B. Pritzker says there needs to be a federal ban. On the one-year anniversary of the Independence Day parade shooting in Highland Park Tuesday, Pritzker said there needs to be more gun control. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he has reached a tentative agreement with the state's largest union regarding their new contract with the state. However, the taxpayer cost has yet to be revealed, leading some to expect increased taxes as a result. With Illinois’ gun and magazine ban being challenged in a case expected to go to the U.S. Supreme Court, Gov. J.B. Pritzker says there needs to be a federal ban. On the one-year anniversary of the Independence Day parade shooting in Highland Park Tuesday, Pritzker said there needs to be more gun control. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 249 a1f502a8-f3d0-4366-b86e-a4b817f1195b Illinois Taxes Increase on Basic Necessities Saturday Two taxes on basic necessities in Illinois are set to increase beginning Saturday. With the start of the new fiscal year July 1, the state's gas tax will increase by 3.1 cents a gallon to a total tax of 45.4 cents. That's the second increase of the motor fuel tax since Jan. 1, when it increased by an additional 3.1 cents. The state's tax on groceries will also go back to 1% after Gov. J.B. Pritzker put a hold on the tax during last year's election cycle. Whether Illinois' gun and magazine bans are constitutional is now up to a federal appeals court. The consolidated cases challenging state and local gun and magazine bans in Illinois were heard Thursday by a three-judge panel of the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 30 Jun 2023 14:53:44 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Two taxes on basic necessities in Illinois are set to increase beginning Saturday. With the start of the new fiscal year July 1, the state's gas tax will increase by 3.1 cents a gallon to a total tax of 45.4 cents. That's the second increase of the motor fuel tax since Jan. 1, when it increased by an additional 3.1 cents. The state's tax on groceries will also go back to 1% after Gov. J.B. Pritzker put a hold on the tax during last year's election cycle. Whether Illinois' gun and magazine bans are constitutional is now up to a federal appeals court. The consolidated cases challenging state and local gun and magazine bans in Illinois were heard Thursday by a three-judge panel of the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Taxes Increase on Basic Necessities Saturday The Center Square 00:24:00 Two taxes on basic necessities in Illinois are set to increase beginning Saturday. With the start of the new fiscal year July 1, the state's gas tax will increase by 3.1 cents a gallon to a total tax of 45.4 cents. That's the second increase of the motor fuel tax since Jan. 1, when it increased by an additional 3.1 cents. The state's tax on groceries will also go back to 1% after Gov. J.B. Pritzker put a hold on the tax during last year's election cycle. Whether Illinois' gun and magazine bans are constitutional is now up to a federal appeals court. The consolidated cases challenging state and local gun and magazine bans in Illinois were heard Thursday by a three-judge panel of the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Two taxes on basic necessities in Illinois are set to increase beginning Saturday. With the start of the new fiscal year July 1, the state's gas tax will increase by 3.1 cents a gallon to a total tax of 45.4 cents. That's the second increase of the motor fuel tax since Jan. 1, when it increased by an additional 3.1 cents. The state's tax on groceries will also go back to 1% after Gov. J.B. Pritzker put a hold on the tax during last year's election cycle. Whether Illinois' gun and magazine bans are constitutional is now up to a federal appeals court. The consolidated cases challenging state and local gun and magazine bans in Illinois were heard Thursday by a three-judge panel of the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 248 3640d7ed-4ee6-434e-af06-596d5003d9f8 Chicago Residents Speak Out Against Amount of Resources Going to Migrants Rules for how Illinois taxpayers will subsidize the ballooning costs of health care for noncitizen migrants in the state are now on the books after Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a Medicaid omnibus bill Friday. The Chicago City Council and Mayor Brandon Johnson heard Wednesday from Chicago residents upset about the influx of migrants in their communities and the resources that have been allocated to assist them. Chicago city officials and community members are looking to address ongoing issues of crime in the city. Crime in Chicago has been increasing over the past few months, with several violent weekends in which many have died. On Tuesday night, a group of individuals in the city ransacked a gas station while causing property damage to the building and to other vehicles in the area.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 23 Jun 2023 15:28:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Rules for how Illinois taxpayers will subsidize the ballooning costs of health care for noncitizen migrants in the state are now on the books after Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a Medicaid omnibus bill Friday. The Chicago City Council and Mayor Brandon Johnson heard Wednesday from Chicago residents upset about the influx of migrants in their communities and the resources that have been allocated to assist them. Chicago city officials and community members are looking to address ongoing issues of crime in the city. Crime in Chicago has been increasing over the past few months, with several violent weekends in which many have died. On Tuesday night, a group of individuals in the city ransacked a gas station while causing property damage to the building and to other vehicles in the area.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Chicago Residents Speak Out Against Amount of Resources Going to Migrants The Center Square 00:24:00 Rules for how Illinois taxpayers will subsidize the ballooning costs of health care for noncitizen migrants in the state are now on the books after Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a Medicaid omnibus bill Friday. The Chicago City Council and Mayor Brandon Johnson heard Wednesday from Chicago residents upset about the influx of migrants in their communities and the resources that have been allocated to assist them. Chicago city officials and community members are looking to address ongoing issues of crime in the city. Crime in Chicago has been increasing over the past few months, with several violent weekends in which many have died. On Tuesday night, a group of individuals in the city ransacked a gas station while causing property damage to the building and to other vehicles in the area. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Rules for how Illinois taxpayers will subsidize the ballooning costs of health care for noncitizen migrants in the state are now on the books after Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a Medicaid omnibus bill Friday. The Chicago City Council and Mayor Brandon Johnson heard Wednesday from Chicago residents upset about the influx of migrants in their communities and the resources that have been allocated to assist them. Chicago city officials and community members are looking to address ongoing issues of crime in the city. Crime in Chicago has been increasing over the past few months, with several violent weekends in which many have died. On Tuesday night, a group of individuals in the city ransacked a gas station while causing property damage to the building and to other vehicles in the area. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 247 d65f6f7f-0670-41e0-bd1e-2e1b5055ecb3 Former Governor Rauner: Illinois Takes Step Back if It Allows School Choice Scholarships to Expire Former Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner said he faced a lot of headwinds during his time in office, but didn’t want to talk about politics after his official portrait was unveiled Monday. The former one-term Republican governor had a tumultuous time in office with a more than two-year long budget impasse. Democrats who controlled both chambers still blame Rauner for the impasse. As Illinois implements more requirements on local libraries in order to access state tax dollars, some are questioning whether state government is overstepping its boundaries. Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Tuesday signed a first-in-the-nation law that restricts state tax dollars for local libraries that don't follow certain guidelines from a national group. House Bill 2789 requires state libraries to adopt the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights if they want to receive state grants.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 16 Jun 2023 09:13:16 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Former Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner said he faced a lot of headwinds during his time in office, but didn’t want to talk about politics after his official portrait was unveiled Monday. The former one-term Republican governor had a tumultuous time in office with a more than two-year long budget impasse. Democrats who controlled both chambers still blame Rauner for the impasse. As Illinois implements more requirements on local libraries in order to access state tax dollars, some are questioning whether state government is overstepping its boundaries. Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Tuesday signed a first-in-the-nation law that restricts state tax dollars for local libraries that don't follow certain guidelines from a national group. House Bill 2789 requires state libraries to adopt the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights if they want to receive state grants.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Former Governor Rauner: Illinois Takes Step Back if It Allows School Choice Scholarships to Expire The Center Square 00:24:00 Former Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner said he faced a lot of headwinds during his time in office, but didn’t want to talk about politics after his official portrait was unveiled Monday. The former one-term Republican governor had a tumultuous time in office with a more than two-year long budget impasse. Democrats who controlled both chambers still blame Rauner for the impasse. As Illinois implements more requirements on local libraries in order to access state tax dollars, some are questioning whether state government is overstepping its boundaries. Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Tuesday signed a first-in-the-nation law that restricts state tax dollars for local libraries that don't follow certain guidelines from a national group. House Bill 2789 requires state libraries to adopt the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights if they want to receive state grants. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Former Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner said he faced a lot of headwinds during his time in office, but didn’t want to talk about politics after his official portrait was unveiled Monday. The former one-term Republican governor had a tumultuous time in office with a more than two-year long budget impasse. Democrats who controlled both chambers still blame Rauner for the impasse. As Illinois implements more requirements on local libraries in order to access state tax dollars, some are questioning whether state government is overstepping its boundaries. Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Tuesday signed a first-in-the-nation law that restricts state tax dollars for local libraries that don't follow certain guidelines from a national group. House Bill 2789 requires state libraries to adopt the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights if they want to receive state grants. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 246 aa7a5241-eae1-47ca-b28c-beb64acfb11f Illinois Lawmakers to Receive 5% Pay Raise After Gov. Pritzker Signs Largest State Budget Ever Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday signed the state's $50.6 billion budget, which includes pay raises for state lawmakers, health care for undocumented migrants, and new taxpayer-funded programs for education. With the consolidated gun ban challenge being briefed and soon heard in the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeal, an Illinois attorney is asking a federal district judge for partial judgment. Effective immediately, Illinoisans wanting to challenge the constitutionality of state laws or executive actions in state court can only file litigation in two of the state’s 102 counties.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 9 Jun 2023 14:37:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday signed the state's $50.6 billion budget, which includes pay raises for state lawmakers, health care for undocumented migrants, and new taxpayer-funded programs for education. With the consolidated gun ban challenge being briefed and soon heard in the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeal, an Illinois attorney is asking a federal district judge for partial judgment. Effective immediately, Illinoisans wanting to challenge the constitutionality of state laws or executive actions in state court can only file litigation in two of the state’s 102 counties.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Lawmakers to Receive 5% Pay Raise After Gov. Pritzker Signs Largest State Budget Ever The Center Square 00:24:00 Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday signed the state's $50.6 billion budget, which includes pay raises for state lawmakers, health care for undocumented migrants, and new taxpayer-funded programs for education. With the consolidated gun ban challenge being briefed and soon heard in the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeal, an Illinois attorney is asking a federal district judge for partial judgment. Effective immediately, Illinoisans wanting to challenge the constitutionality of state laws or executive actions in state court can only file litigation in two of the state’s 102 counties. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday signed the state's $50.6 billion budget, which includes pay raises for state lawmakers, health care for undocumented migrants, and new taxpayer-funded programs for education. With the consolidated gun ban challenge being briefed and soon heard in the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeal, an Illinois attorney is asking a federal district judge for partial judgment. Effective immediately, Illinoisans wanting to challenge the constitutionality of state laws or executive actions in state court can only file litigation in two of the state’s 102 counties. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 245 2ea0ed53-d484-4269-8d25-3ca1448077d9 Illinois’ $50.6 Billion Partisan Spending Plan Queued for the Governor’s Desk With increased spending on legislator pay, local governments, K-12 and higher education and other programs, Illinois’ budget for the coming fiscal year is the largest in state history and ready for the governor’s desk. The House passed the $50.6 billion state budget early Saturday along party lines, 73-38. The Senate approved the plan late Thursday mostly along party lines. Despite statehouse corruption on full display with guilty verdicts against four individuals in the “ComEd Four” bribery trial, Illinois legislators left Springfield without sweeping ethics reforms.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 2 Jun 2023 14:33:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With increased spending on legislator pay, local governments, K-12 and higher education and other programs, Illinois’ budget for the coming fiscal year is the largest in state history and ready for the governor’s desk. The House passed the $50.6 billion state budget early Saturday along party lines, 73-38. The Senate approved the plan late Thursday mostly along party lines. Despite statehouse corruption on full display with guilty verdicts against four individuals in the “ComEd Four” bribery trial, Illinois legislators left Springfield without sweeping ethics reforms.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois’ $50.6 Billion Partisan Spending Plan Queued for the Governor’s Desk The Center Square 00:24:00 With increased spending on legislator pay, local governments, K-12 and higher education and other programs, Illinois’ budget for the coming fiscal year is the largest in state history and ready for the governor’s desk. The House passed the $50.6 billion state budget early Saturday along party lines, 73-38. The Senate approved the plan late Thursday mostly along party lines. Despite statehouse corruption on full display with guilty verdicts against four individuals in the “ComEd Four” bribery trial, Illinois legislators left Springfield without sweeping ethics reforms. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With increased spending on legislator pay, local governments, K-12 and higher education and other programs, Illinois’ budget for the coming fiscal year is the largest in state history and ready for the governor’s desk. The House passed the $50.6 billion state budget early Saturday along party lines, 73-38. The Senate approved the plan late Thursday mostly along party lines. Despite statehouse corruption on full display with guilty verdicts against four individuals in the “ComEd Four” bribery trial, Illinois legislators left Springfield without sweeping ethics reforms. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 244 f7846e6a-59de-4936-afad-e9d480b91ac2 Illinois Democrats Release Details of 2023 State Budget Negotiations Topping $50 billion, Illinois Democrats say they have reached a budget agreement. The proposed fiscal 2024 budget is similar to what Gov. J.B. Pritzker unveiled earlier this year. It includes $700 million for K-12 and early childhood education, and an additional $100 million so those under the median income can go to community college tuition free but at taxpayer expense. While legislators are advancing legislation to shore up ethics concerns with the red light camera industry in Illinois, some are looking for even more ethics reforms. Illinois citizens wanting to sue the state for alleged violations of the constitution would only be able to file their complaints in Sangamon or Cook counties with a bill advancing in Springfield.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 25 May 2023 23:03:12 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Topping $50 billion, Illinois Democrats say they have reached a budget agreement. The proposed fiscal 2024 budget is similar to what Gov. J.B. Pritzker unveiled earlier this year. It includes $700 million for K-12 and early childhood education, and an additional $100 million so those under the median income can go to community college tuition free but at taxpayer expense. While legislators are advancing legislation to shore up ethics concerns with the red light camera industry in Illinois, some are looking for even more ethics reforms. Illinois citizens wanting to sue the state for alleged violations of the constitution would only be able to file their complaints in Sangamon or Cook counties with a bill advancing in Springfield.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Illinois Democrats Release Details of 2023 State Budget Negotiations The Center Square 00:24:00 Topping $50 billion, Illinois Democrats say they have reached a budget agreement. The proposed fiscal 2024 budget is similar to what Gov. J.B. Pritzker unveiled earlier this year. It includes $700 million for K-12 and early childhood education, and an additional $100 million so those under the median income can go to community college tuition free but at taxpayer expense. While legislators are advancing legislation to shore up ethics concerns with the red light camera industry in Illinois, some are looking for even more ethics reforms. Illinois citizens wanting to sue the state for alleged violations of the constitution would only be able to file their complaints in Sangamon or Cook counties with a bill advancing in Springfield. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Topping $50 billion, Illinois Democrats say they have reached a budget agreement. The proposed fiscal 2024 budget is similar to what Gov. J.B. Pritzker unveiled earlier this year. It includes $700 million for K-12 and early childhood education, and an additional $100 million so those under the median income can go to community college tuition free but at taxpayer expense. While legislators are advancing legislation to shore up ethics concerns with the red light camera industry in Illinois, some are looking for even more ethics reforms. Illinois citizens wanting to sue the state for alleged violations of the constitution would only be able to file their complaints in Sangamon or Cook counties with a bill advancing in Springfield. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 243 6f7f9979-baa6-467f-bae7-ec948577a197 As Spring Session Winds Down, Illinois Legislators Have Yet to Present a Budget With Friday being the last scheduled day for the spring session at the Illinois Statehouse, lawmakers have yet to reveal a state budget for taxpayers to review. Last year's budget was over 3,000 pages and was presented by the Democratic majority to Republicans at the last moment, giving the public no time to review it. Opposition is growing over a piece of legislation advancing in Springfield that would allow for punitive damages in wrongful death cases. Chicago remains the nation’s third most populated city, but it was No. 2 in the total number of people leaving the city limits.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 19 May 2023 12:04:35 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With Friday being the last scheduled day for the spring session at the Illinois Statehouse, lawmakers have yet to reveal a state budget for taxpayers to review. Last year's budget was over 3,000 pages and was presented by the Democratic majority to Republicans at the last moment, giving the public no time to review it. Opposition is growing over a piece of legislation advancing in Springfield that would allow for punitive damages in wrongful death cases. Chicago remains the nation’s third most populated city, but it was No. 2 in the total number of people leaving the city limits.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> As Spring Session Winds Down, Illinois Legislators Have Yet to Present a Budget The Center Square 00:24:00 With Friday being the last scheduled day for the spring session at the Illinois Statehouse, lawmakers have yet to reveal a state budget for taxpayers to review. Last year's budget was over 3,000 pages and was presented by the Democratic majority to Republicans at the last moment, giving the public no time to review it. Opposition is growing over a piece of legislation advancing in Springfield that would allow for punitive damages in wrongful death cases. Chicago remains the nation’s third most populated city, but it was No. 2 in the total number of people leaving the city limits. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With Friday being the last scheduled day for the spring session at the Illinois Statehouse, lawmakers have yet to reveal a state budget for taxpayers to review. Last year's budget was over 3,000 pages and was presented by the Democratic majority to Republicans at the last moment, giving the public no time to review it. Opposition is growing over a piece of legislation advancing in Springfield that would allow for punitive damages in wrongful death cases. Chicago remains the nation’s third most populated city, but it was No. 2 in the total number of people leaving the city limits. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 242 9757297a-6e2b-4104-b666-30c8b04aa5b9 Legislator Says Illinoisans Must Be Prioritized in Budget as Revenue Shortfall Reported A report detailing Illinois' budget forecast is warning of a huge drop in state revenues. The Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability said April receipts fell $1.8 billion compared to the same month the year prior. The COGFA report said while a substantial decline in revenues was anticipated, the extent of the decline is much steeper than the commission had projected. The news comes as lawmakers are putting together an annual spending plan as the spring legislative session winds down. After last week's "ComEd Four" guilty verdicts that dealt directly with corruption at the Illinois statehouse, the call for ethics reforms continue to grow.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 12 May 2023 11:29:05 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A report detailing Illinois' budget forecast is warning of a huge drop in state revenues. The Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability said April receipts fell $1.8 billion compared to the same month the year prior. The COGFA report said while a substantial decline in revenues was anticipated, the extent of the decline is much steeper than the commission had projected. The news comes as lawmakers are putting together an annual spending plan as the spring legislative session winds down. After last week's "ComEd Four" guilty verdicts that dealt directly with corruption at the Illinois statehouse, the call for ethics reforms continue to grow.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Legislator Says Illinoisans Must Be Prioritized in Budget as Revenue Shortfall Reported The Center Square 00:24:00 A report detailing Illinois' budget forecast is warning of a huge drop in state revenues. The Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability said April receipts fell $1.8 billion compared to the same month the year prior. The COGFA report said while a substantial decline in revenues was anticipated, the extent of the decline is much steeper than the commission had projected. The news comes as lawmakers are putting together an annual spending plan as the spring legislative session winds down. After last week's "ComEd Four" guilty verdicts that dealt directly with corruption at the Illinois statehouse, the call for ethics reforms continue to grow. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A report detailing Illinois' budget forecast is warning of a huge drop in state revenues. The Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability said April receipts fell $1.8 billion compared to the same month the year prior. The COGFA report said while a substantial decline in revenues was anticipated, the extent of the decline is much steeper than the commission had projected. The news comes as lawmakers are putting together an annual spending plan as the spring legislative session winds down. After last week's "ComEd Four" guilty verdicts that dealt directly with corruption at the Illinois statehouse, the call for ethics reforms continue to grow. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 241 cec08b43-e139-4985-89c5-fb07358c98f0 Jury Convicts All Four Defendants of Bribery-Related Charges in ComEd 4 Trial A federal jury on Tuesday convicted four top lobbyists and executives at a state-regulated utility in Illinois' highest-profile corruption case since former Gov. Rod Blagojevich was convicted 13 years ago. The jury convicted the defendants on all counts in the case in which prosecutors alleged former state lawmaker and lobbyist Michael McClain, former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, former ComEd lobbyist John Hooker and former contract lobbyist Jay Doherty were involved in a multi-year scheme to gain longtime former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s support for legislation that would benefit the utility's bottom line.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 May 2023 15:28:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A federal jury on Tuesday convicted four top lobbyists and executives at a state-regulated utility in Illinois' highest-profile corruption case since former Gov. Rod Blagojevich was convicted 13 years ago. The jury convicted the defendants on all counts in the case in which prosecutors alleged former state lawmaker and lobbyist Michael McClain, former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, former ComEd lobbyist John Hooker and former contract lobbyist Jay Doherty were involved in a multi-year scheme to gain longtime former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s support for legislation that would benefit the utility's bottom line.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Jury Convicts All Four Defendants of Bribery-Related Charges in ComEd 4 Trial The Center Square 00:24:00 A federal jury on Tuesday convicted four top lobbyists and executives at a state-regulated utility in Illinois' highest-profile corruption case since former Gov. Rod Blagojevich was convicted 13 years ago. The jury convicted the defendants on all counts in the case in which prosecutors alleged former state lawmaker and lobbyist Michael McClain, former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, former ComEd lobbyist John Hooker and former contract lobbyist Jay Doherty were involved in a multi-year scheme to gain longtime former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s support for legislation that would benefit the utility's bottom line. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A federal jury on Tuesday convicted four top lobbyists and executives at a state-regulated utility in Illinois' highest-profile corruption case since former Gov. Rod Blagojevich was convicted 13 years ago. The jury convicted the defendants on all counts in the case in which prosecutors alleged former state lawmaker and lobbyist Michael McClain, former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, former ComEd lobbyist John Hooker and former contract lobbyist Jay Doherty were involved in a multi-year scheme to gain longtime former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s support for legislation that would benefit the utility's bottom line. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 240 21b0eb5b-35f2-4ac5-89cf-9ae2792018e4 Governor Pritzker Proposes Largest Spending Plan in Illinois History at $49.6 Billion In his first address before a full joint session of the General Assembly since before the pandemic, Gov. J.B. Pritzker presented his State of the State and budget address Wednesday. Included was a $49.6 billion budget proposal, an increase in spending by over $3 billion from last year’s budget. With the threat of a possible recession on the horizon, some are worried that Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s proposed budget is trending toward future tax hikes. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 28 Apr 2023 12:56:24 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ In his first address before a full joint session of the General Assembly since before the pandemic, Gov. J.B. Pritzker presented his State of the State and budget address Wednesday. Included was a $49.6 billion budget proposal, an increase in spending by over $3 billion from last year’s budget. With the threat of a possible recession on the horizon, some are worried that Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s proposed budget is trending toward future tax hikes. 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Governor Pritzker Proposes Largest Spending Plan in Illinois History at $49.6 Billion The Center Square 00:24:00 In his first address before a full joint session of the General Assembly since before the pandemic, Gov. J.B. Pritzker presented his State of the State and budget address Wednesday. Included was a $49.6 billion budget proposal, an increase in spending by over $3 billion from last year’s budget. With the threat of a possible recession on the horizon, some are worried that Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s proposed budget is trending toward future tax hikes.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support In his first address before a full joint session of the General Assembly since before the pandemic, Gov. J.B. Pritzker presented his State of the State and budget address Wednesday. Included was a $49.6 billion budget proposal, an increase in spending by over $3 billion from last year’s budget. With the threat of a possible recession on the horizon, some are worried that Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s proposed budget is trending toward future tax hikes.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 239 7340dded-90e4-4856-9c88-f4a68afd4b10 Chicago Mayor-Elect’s Spending Rhetoric Raises Red Flag for Downstate Lawmakers Some downstate Illinois lawmakers are voicing concerns over Chicago Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson’s proposed spending spree. Johnson told lawmakers they must commit to working together if both the city and state are to succeed. He said his time at the statehouse is about building a better, stronger and safer Chicago by establishing a strong foundation for collaboration. The Illinois Supreme Court has denied a motion to disqualify two justices from hearing a challenge to the state's new gun ban over perceived conflicts of interest. The two justices also declined to recuse themselves.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 21 Apr 2023 15:25:29 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Some downstate Illinois lawmakers are voicing concerns over Chicago Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson’s proposed spending spree. Johnson told lawmakers they must commit to working together if both the city and state are to succeed. He said his time at the statehouse is about building a better, stronger and safer Chicago by establishing a strong foundation for collaboration. The Illinois Supreme Court has denied a motion to disqualify two justices from hearing a challenge to the state's new gun ban over perceived conflicts of interest. The two justices also declined to recuse themselves.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Chicago Mayor-Elect’s Spending Rhetoric Raises Red Flag for Downstate Lawmakers The Center Square 00:24:00 Some downstate Illinois lawmakers are voicing concerns over Chicago Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson’s proposed spending spree. Johnson told lawmakers they must commit to working together if both the city and state are to succeed. He said his time at the statehouse is about building a better, stronger and safer Chicago by establishing a strong foundation for collaboration. The Illinois Supreme Court has denied a motion to disqualify two justices from hearing a challenge to the state's new gun ban over perceived conflicts of interest. The two justices also declined to recuse themselves. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Some downstate Illinois lawmakers are voicing concerns over Chicago Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson’s proposed spending spree. Johnson told lawmakers they must commit to working together if both the city and state are to succeed. He said his time at the statehouse is about building a better, stronger and safer Chicago by establishing a strong foundation for collaboration. The Illinois Supreme Court has denied a motion to disqualify two justices from hearing a challenge to the state's new gun ban over perceived conflicts of interest. The two justices also declined to recuse themselves. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 238 3072dc3d-d79d-4c8f-93c8-7ba8835ad131 Federal Judge Weighs Challenge to Illinois Gun Ban After hours of oral arguments Wednesday, a federal judge now has the case challenging Illinois’ gun ban with a ruling on a preliminary injunction expected in the weeks ahead. Plaintiffs say they are confident they’ll get the law overturned. A new report on U.S. state’s economic outlook paints a bleak picture for Illinois. Former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore is expected to take the stand as part of her own defense as early as Thursday as the federal corruption probe targeting her and three other defendants continues to unfold.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 14 Apr 2023 11:36:38 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ After hours of oral arguments Wednesday, a federal judge now has the case challenging Illinois’ gun ban with a ruling on a preliminary injunction expected in the weeks ahead. Plaintiffs say they are confident they’ll get the law overturned. A new report on U.S. state’s economic outlook paints a bleak picture for Illinois. Former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore is expected to take the stand as part of her own defense as early as Thursday as the federal corruption probe targeting her and three other defendants continues to unfold.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Federal Judge Weighs Challenge to Illinois Gun Ban The Center Square 00:24:00 After hours of oral arguments Wednesday, a federal judge now has the case challenging Illinois’ gun ban with a ruling on a preliminary injunction expected in the weeks ahead. Plaintiffs say they are confident they’ll get the law overturned. A new report on U.S. state’s economic outlook paints a bleak picture for Illinois. Former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore is expected to take the stand as part of her own defense as early as Thursday as the federal corruption probe targeting her and three other defendants continues to unfold. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support After hours of oral arguments Wednesday, a federal judge now has the case challenging Illinois’ gun ban with a ruling on a preliminary injunction expected in the weeks ahead. Plaintiffs say they are confident they’ll get the law overturned. A new report on U.S. state’s economic outlook paints a bleak picture for Illinois. Former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore is expected to take the stand as part of her own defense as early as Thursday as the federal corruption probe targeting her and three other defendants continues to unfold. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 237 a1dd2dae-d4cd-4bd6-ab0a-2c1aca8b4532 Pritzker’s Campaign Donations Grounds for Justices’ Recusal in Challenge to Illinois’ Gun Ban Because of “unreasonably large campaign contributions” to then-candidates and now sitting justices on the Illinois Supreme Court from lead defendants in the case challenging the state’s gun ban, plaintiffs are seeking two judges recusal. The state of Illinois has been given an extension to the deadline it has to file an appeal of a circuit court’s ruling in a case over when the state can suspend someone’s Firearm Owner ID Card. The Illinois Freedom Caucus is calling for an ethics investigation into what one member called “shenanigans.” 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 7 Apr 2023 13:13:32 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Because of “unreasonably large campaign contributions” to then-candidates and now sitting justices on the Illinois Supreme Court from lead defendants in the case challenging the state’s gun ban, plaintiffs are seeking two judges recusal. The state of Illinois has been given an extension to the deadline it has to file an appeal of a circuit court’s ruling in a case over when the state can suspend someone’s Firearm Owner ID Card. The Illinois Freedom Caucus is calling for an ethics investigation into what one member called “shenanigans.” 

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Pritzker’s Campaign Donations Grounds for Justices’ Recusal in Challenge to Illinois’ Gun Ban The Center Square 00:24:00 Because of “unreasonably large campaign contributions” to then-candidates and now sitting justices on the Illinois Supreme Court from lead defendants in the case challenging the state’s gun ban, plaintiffs are seeking two judges recusal. The state of Illinois has been given an extension to the deadline it has to file an appeal of a circuit court’s ruling in a case over when the state can suspend someone’s Firearm Owner ID Card. The Illinois Freedom Caucus is calling for an ethics investigation into what one member called “shenanigans.”  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Because of “unreasonably large campaign contributions” to then-candidates and now sitting justices on the Illinois Supreme Court from lead defendants in the case challenging the state’s gun ban, plaintiffs are seeking two judges recusal. The state of Illinois has been given an extension to the deadline it has to file an appeal of a circuit court’s ruling in a case over when the state can suspend someone’s Firearm Owner ID Card. The Illinois Freedom Caucus is calling for an ethics investigation into what one member called “shenanigans.”  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 236 2b1e0eb8-b1b5-416f-8223-6befc70352b4 Census: Cook County Sees 2nd Largest U.S. Population Decline Over Year As population growth in the nation’s largest counties rebounded in 2022, Illinois continued to see population losses. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Vintage 2022 estimates, 92 of Illinois' 102 counties lost residents from July 2021 to July of last year. Cook County lost a staggering 68,314 people, the second highest total by number in the country behind only Los Angeles County. Defense attorney Scott Lassar opened his cross-examination of prosecution star witness Fidel Marquez on Wednesday in the second week of the “ComEd Four” corruption trial by directly asking him if he had ever witnessed alleged plot ringleader Mike Madigan directly pass or block legislation on the utility giant’s behalf. With about a week before Chicago voters choose a new mayor, a new poll shows Paul Vallas with a 5-point lead over Brandon Johnson. The WGN-TV poll shows Vallas at 46% to Johnson’s 41%, with 13% of likely voters still undecided. Vallas has built an advantage among older voters. The former CEO of Chicago Public Schools and budget director for Mayor Richard M. Daley has the backing of just over 50% of likely voters 65 and older.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 31 Mar 2023 12:52:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ As population growth in the nation’s largest counties rebounded in 2022, Illinois continued to see population losses. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Vintage 2022 estimates, 92 of Illinois' 102 counties lost residents from July 2021 to July of last year. Cook County lost a staggering 68,314 people, the second highest total by number in the country behind only Los Angeles County. Defense attorney Scott Lassar opened his cross-examination of prosecution star witness Fidel Marquez on Wednesday in the second week of the “ComEd Four” corruption trial by directly asking him if he had ever witnessed alleged plot ringleader Mike Madigan directly pass or block legislation on the utility giant’s behalf. With about a week before Chicago voters choose a new mayor, a new poll shows Paul Vallas with a 5-point lead over Brandon Johnson. The WGN-TV poll shows Vallas at 46% to Johnson’s 41%, with 13% of likely voters still undecided. Vallas has built an advantage among older voters. The former CEO of Chicago Public Schools and budget director for Mayor Richard M. Daley has the backing of just over 50% of likely voters 65 and older.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Census: Cook County Sees 2nd Largest U.S. Population Decline Over Year The Center Square 00:24:00 As population growth in the nation’s largest counties rebounded in 2022, Illinois continued to see population losses. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Vintage 2022 estimates, 92 of Illinois' 102 counties lost residents from July 2021 to July of last year. Cook County lost a staggering 68,314 people, the second highest total by number in the country behind only Los Angeles County. Defense attorney Scott Lassar opened his cross-examination of prosecution star witness Fidel Marquez on Wednesday in the second week of the “ComEd Four” corruption trial by directly asking him if he had ever witnessed alleged plot ringleader Mike Madigan directly pass or block legislation on the utility giant’s behalf. With about a week before Chicago voters choose a new mayor, a new poll shows Paul Vallas with a 5-point lead over Brandon Johnson. The WGN-TV poll shows Vallas at 46% to Johnson’s 41%, with 13% of likely voters still undecided. Vallas has built an advantage among older voters. The former CEO of Chicago Public Schools and budget director for Mayor Richard M. Daley has the backing of just over 50% of likely voters 65 and older. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support As population growth in the nation’s largest counties rebounded in 2022, Illinois continued to see population losses. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Vintage 2022 estimates, 92 of Illinois' 102 counties lost residents from July 2021 to July of last year. Cook County lost a staggering 68,314 people, the second highest total by number in the country behind only Los Angeles County. Defense attorney Scott Lassar opened his cross-examination of prosecution star witness Fidel Marquez on Wednesday in the second week of the “ComEd Four” corruption trial by directly asking him if he had ever witnessed alleged plot ringleader Mike Madigan directly pass or block legislation on the utility giant’s behalf. With about a week before Chicago voters choose a new mayor, a new poll shows Paul Vallas with a 5-point lead over Brandon Johnson. The WGN-TV poll shows Vallas at 46% to Johnson’s 41%, with 13% of likely voters still undecided. Vallas has built an advantage among older voters. The former CEO of Chicago Public Schools and budget director for Mayor Richard M. Daley has the backing of just over 50% of likely voters 65 and older. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 235 dd01e492-439c-419c-838a-b63210c66376 Former ComEd Attorney Points to Political Pressure in Bribery Case Former Commonwealth Edison chief lawyer Tom O’Neill said Wednesday that over time he came to work hand-in-hand with associates of then-House Speaker Michael Madigan to secure jobs for them in high-profile positions. O’Neill took the stand for a second day in the ComEd bribery trial at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse in Chicago. Former House Speaker Michael Madigan called the shots on a bill that was worth $1.8 billion to Illinois' largest electrical utility. That's what the state lawmaker who sponsored the measure told jurors Tuesday in the bribery trial of four former ComEd executives and lobbyists. Libraries in Illinois, including at K-12 schools, could see their funding cut if there are efforts to restrict books under a bill that passed the House Wednesday. House Bill 2789 would limit federal pass-through tax dollars through the Illinois Secretary of State’s office for libraries that remove or restrict certain books.  


Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 24 Mar 2023 16:36:08 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Former Commonwealth Edison chief lawyer Tom O’Neill said Wednesday that over time he came to work hand-in-hand with associates of then-House Speaker Michael Madigan to secure jobs for them in high-profile positions. O’Neill took the stand for a second day in the ComEd bribery trial at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse in Chicago. Former House Speaker Michael Madigan called the shots on a bill that was worth $1.8 billion to Illinois' largest electrical utility. That's what the state lawmaker who sponsored the measure told jurors Tuesday in the bribery trial of four former ComEd executives and lobbyists. Libraries in Illinois, including at K-12 schools, could see their funding cut if there are efforts to restrict books under a bill that passed the House Wednesday. House Bill 2789 would limit federal pass-through tax dollars through the Illinois Secretary of State’s office for libraries that remove or restrict certain books.  


Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Former ComEd Attorney Points to Political Pressure in Bribery Case The Center Square 00:24:00 Former Commonwealth Edison chief lawyer Tom O’Neill said Wednesday that over time he came to work hand-in-hand with associates of then-House Speaker Michael Madigan to secure jobs for them in high-profile positions. O’Neill took the stand for a second day in the ComEd bribery trial at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse in Chicago. Former House Speaker Michael Madigan called the shots on a bill that was worth $1.8 billion to Illinois' largest electrical utility. That's what the state lawmaker who sponsored the measure told jurors Tuesday in the bribery trial of four former ComEd executives and lobbyists. Libraries in Illinois, including at K-12 schools, could see their funding cut if there are efforts to restrict books under a bill that passed the House Wednesday. House Bill 2789 would limit federal pass-through tax dollars through the Illinois Secretary of State’s office for libraries that remove or restrict certain books.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Former Commonwealth Edison chief lawyer Tom O’Neill said Wednesday that over time he came to work hand-in-hand with associates of then-House Speaker Michael Madigan to secure jobs for them in high-profile positions. O’Neill took the stand for a second day in the ComEd bribery trial at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse in Chicago. Former House Speaker Michael Madigan called the shots on a bill that was worth $1.8 billion to Illinois' largest electrical utility. That's what the state lawmaker who sponsored the measure told jurors Tuesday in the bribery trial of four former ComEd executives and lobbyists. Libraries in Illinois, including at K-12 schools, could see their funding cut if there are efforts to restrict books under a bill that passed the House Wednesday. House Bill 2789 would limit federal pass-through tax dollars through the Illinois Secretary of State’s office for libraries that remove or restrict certain books.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 234 b584e036-b812-4c6c-bd1e-a60872c73d42 ComEd 4 Trial Opening Arguments: ‘Madigan Wanted, the Defendants Gave' The specter of indicted former House Speaker Michael Madigan loomed large during opening arguments in the “ComEd 4” bribery trial at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse Wednesday. The longest serving legislative leader in U.S. history seemed everywhere during arguments while he personally was nowhere to be found during the daylong proceedings in the overflow courtroom of U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber. As part of her opening, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker left little to the imagination, telling jurors, “In short, Madigan wanted, the defendants gave and the defendants got. It’s that simple.” Longtime Madigan confidant Michael McClain, former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, ex ComEd lobbyist John Hooker and Jay Doherty, a lobbyist and consultant who once served as the head of the City Club of Chicago, are all on trial in a case that charges each of them with playing a role in masterminding a scheme to funnel jobs, cash and other perks from the utility giant to associates of Madigan in exchange for him taking a favorable stance on legislation the company stood to benefit from. All four defendants have pleaded not guilty. Madigan is slated to go on trial in connection with the scheme in the spring of 2024, when he will also face a separate racketeering indictment accusing him of being involved in an assortment of other corruption-related schemes. Madigan also has pleaded not guilty. With state and federal cases challenging Illinois’ gun ban pending, Gov. J.B. Pritzker remains confident the law he signed will withstand constitutional scrutiny, though he says he’s not an expert. The governor also continues to respond to perceived conflicts of interest around his $2 million in donations to Illinois Supreme Court justice candidates who now sit on the bench. The high court accepted to hear the gun ban challenge from Macon County where the governor is a lead defendant. He signed the law Jan. 10.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 17 Mar 2023 13:23:19 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The specter of indicted former House Speaker Michael Madigan loomed large during opening arguments in the “ComEd 4” bribery trial at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse Wednesday. The longest serving legislative leader in U.S. history seemed everywhere during arguments while he personally was nowhere to be found during the daylong proceedings in the overflow courtroom of U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber. As part of her opening, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker left little to the imagination, telling jurors, “In short, Madigan wanted, the defendants gave and the defendants got. It’s that simple.” Longtime Madigan confidant Michael McClain, former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, ex ComEd lobbyist John Hooker and Jay Doherty, a lobbyist and consultant who once served as the head of the City Club of Chicago, are all on trial in a case that charges each of them with playing a role in masterminding a scheme to funnel jobs, cash and other perks from the utility giant to associates of Madigan in exchange for him taking a favorable stance on legislation the company stood to benefit from. All four defendants have pleaded not guilty. Madigan is slated to go on trial in connection with the scheme in the spring of 2024, when he will also face a separate racketeering indictment accusing him of being involved in an assortment of other corruption-related schemes. Madigan also has pleaded not guilty. With state and federal cases challenging Illinois’ gun ban pending, Gov. J.B. Pritzker remains confident the law he signed will withstand constitutional scrutiny, though he says he’s not an expert. The governor also continues to respond to perceived conflicts of interest around his $2 million in donations to Illinois Supreme Court justice candidates who now sit on the bench. The high court accepted to hear the gun ban challenge from Macon County where the governor is a lead defendant. He signed the law Jan. 10.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> ComEd 4 Trial Opening Arguments: ‘Madigan Wanted, the Defendants Gave' The Center Square 00:24:00 The specter of indicted former House Speaker Michael Madigan loomed large during opening arguments in the “ComEd 4” bribery trial at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse Wednesday. The longest serving legislative leader in U.S. history seemed everywhere during arguments while he personally was nowhere to be found during the daylong proceedings in the overflow courtroom of U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber. As part of her opening, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker left little to the imagination, telling jurors, “In short, Madigan wanted, the defendants gave and the defendants got. It’s that simple.” Longtime Madigan confidant Michael McClain, former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, ex ComEd lobbyist John Hooker and Jay Doherty, a lobbyist and consultant who once served as the head of the City Club of Chicago, are all on trial in a case that charges each of them with playing a role in masterminding a scheme to funnel jobs, cash and other perks from the utility giant to associates of Madigan in exchange for him taking a favorable stance on legislation the company stood to benefit from. All four defendants have pleaded not guilty. Madigan is slated to go on trial in connection with the scheme in the spring of 2024, when he will also face a separate racketeering indictment accusing him of being involved in an assortment of other corruption-related schemes. Madigan also has pleaded not guilty. With state and federal cases challenging Illinois’ gun ban pending, Gov. J.B. Pritzker remains confident the law he signed will withstand constitutional scrutiny, though he says he’s not an expert. The governor also continues to respond to perceived conflicts of interest around his $2 million in donations to Illinois Supreme Court justice candidates who now sit on the bench. The high court accepted to hear the gun ban challenge from Macon County where the governor is a lead defendant. He signed the law Jan. 10.  --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The specter of indicted former House Speaker Michael Madigan loomed large during opening arguments in the “ComEd 4” bribery trial at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse Wednesday. The longest serving legislative leader in U.S. history seemed everywhere during arguments while he personally was nowhere to be found during the daylong proceedings in the overflow courtroom of U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber. As part of her opening, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker left little to the imagination, telling jurors, “In short, Madigan wanted, the defendants gave and the defendants got. It’s that simple.” Longtime Madigan confidant Michael McClain, former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, ex ComEd lobbyist John Hooker and Jay Doherty, a lobbyist and consultant who once served as the head of the City Club of Chicago, are all on trial in a case that charges each of them with playing a role in masterminding a scheme to funnel jobs, cash and other perks from the utility giant to associates of Madigan in exchange for him taking a favorable stance on legislation the company stood to benefit from. All four defendants have pleaded not guilty. Madigan is slated to go on trial in connection with the scheme in the spring of 2024, when he will also face a separate racketeering indictment accusing him of being involved in an assortment of other corruption-related schemes. Madigan also has pleaded not guilty. With state and federal cases challenging Illinois’ gun ban pending, Gov. J.B. Pritzker remains confident the law he signed will withstand constitutional scrutiny, though he says he’s not an expert. The governor also continues to respond to perceived conflicts of interest around his $2 million in donations to Illinois Supreme Court justice candidates who now sit on the bench. The high court accepted to hear the gun ban challenge from Macon County where the governor is a lead defendant. He signed the law Jan. 10.  --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 233 eecb1ff7-67b3-4cd4-a279-a4f2d9828371 Pritzker, Defendant in Gun Challenge, Gave $2 Million to Two Supreme Court Justices Gov. J.B. Pritzker doesn’t just appear at the top as a defendant in the Macon County gun-ban challenge in front of the Illinois Supreme Court. He’s also the top donor for two supreme court justices’ campaigns. Pritzker donated a total of $2 million to then-Illinois Supreme Court candidates Mary O’Brien and Elizabeth Rochford, $1 million each. The governor signed a law in 2022 that capped contribution limits in such campaigns to $500,000 from “any single person.” Despite that, to each candidate, half a million came from each of Pritzker’s political campaign and his revocable trust. Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that despite his million-dollar donations to two Illinois Supreme Court justices last year, they are independent and should not have to recuse themselves from two high-profile cases before them in which the governor is a defendant. Attorneys separately challenging Illinois' gun ban in state court continue to differ in their approach. On behalf of state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, and others, attorney Jerry Stocks secured a final judgment against the ban in Macon County Friday. “When the law is declared facially unconstitutional, it is invalid as if it never existed,” Stocks told The Center Square. “So, that deceleration in a judgment here in Macon County triggers [Illinois Supreme Court] jurisdiction under a very specific rule.” The 80-year-old man once called the "Velvet Hammer" for his successful dominance of Illinois politics is arguing the state's bribery and official misconduct statutes are unconstitutional ahead of his corruption trial. Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan served in the Illinois House from 1971 to 2021. From 1997 to 2021, he served as speaker of the Illinois House, making him one of the state's most powerful politicians. He faces 23 counts of racketeering, bribery and official misconduct as part of a federal indictment. Madigan said he was just doing his job as a politician and that the state's laws are overly broad.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 10 Mar 2023 14:16:40 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov. J.B. Pritzker doesn’t just appear at the top as a defendant in the Macon County gun-ban challenge in front of the Illinois Supreme Court. He’s also the top donor for two supreme court justices’ campaigns. Pritzker donated a total of $2 million to then-Illinois Supreme Court candidates Mary O’Brien and Elizabeth Rochford, $1 million each. The governor signed a law in 2022 that capped contribution limits in such campaigns to $500,000 from “any single person.” Despite that, to each candidate, half a million came from each of Pritzker’s political campaign and his revocable trust. Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that despite his million-dollar donations to two Illinois Supreme Court justices last year, they are independent and should not have to recuse themselves from two high-profile cases before them in which the governor is a defendant. Attorneys separately challenging Illinois' gun ban in state court continue to differ in their approach. On behalf of state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, and others, attorney Jerry Stocks secured a final judgment against the ban in Macon County Friday. “When the law is declared facially unconstitutional, it is invalid as if it never existed,” Stocks told The Center Square. “So, that deceleration in a judgment here in Macon County triggers [Illinois Supreme Court] jurisdiction under a very specific rule.” The 80-year-old man once called the "Velvet Hammer" for his successful dominance of Illinois politics is arguing the state's bribery and official misconduct statutes are unconstitutional ahead of his corruption trial. Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan served in the Illinois House from 1971 to 2021. From 1997 to 2021, he served as speaker of the Illinois House, making him one of the state's most powerful politicians. He faces 23 counts of racketeering, bribery and official misconduct as part of a federal indictment. Madigan said he was just doing his job as a politician and that the state's laws are overly broad.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Pritzker, Defendant in Gun Challenge, Gave $2 Million to Two Supreme Court Justices The Center Square 00:24:00 Gov. J.B. Pritzker doesn’t just appear at the top as a defendant in the Macon County gun-ban challenge in front of the Illinois Supreme Court. He’s also the top donor for two supreme court justices’ campaigns. Pritzker donated a total of $2 million to then-Illinois Supreme Court candidates Mary O’Brien and Elizabeth Rochford, $1 million each. The governor signed a law in 2022 that capped contribution limits in such campaigns to $500,000 from “any single person.” Despite that, to each candidate, half a million came from each of Pritzker’s political campaign and his revocable trust. Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that despite his million-dollar donations to two Illinois Supreme Court justices last year, they are independent and should not have to recuse themselves from two high-profile cases before them in which the governor is a defendant. Attorneys separately challenging Illinois' gun ban in state court continue to differ in their approach. On behalf of state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, and others, attorney Jerry Stocks secured a final judgment against the ban in Macon County Friday. “When the law is declared facially unconstitutional, it is invalid as if it never existed,” Stocks told The Center Square. “So, that deceleration in a judgment here in Macon County triggers [Illinois Supreme Court] jurisdiction under a very specific rule.” The 80-year-old man once called the "Velvet Hammer" for his successful dominance of Illinois politics is arguing the state's bribery and official misconduct statutes are unconstitutional ahead of his corruption trial. Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan served in the Illinois House from 1971 to 2021. From 1997 to 2021, he served as speaker of the Illinois House, making him one of the state's most powerful politicians. He faces 23 counts of racketeering, bribery and official misconduct as part of a federal indictment. Madigan said he was just doing his job as a politician and that the state's laws are overly broad. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Gov. J.B. Pritzker doesn’t just appear at the top as a defendant in the Macon County gun-ban challenge in front of the Illinois Supreme Court. He’s also the top donor for two supreme court justices’ campaigns. Pritzker donated a total of $2 million to then-Illinois Supreme Court candidates Mary O’Brien and Elizabeth Rochford, $1 million each. The governor signed a law in 2022 that capped contribution limits in such campaigns to $500,000 from “any single person.” Despite that, to each candidate, half a million came from each of Pritzker’s political campaign and his revocable trust. Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that despite his million-dollar donations to two Illinois Supreme Court justices last year, they are independent and should not have to recuse themselves from two high-profile cases before them in which the governor is a defendant. Attorneys separately challenging Illinois' gun ban in state court continue to differ in their approach. On behalf of state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, and others, attorney Jerry Stocks secured a final judgment against the ban in Macon County Friday. “When the law is declared facially unconstitutional, it is invalid as if it never existed,” Stocks told The Center Square. “So, that deceleration in a judgment here in Macon County triggers [Illinois Supreme Court] jurisdiction under a very specific rule.” The 80-year-old man once called the "Velvet Hammer" for his successful dominance of Illinois politics is arguing the state's bribery and official misconduct statutes are unconstitutional ahead of his corruption trial. Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan served in the Illinois House from 1971 to 2021. From 1997 to 2021, he served as speaker of the Illinois House, making him one of the state's most powerful politicians. He faces 23 counts of racketeering, bribery and official misconduct as part of a federal indictment. Madigan said he was just doing his job as a politician and that the state's laws are overly broad. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 232 98801761-4891-4ff7-9a48-62e050a82a11 Lightfoot Loses Re-Election Bid as Vallas, Johnson Head to Runoff in Chicago Mayor Race Lori Lightfoot's tenure as Chicago mayor will end after her first term. Lightfoot – widely criticized as rising violent crime plagued the city during her four years in office, for her strict COVID-19 restrictions, and as students in Chicago Public Schools struggled to perform at grade level – conceded in her race for re-election in Tuesday's primary. A judge is expected to rule on key motions that seek to limit what the jury will hear before a high-profile corruption case involving longtime former Illinois House Speak Michael Madigan begins in March. With four federal lawsuits consolidated and a schedule of responses and oral arguments set, the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association is officially taking sides in the case against the state’s gun ban. Join The Center Square's Dan McCaleb and Greg Bishop on this episode of Illinois in Focus.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 3 Mar 2023 14:52:07 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Lori Lightfoot's tenure as Chicago mayor will end after her first term. Lightfoot – widely criticized as rising violent crime plagued the city during her four years in office, for her strict COVID-19 restrictions, and as students in Chicago Public Schools struggled to perform at grade level – conceded in her race for re-election in Tuesday's primary. A judge is expected to rule on key motions that seek to limit what the jury will hear before a high-profile corruption case involving longtime former Illinois House Speak Michael Madigan begins in March. With four federal lawsuits consolidated and a schedule of responses and oral arguments set, the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association is officially taking sides in the case against the state’s gun ban. Join The Center Square's Dan McCaleb and Greg Bishop on this episode of Illinois in Focus.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Lightfoot Loses Re-Election Bid as Vallas, Johnson Head to Runoff in Chicago Mayor Race The Center Square 00:24:00 Lori Lightfoot's tenure as Chicago mayor will end after her first term. Lightfoot – widely criticized as rising violent crime plagued the city during her four years in office, for her strict COVID-19 restrictions, and as students in Chicago Public Schools struggled to perform at grade level – conceded in her race for re-election in Tuesday's primary. A judge is expected to rule on key motions that seek to limit what the jury will hear before a high-profile corruption case involving longtime former Illinois House Speak Michael Madigan begins in March. With four federal lawsuits consolidated and a schedule of responses and oral arguments set, the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association is officially taking sides in the case against the state’s gun ban. Join The Center Square's Dan McCaleb and Greg Bishop on this episode of Illinois in Focus. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Lori Lightfoot's tenure as Chicago mayor will end after her first term. Lightfoot – widely criticized as rising violent crime plagued the city during her four years in office, for her strict COVID-19 restrictions, and as students in Chicago Public Schools struggled to perform at grade level – conceded in her race for re-election in Tuesday's primary. A judge is expected to rule on key motions that seek to limit what the jury will hear before a high-profile corruption case involving longtime former Illinois House Speak Michael Madigan begins in March. With four federal lawsuits consolidated and a schedule of responses and oral arguments set, the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association is officially taking sides in the case against the state’s gun ban. Join The Center Square's Dan McCaleb and Greg Bishop on this episode of Illinois in Focus. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 231 3b23a618-3858-452f-9f8e-ef59ba98833a Governor Pritzker Responds to Governor DeSantis’ Illinois Visit Criticizing ‘Woke’ Politics The attorneys with state-level challenges against Illinois’ gun ban disagree on whether the cases should be consolidated. Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted a ban on more than 170 different semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities on Jan. 10. Since then, a series of lawsuits have been filed in federal and state courts challenging the law. The law exempts individuals in certain occupations, such as law enforcement, prison staff and security officers from the gun ban. An appeal is expected in the case challenging Illinois’ and Naperville’s gun and magazine ban. Gun rights groups expect the ruling to be overturned. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis criticized Illinois leadership for its stance on several issues during a Monday visit to the state. On Tuesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker responded. The Republican governor of Florida just started his second term and made a stop in Elmhurst, Illinois, to speak with police groups. He criticized what he said was "woke" policies impacting public policy and education in Illinois and elsewhere. Join The Center Square's Dan McCaleb and Greg Bishop on this episode of Illinois in Focus.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 24 Feb 2023 14:31:06 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The attorneys with state-level challenges against Illinois’ gun ban disagree on whether the cases should be consolidated. Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted a ban on more than 170 different semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities on Jan. 10. Since then, a series of lawsuits have been filed in federal and state courts challenging the law. The law exempts individuals in certain occupations, such as law enforcement, prison staff and security officers from the gun ban. An appeal is expected in the case challenging Illinois’ and Naperville’s gun and magazine ban. Gun rights groups expect the ruling to be overturned. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis criticized Illinois leadership for its stance on several issues during a Monday visit to the state. On Tuesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker responded. The Republican governor of Florida just started his second term and made a stop in Elmhurst, Illinois, to speak with police groups. He criticized what he said was "woke" policies impacting public policy and education in Illinois and elsewhere. Join The Center Square's Dan McCaleb and Greg Bishop on this episode of Illinois in Focus.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Governor Pritzker Responds to Governor DeSantis’ Illinois Visit Criticizing ‘Woke’ Politics The Center Square 00:24:00 The attorneys with state-level challenges against Illinois’ gun ban disagree on whether the cases should be consolidated. Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted a ban on more than 170 different semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities on Jan. 10. Since then, a series of lawsuits have been filed in federal and state courts challenging the law. The law exempts individuals in certain occupations, such as law enforcement, prison staff and security officers from the gun ban. An appeal is expected in the case challenging Illinois’ and Naperville’s gun and magazine ban. Gun rights groups expect the ruling to be overturned. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis criticized Illinois leadership for its stance on several issues during a Monday visit to the state. On Tuesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker responded. The Republican governor of Florida just started his second term and made a stop in Elmhurst, Illinois, to speak with police groups. He criticized what he said was "woke" policies impacting public policy and education in Illinois and elsewhere. Join The Center Square's Dan McCaleb and Greg Bishop on this episode of Illinois in Focus. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The attorneys with state-level challenges against Illinois’ gun ban disagree on whether the cases should be consolidated. Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted a ban on more than 170 different semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities on Jan. 10. Since then, a series of lawsuits have been filed in federal and state courts challenging the law. The law exempts individuals in certain occupations, such as law enforcement, prison staff and security officers from the gun ban. An appeal is expected in the case challenging Illinois’ and Naperville’s gun and magazine ban. Gun rights groups expect the ruling to be overturned. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis criticized Illinois leadership for its stance on several issues during a Monday visit to the state. On Tuesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker responded. The Republican governor of Florida just started his second term and made a stop in Elmhurst, Illinois, to speak with police groups. He criticized what he said was "woke" policies impacting public policy and education in Illinois and elsewhere. Join The Center Square's Dan McCaleb and Greg Bishop on this episode of Illinois in Focus. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 230 21fc1111-2622-4b69-9860-5ab553e6703f Lawmakers Concerned About New Spending in Pritzker’s Budget Proposal Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss with the threat of a possible recession on the horizon, some are worried that Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s proposed budget is trending toward future tax hikes. Representatives from the state's five pension systems testified to lawmakers over the past few weeks with updates on their unfunded liabilities, leaving lawmakers to come up with a fix. The state’s motion seeking a delay in its required response to a federal lawsuit challenging Illinois’ gun ban was denied Thursday.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2023 17:25:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss with the threat of a possible recession on the horizon, some are worried that Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s proposed budget is trending toward future tax hikes. Representatives from the state's five pension systems testified to lawmakers over the past few weeks with updates on their unfunded liabilities, leaving lawmakers to come up with a fix. The state’s motion seeking a delay in its required response to a federal lawsuit challenging Illinois’ gun ban was denied Thursday.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Lawmakers Concerned About New Spending in Pritzker’s Budget Proposal The Center Square 00:46:34 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss with the threat of a possible recession on the horizon, some are worried that Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s proposed budget is trending toward future tax hikes. Representatives from the state's five pension systems testified to lawmakers over the past few weeks with updates on their unfunded liabilities, leaving lawmakers to come up with a fix. The state’s motion seeking a delay in its required response to a federal lawsuit challenging Illinois’ gun ban was denied Thursday. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss with the threat of a possible recession on the horizon, some are worried that Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s proposed budget is trending toward future tax hikes. Representatives from the state's five pension systems testified to lawmakers over the past few weeks with updates on their unfunded liabilities, leaving lawmakers to come up with a fix. The state’s motion seeking a delay in its required response to a federal lawsuit challenging Illinois’ gun ban was denied Thursday. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 229 741f25f4-bb92-43f4-b96f-0415b52d7b0b Episode 229: Court Rulings Against Gun Regulations Across U.S. Could Have Ramifications in Illinois Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss that about 2,100 more Illinois citizens are now safe from the state enforcing Illinois’ gun ban against them after a third temporary restraining order was issued Wednesday. Recent court cases across the country challenging gun regulations could be an issue for conversation at the Illinois statehouse as the state faces a bevy of lawsuits over its gun and magazine ban. An ally of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan doesn't want a jury to hear about a 2012 email he sent that mentioned an alleged rape in Champaign and fraudulent payroll practices. In 2024, Illinois will become the third state to mandate employers provide employees with paid time off for any reason, but now there are groups lobbying for more paid time off.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 10 Feb 2023 16:45:27 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss that about 2,100 more Illinois citizens are now safe from the state enforcing Illinois’ gun ban against them after a third temporary restraining order was issued Wednesday. Recent court cases across the country challenging gun regulations could be an issue for conversation at the Illinois statehouse as the state faces a bevy of lawsuits over its gun and magazine ban. An ally of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan doesn't want a jury to hear about a 2012 email he sent that mentioned an alleged rape in Champaign and fraudulent payroll practices. In 2024, Illinois will become the third state to mandate employers provide employees with paid time off for any reason, but now there are groups lobbying for more paid time off.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 229: Court Rulings Against Gun Regulations Across U.S. Could Have Ramifications in Illinois The Center Square 00:52:59 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss that about 2,100 more Illinois citizens are now safe from the state enforcing Illinois’ gun ban against them after a third temporary restraining order was issued Wednesday. Recent court cases across the country challenging gun regulations could be an issue for conversation at the Illinois statehouse as the state faces a bevy of lawsuits over its gun and magazine ban. An ally of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan doesn't want a jury to hear about a 2012 email he sent that mentioned an alleged rape in Champaign and fraudulent payroll practices. In 2024, Illinois will become the third state to mandate employers provide employees with paid time off for any reason, but now there are groups lobbying for more paid time off. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss that about 2,100 more Illinois citizens are now safe from the state enforcing Illinois’ gun ban against them after a third temporary restraining order was issued Wednesday. Recent court cases across the country challenging gun regulations could be an issue for conversation at the Illinois statehouse as the state faces a bevy of lawsuits over its gun and magazine ban. An ally of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan doesn't want a jury to hear about a 2012 email he sent that mentioned an alleged rape in Champaign and fraudulent payroll practices. In 2024, Illinois will become the third state to mandate employers provide employees with paid time off for any reason, but now there are groups lobbying for more paid time off. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 228 2632558d-34af-43fc-9da6-bf359717f553 Episode 228: Temporary Restraining Order Against Illinois’ Gun Ban Upheld by Appellate Court Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the temporary restraining order against Illinois’ gun ban issued by an Effingham County judge has been upheld by the Fifth District Appellate Court of Illinois. The state of Illinois is expected to ask for an expedited review by the Illinois Supreme Court after a temporary restraining order was upheld Tuesday against Illinois’ gun ban on behalf of 866 plaintiffs who sued in Effingham County. Now that the end of disaster proclamations in Illinois has been announced, a nonprofit is calling for changes in executive powers. School choice advocates in Illinois are urging lawmakers to renew the Invest in Kids program during the 103rd General Assembly.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 3 Feb 2023 16:56:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the temporary restraining order against Illinois’ gun ban issued by an Effingham County judge has been upheld by the Fifth District Appellate Court of Illinois. The state of Illinois is expected to ask for an expedited review by the Illinois Supreme Court after a temporary restraining order was upheld Tuesday against Illinois’ gun ban on behalf of 866 plaintiffs who sued in Effingham County. Now that the end of disaster proclamations in Illinois has been announced, a nonprofit is calling for changes in executive powers. School choice advocates in Illinois are urging lawmakers to renew the Invest in Kids program during the 103rd General Assembly.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 228: Temporary Restraining Order Against Illinois’ Gun Ban Upheld by Appellate Court The Center Square 00:55:06 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the temporary restraining order against Illinois’ gun ban issued by an Effingham County judge has been upheld by the Fifth District Appellate Court of Illinois. The state of Illinois is expected to ask for an expedited review by the Illinois Supreme Court after a temporary restraining order was upheld Tuesday against Illinois’ gun ban on behalf of 866 plaintiffs who sued in Effingham County. Now that the end of disaster proclamations in Illinois has been announced, a nonprofit is calling for changes in executive powers. School choice advocates in Illinois are urging lawmakers to renew the Invest in Kids program during the 103rd General Assembly. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the temporary restraining order against Illinois’ gun ban issued by an Effingham County judge has been upheld by the Fifth District Appellate Court of Illinois. The state of Illinois is expected to ask for an expedited review by the Illinois Supreme Court after a temporary restraining order was upheld Tuesday against Illinois’ gun ban on behalf of 866 plaintiffs who sued in Effingham County. Now that the end of disaster proclamations in Illinois has been announced, a nonprofit is calling for changes in executive powers. School choice advocates in Illinois are urging lawmakers to renew the Invest in Kids program during the 103rd General Assembly. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 227 4ca9e1e5-765e-49f4-86b2-11d56f49251b Episode 227: Separate Challenges Against Illinois’ Gun Ban Progressing Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss lawsuits brought against Illinois’ new gun ban that are working their way through the judicial process. Board officials from Illinois' second most populated county heard from residents on both sides of the debate about whether the sheriff there should enforce the state's gun ban. Illinois voters rejected a proposal in 2020 to change the state's flat income tax to a graduated tax. There are currently discussions to try the measure again. Gov. J.B. Pritzker, however, said that's not on his radar. Illinois state lawmakers in the 103rd General Assembly received a $12,000 pay increase for the new year, making them among the highest paid legislators in the country.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 27 Jan 2023 17:09:53 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss lawsuits brought against Illinois’ new gun ban that are working their way through the judicial process. Board officials from Illinois' second most populated county heard from residents on both sides of the debate about whether the sheriff there should enforce the state's gun ban. Illinois voters rejected a proposal in 2020 to change the state's flat income tax to a graduated tax. There are currently discussions to try the measure again. Gov. J.B. Pritzker, however, said that's not on his radar. Illinois state lawmakers in the 103rd General Assembly received a $12,000 pay increase for the new year, making them among the highest paid legislators in the country.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 227: Separate Challenges Against Illinois’ Gun Ban Progressing The Center Square 00:39:29 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss lawsuits brought against Illinois’ new gun ban that are working their way through the judicial process. Board officials from Illinois' second most populated county heard from residents on both sides of the debate about whether the sheriff there should enforce the state's gun ban. Illinois voters rejected a proposal in 2020 to change the state's flat income tax to a graduated tax. There are currently discussions to try the measure again. Gov. J.B. Pritzker, however, said that's not on his radar. Illinois state lawmakers in the 103rd General Assembly received a $12,000 pay increase for the new year, making them among the highest paid legislators in the country. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss lawsuits brought against Illinois’ new gun ban that are working their way through the judicial process. Board officials from Illinois' second most populated county heard from residents on both sides of the debate about whether the sheriff there should enforce the state's gun ban. Illinois voters rejected a proposal in 2020 to change the state's flat income tax to a graduated tax. There are currently discussions to try the measure again. Gov. J.B. Pritzker, however, said that's not on his radar. Illinois state lawmakers in the 103rd General Assembly received a $12,000 pay increase for the new year, making them among the highest paid legislators in the country. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 226 876cf496-86ab-41ea-9fb6-38daa227b96d Episode 226: Illinois State Rifle Association Files Federal Lawsuit Against Pritzker’s Gun Ban Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the first federal lawsuit against Illinois’ gun ban and registry has been announced by the Illinois State Rifle Association. It follows two others that were filed in state court Tuesday. With a ruling on a temporary restraining order against Illinois’ gun ban expected before the end of the day Friday, each side of the issue says they’re confident they’ll prevail. With two different U.S. presidents being found in possession of classified documents, Illinois’ governor has different takes.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 20 Jan 2023 16:40:38 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the first federal lawsuit against Illinois’ gun ban and registry has been announced by the Illinois State Rifle Association. It follows two others that were filed in state court Tuesday. With a ruling on a temporary restraining order against Illinois’ gun ban expected before the end of the day Friday, each side of the issue says they’re confident they’ll prevail. With two different U.S. presidents being found in possession of classified documents, Illinois’ governor has different takes.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 226: Illinois State Rifle Association Files Federal Lawsuit Against Pritzker’s Gun Ban The Center Square 00:48:25 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the first federal lawsuit against Illinois’ gun ban and registry has been announced by the Illinois State Rifle Association. It follows two others that were filed in state court Tuesday. With a ruling on a temporary restraining order against Illinois’ gun ban expected before the end of the day Friday, each side of the issue says they’re confident they’ll prevail. With two different U.S. presidents being found in possession of classified documents, Illinois’ governor has different takes. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the first federal lawsuit against Illinois’ gun ban and registry has been announced by the Illinois State Rifle Association. It follows two others that were filed in state court Tuesday. With a ruling on a temporary restraining order against Illinois’ gun ban expected before the end of the day Friday, each side of the issue says they’re confident they’ll prevail. With two different U.S. presidents being found in possession of classified documents, Illinois’ governor has different takes. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 225 fe093aee-cec5-49f0-878c-8faa7ba83c3b Episode 225: Pritzker Signs Illinois Gun Ban as Opponents Prepare to Sue Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the fact that the sale of certain semi-automatic guns and magazines is now prohibited in Illinois with a law Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Tuesday night. Gun-rights groups say they’ll see him and legislative leaders in court. With a new ban on certain guns now in place in Illinois, some have said they won’t comply. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has a message for law enforcement: Do your job or else. Gun-rights groups say the ban won’t last long. Prosecutors in a case involving Michael Madigan say they have wires of the former Illinois House speaker acknowledging operatives “made out like bandits” in a scheme involving utility ComEd.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 13 Jan 2023 15:36:34 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the fact that the sale of certain semi-automatic guns and magazines is now prohibited in Illinois with a law Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Tuesday night. Gun-rights groups say they’ll see him and legislative leaders in court. With a new ban on certain guns now in place in Illinois, some have said they won’t comply. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has a message for law enforcement: Do your job or else. Gun-rights groups say the ban won’t last long. Prosecutors in a case involving Michael Madigan say they have wires of the former Illinois House speaker acknowledging operatives “made out like bandits” in a scheme involving utility ComEd.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 225: Pritzker Signs Illinois Gun Ban as Opponents Prepare to Sue The Center Square 00:47:08 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the fact that the sale of certain semi-automatic guns and magazines is now prohibited in Illinois with a law Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Tuesday night. Gun-rights groups say they’ll see him and legislative leaders in court. With a new ban on certain guns now in place in Illinois, some have said they won’t comply. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has a message for law enforcement: Do your job or else. Gun-rights groups say the ban won’t last long. Prosecutors in a case involving Michael Madigan say they have wires of the former Illinois House speaker acknowledging operatives “made out like bandits” in a scheme involving utility ComEd. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they discuss the fact that the sale of certain semi-automatic guns and magazines is now prohibited in Illinois with a law Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Tuesday night. Gun-rights groups say they’ll see him and legislative leaders in court. With a new ban on certain guns now in place in Illinois, some have said they won’t comply. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has a message for law enforcement: Do your job or else. Gun-rights groups say the ban won’t last long. Prosecutors in a case involving Michael Madigan say they have wires of the former Illinois House speaker acknowledging operatives “made out like bandits” in a scheme involving utility ComEd. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 224 a538d44f-1886-498c-94e5-255ad49aec7f Episode 224: Uncertainty Remains After Illinois Supreme Court Halts Cashless Bail Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they take a look at the possible paths forward now that the Illinois Supreme Court has halted the cashless bail portion of the criminal justice legislation called the SAFE-T Act, many are wondering what happens next. Illinois lawmakers are back in Springfield for lame-duck session. The House introduced new members. Illinois lawmakers are moving forward with a proposed ban on future sales of certain semi-automatic guns and magazines with more than 12 rounds.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 6 Jan 2023 17:58:46 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they take a look at the possible paths forward now that the Illinois Supreme Court has halted the cashless bail portion of the criminal justice legislation called the SAFE-T Act, many are wondering what happens next. Illinois lawmakers are back in Springfield for lame-duck session. The House introduced new members. Illinois lawmakers are moving forward with a proposed ban on future sales of certain semi-automatic guns and magazines with more than 12 rounds.

---

Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 224: Uncertainty Remains After Illinois Supreme Court Halts Cashless Bail The Center Square 00:41:10 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they take a look at the possible paths forward now that the Illinois Supreme Court has halted the cashless bail portion of the criminal justice legislation called the SAFE-T Act, many are wondering what happens next. Illinois lawmakers are back in Springfield for lame-duck session. The House introduced new members. Illinois lawmakers are moving forward with a proposed ban on future sales of certain semi-automatic guns and magazines with more than 12 rounds. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug & Executive Editor Dan McCaleb they take a look at the possible paths forward now that the Illinois Supreme Court has halted the cashless bail portion of the criminal justice legislation called the SAFE-T Act, many are wondering what happens next. Illinois lawmakers are back in Springfield for lame-duck session. The House introduced new members. Illinois lawmakers are moving forward with a proposed ban on future sales of certain semi-automatic guns and magazines with more than 12 rounds. --- Listen to Other ATN Productions: America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more! America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more. Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you. Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 223 27764091-2b9f-4dea-9a6b-e2c66dfe67b0 Episode 223: Illinois 2022 Year in Review & Looking Ahead to 2023 Join The Center Square’s Illinois Reporter Greg Bishop as he takes a look at the top news stories in the state of Illinois in the year 2022 and what to expect out of Illinois in 2023.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 30 Dec 2022 11:00:40 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Illinois Reporter Greg Bishop as he takes a look at the top news stories in the state of Illinois in the year 2022 and what to expect out of Illinois in 2023.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 223: Illinois 2022 Year in Review & Looking Ahead to 2023 The Center Square 00:24:01 Join The Center Square’s Illinois Reporter Greg Bishop as he takes a look at the top news stories in the state of Illinois in the year 2022 and what to expect out of Illinois in 2023. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Illinois Reporter Greg Bishop as he takes a look at the top news stories in the state of Illinois in the year 2022 and what to expect out of Illinois in 2023. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 222 83d79c14-cdfb-441c-be11-3bdf727e2942 Episode 222: Enforcement of Proposed Illinois Gun Ban Questioned Join The Center Square’s Executive Editor Dan McCaleb & Publisher Chris Krug as they discuss the Illinois Census update. Civil disobedience? Enforcement of proposed Illinois gun ban questioned. Judge to determine what happens next with Illinois' SAFE-T Act.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 22 Dec 2022 23:53:44 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Executive Editor Dan McCaleb & Publisher Chris Krug as they discuss the Illinois Census update. Civil disobedience? Enforcement of proposed Illinois gun ban questioned. Judge to determine what happens next with Illinois' SAFE-T Act.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 222: Enforcement of Proposed Illinois Gun Ban Questioned The Center Square 00:43:43 Join The Center Square’s Executive Editor Dan McCaleb & Publisher Chris Krug as they discuss the Illinois Census update. Civil disobedience? Enforcement of proposed Illinois gun ban questioned. Judge to determine what happens next with Illinois' SAFE-T Act. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Executive Editor Dan McCaleb & Publisher Chris Krug as they discuss the Illinois Census update. Civil disobedience? Enforcement of proposed Illinois gun ban questioned. Judge to determine what happens next with Illinois' SAFE-T Act. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 221 221b189e-2555-4a0c-93d3-9ae2d86741bf Episode 221: Supporters, Opponents of Illinois Gun-Ban Legislation Prepare for Fight Join The Center Square’s Executive Editor Dan McCaleb & Illinois Reporter Greg Bishop as they discuss the testifying of opponents of proposed Illinois gun ban with more hearings expected. Financial impact from Illinois' no cash bail discussed. Illinois again leads nation in gun background checks. Illinois drivers can expect two gas tax increases in 2023.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 16 Dec 2022 16:06:22 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Executive Editor Dan McCaleb & Illinois Reporter Greg Bishop as they discuss the testifying of opponents of proposed Illinois gun ban with more hearings expected. Financial impact from Illinois' no cash bail discussed. Illinois again leads nation in gun background checks. Illinois drivers can expect two gas tax increases in 2023.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 221: Supporters, Opponents of Illinois Gun-Ban Legislation Prepare for Fight The Center Square 00:33:38 Join The Center Square’s Executive Editor Dan McCaleb & Illinois Reporter Greg Bishop as they discuss the testifying of opponents of proposed Illinois gun ban with more hearings expected. Financial impact from Illinois' no cash bail discussed. Illinois again leads nation in gun background checks. Illinois drivers can expect two gas tax increases in 2023. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Executive Editor Dan McCaleb & Illinois Reporter Greg Bishop as they discuss the testifying of opponents of proposed Illinois gun ban with more hearings expected. Financial impact from Illinois' no cash bail discussed. Illinois again leads nation in gun background checks. Illinois drivers can expect two gas tax increases in 2023. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 220 2e443e15-7c4d-4139-9992-c3eef9fcc407 Episode 220: Gun Rights Groups Plan Lawsuits if Illinois Lawmakers Pass New Restrictions Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss: Gun Rights Groups Plan Lawsuits if Illinois Lawmakers Pass New Restrictions. Gun store owner: Proposed gun and magazine ban would make criminals of ordinary Illinoisans. Pritzker signs amendments to SAFE-T Act. Religious symbols from Christians, Jews, Satanists on display at Illinois State Capitol.


Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 9 Dec 2022 16:13:59 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss: Gun Rights Groups Plan Lawsuits if Illinois Lawmakers Pass New Restrictions. Gun store owner: Proposed gun and magazine ban would make criminals of ordinary Illinoisans. Pritzker signs amendments to SAFE-T Act. Religious symbols from Christians, Jews, Satanists on display at Illinois State Capitol.


Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 220: Gun Rights Groups Plan Lawsuits if Illinois Lawmakers Pass New Restrictions The Center Square 00:46:35 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss: Gun Rights Groups Plan Lawsuits if Illinois Lawmakers Pass New Restrictions. Gun store owner: Proposed gun and magazine ban would make criminals of ordinary Illinoisans. Pritzker signs amendments to SAFE-T Act. Religious symbols from Christians, Jews, Satanists on display at Illinois State Capitol. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss: Gun Rights Groups Plan Lawsuits if Illinois Lawmakers Pass New Restrictions. Gun store owner: Proposed gun and magazine ban would make criminals of ordinary Illinoisans. Pritzker signs amendments to SAFE-T Act. Religious symbols from Christians, Jews, Satanists on display at Illinois State Capitol. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 219 5783a7a1-e6c2-4af8-9d92-4a851c26d294 Episode 219: Safe-T Act Amendments Include Denying Pretrial Release for Serious Crimes Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss the Safe-T Act Amendments Include Denying Pretrial Release for Serious Crimes. Changes to issuing warrants for failing to appear in court also concerns opponents of SAFE-T Act. Amendment 1 could force changes to Illinois' SAFE-T Act police regulations.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 2 Dec 2022 16:17:24 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss the Safe-T Act Amendments Include Denying Pretrial Release for Serious Crimes. Changes to issuing warrants for failing to appear in court also concerns opponents of SAFE-T Act. Amendment 1 could force changes to Illinois' SAFE-T Act police regulations.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 219: Safe-T Act Amendments Include Denying Pretrial Release for Serious Crimes The Center Square 00:40:37 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss the Safe-T Act Amendments Include Denying Pretrial Release for Serious Crimes. Changes to issuing warrants for failing to appear in court also concerns opponents of SAFE-T Act. Amendment 1 could force changes to Illinois' SAFE-T Act police regulations. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss the Safe-T Act Amendments Include Denying Pretrial Release for Serious Crimes. Changes to issuing warrants for failing to appear in court also concerns opponents of SAFE-T Act. Amendment 1 could force changes to Illinois' SAFE-T Act police regulations. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 218 0ed4d661-fe46-4fcf-a620-ad640b241b96 Episode 218: Thanksgiving Meal Costs More Than Ever in Illinois Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss the increase in cost of a Thanksgiving meal in Illinois. Record number of shoppers expected for Thanksgiving weekend. Three legislative session days remain before Illinois' no-cash bail enacts Jan. 1.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 23 Nov 2022 18:00:10 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss the increase in cost of a Thanksgiving meal in Illinois. Record number of shoppers expected for Thanksgiving weekend. Three legislative session days remain before Illinois' no-cash bail enacts Jan. 1.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 218: Thanksgiving Meal Costs More Than Ever in Illinois The Center Square 00:40:02 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss the increase in cost of a Thanksgiving meal in Illinois. Record number of shoppers expected for Thanksgiving weekend. Three legislative session days remain before Illinois' no-cash bail enacts Jan. 1. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss the increase in cost of a Thanksgiving meal in Illinois. Record number of shoppers expected for Thanksgiving weekend. Three legislative session days remain before Illinois' no-cash bail enacts Jan. 1. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 217 a3b3f50e-892a-4421-86d9-cce317c50979 Episode 217: GOP Senators Looking to Enhance Illinois Penalties for Fentanyl Distribution Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss how some state lawmakers are urging action to address the scourge of fentanyl. Only ‘technical’ fixes to SAFE-T Act expected as Illinois lawmakers close first week of veto session. Illinois Amendment 1: Some waiting for certified tally while supporters claim victory.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 18 Nov 2022 11:00:42 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss how some state lawmakers are urging action to address the scourge of fentanyl. Only ‘technical’ fixes to SAFE-T Act expected as Illinois lawmakers close first week of veto session. Illinois Amendment 1: Some waiting for certified tally while supporters claim victory.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 217: GOP Senators Looking to Enhance Illinois Penalties for Fentanyl Distribution The Center Square 00:41:24 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss how some state lawmakers are urging action to address the scourge of fentanyl. Only ‘technical’ fixes to SAFE-T Act expected as Illinois lawmakers close first week of veto session. Illinois Amendment 1: Some waiting for certified tally while supporters claim victory. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss how some state lawmakers are urging action to address the scourge of fentanyl. Only ‘technical’ fixes to SAFE-T Act expected as Illinois lawmakers close first week of veto session. Illinois Amendment 1: Some waiting for certified tally while supporters claim victory. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 216 f63ea8e2-02e8-4f8f-b8a5-3647da19aa09 Episode 216: Illinois Democrats to Maintain Supermajority in Illinois Legislature Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss Illinois Democrats maintaining a supermajority in Illinois legislature. Pritzker wins second term as Illinois governor as Bailey concedes. Democrats sweep Illinois statewide offices. Illinois lawmakers could address SAFE-T Act concerns as early as next week.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 10 Nov 2022 22:53:37 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss Illinois Democrats maintaining a supermajority in Illinois legislature. Pritzker wins second term as Illinois governor as Bailey concedes. Democrats sweep Illinois statewide offices. Illinois lawmakers could address SAFE-T Act concerns as early as next week.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 216: Illinois Democrats to Maintain Supermajority in Illinois Legislature The Center Square 00:48:38 Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss Illinois Democrats maintaining a supermajority in Illinois legislature. Pritzker wins second term as Illinois governor as Bailey concedes. Democrats sweep Illinois statewide offices. Illinois lawmakers could address SAFE-T Act concerns as early as next week. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square’s Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb as they discuss Illinois Democrats maintaining a supermajority in Illinois legislature. Pritzker wins second term as Illinois governor as Bailey concedes. Democrats sweep Illinois statewide offices. Illinois lawmakers could address SAFE-T Act concerns as early as next week. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 215 eb0b80b6-350a-4a05-a944-c1a6580893da Episode 215: Illinois Candidates Continue Push for More Votes Ahead of Next Weeks’ Election Join The Center Square's Publisher Chris Krug and Associate Editor Greg Bishop as they discuss: Threats of violence, controversial ads mark final days of Illinois’ gubernatorial race. Illinois candidates continue push for more votes ahead of next weeks' election. Madigan, McClain enter not guilty pleas to latest corruption charges. After Madigan’s not guilty plea, Republicans warn more corruption charges could be ahead.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 4 Nov 2022 11:40:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Join The Center Square's Publisher Chris Krug and Associate Editor Greg Bishop as they discuss: Threats of violence, controversial ads mark final days of Illinois’ gubernatorial race. Illinois candidates continue push for more votes ahead of next weeks' election. Madigan, McClain enter not guilty pleas to latest corruption charges. After Madigan’s not guilty plea, Republicans warn more corruption charges could be ahead.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 215: Illinois Candidates Continue Push for More Votes Ahead of Next Weeks’ Election The Center Square 00:47:42 Join The Center Square's Publisher Chris Krug and Associate Editor Greg Bishop as they discuss: Threats of violence, controversial ads mark final days of Illinois’ gubernatorial race. Illinois candidates continue push for more votes ahead of next weeks' election. Madigan, McClain enter not guilty pleas to latest corruption charges. After Madigan’s not guilty plea, Republicans warn more corruption charges could be ahead. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Join The Center Square's Publisher Chris Krug and Associate Editor Greg Bishop as they discuss: Threats of violence, controversial ads mark final days of Illinois’ gubernatorial race. Illinois candidates continue push for more votes ahead of next weeks' election. Madigan, McClain enter not guilty pleas to latest corruption charges. After Madigan’s not guilty plea, Republicans warn more corruption charges could be ahead. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 214 73f08b78-8fd4-4f42-a7c0-c57499bbea8f Episode 214: Illinois ranks near the bottom of a new analysis of state finances across the U.S Truth in Accounting’s 13th annual Financial State of the States ranked Illinois 48th in the country, the same rank as last year. Only two other states, New Jersey and Connecticut, graded worse than Illinois for fiscal health. The review is of the states' fiscal year that ended June 30, 2021.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 28 Oct 2022 15:24:48 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Truth in Accounting’s 13th annual Financial State of the States ranked Illinois 48th in the country, the same rank as last year. Only two other states, New Jersey and Connecticut, graded worse than Illinois for fiscal health. The review is of the states' fiscal year that ended June 30, 2021.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 214: Illinois ranks near the bottom of a new analysis of state finances across the U.S The Center Square 00:52:10 Truth in Accounting’s 13th annual Financial State of the States ranked Illinois 48th in the country, the same rank as last year. Only two other states, New Jersey and Connecticut, graded worse than Illinois for fiscal health. The review is of the states' fiscal year that ended June 30, 2021.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Truth in Accounting’s 13th annual Financial State of the States ranked Illinois 48th in the country, the same rank as last year. Only two other states, New Jersey and Connecticut, graded worse than Illinois for fiscal health. The review is of the states' fiscal year that ended June 30, 2021.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 214 f969faed-0b17-4b98-aa27-863a689f37c7 Episode 213: Pritzker, Bailey debate for final time before election day The candidates discussed several topics, including crime, Chicago, and the performance of the Department of Child and Family Services and its director Marc Smith. The department has had significant issues despite budget increases in the past three years.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 21 Oct 2022 15:32:30 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The candidates discussed several topics, including crime, Chicago, and the performance of the Department of Child and Family Services and its director Marc Smith. The department has had significant issues despite budget increases in the past three years.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 213: Pritzker, Bailey debate for final time before election day The Center Square 00:55:22 The candidates discussed several topics, including crime, Chicago, and the performance of the Department of Child and Family Services and its director Marc Smith. The department has had significant issues despite budget increases in the past three years. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The candidates discussed several topics, including crime, Chicago, and the performance of the Department of Child and Family Services and its director Marc Smith. The department has had significant issues despite budget increases in the past three years. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 213 e08a3cbf-7975-4757-bca5-b53112e96605 Episode 212: More money flows into Governor's race with under four weeks to go A recent donation of nearly $14 million to a political action committee signals voters will be getting a barrage of political ads heading into the final few weeks before the Nov. 8 election.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 14 Oct 2022 15:39:29 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A recent donation of nearly $14 million to a political action committee signals voters will be getting a barrage of political ads heading into the final few weeks before the Nov. 8 election.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 212: More money flows into Governor's race with under four weeks to go The Center Square 00:49:55 A recent donation of nearly $14 million to a political action committee signals voters will be getting a barrage of political ads heading into the final few weeks before the Nov. 8 election. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A recent donation of nearly $14 million to a political action committee signals voters will be getting a barrage of political ads heading into the final few weeks before the Nov. 8 election. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 212 378d430a-6c3d-4f6d-be24-c0962e600133 Episode 211: Pritzker, Bailey spar over issues in first televised debate Incumbent Gov. JB Pritzker faced off with Republican challenger Darren Bailey in the first of two televised debates in Bloomington on Thursday over issues like the SAFE-T act, abortion, education and the state's budget.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 7 Oct 2022 15:25:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Incumbent Gov. JB Pritzker faced off with Republican challenger Darren Bailey in the first of two televised debates in Bloomington on Thursday over issues like the SAFE-T act, abortion, education and the state's budget.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 211: Pritzker, Bailey spar over issues in first televised debate The Center Square 00:42:14 Incumbent Gov. JB Pritzker faced off with Republican challenger Darren Bailey in the first of two televised debates in Bloomington on Thursday over issues like the SAFE-T act, abortion, education and the state's budget. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Incumbent Gov. JB Pritzker faced off with Republican challenger Darren Bailey in the first of two televised debates in Bloomington on Thursday over issues like the SAFE-T act, abortion, education and the state's budget. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 211 c97b173c-7a1e-46a7-ab43-549ae4bad58a Episode 210: SAFE-T Act, Amendment 1 stir debate with less than seven weeks until Election Day Voters, candidates and lawmakers alike are speaking out in support or opposition of the controversial SAFE-T Act and proposed constitutional amendment as early voting has already begun in Illinois.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 30 Sep 2022 15:37:01 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Voters, candidates and lawmakers alike are speaking out in support or opposition of the controversial SAFE-T Act and proposed constitutional amendment as early voting has already begun in Illinois.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 210: SAFE-T Act, Amendment 1 stir debate with less than seven weeks until Election Day The Center Square 00:36:40 Voters, candidates and lawmakers alike are speaking out in support or opposition of the controversial SAFE-T Act and proposed constitutional amendment as early voting has already begun in Illinois. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Voters, candidates and lawmakers alike are speaking out in support or opposition of the controversial SAFE-T Act and proposed constitutional amendment as early voting has already begun in Illinois. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 210 8037204e-db52-4971-958b-18af4871359e Episode 209: Feds charge 11th Illinois state lawmaker in the past ten years with corruption Another Illinois state lawmaker faces bribery charges related to the red-light camera industry.

The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois released a three-charge indictment of state Sen. Emil Jones III, D-Chicago, Tuesday.

The first charge states Jones accepted benefits in exchange for “opposing legislation that required the study of automated traffic enforcement systems located outside of Chicago, and would limit any legislation regarding [Illinois Department of Transportation’s] study of and recommendations concerning” red light cameras.

Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/state-sen-emil-jones-iii-charged-with-red-light-camera-bribery-lying-to-fbi/article_b27c5510-391b-11ed-b1b1-5b3f31a9fb0a.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 23 Sep 2022 15:35:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Another Illinois state lawmaker faces bribery charges related to the red-light camera industry.

The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois released a three-charge indictment of state Sen. Emil Jones III, D-Chicago, Tuesday.

The first charge states Jones accepted benefits in exchange for “opposing legislation that required the study of automated traffic enforcement systems located outside of Chicago, and would limit any legislation regarding [Illinois Department of Transportation’s] study of and recommendations concerning” red light cameras.

Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/state-sen-emil-jones-iii-charged-with-red-light-camera-bribery-lying-to-fbi/article_b27c5510-391b-11ed-b1b1-5b3f31a9fb0a.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 209: Feds charge 11th Illinois state lawmaker in the past ten years with corruption The Center Square 00:52:20 Another Illinois state lawmaker faces bribery charges related to the red-light camera industry. The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois released a three-charge indictment of state Sen. Emil Jones III, D-Chicago, Tuesday. The first charge states Jones accepted benefits in exchange for “opposing legislation that required the study of automated traffic enforcement systems located outside of Chicago, and would limit any legislation regarding [Illinois Department of Transportation’s] study of and recommendations concerning” red light cameras. Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/state-sen-emil-jones-iii-charged-with-red-light-camera-bribery-lying-to-fbi/article_b27c5510-391b-11ed-b1b1-5b3f31a9fb0a.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Another Illinois state lawmaker faces bribery charges related to the red-light camera industry. The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois released a three-charge indictment of state Sen. Emil Jones III, D-Chicago, Tuesday. The first charge states Jones accepted benefits in exchange for “opposing legislation that required the study of automated traffic enforcement systems located outside of Chicago, and would limit any legislation regarding [Illinois Department of Transportation’s] study of and recommendations concerning” red light cameras. Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/state-sen-emil-jones-iii-charged-with-red-light-camera-bribery-lying-to-fbi/article_b27c5510-391b-11ed-b1b1-5b3f31a9fb0a.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 209 84d0fc9e-7f24-4959-a283-1e868ccb5aef Episode 208: Pritzker issues another disaster proclamation, this time over the migrant busing issue In the wake of more migrants arriving in Illinois on buses from Texas, Gov. J.B. Pritzker has issued another disaster proclamation. Pritzker also activated 75 members of the Illinois National Guard to assist with the busloads of asylum seekers sent to Chicago by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 16 Sep 2022 15:36:56 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ In the wake of more migrants arriving in Illinois on buses from Texas, Gov. J.B. Pritzker has issued another disaster proclamation. Pritzker also activated 75 members of the Illinois National Guard to assist with the busloads of asylum seekers sent to Chicago by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 208: Pritzker issues another disaster proclamation, this time over the migrant busing issue The Center Square 00:42:18 In the wake of more migrants arriving in Illinois on buses from Texas, Gov. J.B. Pritzker has issued another disaster proclamation.   Pritzker also activated 75 members of the Illinois National Guard to assist with the busloads of asylum seekers sent to Chicago by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support In the wake of more migrants arriving in Illinois on buses from Texas, Gov. J.B. Pritzker has issued another disaster proclamation.   Pritzker also activated 75 members of the Illinois National Guard to assist with the busloads of asylum seekers sent to Chicago by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 208 d64ac188-8f0f-476d-9a7b-181306f69971 Episode 207: Economy, crime, and abortion top issues with Illinois voters Voters can expect more political ads. The most recent ones in the race for Illinois governor seem to spell out the top issues before voters.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 9 Sep 2022 15:38:23 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Voters can expect more political ads. The most recent ones in the race for Illinois governor seem to spell out the top issues before voters.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 207: Economy, crime, and abortion top issues with Illinois voters The Center Square 00:52:44 Voters can expect more political ads. The most recent ones in the race for Illinois governor seem to spell out the top issues before voters. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Voters can expect more political ads. The most recent ones in the race for Illinois governor seem to spell out the top issues before voters. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 207 f375c7c0-efff-4d05-918f-961226929357 Episode 206: Texas sends undocumented foreign nationals to Chicago Expect more foreign nationals to be bused from Texas to Chicago as the city’s “sanctuary” status is being used by Texas’ governor to highlight the nation’s porous border with Mexico.

Chicago is now on Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s list of bus stops for undocumented foreign nationals after flooding into the Lone Star State.

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/abbott-expect-more-foreign-nationals-to-be-bused-to-chicago-from-texas/article_2e3a4110-2a23-11ed-ba82-73bec9f09c02.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 2 Sep 2022 15:01:28 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Expect more foreign nationals to be bused from Texas to Chicago as the city’s “sanctuary” status is being used by Texas’ governor to highlight the nation’s porous border with Mexico.

Chicago is now on Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s list of bus stops for undocumented foreign nationals after flooding into the Lone Star State.

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/abbott-expect-more-foreign-nationals-to-be-bused-to-chicago-from-texas/article_2e3a4110-2a23-11ed-ba82-73bec9f09c02.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 206: Texas sends undocumented foreign nationals to Chicago The Center Square 00:32:17 Expect more foreign nationals to be bused from Texas to Chicago as the city’s “sanctuary” status is being used by Texas’ governor to highlight the nation’s porous border with Mexico. Chicago is now on Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s list of bus stops for undocumented foreign nationals after flooding into the Lone Star State. Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/abbott-expect-more-foreign-nationals-to-be-bused-to-chicago-from-texas/article_2e3a4110-2a23-11ed-ba82-73bec9f09c02.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Expect more foreign nationals to be bused from Texas to Chicago as the city’s “sanctuary” status is being used by Texas’ governor to highlight the nation’s porous border with Mexico. Chicago is now on Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s list of bus stops for undocumented foreign nationals after flooding into the Lone Star State. Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/abbott-expect-more-foreign-nationals-to-be-bused-to-chicago-from-texas/article_2e3a4110-2a23-11ed-ba82-73bec9f09c02.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 205 29edc8b3-f4e2-451d-a844-bc44b05551b5 Episode 205: Illinois has the 7th highest student loan debt in the nation Illinois has the 7th highest student loan debt in the nation, standing at $61.6 billion for 1.6 million borrowers.

President Biden on Wednesday announced taxpayers will cover up to $10,000 in student loan debt for individuals making $125,000 or less and families making $250,000 or less. An additional $10,000 will be paid for by taxpayers for those who received Pell Grants.

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-61-6-billion-in-student-loan-debt-7th-highest/article_c37a8456-23ca-11ed-9636-97d37ffb59dd.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 26 Aug 2022 15:18:20 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois has the 7th highest student loan debt in the nation, standing at $61.6 billion for 1.6 million borrowers.

President Biden on Wednesday announced taxpayers will cover up to $10,000 in student loan debt for individuals making $125,000 or less and families making $250,000 or less. An additional $10,000 will be paid for by taxpayers for those who received Pell Grants.

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-61-6-billion-in-student-loan-debt-7th-highest/article_c37a8456-23ca-11ed-9636-97d37ffb59dd.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 205: Illinois has the 7th highest student loan debt in the nation The Center Square 00:48:25 Illinois has the 7th highest student loan debt in the nation, standing at $61.6 billion for 1.6 million borrowers. President Biden on Wednesday announced taxpayers will cover up to $10,000 in student loan debt for individuals making $125,000 or less and families making $250,000 or less. An additional $10,000 will be paid for by taxpayers for those who received Pell Grants. Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-61-6-billion-in-student-loan-debt-7th-highest/article_c37a8456-23ca-11ed-9636-97d37ffb59dd.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois has the 7th highest student loan debt in the nation, standing at $61.6 billion for 1.6 million borrowers. President Biden on Wednesday announced taxpayers will cover up to $10,000 in student loan debt for individuals making $125,000 or less and families making $250,000 or less. An additional $10,000 will be paid for by taxpayers for those who received Pell Grants. Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-61-6-billion-in-student-loan-debt-7th-highest/article_c37a8456-23ca-11ed-9636-97d37ffb59dd.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 205 8ba10bc7-ca92-4a36-94ce-814a1975d1c0 Episode 204: Democrats, Republicans kick off election season at State Fair Marking the unofficial beginning of election season, Illinois Democrats pushed for their agenda while Illinois Republicans downplayed the Pritzker administration in hopes of garnering more support in November.

The Illinois gubernatorial election will be held on Nov. 8.

Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-republicans-rally-at-state-fair-downplay-democrats-accomplishments/article_08847366-1f45-11ed-a757-dba87a462f7e.html

Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-democrats-rally-at-fair-downplay-party-strife/article_22b01b9c-1e77-11ed-a1ca-f3012fb7809f.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 19 Aug 2022 15:24:26 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Marking the unofficial beginning of election season, Illinois Democrats pushed for their agenda while Illinois Republicans downplayed the Pritzker administration in hopes of garnering more support in November.

The Illinois gubernatorial election will be held on Nov. 8.

Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-republicans-rally-at-state-fair-downplay-democrats-accomplishments/article_08847366-1f45-11ed-a757-dba87a462f7e.html

Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-democrats-rally-at-fair-downplay-party-strife/article_22b01b9c-1e77-11ed-a1ca-f3012fb7809f.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 204: Democrats, Republicans kick off election season at State Fair The Center Square 00:45:26 Marking the unofficial beginning of election season, Illinois Democrats pushed for their agenda while Illinois Republicans downplayed the Pritzker administration in hopes of garnering more support in November. The Illinois gubernatorial election will be held on Nov. 8. Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-republicans-rally-at-state-fair-downplay-democrats-accomplishments/article_08847366-1f45-11ed-a757-dba87a462f7e.html Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-democrats-rally-at-fair-downplay-party-strife/article_22b01b9c-1e77-11ed-a1ca-f3012fb7809f.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Marking the unofficial beginning of election season, Illinois Democrats pushed for their agenda while Illinois Republicans downplayed the Pritzker administration in hopes of garnering more support in November. The Illinois gubernatorial election will be held on Nov. 8. Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-republicans-rally-at-state-fair-downplay-democrats-accomplishments/article_08847366-1f45-11ed-a757-dba87a462f7e.html Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-democrats-rally-at-fair-downplay-party-strife/article_22b01b9c-1e77-11ed-a1ca-f3012fb7809f.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 204 2832c5b4-5942-47f3-a64b-7dd0ec5be733 Episode 203: As Illinois adds teachers and sheds students, is there really a teacher shortage? Illinois schools employed more teachers in 2021 than it had at any point over the past decade while student enrollment declined over the same period. Despite this, lawmakers say the state is experiencing a teacher shortage and they continue to look for solutions to the perceived problem.

The most recent report from the Illinois State Board of Education on teacher supply and demand found that 99% of teaching positions were filled in 2020 and that vacancy rates were highest for bilingual and special education teachers. Even in those more-difficult-to-fill positions, the vacancy rates remained below 3% in 2018, 2019 and 2020.

Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/as-illinois-adds-teachers-and-sheds-students-is-there-really-a-teacher-shortage/article_0b2bc53c-127b-11ed-b6bb-93f851c26bfd.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 12 Aug 2022 15:32:33 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois schools employed more teachers in 2021 than it had at any point over the past decade while student enrollment declined over the same period. Despite this, lawmakers say the state is experiencing a teacher shortage and they continue to look for solutions to the perceived problem.

The most recent report from the Illinois State Board of Education on teacher supply and demand found that 99% of teaching positions were filled in 2020 and that vacancy rates were highest for bilingual and special education teachers. Even in those more-difficult-to-fill positions, the vacancy rates remained below 3% in 2018, 2019 and 2020.

Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/as-illinois-adds-teachers-and-sheds-students-is-there-really-a-teacher-shortage/article_0b2bc53c-127b-11ed-b6bb-93f851c26bfd.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 203: As Illinois adds teachers and sheds students, is there really a teacher shortage? The Center Square 00:48:06 Illinois schools employed more teachers in 2021 than it had at any point over the past decade while student enrollment declined over the same period. Despite this, lawmakers say the state is experiencing a teacher shortage and they continue to look for solutions to the perceived problem. The most recent report from the Illinois State Board of Education on teacher supply and demand found that 99% of teaching positions were filled in 2020 and that vacancy rates were highest for bilingual and special education teachers. Even in those more-difficult-to-fill positions, the vacancy rates remained below 3% in 2018, 2019 and 2020. Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/as-illinois-adds-teachers-and-sheds-students-is-there-really-a-teacher-shortage/article_0b2bc53c-127b-11ed-b6bb-93f851c26bfd.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois schools employed more teachers in 2021 than it had at any point over the past decade while student enrollment declined over the same period. Despite this, lawmakers say the state is experiencing a teacher shortage and they continue to look for solutions to the perceived problem. The most recent report from the Illinois State Board of Education on teacher supply and demand found that 99% of teaching positions were filled in 2020 and that vacancy rates were highest for bilingual and special education teachers. Even in those more-difficult-to-fill positions, the vacancy rates remained below 3% in 2018, 2019 and 2020. Read More: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/as-illinois-adds-teachers-and-sheds-students-is-there-really-a-teacher-shortage/article_0b2bc53c-127b-11ed-b6bb-93f851c26bfd.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 203 98d9a8c8-e40d-4fe8-90d0-82237499b908 Episode 202: Pritzker denies knowing about alleged fraud with connections to his office Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he doesn’t know anything other than what’s been reported by the media in the allegations of worker's compensation fraud against a former state employee that touches his office.

This, as a lawsuit alleging Pritzker’s administration was complicit continues on appeal.

Documents from early 2020 show former Illinois State Police Merit Board employee Jenny Thornley listed the governor’s office as her employer and Pritzker himself as her supervisor in a worker’s compensation claim, with a separate form listing the governor’s general counsel Ann Spillane as her supervisor.

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/pritzker-denies-knowing-about-work-comp-fraud-allegations/article_24521f2c-142c-11ed-a9a5-d7613b55976e.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 Aug 2022 15:37:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he doesn’t know anything other than what’s been reported by the media in the allegations of worker's compensation fraud against a former state employee that touches his office.

This, as a lawsuit alleging Pritzker’s administration was complicit continues on appeal.

Documents from early 2020 show former Illinois State Police Merit Board employee Jenny Thornley listed the governor’s office as her employer and Pritzker himself as her supervisor in a worker’s compensation claim, with a separate form listing the governor’s general counsel Ann Spillane as her supervisor.

Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/pritzker-denies-knowing-about-work-comp-fraud-allegations/article_24521f2c-142c-11ed-a9a5-d7613b55976e.html

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 202: Pritzker denies knowing about alleged fraud with connections to his office The Center Square 00:55:52 Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he doesn’t know anything other than what’s been reported by the media in the allegations of worker's compensation fraud against a former state employee that touches his office. This, as a lawsuit alleging Pritzker’s administration was complicit continues on appeal. Documents from early 2020 show former Illinois State Police Merit Board employee Jenny Thornley listed the governor’s office as her employer and Pritzker himself as her supervisor in a worker’s compensation claim, with a separate form listing the governor’s general counsel Ann Spillane as her supervisor. Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/pritzker-denies-knowing-about-work-comp-fraud-allegations/article_24521f2c-142c-11ed-a9a5-d7613b55976e.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he doesn’t know anything other than what’s been reported by the media in the allegations of worker's compensation fraud against a former state employee that touches his office. This, as a lawsuit alleging Pritzker’s administration was complicit continues on appeal. Documents from early 2020 show former Illinois State Police Merit Board employee Jenny Thornley listed the governor’s office as her employer and Pritzker himself as her supervisor in a worker’s compensation claim, with a separate form listing the governor’s general counsel Ann Spillane as her supervisor. Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/pritzker-denies-knowing-about-work-comp-fraud-allegations/article_24521f2c-142c-11ed-a9a5-d7613b55976e.html --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 202 17787aae-bf0c-4dbc-a89b-3dc768f6d2cf Episode 201: Controversial SAFE-T Act abolishes cash bail in Illinois on Jan 1, 2023 Battle lines are being drawn over the argument on the effects of ending cash bail in Illinois.

No other measure as part of the controversial criminal justice reform SAFE-T Act has drawn more attention than the Pretrial Fairness Act, which abolishes cash bail on Jan. 1.

State’s attorneys contend the provision will allow violent offenders to be released with a higher burden of proof required to hold them before trial.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 29 Jul 2022 15:22:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Battle lines are being drawn over the argument on the effects of ending cash bail in Illinois.

No other measure as part of the controversial criminal justice reform SAFE-T Act has drawn more attention than the Pretrial Fairness Act, which abolishes cash bail on Jan. 1.

State’s attorneys contend the provision will allow violent offenders to be released with a higher burden of proof required to hold them before trial.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 201: Controversial SAFE-T Act abolishes cash bail in Illinois on Jan 1, 2023 The Center Square 00:51:00 Battle lines are being drawn over the argument on the effects of ending cash bail in Illinois. No other measure as part of the controversial criminal justice reform SAFE-T Act has drawn more attention than the Pretrial Fairness Act, which abolishes cash bail on Jan. 1. State’s attorneys contend the provision will allow violent offenders to be released with a higher burden of proof required to hold them before trial. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Battle lines are being drawn over the argument on the effects of ending cash bail in Illinois. No other measure as part of the controversial criminal justice reform SAFE-T Act has drawn more attention than the Pretrial Fairness Act, which abolishes cash bail on Jan. 1. State’s attorneys contend the provision will allow violent offenders to be released with a higher burden of proof required to hold them before trial. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 201 a936f382-d465-48de-82ca-df14244c5b13 Episode 200: Illinois is one of 14 states with COVID-19 emergency orders still in place Illinois continues to be in a state of emergency, according to Gov. J.B. Pritzker's continued COVID-19 declarations.

Since the beginning of the pandemic over two years ago, Pritzker has exercised powers granted to him by state law to enact policies during states of emergency. The governor has issued 116 orders and declared a statewide disaster dozens of times to extend those powers.


Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 22 Jul 2022 15:13:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois continues to be in a state of emergency, according to Gov. J.B. Pritzker's continued COVID-19 declarations.

Since the beginning of the pandemic over two years ago, Pritzker has exercised powers granted to him by state law to enact policies during states of emergency. The governor has issued 116 orders and declared a statewide disaster dozens of times to extend those powers.


Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 200: Illinois is one of 14 states with COVID-19 emergency orders still in place The Center Square 00:50:33 Illinois continues to be in a state of emergency, according to Gov. J.B. Pritzker's continued COVID-19 declarations. Since the beginning of the pandemic over two years ago, Pritzker has exercised powers granted to him by state law to enact policies during states of emergency. The governor has issued 116 orders and declared a statewide disaster dozens of times to extend those powers.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois continues to be in a state of emergency, according to Gov. J.B. Pritzker's continued COVID-19 declarations. Since the beginning of the pandemic over two years ago, Pritzker has exercised powers granted to him by state law to enact policies during states of emergency. The governor has issued 116 orders and declared a statewide disaster dozens of times to extend those powers.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 200 05facae8-8cba-4a4c-8782-b5ca0f3dda3b Episode 199: Illinois Chamber of Commerce warns of "economic storm" following historic inflation An economic storm is coming and the state of Illinois could do more to be better prepared. That’s the warning from the Illinois Chamber of Commerce after sustained historic inflation. Inflation set another 40-year record Wednesday with the consumer price index up 9.1% over the past 12 months.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 15 Jul 2022 15:13:24 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ An economic storm is coming and the state of Illinois could do more to be better prepared. That’s the warning from the Illinois Chamber of Commerce after sustained historic inflation. Inflation set another 40-year record Wednesday with the consumer price index up 9.1% over the past 12 months.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 199: Illinois Chamber of Commerce warns of "economic storm" following historic inflation The Center Square 00:47:34 An economic storm is coming and the state of Illinois could do more to be better prepared. That’s the warning from the Illinois Chamber of Commerce after sustained historic inflation.  Inflation set another 40-year record Wednesday with the consumer price index up 9.1% over the past 12 months. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support An economic storm is coming and the state of Illinois could do more to be better prepared. That’s the warning from the Illinois Chamber of Commerce after sustained historic inflation.  Inflation set another 40-year record Wednesday with the consumer price index up 9.1% over the past 12 months. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 199 0eda5bac-8974-4bce-87ff-7c56a8c8eb1e Episode 198: Tragedy in Highland Park punctuates a violent holiday weekend in Chicagoland Six were killed Monday and dozens of others were injured after a man perched on the roof of a nearby building opened fire on the crowd watching the Independence Day parade in Highland Park. The seventh person died Tuesday at Evanston Hospital.

The city of Chicago experienced a violent Independence Day weekend in which at least eight people were killed and 29 were injured. Mayor Lori Lightfoot says they're making improvements in public safety.

In Chicago, the holiday weekend saw a total of 68 reported shootings, eight of which were fatal, and several of the shootings ended up without someone in custody.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 8 Jul 2022 15:44:53 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Six were killed Monday and dozens of others were injured after a man perched on the roof of a nearby building opened fire on the crowd watching the Independence Day parade in Highland Park. The seventh person died Tuesday at Evanston Hospital.

The city of Chicago experienced a violent Independence Day weekend in which at least eight people were killed and 29 were injured. Mayor Lori Lightfoot says they're making improvements in public safety.

In Chicago, the holiday weekend saw a total of 68 reported shootings, eight of which were fatal, and several of the shootings ended up without someone in custody.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 198: Tragedy in Highland Park punctuates a violent holiday weekend in Chicagoland The Center Square 00:57:52 Six were killed Monday and dozens of others were injured after a man perched on the roof of a nearby building opened fire on the crowd watching the Independence Day parade in Highland Park. The seventh person died Tuesday at Evanston Hospital. The city of Chicago experienced a violent Independence Day weekend in which at least eight people were killed and 29 were injured. Mayor Lori Lightfoot says they're making improvements in public safety. In Chicago, the holiday weekend saw a total of 68 reported shootings, eight of which were fatal, and several of the shootings ended up without someone in custody. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Six were killed Monday and dozens of others were injured after a man perched on the roof of a nearby building opened fire on the crowd watching the Independence Day parade in Highland Park. The seventh person died Tuesday at Evanston Hospital. The city of Chicago experienced a violent Independence Day weekend in which at least eight people were killed and 29 were injured. Mayor Lori Lightfoot says they're making improvements in public safety. In Chicago, the holiday weekend saw a total of 68 reported shootings, eight of which were fatal, and several of the shootings ended up without someone in custody. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 198 e97dccb9-e851-4dc6-b7e7-ba5af21335cb Episode 197: Pritzker vs. Bailey in face off for Governor A downstate Republican farmer who sued Gov. J.B. Pritzker over COVID-19 mandates will take on the billionaire Democratic incumbent this November.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 1 Jul 2022 15:34:24 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A downstate Republican farmer who sued Gov. J.B. Pritzker over COVID-19 mandates will take on the billionaire Democratic incumbent this November.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 197: Pritzker vs. Bailey in face off for Governor The Center Square 00:55:14 A downstate Republican farmer who sued Gov. J.B. Pritzker over COVID-19 mandates will take on the billionaire Democratic incumbent this November. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A downstate Republican farmer who sued Gov. J.B. Pritzker over COVID-19 mandates will take on the billionaire Democratic incumbent this November. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 197 a0e240fd-99ae-4450-bd6e-f30f393b491e Episode 196: Donald Trump visits Illinois with primary election just days away President Donald Trump is coming to Illinois Saturday evening for a rally in Mendon. He’s making at least one endorsement, and maybe another.

In an interview with The Center Square Thursday, the former Republican president said he is endorsing U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, R-Oakland, in the newly drawn 15th Congressional District.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 24 Jun 2022 15:03:46 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ President Donald Trump is coming to Illinois Saturday evening for a rally in Mendon. He’s making at least one endorsement, and maybe another.

In an interview with The Center Square Thursday, the former Republican president said he is endorsing U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, R-Oakland, in the newly drawn 15th Congressional District.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 196: Donald Trump visits Illinois with primary election just days away The Center Square 00:42:08 President Donald Trump is coming to Illinois Saturday evening for a rally in Mendon. He’s making at least one endorsement, and maybe another. In an interview with The Center Square Thursday, the former Republican president said he is endorsing U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, R-Oakland, in the newly drawn 15th Congressional District. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support President Donald Trump is coming to Illinois Saturday evening for a rally in Mendon. He’s making at least one endorsement, and maybe another. In an interview with The Center Square Thursday, the former Republican president said he is endorsing U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, R-Oakland, in the newly drawn 15th Congressional District. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 196 abe6f0e5-7a74-436f-922a-eb12eb2a83f3 Episode 195: Illinois loses another major employer Add Illinois-based heavy machinery manufacturer Caterpillar to the list of employers that are sending their corporate headquarters out of state. Caterpillar will soon have its headquarters in Texas rather than the Land of Lincoln. It's the second major employer moving out of the state in a month. Boeing announced in May it was relocating its headquarters from Chicago to Arlington, Virginia.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 17 Jun 2022 15:36:37 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Add Illinois-based heavy machinery manufacturer Caterpillar to the list of employers that are sending their corporate headquarters out of state. Caterpillar will soon have its headquarters in Texas rather than the Land of Lincoln. It's the second major employer moving out of the state in a month. Boeing announced in May it was relocating its headquarters from Chicago to Arlington, Virginia.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 195: Illinois loses another major employer The Center Square 00:53:53 Add Illinois-based heavy machinery manufacturer Caterpillar to the list of employers that are sending their corporate headquarters out of state. Caterpillar will soon have its headquarters in Texas rather than the Land of Lincoln. It's the second major employer moving out of the state in a month. Boeing announced in May it was relocating its headquarters from Chicago to Arlington, Virginia. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Add Illinois-based heavy machinery manufacturer Caterpillar to the list of employers that are sending their corporate headquarters out of state. Caterpillar will soon have its headquarters in Texas rather than the Land of Lincoln. It's the second major employer moving out of the state in a month. Boeing announced in May it was relocating its headquarters from Chicago to Arlington, Virginia. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 195 f700dbdc-d799-4a3f-a7b1-16f5dd8ef9e8 Episode 194: $41,656 needed from every Illinoisan to cover nation's second worst pension debt Illinois' five taxpayer-funded state pension systems are second worst in the nation when it comes to debt.

The American Legislative Exchange Council, (ALEC) released “Unaccountable and Unaffordable”, which puts the total unfunded pension liability at $8.2 trillion nationwide.

Illinois' liability was second worst at $533 billion. Only California, with a much larger population than Illinois, was worse.

The ALEC report also shows Illinois has the second highest unfunded pension liability per capita at over $41,656 per person. That ranks 49th in the country ahead of only Alaska.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 10 Jun 2022 15:31:46 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois' five taxpayer-funded state pension systems are second worst in the nation when it comes to debt.

The American Legislative Exchange Council, (ALEC) released “Unaccountable and Unaffordable”, which puts the total unfunded pension liability at $8.2 trillion nationwide.

Illinois' liability was second worst at $533 billion. Only California, with a much larger population than Illinois, was worse.

The ALEC report also shows Illinois has the second highest unfunded pension liability per capita at over $41,656 per person. That ranks 49th in the country ahead of only Alaska.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 194: $41,656 needed from every Illinoisan to cover nation's second worst pension debt The Center Square 00:46:28 Illinois' five taxpayer-funded state pension systems are second worst in the nation when it comes to debt. The American Legislative Exchange Council, (ALEC) released “Unaccountable and Unaffordable”, which puts the total unfunded pension liability at $8.2 trillion nationwide. Illinois' liability was second worst at $533 billion. Only California, with a much larger population than Illinois, was worse. The ALEC report also shows Illinois has the second highest unfunded pension liability per capita at over $41,656 per person. That ranks 49th in the country ahead of only Alaska. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois' five taxpayer-funded state pension systems are second worst in the nation when it comes to debt. The American Legislative Exchange Council, (ALEC) released “Unaccountable and Unaffordable”, which puts the total unfunded pension liability at $8.2 trillion nationwide. Illinois' liability was second worst at $533 billion. Only California, with a much larger population than Illinois, was worse. The ALEC report also shows Illinois has the second highest unfunded pension liability per capita at over $41,656 per person. That ranks 49th in the country ahead of only Alaska. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 194 ba98dea1-01d6-4960-a769-99c287613363 Episode 193: Report names Illinois one of nation's least recovered states from pandemic A new report shows that Illinois continues to struggle with higher unemployment rates, ranking near the bottom of states most recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The report was done by WalletHub, which ranked the 50 states from best to worst in terms of which unemployment rates are bouncing back the best.

Illinois ranked 42nd out of 50 on the WalletHub list, with its unemployment rate at 4.6% in April. The national unemployment rate was 3.6% in April, a full percentage point lower than in Illinois.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 3 Jun 2022 15:38:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A new report shows that Illinois continues to struggle with higher unemployment rates, ranking near the bottom of states most recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The report was done by WalletHub, which ranked the 50 states from best to worst in terms of which unemployment rates are bouncing back the best.

Illinois ranked 42nd out of 50 on the WalletHub list, with its unemployment rate at 4.6% in April. The national unemployment rate was 3.6% in April, a full percentage point lower than in Illinois.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 193: Report names Illinois one of nation's least recovered states from pandemic The Center Square 00:44:22 A new report shows that Illinois continues to struggle with higher unemployment rates, ranking near the bottom of states most recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic. The report was done by WalletHub, which ranked the 50 states from best to worst in terms of which unemployment rates are bouncing back the best. Illinois ranked 42nd out of 50 on the WalletHub list, with its unemployment rate at 4.6% in April. The national unemployment rate was 3.6% in April, a full percentage point lower than in Illinois. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A new report shows that Illinois continues to struggle with higher unemployment rates, ranking near the bottom of states most recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic. The report was done by WalletHub, which ranked the 50 states from best to worst in terms of which unemployment rates are bouncing back the best. Illinois ranked 42nd out of 50 on the WalletHub list, with its unemployment rate at 4.6% in April. The national unemployment rate was 3.6% in April, a full percentage point lower than in Illinois. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 193 eed1dd50-9429-4341-9b38-3633a50aaae6 Episode 192: Illinois lost more than 104,000 residents in 12 months Cities and towns in Illinois lost more than 104,000 people in the 12 months up to July 1, 2021, according to new U.S. Census data released Thursday. Nearly half of Illinois’ losses were from Chicago.

The updated report also shows Illinois’ nearly 1,300 cities and towns combined lost 104,375 people from July 1, 2020, to July 1, 2021.

By total population, the top 10 gains in Illinois were in Yorkville (995), Montgomery (907), Champaign (907), Oswego (605), Plainfield (598), Romeoville (591), Manhattan (505), Pingree Grove (342) and Winfield (310).

The 10 cities with the greatest losses were Chicago (-45,175), Cicero, (-1,703), Arlington Heights (-1,377), Schaumburg (-1,361), Evanston (-1,279), Palatine (-1,267), Skokie (-1,260), Berwyn (-1,141), Peoria (-1,126) and Oak Park (-1,094).

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 27 May 2022 16:13:57 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Cities and towns in Illinois lost more than 104,000 people in the 12 months up to July 1, 2021, according to new U.S. Census data released Thursday. Nearly half of Illinois’ losses were from Chicago.

The updated report also shows Illinois’ nearly 1,300 cities and towns combined lost 104,375 people from July 1, 2020, to July 1, 2021.

By total population, the top 10 gains in Illinois were in Yorkville (995), Montgomery (907), Champaign (907), Oswego (605), Plainfield (598), Romeoville (591), Manhattan (505), Pingree Grove (342) and Winfield (310).

The 10 cities with the greatest losses were Chicago (-45,175), Cicero, (-1,703), Arlington Heights (-1,377), Schaumburg (-1,361), Evanston (-1,279), Palatine (-1,267), Skokie (-1,260), Berwyn (-1,141), Peoria (-1,126) and Oak Park (-1,094).

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 192: Illinois lost more than 104,000 residents in 12 months The Center Square 00:47:46 Cities and towns in Illinois lost more than 104,000 people in the 12 months up to July 1, 2021, according to new U.S. Census data released Thursday. Nearly half of Illinois’ losses were from Chicago. The updated report also shows Illinois’ nearly 1,300 cities and towns combined lost 104,375 people from July 1, 2020, to July 1, 2021. By total population, the top 10 gains in Illinois were in Yorkville (995), Montgomery (907), Champaign (907), Oswego (605), Plainfield (598), Romeoville (591), Manhattan (505), Pingree Grove (342) and Winfield (310). The 10 cities with the greatest losses were Chicago (-45,175), Cicero, (-1,703), Arlington Heights (-1,377), Schaumburg (-1,361), Evanston (-1,279), Palatine (-1,267), Skokie (-1,260), Berwyn (-1,141), Peoria (-1,126) and Oak Park (-1,094). --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Cities and towns in Illinois lost more than 104,000 people in the 12 months up to July 1, 2021, according to new U.S. Census data released Thursday. Nearly half of Illinois’ losses were from Chicago. The updated report also shows Illinois’ nearly 1,300 cities and towns combined lost 104,375 people from July 1, 2020, to July 1, 2021. By total population, the top 10 gains in Illinois were in Yorkville (995), Montgomery (907), Champaign (907), Oswego (605), Plainfield (598), Romeoville (591), Manhattan (505), Pingree Grove (342) and Winfield (310). The 10 cities with the greatest losses were Chicago (-45,175), Cicero, (-1,703), Arlington Heights (-1,377), Schaumburg (-1,361), Evanston (-1,279), Palatine (-1,267), Skokie (-1,260), Berwyn (-1,141), Peoria (-1,126) and Oak Park (-1,094). --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 192 1c4e8564-f593-4e4f-b743-2e1cbb74efa2 Episode 191: Gas prices in Illinois have reached new record highs Illinois gas prices have steadily climbed month by month, with last month seeing a 60-cent increase in the average cost of a gallon of regular gas. These high costs have forced many residents to pay more at the pump.

On top of the state's high fuel prices, Illinois has the third-highest gas tax in the nation behind only Pennsylvania and California.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 20 May 2022 15:21:33 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois gas prices have steadily climbed month by month, with last month seeing a 60-cent increase in the average cost of a gallon of regular gas. These high costs have forced many residents to pay more at the pump.

On top of the state's high fuel prices, Illinois has the third-highest gas tax in the nation behind only Pennsylvania and California.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 191: Gas prices in Illinois have reached new record highs The Center Square 00:42:41 Illinois gas prices have steadily climbed month by month, with last month seeing a 60-cent increase in the average cost of a gallon of regular gas. These high costs have forced many residents to pay more at the pump. On top of the state's high fuel prices, Illinois has the third-highest gas tax in the nation behind only Pennsylvania and California. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois gas prices have steadily climbed month by month, with last month seeing a 60-cent increase in the average cost of a gallon of regular gas. These high costs have forced many residents to pay more at the pump. On top of the state's high fuel prices, Illinois has the third-highest gas tax in the nation behind only Pennsylvania and California. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 191 ab90f4df-e64a-4621-95cf-898bc7b1c932 Episode 190: Gas prices in Illinois have increased nearly 20 cents a gallon in the past week As families deal with rising prices on groceries and other household items, prices at the pump are once again flirting with record highs.

According to GasBuddy, gas prices in Illinois have increased nearly 20 cents a gallon in the past week. The average price in Illinois is $4.60 a gallon, but many stations in the Chicago area are well over $5 a gallon.

In the latest report, the cheapest gas was priced at just under $4 a gallon, while the most expensive was $5.78 a gallon.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 13 May 2022 15:17:24 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ As families deal with rising prices on groceries and other household items, prices at the pump are once again flirting with record highs.

According to GasBuddy, gas prices in Illinois have increased nearly 20 cents a gallon in the past week. The average price in Illinois is $4.60 a gallon, but many stations in the Chicago area are well over $5 a gallon.

In the latest report, the cheapest gas was priced at just under $4 a gallon, while the most expensive was $5.78 a gallon.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 190: Gas prices in Illinois have increased nearly 20 cents a gallon in the past week The Center Square 00:48:23 As families deal with rising prices on groceries and other household items, prices at the pump are once again flirting with record highs. According to GasBuddy, gas prices in Illinois have increased nearly 20 cents a gallon in the past week. The average price in Illinois is $4.60 a gallon, but many stations in the Chicago area are well over $5 a gallon. In the latest report, the cheapest gas was priced at just under $4 a gallon, while the most expensive was $5.78 a gallon. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support As families deal with rising prices on groceries and other household items, prices at the pump are once again flirting with record highs. According to GasBuddy, gas prices in Illinois have increased nearly 20 cents a gallon in the past week. The average price in Illinois is $4.60 a gallon, but many stations in the Chicago area are well over $5 a gallon. In the latest report, the cheapest gas was priced at just under $4 a gallon, while the most expensive was $5.78 a gallon. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 190 d1ab97c8-b822-4fea-909e-72b3a0cf03ca Episode 189: Abortion debate, veterans home audit and possible brownouts A new report on the LaSalle Veterans' Home COVID-19 outbreak, pension buyouts and the state’s rankings among CEOs with commentary about abortion, disinformation, possible rolling borwnounts and more.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 6 May 2022 15:00:23 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A new report on the LaSalle Veterans' Home COVID-19 outbreak, pension buyouts and the state’s rankings among CEOs with commentary about abortion, disinformation, possible rolling borwnounts and more.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 189: Abortion debate, veterans home audit and possible brownouts The Center Square 00:48:57 A new report on the LaSalle Veterans' Home COVID-19 outbreak, pension buyouts and the state’s rankings among CEOs with commentary about abortion, disinformation, possible rolling borwnounts and more. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A new report on the LaSalle Veterans' Home COVID-19 outbreak, pension buyouts and the state’s rankings among CEOs with commentary about abortion, disinformation, possible rolling borwnounts and more. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 188 58cf9997-b82f-40b3-9629-cbc54f225a20 Episode 188: Crime, COVID-19 policies and education focus of first GOP debate The Central Illinois Gubernatorial Candidate Forum was hosted by the Tazewell County Republicans in partnership with the Peoria County and Woodford County GOP Monday night. Five of the six candidates certified for the Republican ballot attended.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 29 Apr 2022 15:00:45 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Central Illinois Gubernatorial Candidate Forum was hosted by the Tazewell County Republicans in partnership with the Peoria County and Woodford County GOP Monday night. Five of the six candidates certified for the Republican ballot attended.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 188: Crime, COVID-19 policies and education focus of first GOP debate The Center Square 00:35:08 The Central Illinois Gubernatorial Candidate Forum was hosted by the Tazewell County Republicans in partnership with the Peoria County and Woodford County GOP Monday night. Five of the six candidates certified for the Republican ballot attended. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The Central Illinois Gubernatorial Candidate Forum was hosted by the Tazewell County Republicans in partnership with the Peoria County and Woodford County GOP Monday night. Five of the six candidates certified for the Republican ballot attended. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 188 fc5374f6-c6f4-4d0b-a5d6-8e4e463e8d04 Episode 187: Fuel retailers set to sue over "political speech" stickers on gas pumps The Illinois Fuel and Retail Association plans to challenge the constitutionality of the requirement that gas stations promote a delay in the gas tax increase that Gov. J.B. Pritkzer signed into law Tuesday.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 22 Apr 2022 15:48:08 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The Illinois Fuel and Retail Association plans to challenge the constitutionality of the requirement that gas stations promote a delay in the gas tax increase that Gov. J.B. Pritkzer signed into law Tuesday.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 187: Fuel retailers set to sue over "political speech" stickers on gas pumps The Center Square 00:46:18 The Illinois Fuel and Retail Association plans to challenge the constitutionality of the requirement that gas stations promote a delay in the gas tax increase that Gov. J.B. Pritkzer signed into law Tuesday. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The Illinois Fuel and Retail Association plans to challenge the constitutionality of the requirement that gas stations promote a delay in the gas tax increase that Gov. J.B. Pritkzer signed into law Tuesday. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 187 e1621ec8-feed-46aa-8cb2-f0a2c263b683 Episode 186: Illinois' latest budget includes guaranteed income pilot program Some question whether taxpayer-funded guaranteed income programs set to start across the state will be successful.

Chicago is accepting applications later this month for the city’s $31.5 million program meant to give $500 a month to 5,000 eligible residents. The income threshold is under $57,000 a year for a family of three.

As part of the state budget approved by lawmakers, there also is a $3.6 million guaranteed income pilot program for the Metro East area in East St. Louis.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 15 Apr 2022 15:21:13 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Some question whether taxpayer-funded guaranteed income programs set to start across the state will be successful.

Chicago is accepting applications later this month for the city’s $31.5 million program meant to give $500 a month to 5,000 eligible residents. The income threshold is under $57,000 a year for a family of three.

As part of the state budget approved by lawmakers, there also is a $3.6 million guaranteed income pilot program for the Metro East area in East St. Louis.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 186: Illinois' latest budget includes guaranteed income pilot program The Center Square 00:48:16 Some question whether taxpayer-funded guaranteed income programs set to start across the state will be successful. Chicago is accepting applications later this month for the city’s $31.5 million program meant to give $500 a month to 5,000 eligible residents. The income threshold is under $57,000 a year for a family of three. As part of the state budget approved by lawmakers, there also is a $3.6 million guaranteed income pilot program for the Metro East area in East St. Louis. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Some question whether taxpayer-funded guaranteed income programs set to start across the state will be successful. Chicago is accepting applications later this month for the city’s $31.5 million program meant to give $500 a month to 5,000 eligible residents. The income threshold is under $57,000 a year for a family of three. As part of the state budget approved by lawmakers, there also is a $3.6 million guaranteed income pilot program for the Metro East area in East St. Louis. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 185 76d64417-0200-4ecd-affd-36d521804a21 Episode 185: Lawmakers set to approve nearly 4000 page, $45.6 billion budget With the final day of session scheduled Friday, Democratic lawmakers are set to approve a $45.6 billion spending plan that’s been in bill form for just a couple of days.

Taxpayers still don't know how their money was spent from a state budget year that ended more than 280 days ago.

Republicans in the House committee reviewing the budget Wednesday reflected on how years ago, lawmakers would be able to go through a budget line-by-line in crafting a plan in a collaborative way.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 8 Apr 2022 15:39:15 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With the final day of session scheduled Friday, Democratic lawmakers are set to approve a $45.6 billion spending plan that’s been in bill form for just a couple of days.

Taxpayers still don't know how their money was spent from a state budget year that ended more than 280 days ago.

Republicans in the House committee reviewing the budget Wednesday reflected on how years ago, lawmakers would be able to go through a budget line-by-line in crafting a plan in a collaborative way.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 185: Lawmakers set to approve nearly 4000 page, $45.6 billion budget The Center Square 00:50:36 With the final day of session scheduled Friday, Democratic lawmakers are set to approve a $45.6 billion spending plan that’s been in bill form for just a couple of days. Taxpayers still don't know how their money was spent from a state budget year that ended more than 280 days ago. Republicans in the House committee reviewing the budget Wednesday reflected on how years ago, lawmakers would be able to go through a budget line-by-line in crafting a plan in a collaborative way. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With the final day of session scheduled Friday, Democratic lawmakers are set to approve a $45.6 billion spending plan that’s been in bill form for just a couple of days. Taxpayers still don't know how their money was spent from a state budget year that ended more than 280 days ago. Republicans in the House committee reviewing the budget Wednesday reflected on how years ago, lawmakers would be able to go through a budget line-by-line in crafting a plan in a collaborative way. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 185 49df84d2-9df8-4ade-997b-9400bc40919f Episode 184: Budget negotiations continue as end of legislative session looms As Democrats continue negotiating how to spend taxpayer dollars for the coming fiscal year, Republicans say millions of their constituents across Illinois are being snubbed.

Spring session of the Illinois Legislature ends April 8. It’s expected a plan to spend taxpayer dollars for the fiscal year that starts July 1 will be approved before then.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 1 Apr 2022 15:09:42 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ As Democrats continue negotiating how to spend taxpayer dollars for the coming fiscal year, Republicans say millions of their constituents across Illinois are being snubbed.

Spring session of the Illinois Legislature ends April 8. It’s expected a plan to spend taxpayer dollars for the fiscal year that starts July 1 will be approved before then.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 184: Budget negotiations continue as end of legislative session looms The Center Square 00:37:20 As Democrats continue negotiating how to spend taxpayer dollars for the coming fiscal year, Republicans say millions of their constituents across Illinois are being snubbed. Spring session of the Illinois Legislature ends April 8. It’s expected a plan to spend taxpayer dollars for the fiscal year that starts July 1 will be approved before then. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support As Democrats continue negotiating how to spend taxpayer dollars for the coming fiscal year, Republicans say millions of their constituents across Illinois are being snubbed. Spring session of the Illinois Legislature ends April 8. It’s expected a plan to spend taxpayer dollars for the fiscal year that starts July 1 will be approved before then. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 184 797dc576-556b-4da2-a895-f3801d9d9b25 Episode 183: State budget still not finalized as end of legislative session nears In the final weeks of session at the Illinois statehouse, there are growing demands on how to pay out tax dollars, including billions left over from federal COVID-19 relief.

Both the Illinois House and Senate return Tuesday with a scheduled adjournment of April 8. It’s expected they’ll finish up business, including passing a more than $42 billion state spending plan by then.

There are other issues that are expected to be tackled outside of the state budget. The ongoing unemployment debt of about $4.5 billion is costing Illinois taxpayers millions of dollars in interest.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 25 Mar 2022 15:29:07 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ In the final weeks of session at the Illinois statehouse, there are growing demands on how to pay out tax dollars, including billions left over from federal COVID-19 relief.

Both the Illinois House and Senate return Tuesday with a scheduled adjournment of April 8. It’s expected they’ll finish up business, including passing a more than $42 billion state spending plan by then.

There are other issues that are expected to be tackled outside of the state budget. The ongoing unemployment debt of about $4.5 billion is costing Illinois taxpayers millions of dollars in interest.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 183: State budget still not finalized as end of legislative session nears The Center Square 00:52:41 In the final weeks of session at the Illinois statehouse, there are growing demands on how to pay out tax dollars, including billions left over from federal COVID-19 relief. Both the Illinois House and Senate return Tuesday with a scheduled adjournment of April 8. It’s expected they’ll finish up business, including passing a more than $42 billion state spending plan by then. There are other issues that are expected to be tackled outside of the state budget. The ongoing unemployment debt of about $4.5 billion is costing Illinois taxpayers millions of dollars in interest. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support In the final weeks of session at the Illinois statehouse, there are growing demands on how to pay out tax dollars, including billions left over from federal COVID-19 relief. Both the Illinois House and Senate return Tuesday with a scheduled adjournment of April 8. It’s expected they’ll finish up business, including passing a more than $42 billion state spending plan by then. There are other issues that are expected to be tackled outside of the state budget. The ongoing unemployment debt of about $4.5 billion is costing Illinois taxpayers millions of dollars in interest. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 183 146b9e7e-ec3e-433c-be03-16fc138c6456 Episode 182: Republicans look to ease Illinoisans' pain at the pump Not only does Illinois have the second highest gas taxes in the nation, Illinois is also an outlier for tacking on a sales tax on top of the state, federal and sometimes local gas taxes. Republican state senators unveiled their plan to cap the sales tax on gas to 18 cents a gallon.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 18 Mar 2022 15:48:44 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Not only does Illinois have the second highest gas taxes in the nation, Illinois is also an outlier for tacking on a sales tax on top of the state, federal and sometimes local gas taxes. Republican state senators unveiled their plan to cap the sales tax on gas to 18 cents a gallon.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 182: Republicans look to ease Illinoisans' pain at the pump The Center Square 00:57:55 Not only does Illinois have the second highest gas taxes in the nation, Illinois is also an outlier for tacking on a sales tax on top of the state, federal and sometimes local gas taxes. Republican state senators unveiled their plan to cap the sales tax on gas to 18 cents a gallon. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Not only does Illinois have the second highest gas taxes in the nation, Illinois is also an outlier for tacking on a sales tax on top of the state, federal and sometimes local gas taxes. Republican state senators unveiled their plan to cap the sales tax on gas to 18 cents a gallon. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 182 7410e11d-fae4-4d43-9600-f2a8f1e4b1ac Episode 181: Madigan, associate pleads not guilty to corruption and other charges during arraignment Not guilty pleas were entered Wednesday by former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. Madigan, 79, faces 22 counts of corruption, including bribery, fraud and racketeering charges in connection to an investigation into utility giant ComEd and its attempts to gain favor with the former speaker in exchange for favorable legislation.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 11 Mar 2022 16:31:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Not guilty pleas were entered Wednesday by former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. Madigan, 79, faces 22 counts of corruption, including bribery, fraud and racketeering charges in connection to an investigation into utility giant ComEd and its attempts to gain favor with the former speaker in exchange for favorable legislation.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 181: Madigan, associate pleads not guilty to corruption and other charges during arraignment The Center Square 01:00:23 Not guilty pleas were entered Wednesday by former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. Madigan, 79, faces 22 counts of corruption, including bribery, fraud and racketeering charges in connection to an investigation into utility giant ComEd and its attempts to gain favor with the former speaker in exchange for favorable legislation. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Not guilty pleas were entered Wednesday by former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. Madigan, 79, faces 22 counts of corruption, including bribery, fraud and racketeering charges in connection to an investigation into utility giant ComEd and its attempts to gain favor with the former speaker in exchange for favorable legislation. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 181 ac8903d2-d708-4067-ba8e-e999e98aea90 Episode 180: Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan indicted on 22 counts of corruption Prosecutors indicted former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan on 22 counts of corruption Tuesday.

U.S. Attorney John R. Lausch Jr. announced the charges Tuesday afternoon, connecting Madigan to the nearly decade-long bribery scheme utility Commonwealth Edison admitted to in the summer of 2020.

The indictment alleges the “Madigan Enterprise” engaged in interstate commerce and constituted an “ongoing organization whose members functioned as a continuing unit for the common purpose of achieving the objectives of the enterprise.”

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 4 Mar 2022 16:31:03 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Prosecutors indicted former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan on 22 counts of corruption Tuesday.

U.S. Attorney John R. Lausch Jr. announced the charges Tuesday afternoon, connecting Madigan to the nearly decade-long bribery scheme utility Commonwealth Edison admitted to in the summer of 2020.

The indictment alleges the “Madigan Enterprise” engaged in interstate commerce and constituted an “ongoing organization whose members functioned as a continuing unit for the common purpose of achieving the objectives of the enterprise.”

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 180: Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan indicted on 22 counts of corruption The Center Square 00:38:37 Prosecutors indicted former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan on 22 counts of corruption Tuesday. U.S. Attorney John R. Lausch Jr. announced the charges Tuesday afternoon, connecting Madigan to the nearly decade-long bribery scheme utility Commonwealth Edison admitted to in the summer of 2020. The indictment alleges the “Madigan Enterprise” engaged in interstate commerce and constituted an “ongoing organization whose members functioned as a continuing unit for the common purpose of achieving the objectives of the enterprise.” --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Prosecutors indicted former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan on 22 counts of corruption Tuesday. U.S. Attorney John R. Lausch Jr. announced the charges Tuesday afternoon, connecting Madigan to the nearly decade-long bribery scheme utility Commonwealth Edison admitted to in the summer of 2020. The indictment alleges the “Madigan Enterprise” engaged in interstate commerce and constituted an “ongoing organization whose members functioned as a continuing unit for the common purpose of achieving the objectives of the enterprise.” --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 180 7a6b451c-9690-4197-af8a-e9d7bf5b43af Episode 179: Pritzker calls circuit court ruling on school mask mandates a "poor decision" According to the Fourth District Court of Appeals, Pritzker’s emergency rules for schools to require masks, exclude “close contacts,” and require vaccine or testing for staff, aren't in effect after being blocked by a bipartisan legislative panel last week.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 25 Feb 2022 16:34:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ According to the Fourth District Court of Appeals, Pritzker’s emergency rules for schools to require masks, exclude “close contacts,” and require vaccine or testing for staff, aren't in effect after being blocked by a bipartisan legislative panel last week.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 179: Pritzker calls circuit court ruling on school mask mandates a "poor decision" The Center Square 00:32:51 According to the Fourth District Court of Appeals, Pritzker’s emergency rules for schools to require masks, exclude “close contacts,” and require vaccine or testing for staff, aren't in effect after being blocked by a bipartisan legislative panel last week. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support According to the Fourth District Court of Appeals, Pritzker’s emergency rules for schools to require masks, exclude “close contacts,” and require vaccine or testing for staff, aren't in effect after being blocked by a bipartisan legislative panel last week. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 179 aa24ac56-1eaf-4742-91cb-0a740628a18e Episode 178: Appeals court dismisses Gov. Prtizker's appeal on school mask mandate decision The temporary restraining order blocking Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s COVID-19 mask and exclusion policies in schools remains in place as the Fourth District Court of Appeals dismissed the governor’s appeal as moot.1

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 18 Feb 2022 16:36:05 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The temporary restraining order blocking Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s COVID-19 mask and exclusion policies in schools remains in place as the Fourth District Court of Appeals dismissed the governor’s appeal as moot.1

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 178: Appeals court dismisses Gov. Prtizker's appeal on school mask mandate decision The Center Square 00:56:09 The temporary restraining order blocking Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s COVID-19 mask and exclusion policies in schools remains in place as the Fourth District Court of Appeals dismissed the governor’s appeal as moot.1 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The temporary restraining order blocking Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s COVID-19 mask and exclusion policies in schools remains in place as the Fourth District Court of Appeals dismissed the governor’s appeal as moot.1 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 178 2822222d-4052-44f5-82bb-a77cbde26bf5 Episode 177: Statewide indoor mask mandate to end Feb. 28 Masks mandates for most indoor activities in Illinois will be lifted Feb. 28. Gov. J.B. Pritzker is keeping his mandate for masks in schools in place, despite a judge ruling the policy null and void.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 11 Feb 2022 16:28:56 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Masks mandates for most indoor activities in Illinois will be lifted Feb. 28. Gov. J.B. Pritzker is keeping his mandate for masks in schools in place, despite a judge ruling the policy null and void.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 177: Statewide indoor mask mandate to end Feb. 28 The Center Square 00:49:31 Masks mandates for most indoor activities in Illinois will be lifted Feb. 28. Gov. J.B. Pritzker is keeping his mandate for masks in schools in place, despite a judge ruling the policy null and void. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Masks mandates for most indoor activities in Illinois will be lifted Feb. 28. Gov. J.B. Pritzker is keeping his mandate for masks in schools in place, despite a judge ruling the policy null and void. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 177 07edee9b-a187-4e54-bb9e-c21f39efce32 Episode 176: Illinois legislative leaders have different takes on the governor’s proposed budget The governor’s proposed budget seeks to spend nearly $4 billion more in the coming fiscal year than he proposed the year before. He laid out his priorities Wednesday at the Old State Capitol in Springfield.

Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, said he’s not accustomed to hearing good news in a budget speech.

Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, said the governor and Democrats looking to stabilize state finances is good, but more needs to be done to reverse continued outbound migration. The state's population has declined each of the past eight years.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 4 Feb 2022 16:02:30 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The governor’s proposed budget seeks to spend nearly $4 billion more in the coming fiscal year than he proposed the year before. He laid out his priorities Wednesday at the Old State Capitol in Springfield.

Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, said he’s not accustomed to hearing good news in a budget speech.

Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, said the governor and Democrats looking to stabilize state finances is good, but more needs to be done to reverse continued outbound migration. The state's population has declined each of the past eight years.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 176: Illinois legislative leaders have different takes on the governor’s proposed budget The Center Square 00:48:58 The governor’s proposed budget seeks to spend nearly $4 billion more in the coming fiscal year than he proposed the year before. He laid out his priorities Wednesday at the Old State Capitol in Springfield. Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, said he’s not accustomed to hearing good news in a budget speech. Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, said the governor and Democrats looking to stabilize state finances is good, but more needs to be done to reverse continued outbound migration. The state's population has declined each of the past eight years. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The governor’s proposed budget seeks to spend nearly $4 billion more in the coming fiscal year than he proposed the year before. He laid out his priorities Wednesday at the Old State Capitol in Springfield. Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, said he’s not accustomed to hearing good news in a budget speech. Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, said the governor and Democrats looking to stabilize state finances is good, but more needs to be done to reverse continued outbound migration. The state's population has declined each of the past eight years. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 176 1c649a1a-f0a3-495c-a6ec-5c66f795a8b8 Episode 175: Law and order focal point in election year Candidates for Illinois governor are making law and order a focal point in this election year.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 28 Jan 2022 15:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Candidates for Illinois governor are making law and order a focal point in this election year.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 175: Law and order focal point in election year The Center Square 00:53:07 Candidates for Illinois governor are making law and order a focal point in this election year. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Candidates for Illinois governor are making law and order a focal point in this election year. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 174 b3c07ced-5cb2-4ec8-b50e-f14a65e15a7c Episode 174: Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin enters race for Governor The field for Illinois Republicans seeking their party’s gubernatorial nomination just grew. The amount of money in this election cycle is also expected to grow.

Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker Friday gave his reelection campaign $90 million. IllinoisSunshine.org compiles campaign finance reports and shows the billionaire Democratic incumbent has more than $114 million on hand. That far exceeds any of the Republican candidates.

Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin announced his bid Monday. He picked state Rep. Avery Bourne, R-Morrisonville, as his running mate.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 21 Jan 2022 16:47:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The field for Illinois Republicans seeking their party’s gubernatorial nomination just grew. The amount of money in this election cycle is also expected to grow.

Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker Friday gave his reelection campaign $90 million. IllinoisSunshine.org compiles campaign finance reports and shows the billionaire Democratic incumbent has more than $114 million on hand. That far exceeds any of the Republican candidates.

Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin announced his bid Monday. He picked state Rep. Avery Bourne, R-Morrisonville, as his running mate.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 174: Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin enters race for Governor The Center Square 00:53:01 The field for Illinois Republicans seeking their party’s gubernatorial nomination just grew. The amount of money in this election cycle is also expected to grow. Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker Friday gave his reelection campaign $90 million. IllinoisSunshine.org compiles campaign finance reports and shows the billionaire Democratic incumbent has more than $114 million on hand. That far exceeds any of the Republican candidates. Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin announced his bid Monday. He picked state Rep. Avery Bourne, R-Morrisonville, as his running mate. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The field for Illinois Republicans seeking their party’s gubernatorial nomination just grew. The amount of money in this election cycle is also expected to grow. Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker Friday gave his reelection campaign $90 million. IllinoisSunshine.org compiles campaign finance reports and shows the billionaire Democratic incumbent has more than $114 million on hand. That far exceeds any of the Republican candidates. Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin announced his bid Monday. He picked state Rep. Avery Bourne, R-Morrisonville, as his running mate. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 174 e92cb5d4-5964-4f18-b1ed-044d522aa769 Episode 173: Eight of nine session days for the Illinois Legislature so far this year have been canceled Lawmakers were scheduled to be in this week, but canceled. They also canceled two of three scheduled days last week, marking eight of nine days scheduled this year that have been canceled. Some speculate they won't return until March.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 14 Jan 2022 16:32:36 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Lawmakers were scheduled to be in this week, but canceled. They also canceled two of three scheduled days last week, marking eight of nine days scheduled this year that have been canceled. Some speculate they won't return until March.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 173: Eight of nine session days for the Illinois Legislature so far this year have been canceled The Center Square 00:51:26 Lawmakers were scheduled to be in this week, but canceled. They also canceled two of three scheduled days last week, marking eight of nine days scheduled this year that have been canceled. Some speculate they won't return until March. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Lawmakers were scheduled to be in this week, but canceled. They also canceled two of three scheduled days last week, marking eight of nine days scheduled this year that have been canceled. Some speculate they won't return until March. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 174 cd8d4db4-56f9-488d-b579-6ce329131180 Episode 172: There’s no one to field complaints against state lawmakers in Springfield Despite having known for months the office of the Legislative Inspector General would be vacant, Illinois state lawmakers failed to advance a replacement when they were in session this week.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 7 Jan 2022 16:22:45 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Despite having known for months the office of the Legislative Inspector General would be vacant, Illinois state lawmakers failed to advance a replacement when they were in session this week.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 172: There’s no one to field complaints against state lawmakers in Springfield The Center Square 00:51:32 Despite having known for months the office of the Legislative Inspector General would be vacant, Illinois state lawmakers failed to advance a replacement when they were in session this week. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Despite having known for months the office of the Legislative Inspector General would be vacant, Illinois state lawmakers failed to advance a replacement when they were in session this week. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 172 7a36d34c-a528-4a71-b984-7b3f94dd8692 Episode 171: 2021 In Review In this episode, the team from The Center Square bring you to the top stories from Illinois for 2021 and take a look at what's to come in the year ahead.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 30 Dec 2021 13:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ In this episode, the team from The Center Square bring you to the top stories from Illinois for 2021 and take a look at what's to come in the year ahead.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 171: 2021 In Review The Center Square 00:24:19 In this episode, the team from The Center Square bring you to the top stories from Illinois for 2021 and take a look at what's to come in the year ahead.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support In this episode, the team from The Center Square bring you to the top stories from Illinois for 2021 and take a look at what's to come in the year ahead.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 170 91f4a5d0-68f5-460a-82fa-7782b110db92 Episode 170: Illinoisans continue to leave the Land of Lincoln According to the latest figures from the U.S. Census Bureau, from July 2020 to July 2021, there were 113,776 fewer people in Illinois. Only the District of Columbia and New York had a greater percent decline in population.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 23 Dec 2021 21:11:24 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ According to the latest figures from the U.S. Census Bureau, from July 2020 to July 2021, there were 113,776 fewer people in Illinois. Only the District of Columbia and New York had a greater percent decline in population.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 170: Illinoisans continue to leave the Land of Lincoln The Center Square 00:43:37 According to the latest figures from the U.S. Census Bureau, from July 2020 to July 2021, there were 113,776 fewer people in Illinois. Only the District of Columbia and New York had a greater percent decline in population. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support According to the latest figures from the U.S. Census Bureau, from July 2020 to July 2021, there were 113,776 fewer people in Illinois. Only the District of Columbia and New York had a greater percent decline in population. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 170 8210a9a3-947c-423f-9700-e0cb8d0a3d5e Episode 169: Gov. Pritzker refuses to provide specific date for ending statewide indoor mask mandate Pritzker was asked Tuesday about a possible sunset date for the statewide mandate, but the governor declined. The governors of New York and California have set end dates to their mask mandates. Pritzker said Illinoisans will continue to follow the science.

"I just want to encourage everyone to keep doing the right thing, we are in Illinois and we are going to keep doing it. Following the science, I might add." Pritzker said.

Pritzker said masks help keep people safe amid an increase in cases and hospitalizations.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 17 Dec 2021 16:09:49 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Pritzker was asked Tuesday about a possible sunset date for the statewide mandate, but the governor declined. The governors of New York and California have set end dates to their mask mandates. Pritzker said Illinoisans will continue to follow the science.

"I just want to encourage everyone to keep doing the right thing, we are in Illinois and we are going to keep doing it. Following the science, I might add." Pritzker said.

Pritzker said masks help keep people safe amid an increase in cases and hospitalizations.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 169: Gov. Pritzker refuses to provide specific date for ending statewide indoor mask mandate The Center Square 00:51:18 Pritzker was asked Tuesday about a possible sunset date for the statewide mandate, but the governor declined. The governors of New York and California have set end dates to their mask mandates. Pritzker said Illinoisans will continue to follow the science. "I just want to encourage everyone to keep doing the right thing, we are in Illinois and we are going to keep doing it. Following the science, I might add." Pritzker said. Pritzker said masks help keep people safe amid an increase in cases and hospitalizations. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Pritzker was asked Tuesday about a possible sunset date for the statewide mandate, but the governor declined. The governors of New York and California have set end dates to their mask mandates. Pritzker said Illinoisans will continue to follow the science. "I just want to encourage everyone to keep doing the right thing, we are in Illinois and we are going to keep doing it. Following the science, I might add." Pritzker said. Pritzker said masks help keep people safe amid an increase in cases and hospitalizations. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 169 524d5cf6-5fad-4c39-8507-a56c912788bf Episode 168: Teachers and school staff sue school districts, Pritzker administration over COVID-19 mandates About 90 teachers and school staff are suing their school districts and Gov. J.B. Pritzker's administration over COVID-19 mandates such as vaccines, testing and masks.

The lawsuit poised for Sangamon County Circuit Court comes from attorney Thomas DeVore, who has challenged Pritzker's orders around the state. It seeks judgments against requiring vaccines, masks, testing or exclusion policies without orders of quarantine.

The 90 plaintiffs are looking for action against 22 different school districts, the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Illinois State Board of Education and Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 10 Dec 2021 16:20:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ About 90 teachers and school staff are suing their school districts and Gov. J.B. Pritzker's administration over COVID-19 mandates such as vaccines, testing and masks.

The lawsuit poised for Sangamon County Circuit Court comes from attorney Thomas DeVore, who has challenged Pritzker's orders around the state. It seeks judgments against requiring vaccines, masks, testing or exclusion policies without orders of quarantine.

The 90 plaintiffs are looking for action against 22 different school districts, the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Illinois State Board of Education and Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 168: Teachers and school staff sue school districts, Pritzker administration over COVID-19 mandates The Center Square 00:59:28 About 90 teachers and school staff are suing their school districts and Gov. J.B. Pritzker's administration over COVID-19 mandates such as vaccines, testing and masks. The lawsuit poised for Sangamon County Circuit Court comes from attorney Thomas DeVore, who has challenged Pritzker's orders around the state. It seeks judgments against requiring vaccines, masks, testing or exclusion policies without orders of quarantine. The 90 plaintiffs are looking for action against 22 different school districts, the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Illinois State Board of Education and Gov. J.B. Pritzker. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support About 90 teachers and school staff are suing their school districts and Gov. J.B. Pritzker's administration over COVID-19 mandates such as vaccines, testing and masks. The lawsuit poised for Sangamon County Circuit Court comes from attorney Thomas DeVore, who has challenged Pritzker's orders around the state. It seeks judgments against requiring vaccines, masks, testing or exclusion policies without orders of quarantine. The 90 plaintiffs are looking for action against 22 different school districts, the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Illinois State Board of Education and Gov. J.B. Pritzker. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 168 91a9a336-ed60-4ae2-896c-f46abaa7ff99 Episode 167: Working-age Illinoisans continue to relocate to other states An analysis by the University of Illinois Extension looked at demographic trends and revealed the number of people aged 25 to 39 in Illinois decreased, one of the few states in the country to see a decline. Illinois also lost population in the 40 to 59 age group.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 3 Dec 2021 16:39:53 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ An analysis by the University of Illinois Extension looked at demographic trends and revealed the number of people aged 25 to 39 in Illinois decreased, one of the few states in the country to see a decline. Illinois also lost population in the 40 to 59 age group.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 167: Working-age Illinoisans continue to relocate to other states The Center Square 00:40:57 An analysis by the University of Illinois Extension looked at demographic trends and revealed the number of people aged 25 to 39 in Illinois decreased, one of the few states in the country to see a decline. Illinois also lost population in the 40 to 59 age group. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support An analysis by the University of Illinois Extension looked at demographic trends and revealed the number of people aged 25 to 39 in Illinois decreased, one of the few states in the country to see a decline. Illinois also lost population in the 40 to 59 age group. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 167 21770735-6b1e-46a1-8eac-e987eb06cbe7 Episode 166: Illinois drivers face higher Thanksgiving gas prices than neighboring states Some drivers can expect to pay more for Thanksgiving travel. Others hitting the road in electric vehicles may have to plan on where to charge up.

Last year, Illinois gas prices outside of Chicago ranged from $2.20 to $2.31 a gallon. This week, gas prices range from $3.46 to $3.51 a gallon.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 25 Nov 2021 17:53:57 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Some drivers can expect to pay more for Thanksgiving travel. Others hitting the road in electric vehicles may have to plan on where to charge up.

Last year, Illinois gas prices outside of Chicago ranged from $2.20 to $2.31 a gallon. This week, gas prices range from $3.46 to $3.51 a gallon.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 166: Illinois drivers face higher Thanksgiving gas prices than neighboring states The Center Square 00:48:05 Some drivers can expect to pay more for Thanksgiving travel. Others hitting the road in electric vehicles may have to plan on where to charge up. Last year, Illinois gas prices outside of Chicago ranged from $2.20 to $2.31 a gallon. This week, gas prices range from $3.46 to $3.51 a gallon. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Some drivers can expect to pay more for Thanksgiving travel. Others hitting the road in electric vehicles may have to plan on where to charge up. Last year, Illinois gas prices outside of Chicago ranged from $2.20 to $2.31 a gallon. This week, gas prices range from $3.46 to $3.51 a gallon. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 166 e2eddd94-d57e-4778-9207-217a11fe8cfb Episode 165: Illinois remains one of six states with continuing mask mandate Illinois is one of six states in the U.S. that still has a statewide mask mandate and is the only state east of the Mississippi that still has such a requirement. Gov. J.B. Pritzker implemented an executive order to re-introduce a statewide indoor mask mandate on Aug. 30, to help slow the spread of COVID-19 amid an increase of cases from the delta variant.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 19 Nov 2021 17:17:09 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois is one of six states in the U.S. that still has a statewide mask mandate and is the only state east of the Mississippi that still has such a requirement. Gov. J.B. Pritzker implemented an executive order to re-introduce a statewide indoor mask mandate on Aug. 30, to help slow the spread of COVID-19 amid an increase of cases from the delta variant.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 165: Illinois remains one of six states with continuing mask mandate The Center Square 00:59:41 Illinois is one of six states in the U.S. that still has a statewide mask mandate and is the only state east of the Mississippi that still has such a requirement.  Gov. J.B. Pritzker implemented an executive order to re-introduce a statewide indoor mask mandate on Aug. 30, to help slow the spread of COVID-19 amid an increase of cases from the delta variant. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois is one of six states in the U.S. that still has a statewide mask mandate and is the only state east of the Mississippi that still has such a requirement.  Gov. J.B. Pritzker implemented an executive order to re-introduce a statewide indoor mask mandate on Aug. 30, to help slow the spread of COVID-19 amid an increase of cases from the delta variant. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 165 cc8cf82c-a041-4c56-933b-755cf027536c Episode 164: Police union vows political consequences after lawmakers change ‘Right of Conscience’ law Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed changes to the Health Care Right of Conscience Act he said will allow for COVID-19 mandates to be enforced at the workplace.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 12 Nov 2021 16:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed changes to the Health Care Right of Conscience Act he said will allow for COVID-19 mandates to be enforced at the workplace.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 164: Police union vows political consequences after lawmakers change ‘Right of Conscience’ law The Center Square 00:58:50  Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed changes to the Health Care Right of Conscience Act he said will allow for COVID-19 mandates to be enforced at the workplace. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support  Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed changes to the Health Care Right of Conscience Act he said will allow for COVID-19 mandates to be enforced at the workplace. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 164 21b110be-9559-46c4-a4e9-f7d5d908e080 Episode 163: Millions of Illinois private-sector employees have until Jan. 4 to prove vaccine status Large employers in Illinois, and across the country, now have Jan. 4 to have employees comply with President Joe Biden’s vaccine mandate and the Illinois Chamber of Commerce is bracing for the fallout.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 Nov 2021 15:22:29 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Large employers in Illinois, and across the country, now have Jan. 4 to have employees comply with President Joe Biden’s vaccine mandate and the Illinois Chamber of Commerce is bracing for the fallout.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 163: Millions of Illinois private-sector employees have until Jan. 4 to prove vaccine status The Center Square 00:50:16 Large employers in Illinois, and across the country, now have Jan. 4 to have employees comply with President Joe Biden’s vaccine mandate and the Illinois Chamber of Commerce is bracing for the fallout. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Large employers in Illinois, and across the country, now have Jan. 4 to have employees comply with President Joe Biden’s vaccine mandate and the Illinois Chamber of Commerce is bracing for the fallout. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 163 4c29593e-a180-445f-94ab-59ea70de02b7 Episode 162: Democrats carve COVID out of Right of Conscience Act Changes are coming to a state law prohibiting discrimination against people for conscientiously objecting to medical procedures in the name of enforcing COVID-19 mandates, but the changes won't go into effect until July 1, 2022.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 29 Oct 2021 15:26:09 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Changes are coming to a state law prohibiting discrimination against people for conscientiously objecting to medical procedures in the name of enforcing COVID-19 mandates, but the changes won't go into effect until July 1, 2022.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 162: Democrats carve COVID out of Right of Conscience Act The Center Square 00:54:26 Changes are coming to a state law prohibiting discrimination against people for conscientiously objecting to medical procedures in the name of enforcing COVID-19 mandates, but the changes won't go into effect until July 1, 2022. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Changes are coming to a state law prohibiting discrimination against people for conscientiously objecting to medical procedures in the name of enforcing COVID-19 mandates, but the changes won't go into effect until July 1, 2022. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 162 eafe56ff-2762-4502-86cc-e626ecc5726e Episode 161: After Pritzker’s ‘grifter’ comment, attorney suing over COVID mandates considers defamation case The weeks’ top stories about court action on maps and masks and the fallout from vaccine mandates. Plus, we’ll get commentary from The Center Square Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb about those issues and more

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 22 Oct 2021 15:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ The weeks’ top stories about court action on maps and masks and the fallout from vaccine mandates. Plus, we’ll get commentary from The Center Square Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb about those issues and more

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 161: After Pritzker’s ‘grifter’ comment, attorney suing over COVID mandates considers defamation case The Center Square 00:50:47 The weeks’ top stories about court action on maps and masks and the fallout from vaccine mandates. Plus, we’ll get commentary from The Center Square Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb about those issues and more --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support The weeks’ top stories about court action on maps and masks and the fallout from vaccine mandates. Plus, we’ll get commentary from The Center Square Publisher Chris Krug and Executive Editor Dan McCaleb about those issues and more --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 160 86fc7ba4-d7c6-4592-8855-c9271c9a5d1a Episode 160: Pritzker seeks to change law which some have invoked to fight vaccine mandates Gov. J.B. Pritzker has been working to change the Health Care Right of Conscience Act, which some have invoked in the fight against COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

The 1998 Health Right of Conscience Act bans discrimination because of such persons' refusal to receive or participate in any way in any particular form of healthcare services contrary to his or her conscience.

Some have said the law allows people to avoid getting the COVID-19 vaccine and evade Pritzker's executive order mandating vaccination or regularly testing for health care workers, educators and other state employees.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 15 Oct 2021 15:52:21 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov. J.B. Pritzker has been working to change the Health Care Right of Conscience Act, which some have invoked in the fight against COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

The 1998 Health Right of Conscience Act bans discrimination because of such persons' refusal to receive or participate in any way in any particular form of healthcare services contrary to his or her conscience.

Some have said the law allows people to avoid getting the COVID-19 vaccine and evade Pritzker's executive order mandating vaccination or regularly testing for health care workers, educators and other state employees.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 160: Pritzker seeks to change law which some have invoked to fight vaccine mandates The Center Square 00:34:26 Gov. J.B. Pritzker has been working to change the Health Care Right of Conscience Act, which some have invoked in the fight against COVID-19 vaccine mandates. The 1998 Health Right of Conscience Act bans discrimination because of such persons' refusal to receive or participate in any way in any particular form of healthcare services contrary to his or her conscience. Some have said the law allows people to avoid getting the COVID-19 vaccine and evade Pritzker's executive order mandating vaccination or regularly testing for health care workers, educators and other state employees. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Gov. J.B. Pritzker has been working to change the Health Care Right of Conscience Act, which some have invoked in the fight against COVID-19 vaccine mandates. The 1998 Health Right of Conscience Act bans discrimination because of such persons' refusal to receive or participate in any way in any particular form of healthcare services contrary to his or her conscience. Some have said the law allows people to avoid getting the COVID-19 vaccine and evade Pritzker's executive order mandating vaccination or regularly testing for health care workers, educators and other state employees. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 160 4582b882-6ba2-4f13-8467-27514843dc4f Episode 159: Pritzker still won't point to benchmark to end mask mandates Gov. J.B. Pritzker had an indoor mask mandate in place for more than a year until he let the order expire in May. He then re-instituted a mask mandate in July for all indoor gatherings. On Monday, he couldn’t say what the benchmark would be to lift the mandate.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 8 Oct 2021 15:08:21 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov. J.B. Pritzker had an indoor mask mandate in place for more than a year until he let the order expire in May. He then re-instituted a mask mandate in July for all indoor gatherings. On Monday, he couldn’t say what the benchmark would be to lift the mandate.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 159: Pritzker still won't point to benchmark to end mask mandates The Center Square 00:46:50 Gov. J.B. Pritzker had an indoor mask mandate in place for more than a year until he let the order expire in May. He then re-instituted a mask mandate in July for all indoor gatherings. On Monday, he couldn’t say what the benchmark would be to lift the mandate. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Gov. J.B. Pritzker had an indoor mask mandate in place for more than a year until he let the order expire in May. He then re-instituted a mask mandate in July for all indoor gatherings. On Monday, he couldn’t say what the benchmark would be to lift the mandate. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 159 6ab873c2-b910-42ff-bde3-5300089edcbe Episode 158: Illinois taxpayers see debt burden double in 12 years Truth In Accounting (TIA) evaluates state governments for how much debt states have versus how much they bring in. For Illinois the amount owed per taxpayer went from about $30,000 in 2009 to $57,000 in the most recent report which released Tuesday.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 1 Oct 2021 15:29:12 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Truth In Accounting (TIA) evaluates state governments for how much debt states have versus how much they bring in. For Illinois the amount owed per taxpayer went from about $30,000 in 2009 to $57,000 in the most recent report which released Tuesday.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 158: Illinois taxpayers see debt burden double in 12 years The Center Square 00:34:09 Truth In Accounting (TIA) evaluates state governments for how much debt states have versus how much they bring in. For Illinois the amount owed per taxpayer went from about $30,000 in 2009 to $57,000 in the most recent report which released Tuesday.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Truth In Accounting (TIA) evaluates state governments for how much debt states have versus how much they bring in. For Illinois the amount owed per taxpayer went from about $30,000 in 2009 to $57,000 in the most recent report which released Tuesday.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 159 685e36f4-8e76-4674-a003-adb804a810af Episode 157: YouTube censors Springfield school board meeting over COVID comments YouTube removed videos of an Illinois school board's meetings because of public comments challenging COVID-19 policies, a problem one state lawmaker wants to fix with a bill that he said would reduce social media censorship.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 24 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ YouTube removed videos of an Illinois school board's meetings because of public comments challenging COVID-19 policies, a problem one state lawmaker wants to fix with a bill that he said would reduce social media censorship.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 157: YouTube censors Springfield school board meeting over COVID comments The Center Square 00:47:51 YouTube removed videos of an Illinois school board's meetings because of public comments challenging COVID-19 policies, a problem one state lawmaker wants to fix with a bill that he said would reduce social media censorship. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support YouTube removed videos of an Illinois school board's meetings because of public comments challenging COVID-19 policies, a problem one state lawmaker wants to fix with a bill that he said would reduce social media censorship. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 159 be6b6f3b-ba82-4ec4-a755-18273e69f5f3 Episode 156: Judge says masks can’t be required without official quarantine order Three children in Effingham County can’t be forced to wear masks without an official quarantine order from the county health department, a judge ruled Wednesday.

Later in the day, a different judge enjoined an entire school district from requiring masks without a court order.

The attorney who brought the cases anticipates more such cases across the state.

Earlier this month, attorney Thomas DeVore won several cases on behalf of parents of school kids being kept from in-person learning because of possible COVID-19 exposure.

Courts in multiple counties said only county health departments can issue quarantine orders.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 17 Sep 2021 15:47:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Three children in Effingham County can’t be forced to wear masks without an official quarantine order from the county health department, a judge ruled Wednesday.

Later in the day, a different judge enjoined an entire school district from requiring masks without a court order.

The attorney who brought the cases anticipates more such cases across the state.

Earlier this month, attorney Thomas DeVore won several cases on behalf of parents of school kids being kept from in-person learning because of possible COVID-19 exposure.

Courts in multiple counties said only county health departments can issue quarantine orders.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 156: Judge says masks can’t be required without official quarantine order The Center Square 00:53:37 Three children in Effingham County can’t be forced to wear masks without an official quarantine order from the county health department, a judge ruled Wednesday. Later in the day, a different judge enjoined an entire school district from requiring masks without a court order. The attorney who brought the cases anticipates more such cases across the state. Earlier this month, attorney Thomas DeVore won several cases on behalf of parents of school kids being kept from in-person learning because of possible COVID-19 exposure. Courts in multiple counties said only county health departments can issue quarantine orders. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Three children in Effingham County can’t be forced to wear masks without an official quarantine order from the county health department, a judge ruled Wednesday. Later in the day, a different judge enjoined an entire school district from requiring masks without a court order. The attorney who brought the cases anticipates more such cases across the state. Earlier this month, attorney Thomas DeVore won several cases on behalf of parents of school kids being kept from in-person learning because of possible COVID-19 exposure. Courts in multiple counties said only county health departments can issue quarantine orders. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 156 202387f1-c6c5-4726-add3-d61583492dee Episode 155: Lawmaker asks Pritzker for clear goalposts on mask mandate A state lawmaker says residents are demanding clear goalposts to aim for to relax COVID-19 mitigations such as mask mandates.

Nearing 20 months into the COVID-19 pandemic, executive orders from Gov. J.B. Pritzker on a variety of things – ranging from economic restrictions to masks in schools – have gone unchecked by the Democrat-controlled General Assembly.

Republican state Rep. Mark Batinick, R-Plainfield, said that has to change.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 10 Sep 2021 15:27:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A state lawmaker says residents are demanding clear goalposts to aim for to relax COVID-19 mitigations such as mask mandates.

Nearing 20 months into the COVID-19 pandemic, executive orders from Gov. J.B. Pritzker on a variety of things – ranging from economic restrictions to masks in schools – have gone unchecked by the Democrat-controlled General Assembly.

Republican state Rep. Mark Batinick, R-Plainfield, said that has to change.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 155: Lawmaker asks Pritzker for clear goalposts on mask mandate The Center Square 00:46:21 A state lawmaker says residents are demanding clear goalposts to aim for to relax COVID-19 mitigations such as mask mandates. Nearing 20 months into the COVID-19 pandemic, executive orders from Gov. J.B. Pritzker on a variety of things – ranging from economic restrictions to masks in schools – have gone unchecked by the Democrat-controlled General Assembly. Republican state Rep. Mark Batinick, R-Plainfield, said that has to change. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A state lawmaker says residents are demanding clear goalposts to aim for to relax COVID-19 mitigations such as mask mandates. Nearing 20 months into the COVID-19 pandemic, executive orders from Gov. J.B. Pritzker on a variety of things – ranging from economic restrictions to masks in schools – have gone unchecked by the Democrat-controlled General Assembly. Republican state Rep. Mark Batinick, R-Plainfield, said that has to change. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 155 260ef87d-13bc-4695-a69a-ecab08723fd1 Episode 154: Republicans ask Pritzker to veto legislative maps Illinois Republicans want Gov. J.B. Pritzker to veto the legislative maps Democrats passed this week. Maps drafted in May were passed by majority Democrats at the statehouse.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 3 Sep 2021 15:30:07 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois Republicans want Gov. J.B. Pritzker to veto the legislative maps Democrats passed this week. Maps drafted in May were passed by majority Democrats at the statehouse.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 154: Republicans ask Pritzker to veto legislative maps The Center Square 00:36:48 Illinois Republicans want Gov. J.B. Pritzker to veto the legislative maps Democrats passed this week. Maps drafted in May were passed by majority Democrats at the statehouse. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois Republicans want Gov. J.B. Pritzker to veto the legislative maps Democrats passed this week. Maps drafted in May were passed by majority Democrats at the statehouse. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 154 53e4036f-231b-4efb-a4c4-c3cbd5df0474 Episode 153: Pritzker mandates vaccines and masks indoors Pritzker mandates vaccines and masks indoors, state lawmakers prepare to revise maps and more

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 27 Aug 2021 14:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Pritzker mandates vaccines and masks indoors, state lawmakers prepare to revise maps and more

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 153: Pritzker mandates vaccines and masks indoors The Center Square 00:52:22 Pritzker mandates vaccines and masks indoors, state lawmakers prepare to revise maps and more --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Pritzker mandates vaccines and masks indoors, state lawmakers prepare to revise maps and more --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 152 8d023953-e22b-405f-9965-514e42a35794 Episode 152: School board member's medical license threatened over mask stance A school board member's medical license threatened over mask stance with sustained objections to the state's mask mandate in schools. There are also challenges to the state and federal eviction moratorium. And, the Illinois State Fair is ongoing.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 20 Aug 2021 15:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A school board member's medical license threatened over mask stance with sustained objections to the state's mask mandate in schools. There are also challenges to the state and federal eviction moratorium. And, the Illinois State Fair is ongoing.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 152: School board member's medical license threatened over mask stance The Center Square 00:53:44 A school board member's medical license threatened over mask stance with sustained objections to the state's mask mandate in schools. There are also challenges to the state and federal eviction moratorium. And, the Illinois State Fair is ongoing.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A school board member's medical license threatened over mask stance with sustained objections to the state's mask mandate in schools. There are also challenges to the state and federal eviction moratorium. And, the Illinois State Fair is ongoing.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 151 47a3db31-c118-4a32-9aac-acac0f7153b1 Episode 151: Private school punished for mask-optional policy A private K-12 school that announced a mask-optional policy for a return to class had been sanctioned by the Illinois State Board of Education. ISBE says schools must require, not recommend, masks in schools.

Amid concerns of COVID-19, Timothy Christian Schools in Elmhurst made the mask-optional announcement this week through a video from Superintendent Matthew Davidson.

“It’s just worth noting that the issue of masks in schools is still categorically a recommendation, not a requirement from the [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention],” Davidson said.

ISBE sent a letter to the district rescinding its nonpublic school recognition. That means high school diplomas won’t be recognized, children can't compete in organized sports and the school can’t receive Invest In Kids scholarship funds.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 13 Aug 2021 16:00:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A private K-12 school that announced a mask-optional policy for a return to class had been sanctioned by the Illinois State Board of Education. ISBE says schools must require, not recommend, masks in schools.

Amid concerns of COVID-19, Timothy Christian Schools in Elmhurst made the mask-optional announcement this week through a video from Superintendent Matthew Davidson.

“It’s just worth noting that the issue of masks in schools is still categorically a recommendation, not a requirement from the [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention],” Davidson said.

ISBE sent a letter to the district rescinding its nonpublic school recognition. That means high school diplomas won’t be recognized, children can't compete in organized sports and the school can’t receive Invest In Kids scholarship funds.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 151: Private school punished for mask-optional policy The Center Square 00:50:29 A private K-12 school that announced a mask-optional policy for a return to class had been sanctioned by the Illinois State Board of Education. ISBE says schools must require, not recommend, masks in schools. Amid concerns of COVID-19, Timothy Christian Schools in Elmhurst made the mask-optional announcement this week through a video from Superintendent Matthew Davidson. “It’s just worth noting that the issue of masks in schools is still categorically a recommendation, not a requirement from the [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention],” Davidson said. ISBE sent a letter to the district rescinding its nonpublic school recognition. That means high school diplomas won’t be recognized, children can't compete in organized sports and the school can’t receive Invest In Kids scholarship funds. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A private K-12 school that announced a mask-optional policy for a return to class had been sanctioned by the Illinois State Board of Education. ISBE says schools must require, not recommend, masks in schools. Amid concerns of COVID-19, Timothy Christian Schools in Elmhurst made the mask-optional announcement this week through a video from Superintendent Matthew Davidson. “It’s just worth noting that the issue of masks in schools is still categorically a recommendation, not a requirement from the [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention],” Davidson said. ISBE sent a letter to the district rescinding its nonpublic school recognition. That means high school diplomas won’t be recognized, children can't compete in organized sports and the school can’t receive Invest In Kids scholarship funds. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 151 64869579-a912-4c38-86d4-8fe6df092cd9 Episode 150: Pritzker mandates masks in schools Weeks after some school districts decided to make masks optional to start the year, the CDC changed its guidance on mask use.

Now Illinois’ governor is mandating masks for schools and daycares, and threatening action for those that don’t comply. Some state lawmakers say a year and a half in, they should be involved, but aren’t.

Last month, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said masking requirements were up to schools. The Illinois State Board of Education said schools must be back to in-person learning after the COVID-19 remote learning and hybrid schooling through the last school year led to learning loss among many students.

On Wednesday, Pritzker said schools must require masks.

While there won’t be social distancing requirements, masks are mandated, even those playing sports, despite vaccination status, the governor announced Wednesday during a news conference in Chicago.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 6 Aug 2021 15:30:54 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Weeks after some school districts decided to make masks optional to start the year, the CDC changed its guidance on mask use.

Now Illinois’ governor is mandating masks for schools and daycares, and threatening action for those that don’t comply. Some state lawmakers say a year and a half in, they should be involved, but aren’t.

Last month, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said masking requirements were up to schools. The Illinois State Board of Education said schools must be back to in-person learning after the COVID-19 remote learning and hybrid schooling through the last school year led to learning loss among many students.

On Wednesday, Pritzker said schools must require masks.

While there won’t be social distancing requirements, masks are mandated, even those playing sports, despite vaccination status, the governor announced Wednesday during a news conference in Chicago.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 150: Pritzker mandates masks in schools The Center Square 00:49:25 Weeks after some school districts decided to make masks optional to start the year, the CDC changed its guidance on mask use. Now Illinois’ governor is mandating masks for schools and daycares, and threatening action for those that don’t comply. Some state lawmakers say a year and a half in, they should be involved, but aren’t. Last month, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said masking requirements were up to schools. The Illinois State Board of Education said schools must be back to in-person learning after the COVID-19 remote learning and hybrid schooling through the last school year led to learning loss among many students. On Wednesday, Pritzker said schools must require masks. While there won’t be social distancing requirements, masks are mandated, even those playing sports, despite vaccination status, the governor announced Wednesday during a news conference in Chicago. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Weeks after some school districts decided to make masks optional to start the year, the CDC changed its guidance on mask use. Now Illinois’ governor is mandating masks for schools and daycares, and threatening action for those that don’t comply. Some state lawmakers say a year and a half in, they should be involved, but aren’t. Last month, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said masking requirements were up to schools. The Illinois State Board of Education said schools must be back to in-person learning after the COVID-19 remote learning and hybrid schooling through the last school year led to learning loss among many students. On Wednesday, Pritzker said schools must require masks. While there won’t be social distancing requirements, masks are mandated, even those playing sports, despite vaccination status, the governor announced Wednesday during a news conference in Chicago. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 150 a90f1147-8809-4015-91ab-288a89f8f8fa Episode 149: Pritzker, Lightfoot suggest COVID mitigations could return soon Gov. J.B. Pritzker is evaluating whether to require state employees under his control to be vaccinated against COVID-19, but mandatory vaccinations are not politically popular.

Since the state has been tracking the Delta variant in February, 716 cases have been reported. Pritzker said Wednesday he’s considering more COVID-19 mitigations.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2021 15:37:19 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov. J.B. Pritzker is evaluating whether to require state employees under his control to be vaccinated against COVID-19, but mandatory vaccinations are not politically popular.

Since the state has been tracking the Delta variant in February, 716 cases have been reported. Pritzker said Wednesday he’s considering more COVID-19 mitigations.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 149: Pritzker, Lightfoot suggest COVID mitigations could return soon The Center Square 00:36:21 Gov. J.B. Pritzker is evaluating whether to require state employees under his control to be vaccinated against COVID-19, but mandatory vaccinations are not politically popular. Since the state has been tracking the Delta variant in February, 716 cases have been reported. Pritzker said Wednesday he’s considering more COVID-19 mitigations. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Gov. J.B. Pritzker is evaluating whether to require state employees under his control to be vaccinated against COVID-19, but mandatory vaccinations are not politically popular. Since the state has been tracking the Delta variant in February, 716 cases have been reported. Pritzker said Wednesday he’s considering more COVID-19 mitigations. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 149 759ddaf6-c62e-439a-ba07-fecb3fe05808 Episode 148: Pritzker to seek second term as Governor Gov J.B. Pritzker announced Monday that he will be running for re-election in 2022.

Pritzker, 56, has been in office since January 2019. Pritzker defeated former Gov. Bruce Rauner, a wealthy Republican, to become Illinois' 43rd governor.

So far, three Republicans have announced they are running for their party’s nomination to challenge Pritzker. Downstate state Sen. Darren Bailey, suburban Chicago businessman Gary Rabine, and former state Sen. Paul Schimpf have all announced plans to run for governor.

The gubernatorial election will be held on Nov. 8, 2022.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 23 Jul 2021 15:51:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov J.B. Pritzker announced Monday that he will be running for re-election in 2022.

Pritzker, 56, has been in office since January 2019. Pritzker defeated former Gov. Bruce Rauner, a wealthy Republican, to become Illinois' 43rd governor.

So far, three Republicans have announced they are running for their party’s nomination to challenge Pritzker. Downstate state Sen. Darren Bailey, suburban Chicago businessman Gary Rabine, and former state Sen. Paul Schimpf have all announced plans to run for governor.

The gubernatorial election will be held on Nov. 8, 2022.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 148: Pritzker to seek second term as Governor The Center Square 00:43:31 Gov J.B. Pritzker announced Monday that he will be running for re-election in 2022. Pritzker, 56, has been in office since January 2019. Pritzker defeated former Gov. Bruce Rauner, a wealthy Republican, to become Illinois' 43rd governor. So far, three Republicans have announced they are running for their party’s nomination to challenge Pritzker. Downstate state Sen. Darren Bailey, suburban Chicago businessman Gary Rabine, and former state Sen. Paul Schimpf have all announced plans to run for governor. The gubernatorial election will be held on Nov. 8, 2022. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Gov J.B. Pritzker announced Monday that he will be running for re-election in 2022. Pritzker, 56, has been in office since January 2019. Pritzker defeated former Gov. Bruce Rauner, a wealthy Republican, to become Illinois' 43rd governor. So far, three Republicans have announced they are running for their party’s nomination to challenge Pritzker. Downstate state Sen. Darren Bailey, suburban Chicago businessman Gary Rabine, and former state Sen. Paul Schimpf have all announced plans to run for governor. The gubernatorial election will be held on Nov. 8, 2022. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 148 75d1a072-92b5-4c28-b0c6-b648eec476aa Episode 147: School determining mask rules as parents prepare for checks Illinois in Focus Ep 147: School determining mask rules as parents prepare for checks

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 16 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Ep 147: School determining mask rules as parents prepare for checks

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 147: School determining mask rules as parents prepare for checks The Center Square 00:42:19 Illinois in Focus Ep 147: School determining mask rules as parents prepare for checks --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois in Focus Ep 147: School determining mask rules as parents prepare for checks --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 146 53868649-2c51-446c-9ad9-028f319478ad Episode 146: Biden calls for taxpayer funded community college for all during Illinois visit President Joe Biden called for investment in both people and infrastructure during a speech Wednesday at McHenry County College, his first visit to the state since taking office.

He also called for higher taxes on the wealthy and corporations to fund two years of community college for all students. He said additional education was needed for the U.S. to compete with the rest of the world.

Unveiled before an April 28 joint session of Congress, the $1.8 trillion American Families Plan sets forth $1 billion for child care, universal pre-K for all 3-4 year-olds, free community college, and paid family/medical leave initiatives and offers $800 million in tax cuts for families with children, including a “historic expansion” of the child tax credit which would be allocated monthly.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 9 Jul 2021 14:49:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ President Joe Biden called for investment in both people and infrastructure during a speech Wednesday at McHenry County College, his first visit to the state since taking office.

He also called for higher taxes on the wealthy and corporations to fund two years of community college for all students. He said additional education was needed for the U.S. to compete with the rest of the world.

Unveiled before an April 28 joint session of Congress, the $1.8 trillion American Families Plan sets forth $1 billion for child care, universal pre-K for all 3-4 year-olds, free community college, and paid family/medical leave initiatives and offers $800 million in tax cuts for families with children, including a “historic expansion” of the child tax credit which would be allocated monthly.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 146: Biden calls for taxpayer funded community college for all during Illinois visit The Center Square 00:46:50 President Joe Biden called for investment in both people and infrastructure during a speech Wednesday at McHenry County College, his first visit to the state since taking office. He also called for higher taxes on the wealthy and corporations to fund two years of community college for all students. He said additional education was needed for the U.S. to compete with the rest of the world. Unveiled before an April 28 joint session of Congress, the $1.8 trillion American Families Plan sets forth $1 billion for child care, universal pre-K for all 3-4 year-olds, free community college, and paid family/medical leave initiatives and offers $800 million in tax cuts for families with children, including a “historic expansion” of the child tax credit which would be allocated monthly. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support President Joe Biden called for investment in both people and infrastructure during a speech Wednesday at McHenry County College, his first visit to the state since taking office. He also called for higher taxes on the wealthy and corporations to fund two years of community college for all students. He said additional education was needed for the U.S. to compete with the rest of the world. Unveiled before an April 28 joint session of Congress, the $1.8 trillion American Families Plan sets forth $1 billion for child care, universal pre-K for all 3-4 year-olds, free community college, and paid family/medical leave initiatives and offers $800 million in tax cuts for families with children, including a “historic expansion” of the child tax credit which would be allocated monthly. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 146 eff3fa19-f05a-4c4a-b4e8-9c899198511e Episode 145: Illinois’ unemployment offices still closed to public Those needing to speak in person with someone at the state’s unemployment offices haven’t been able to for well over a year and it’s still not clear when the offices will be open.

Offices around the state for the Illinois Department of Employment Security have been closed since the spring of 2020. For months while unemployment claims spiked because of the governor’s COVID-19 restrictions closing businesses, backlogs grew and phone lines were flooded.

IDES officials have said there are health and physical safety

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 2 Jul 2021 15:37:38 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Those needing to speak in person with someone at the state’s unemployment offices haven’t been able to for well over a year and it’s still not clear when the offices will be open.

Offices around the state for the Illinois Department of Employment Security have been closed since the spring of 2020. For months while unemployment claims spiked because of the governor’s COVID-19 restrictions closing businesses, backlogs grew and phone lines were flooded.

IDES officials have said there are health and physical safety

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 145: Illinois’ unemployment offices still closed to public The Center Square 00:49:22 Those needing to speak in person with someone at the state’s unemployment offices haven’t been able to for well over a year and it’s still not clear when the offices will be open. Offices around the state for the Illinois Department of Employment Security have been closed since the spring of 2020. For months while unemployment claims spiked because of the governor’s COVID-19 restrictions closing businesses, backlogs grew and phone lines were flooded. IDES officials have said there are health and physical safety --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Those needing to speak in person with someone at the state’s unemployment offices haven’t been able to for well over a year and it’s still not clear when the offices will be open. Offices around the state for the Illinois Department of Employment Security have been closed since the spring of 2020. For months while unemployment claims spiked because of the governor’s COVID-19 restrictions closing businesses, backlogs grew and phone lines were flooded. IDES officials have said there are health and physical safety --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 145 d728eb41-3d51-44fc-8a79-e6643786e603 Episode 144: Illinois gets gas tax hike next week Illinois has some of the highest fuel gas prices in the country, and next week, taxes on fuel will increase.

On July 1st, the tax will increase about a half-cent per gallon, depending on the blend.

Gasoline prices are the highest they’ve been since July 2019, when the state gas tax doubled to 38 cents. At that time, lawmakers put in place an automatic gas tax hike tied to inflation.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 25 Jun 2021 19:20:29 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois has some of the highest fuel gas prices in the country, and next week, taxes on fuel will increase.

On July 1st, the tax will increase about a half-cent per gallon, depending on the blend.

Gasoline prices are the highest they’ve been since July 2019, when the state gas tax doubled to 38 cents. At that time, lawmakers put in place an automatic gas tax hike tied to inflation.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 144: Illinois gets gas tax hike next week The Center Square 00:58:40 Illinois has some of the highest fuel gas prices in the country, and next week, taxes on fuel will increase. On July 1st, the tax will increase about a half-cent per gallon, depending on the blend. Gasoline prices are the highest they’ve been since July 2019, when the state gas tax doubled to 38 cents. At that time, lawmakers put in place an automatic gas tax hike tied to inflation. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois has some of the highest fuel gas prices in the country, and next week, taxes on fuel will increase. On July 1st, the tax will increase about a half-cent per gallon, depending on the blend. Gasoline prices are the highest they’ve been since July 2019, when the state gas tax doubled to 38 cents. At that time, lawmakers put in place an automatic gas tax hike tied to inflation. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 144 897b8fc6-b5ae-4b1d-819c-e6e320f4f3db Episode 143: Some question if it's a 'new day' following overtime session Illinois in Focus Ep 143: Some question if it's a 'new day' following overtime session

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 18 Jun 2021 15:11:17 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Ep 143: Some question if it's a 'new day' following overtime session

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 143: Some question if it's a 'new day' following overtime session The Center Square 00:53:10 Illinois in Focus Ep 143: Some question if it's a 'new day' following overtime session --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois in Focus Ep 143: Some question if it's a 'new day' following overtime session --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 142 42f8db98-a086-4aa4-a807-03eb7644032d Episode 142: Illinois reopens after 15 months of COVID-19 restrictions As the state prepares to fully reopen for the first time in 15 months on Friday, the governor is giving Illinoisans a pat on the back.

Starting Friday, there will be no capacity restrictions, but businesses can still require masks for unvaccinated people. There are also mask requirements for public transportation, medical facilities, correctional facilities, schools and day care centers.

On Friday, the state will eliminate all capacity limits on businesses, large-scale events, conventions, amusement parks and other venues. Mask requirements for vaccinated and non-vaccinated people continue to align with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 11 Jun 2021 15:18:24 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ As the state prepares to fully reopen for the first time in 15 months on Friday, the governor is giving Illinoisans a pat on the back.

Starting Friday, there will be no capacity restrictions, but businesses can still require masks for unvaccinated people. There are also mask requirements for public transportation, medical facilities, correctional facilities, schools and day care centers.

On Friday, the state will eliminate all capacity limits on businesses, large-scale events, conventions, amusement parks and other venues. Mask requirements for vaccinated and non-vaccinated people continue to align with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 142: Illinois reopens after 15 months of COVID-19 restrictions The Center Square 00:59:28 As the state prepares to fully reopen for the first time in 15 months on Friday, the governor is giving Illinoisans a pat on the back. Starting Friday, there will be no capacity restrictions, but businesses can still require masks for unvaccinated people. There are also mask requirements for public transportation, medical facilities, correctional facilities, schools and day care centers. On Friday, the state will eliminate all capacity limits on businesses, large-scale events, conventions, amusement parks and other venues. Mask requirements for vaccinated and non-vaccinated people continue to align with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support As the state prepares to fully reopen for the first time in 15 months on Friday, the governor is giving Illinoisans a pat on the back. Starting Friday, there will be no capacity restrictions, but businesses can still require masks for unvaccinated people. There are also mask requirements for public transportation, medical facilities, correctional facilities, schools and day care centers. On Friday, the state will eliminate all capacity limits on businesses, large-scale events, conventions, amusement parks and other venues. Mask requirements for vaccinated and non-vaccinated people continue to align with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 142 c7fe80f0-bfab-4caf-be65-ea1a2c602d5b Episode 141: Partisan politics on display as legislative session ends Illinois in Focus Ep 141: Partisan politics on display as legislative session ends

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 4 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois in Focus Ep 141: Partisan politics on display as legislative session ends

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 141: Partisan politics on display as legislative session ends The Center Square 00:41:46 Illinois in Focus Ep 141: Partisan politics on display as legislative session ends --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois in Focus Ep 141: Partisan politics on display as legislative session ends --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 140 ae5f07dd-cd70-45cc-990f-1555fa18e9e3 Episode 140: Madigan's former chief of staff indicted on ComEd corruption probe Tim Mapes served for years under former House Speaker Michael Madigan as the clerk of the Illinois House and as Madigan’s chief of staff. Now, Mapes has been indicted on a charge of lying to a grand jury in a federal bribery probe connected to the longtime former speaker.

Last summer, federal prosecutors revealed a deferred prosecution agreement ComEd entered into where the utility admitted to paying associates of Madigan in money and jobs in order to curry favor from the then-speaker. Com-Ed agreed to pay a $200 million fine and cooperate in the investigation.

Madigan has not been charged with a crime and has said he’s done nothing wrong. He is “Public Official A” in federal filings, a pseudonym that is used throughout the Mapes indictment documents and previous legal filings.

Four others associated with Madigan, including longtime confidant Michael McClain, and two former ComEd officials, were indicted several months ago and have pleaded not guilty. One former ComEd official, Fidel Marquez, has pleaded guilty in the case.

Wednesday, federal prosecutors released details about the indictment of Mapes.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 28 May 2021 15:44:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Tim Mapes served for years under former House Speaker Michael Madigan as the clerk of the Illinois House and as Madigan’s chief of staff. Now, Mapes has been indicted on a charge of lying to a grand jury in a federal bribery probe connected to the longtime former speaker.

Last summer, federal prosecutors revealed a deferred prosecution agreement ComEd entered into where the utility admitted to paying associates of Madigan in money and jobs in order to curry favor from the then-speaker. Com-Ed agreed to pay a $200 million fine and cooperate in the investigation.

Madigan has not been charged with a crime and has said he’s done nothing wrong. He is “Public Official A” in federal filings, a pseudonym that is used throughout the Mapes indictment documents and previous legal filings.

Four others associated with Madigan, including longtime confidant Michael McClain, and two former ComEd officials, were indicted several months ago and have pleaded not guilty. One former ComEd official, Fidel Marquez, has pleaded guilty in the case.

Wednesday, federal prosecutors released details about the indictment of Mapes.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 140: Madigan's former chief of staff indicted on ComEd corruption probe The Center Square 00:52:17 Tim Mapes served for years under former House Speaker Michael Madigan as the clerk of the Illinois House and as Madigan’s chief of staff. Now, Mapes has been indicted on a charge of lying to a grand jury in a federal bribery probe connected to the longtime former speaker. Last summer, federal prosecutors revealed a deferred prosecution agreement ComEd entered into where the utility admitted to paying associates of Madigan in money and jobs in order to curry favor from the then-speaker. Com-Ed agreed to pay a $200 million fine and cooperate in the investigation. Madigan has not been charged with a crime and has said he’s done nothing wrong. He is “Public Official A” in federal filings, a pseudonym that is used throughout the Mapes indictment documents and previous legal filings. Four others associated with Madigan, including longtime confidant Michael McClain, and two former ComEd officials, were indicted several months ago and have pleaded not guilty. One former ComEd official, Fidel Marquez, has pleaded guilty in the case. Wednesday, federal prosecutors released details about the indictment of Mapes. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Tim Mapes served for years under former House Speaker Michael Madigan as the clerk of the Illinois House and as Madigan’s chief of staff. Now, Mapes has been indicted on a charge of lying to a grand jury in a federal bribery probe connected to the longtime former speaker. Last summer, federal prosecutors revealed a deferred prosecution agreement ComEd entered into where the utility admitted to paying associates of Madigan in money and jobs in order to curry favor from the then-speaker. Com-Ed agreed to pay a $200 million fine and cooperate in the investigation. Madigan has not been charged with a crime and has said he’s done nothing wrong. He is “Public Official A” in federal filings, a pseudonym that is used throughout the Mapes indictment documents and previous legal filings. Four others associated with Madigan, including longtime confidant Michael McClain, and two former ComEd officials, were indicted several months ago and have pleaded not guilty. One former ComEd official, Fidel Marquez, has pleaded guilty in the case. Wednesday, federal prosecutors released details about the indictment of Mapes. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 140 e059189a-aa34-4beb-a2a6-b55c311ab333 Episode 139: Pritzker repeals mask mandate, leaves door open for vaccine checks at businesses Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s emergency rule requiring businesses to mandate masks has been repealed and a leading retailers association says they are not being asked to check your vaccine status, but they could if they wanted.

The latest order issued Monday says the governor’s “bridge” reopening plan does require retailers to “cap occupancy at 60 percent of store capacity, or, alternatively, at the occupancy limits based on store square footage,” though vaccinated individuals don’t count to that.

Retailers must also “communicate with customers through in-store signage, and public service announcements and advertisements, about the social distancing and face-covering requirements,” the order says, but that doesn't impact vaccinated people.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 21 May 2021 14:56:07 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s emergency rule requiring businesses to mandate masks has been repealed and a leading retailers association says they are not being asked to check your vaccine status, but they could if they wanted.

The latest order issued Monday says the governor’s “bridge” reopening plan does require retailers to “cap occupancy at 60 percent of store capacity, or, alternatively, at the occupancy limits based on store square footage,” though vaccinated individuals don’t count to that.

Retailers must also “communicate with customers through in-store signage, and public service announcements and advertisements, about the social distancing and face-covering requirements,” the order says, but that doesn't impact vaccinated people.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 139: Pritzker repeals mask mandate, leaves door open for vaccine checks at businesses The Center Square 01:05:20 Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s emergency rule requiring businesses to mandate masks has been repealed and a leading retailers association says they are not being asked to check your vaccine status, but they could if they wanted. The latest order issued Monday says the governor’s “bridge” reopening plan does require retailers to “cap occupancy at 60 percent of store capacity, or, alternatively, at the occupancy limits based on store square footage,” though vaccinated individuals don’t count to that. Retailers must also “communicate with customers through in-store signage, and public service announcements and advertisements, about the social distancing and face-covering requirements,” the order says, but that doesn't impact vaccinated people. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s emergency rule requiring businesses to mandate masks has been repealed and a leading retailers association says they are not being asked to check your vaccine status, but they could if they wanted. The latest order issued Monday says the governor’s “bridge” reopening plan does require retailers to “cap occupancy at 60 percent of store capacity, or, alternatively, at the occupancy limits based on store square footage,” though vaccinated individuals don’t count to that. Retailers must also “communicate with customers through in-store signage, and public service announcements and advertisements, about the social distancing and face-covering requirements,” the order says, but that doesn't impact vaccinated people. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 139 f264faba-26f9-4542-9832-6a2b4d63f749 Episode 138: Welcome to Illinois' Bridge Phase...now what? Illinois is entering another COVID-19 reopening phase that was added by Gov. J.B. Pritzker in March.

Capacity limits on a wide range of businesses and activities will be slightly loosened Friday as the state enters the next to last phase of the governor’s pandemic reopening plan.

Pritzker announced last week that the state would enter the Bridge Phase of his plan, a final step before all restrictions are lifted, as the spread of COVID-19 has slowed and a large percentage of Illinoisans had received at least one dose of a vaccine.

Reaching the next phase means 70% of Illinois residents 65 and older are vaccinated in addition to maintaining 20% ICU bed availability and holding positive cases, hospitalizations and mortality rates steady for a 28-day period.


Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 14 May 2021 15:04:23 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois is entering another COVID-19 reopening phase that was added by Gov. J.B. Pritzker in March.

Capacity limits on a wide range of businesses and activities will be slightly loosened Friday as the state enters the next to last phase of the governor’s pandemic reopening plan.

Pritzker announced last week that the state would enter the Bridge Phase of his plan, a final step before all restrictions are lifted, as the spread of COVID-19 has slowed and a large percentage of Illinoisans had received at least one dose of a vaccine.

Reaching the next phase means 70% of Illinois residents 65 and older are vaccinated in addition to maintaining 20% ICU bed availability and holding positive cases, hospitalizations and mortality rates steady for a 28-day period.


Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 138: Welcome to Illinois' Bridge Phase...now what? The Center Square 00:50:47 Illinois is entering another COVID-19 reopening phase that was added by Gov. J.B. Pritzker in March. Capacity limits on a wide range of businesses and activities will be slightly loosened Friday as the state enters the next to last phase of the governor’s pandemic reopening plan. Pritzker announced last week that the state would enter the Bridge Phase of his plan, a final step before all restrictions are lifted, as the spread of COVID-19 has slowed and a large percentage of Illinoisans had received at least one dose of a vaccine. Reaching the next phase means 70% of Illinois residents 65 and older are vaccinated in addition to maintaining 20% ICU bed availability and holding positive cases, hospitalizations and mortality rates steady for a 28-day period. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois is entering another COVID-19 reopening phase that was added by Gov. J.B. Pritzker in March. Capacity limits on a wide range of businesses and activities will be slightly loosened Friday as the state enters the next to last phase of the governor’s pandemic reopening plan. Pritzker announced last week that the state would enter the Bridge Phase of his plan, a final step before all restrictions are lifted, as the spread of COVID-19 has slowed and a large percentage of Illinoisans had received at least one dose of a vaccine. Reaching the next phase means 70% of Illinois residents 65 and older are vaccinated in addition to maintaining 20% ICU bed availability and holding positive cases, hospitalizations and mortality rates steady for a 28-day period. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 138 c1d25b45-d36f-4869-ac94-a7491594334c Episode 137: Illinois could reopen as early as June 11 Pandemic restrictions in Illinois will be further loosened next week, and the state could reopen nearly fully as early as June 11.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Thursday the state will be entering the “Bridge Phase” on May 14, a transitional period between Phase 4 restrictions and fully opening in Phase 5.

The bridge to Phase 5 expands capacity to 60% for theaters, gyms, spectator events, offices, museums, and amusement parks. Mask requirements would stay in place until the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises otherwise.

Earlier this week, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said the city is looking to open things up fully by July 4. Lightfoot also announced that the Chicago Auto Show, which was cancelled last year, will be back at McCormick Place July 15 through 19. Attendees will have to register in advance and fill out a health survey, but vaccines won’t be required. Lightfoot said the goal is to have no capacity limits in the city by July 4.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 7 May 2021 15:10:29 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Pandemic restrictions in Illinois will be further loosened next week, and the state could reopen nearly fully as early as June 11.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Thursday the state will be entering the “Bridge Phase” on May 14, a transitional period between Phase 4 restrictions and fully opening in Phase 5.

The bridge to Phase 5 expands capacity to 60% for theaters, gyms, spectator events, offices, museums, and amusement parks. Mask requirements would stay in place until the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises otherwise.

Earlier this week, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said the city is looking to open things up fully by July 4. Lightfoot also announced that the Chicago Auto Show, which was cancelled last year, will be back at McCormick Place July 15 through 19. Attendees will have to register in advance and fill out a health survey, but vaccines won’t be required. Lightfoot said the goal is to have no capacity limits in the city by July 4.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 137: Illinois could reopen as early as June 11 The Center Square 00:48:17 Pandemic restrictions in Illinois will be further loosened next week, and the state could reopen nearly fully as early as June 11. Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Thursday the state will be entering the “Bridge Phase” on May 14, a transitional period between Phase 4 restrictions and fully opening in Phase 5. The bridge to Phase 5 expands capacity to 60% for theaters, gyms, spectator events, offices, museums, and amusement parks. Mask requirements would stay in place until the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises otherwise. Earlier this week, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said the city is looking to open things up fully by July 4. Lightfoot also announced that the Chicago Auto Show, which was cancelled last year, will be back at McCormick Place July 15 through 19. Attendees will have to register in advance and fill out a health survey, but vaccines won’t be required. Lightfoot said the goal is to have no capacity limits in the city by July 4. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Pandemic restrictions in Illinois will be further loosened next week, and the state could reopen nearly fully as early as June 11. Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Thursday the state will be entering the “Bridge Phase” on May 14, a transitional period between Phase 4 restrictions and fully opening in Phase 5. The bridge to Phase 5 expands capacity to 60% for theaters, gyms, spectator events, offices, museums, and amusement parks. Mask requirements would stay in place until the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises otherwise. Earlier this week, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said the city is looking to open things up fully by July 4. Lightfoot also announced that the Chicago Auto Show, which was cancelled last year, will be back at McCormick Place July 15 through 19. Attendees will have to register in advance and fill out a health survey, but vaccines won’t be required. Lightfoot said the goal is to have no capacity limits in the city by July 4. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 137 623a6326-17db-495e-8268-f0a98fa69d0e Episode 136: Illinois set to lose Congressional seat due to population loss Illinois will lose one member from the U.S. House of Representatives because of continued population declines.

It was expected Illinois would lose representation, based on year-over-year annual Census estimates showing the state losing an estimated 253,000 residents over the past ten years.

Illinois was one of seven states that will lose one seat for the Congress that will be seated in 2023.

Illinois has lost ten seats in the U.S. House over the past 110 years, according to Census data. In 1910, Illinois had 27 members of the U.S. House. That dropped by one in 1940, another one in 1950, another in 1960 and then two in 1990 with one every ten years since then.

Read more

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 30 Apr 2021 14:36:50 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois will lose one member from the U.S. House of Representatives because of continued population declines.

It was expected Illinois would lose representation, based on year-over-year annual Census estimates showing the state losing an estimated 253,000 residents over the past ten years.

Illinois was one of seven states that will lose one seat for the Congress that will be seated in 2023.

Illinois has lost ten seats in the U.S. House over the past 110 years, according to Census data. In 1910, Illinois had 27 members of the U.S. House. That dropped by one in 1940, another one in 1950, another in 1960 and then two in 1990 with one every ten years since then.

Read more

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 136: Illinois set to lose Congressional seat due to population loss The Center Square 00:43:08 Illinois will lose one member from the U.S. House of Representatives because of continued population declines. It was expected Illinois would lose representation, based on year-over-year annual Census estimates showing the state losing an estimated 253,000 residents over the past ten years. Illinois was one of seven states that will lose one seat for the Congress that will be seated in 2023. Illinois has lost ten seats in the U.S. House over the past 110 years, according to Census data. In 1910, Illinois had 27 members of the U.S. House. That dropped by one in 1940, another one in 1950, another in 1960 and then two in 1990 with one every ten years since then. Read more --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois will lose one member from the U.S. House of Representatives because of continued population declines. It was expected Illinois would lose representation, based on year-over-year annual Census estimates showing the state losing an estimated 253,000 residents over the past ten years. Illinois was one of seven states that will lose one seat for the Congress that will be seated in 2023. Illinois has lost ten seats in the U.S. House over the past 110 years, according to Census data. In 1910, Illinois had 27 members of the U.S. House. That dropped by one in 1940, another one in 1950, another in 1960 and then two in 1990 with one every ten years since then. Read more --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 136 933314d7-1201-43f8-a895-f7d03520020e Episode 135: No more Madigans? Lawmakers close in on term limits Illinois lawmakers are poised to make leadership term limits of no more than ten consecutive years state law.

Before he resigned from the House earlier this year, Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, served in the state legislature for more than 50 years. Madigan served as House Speaker for 24 consecutive years from 1997 to 2021. For two years when Republicans had the majority in the House, Madigan was the Minority Leader. Before that, he served as Speaker for 12 years from 1983 to 1995.

House Bill 642 puts a limit of ten consecutive years on legislative leadership roles like the Illinois Senate President, Senate Minority Leader, House Speaker and House Minority Leader.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 23 Apr 2021 15:04:27 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois lawmakers are poised to make leadership term limits of no more than ten consecutive years state law.

Before he resigned from the House earlier this year, Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, served in the state legislature for more than 50 years. Madigan served as House Speaker for 24 consecutive years from 1997 to 2021. For two years when Republicans had the majority in the House, Madigan was the Minority Leader. Before that, he served as Speaker for 12 years from 1983 to 1995.

House Bill 642 puts a limit of ten consecutive years on legislative leadership roles like the Illinois Senate President, Senate Minority Leader, House Speaker and House Minority Leader.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 135: No more Madigans? Lawmakers close in on term limits The Center Square 00:59:50 Illinois lawmakers are poised to make leadership term limits of no more than ten consecutive years state law. Before he resigned from the House earlier this year, Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, served in the state legislature for more than 50 years. Madigan served as House Speaker for 24 consecutive years from 1997 to 2021. For two years when Republicans had the majority in the House, Madigan was the Minority Leader. Before that, he served as Speaker for 12 years from 1983 to 1995. House Bill 642 puts a limit of ten consecutive years on legislative leadership roles like the Illinois Senate President, Senate Minority Leader, House Speaker and House Minority Leader. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois lawmakers are poised to make leadership term limits of no more than ten consecutive years state law. Before he resigned from the House earlier this year, Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, served in the state legislature for more than 50 years. Madigan served as House Speaker for 24 consecutive years from 1997 to 2021. For two years when Republicans had the majority in the House, Madigan was the Minority Leader. Before that, he served as Speaker for 12 years from 1983 to 1995. House Bill 642 puts a limit of ten consecutive years on legislative leadership roles like the Illinois Senate President, Senate Minority Leader, House Speaker and House Minority Leader. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 135 1fecd91e-6083-44d7-8634-d032efdb5d72 Episode 134: New bill ties state spending to income growth With research showing state spending grew 30% faster than Illinois’ median household income over the past decade, a new bill would tie spending in Springfield to growth in household income.

Senate Bill 589, introduced by state Sen. Suzy Glowiak-Hilton, D-Western Springs, was presented during a subject matter hearing Wednesday of the Senate Appropriations Revenue and Finance Committee. The bill would create a spending cap that ties general revenue appropriations to growth in the median household income.

Thirty-three states have some form of tax or spending limits on the books, including all of Illinois’ neighbors.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 16 Apr 2021 14:36:32 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ With research showing state spending grew 30% faster than Illinois’ median household income over the past decade, a new bill would tie spending in Springfield to growth in household income.

Senate Bill 589, introduced by state Sen. Suzy Glowiak-Hilton, D-Western Springs, was presented during a subject matter hearing Wednesday of the Senate Appropriations Revenue and Finance Committee. The bill would create a spending cap that ties general revenue appropriations to growth in the median household income.

Thirty-three states have some form of tax or spending limits on the books, including all of Illinois’ neighbors.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 134: New bill ties state spending to income growth The Center Square 00:56:33 With research showing state spending grew 30% faster than Illinois’ median household income over the past decade, a new bill would tie spending in Springfield to growth in household income. Senate Bill 589, introduced by state Sen. Suzy Glowiak-Hilton, D-Western Springs, was presented during a subject matter hearing Wednesday of the Senate Appropriations Revenue and Finance Committee. The bill would create a spending cap that ties general revenue appropriations to growth in the median household income. Thirty-three states have some form of tax or spending limits on the books, including all of Illinois’ neighbors. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support With research showing state spending grew 30% faster than Illinois’ median household income over the past decade, a new bill would tie spending in Springfield to growth in household income. Senate Bill 589, introduced by state Sen. Suzy Glowiak-Hilton, D-Western Springs, was presented during a subject matter hearing Wednesday of the Senate Appropriations Revenue and Finance Committee. The bill would create a spending cap that ties general revenue appropriations to growth in the median household income. Thirty-three states have some form of tax or spending limits on the books, including all of Illinois’ neighbors. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 134 5c86b9df-af64-4db6-8c56-413f1959d562 Episode 133: Reopen by summer? Pritzker says not so fast Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday clarified statements from his chief of staff, a day after she said the state was headed for a full reopening this summer.

On Tuesday, Anne Caprara told a Senate committee she and the governor hoped to have restrictions lifted soon.

“I think we both hope that we are going to be in a place to move to Phase 5 in the beginning of the summer,” Caprara said. “I always hesitate to say definitively where we are going to be because we have now ridden through several rises and falls of COVID cases.”

During a news conference Wednesday in Rockford, Pritzker said not so fast.

“I wouldn’t characterize it as saying that the reopening starts as the summer starts,” Pritzker said.

Pritzker once again said there are metrics to meet, including about 5 million Illinoisans, or 50% of the state’s population older than 16, needing to be fully vaccinated. According to the New York Times Vaccine Tracker, 19% of people in Illinois are fully vaccinated.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 9 Apr 2021 15:08:16 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday clarified statements from his chief of staff, a day after she said the state was headed for a full reopening this summer.

On Tuesday, Anne Caprara told a Senate committee she and the governor hoped to have restrictions lifted soon.

“I think we both hope that we are going to be in a place to move to Phase 5 in the beginning of the summer,” Caprara said. “I always hesitate to say definitively where we are going to be because we have now ridden through several rises and falls of COVID cases.”

During a news conference Wednesday in Rockford, Pritzker said not so fast.

“I wouldn’t characterize it as saying that the reopening starts as the summer starts,” Pritzker said.

Pritzker once again said there are metrics to meet, including about 5 million Illinoisans, or 50% of the state’s population older than 16, needing to be fully vaccinated. According to the New York Times Vaccine Tracker, 19% of people in Illinois are fully vaccinated.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 133: Reopen by summer? Pritzker says not so fast The Center Square 00:49:59 Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday clarified statements from his chief of staff, a day after she said the state was headed for a full reopening this summer. On Tuesday, Anne Caprara told a Senate committee she and the governor hoped to have restrictions lifted soon. “I think we both hope that we are going to be in a place to move to Phase 5 in the beginning of the summer,” Caprara said. “I always hesitate to say definitively where we are going to be because we have now ridden through several rises and falls of COVID cases.” During a news conference Wednesday in Rockford, Pritzker said not so fast. “I wouldn’t characterize it as saying that the reopening starts as the summer starts,” Pritzker said. Pritzker once again said there are metrics to meet, including about 5 million Illinoisans, or 50% of the state’s population older than 16, needing to be fully vaccinated. According to the New York Times Vaccine Tracker, 19% of people in Illinois are fully vaccinated. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday clarified statements from his chief of staff, a day after she said the state was headed for a full reopening this summer. On Tuesday, Anne Caprara told a Senate committee she and the governor hoped to have restrictions lifted soon. “I think we both hope that we are going to be in a place to move to Phase 5 in the beginning of the summer,” Caprara said. “I always hesitate to say definitively where we are going to be because we have now ridden through several rises and falls of COVID cases.” During a news conference Wednesday in Rockford, Pritzker said not so fast. “I wouldn’t characterize it as saying that the reopening starts as the summer starts,” Pritzker said. Pritzker once again said there are metrics to meet, including about 5 million Illinoisans, or 50% of the state’s population older than 16, needing to be fully vaccinated. According to the New York Times Vaccine Tracker, 19% of people in Illinois are fully vaccinated. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 133 f54480d1-9e17-474d-884d-befe0e974868 Episode 132: Are vaccination passports coming to Illinois? Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that vaccination passports could be useful in the coming weeks as more Illinoisans get vaccinated for COVID-19.

As for a vaccination passport to prove a person has been inoculated against the coronavirus, Pritzker says a vaccination app would be useful, but should not be required to enter an event or facility.

“As long as it is your choice,” Pritzker said. “If people ask you to show that for a particular venue or private venue, they have the ability and right to do that. You don’t have to show that to them. You don’t have to be to go to that venue or be engaged in that activity.”

The U.S. is not distributing vaccination passports and there are concerns over falsified records and also potentially violating federal health care privacy laws.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 2 Apr 2021 14:53:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that vaccination passports could be useful in the coming weeks as more Illinoisans get vaccinated for COVID-19.

As for a vaccination passport to prove a person has been inoculated against the coronavirus, Pritzker says a vaccination app would be useful, but should not be required to enter an event or facility.

“As long as it is your choice,” Pritzker said. “If people ask you to show that for a particular venue or private venue, they have the ability and right to do that. You don’t have to show that to them. You don’t have to be to go to that venue or be engaged in that activity.”

The U.S. is not distributing vaccination passports and there are concerns over falsified records and also potentially violating federal health care privacy laws.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 132: Are vaccination passports coming to Illinois? The Center Square 01:03:30 Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that vaccination passports could be useful in the coming weeks as more Illinoisans get vaccinated for COVID-19. As for a vaccination passport to prove a person has been inoculated against the coronavirus, Pritzker says a vaccination app would be useful, but should not be required to enter an event or facility. “As long as it is your choice,” Pritzker said. “If people ask you to show that for a particular venue or private venue, they have the ability and right to do that. You don’t have to show that to them. You don’t have to be to go to that venue or be engaged in that activity.” The U.S. is not distributing vaccination passports and there are concerns over falsified records and also potentially violating federal health care privacy laws. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that vaccination passports could be useful in the coming weeks as more Illinoisans get vaccinated for COVID-19. As for a vaccination passport to prove a person has been inoculated against the coronavirus, Pritzker says a vaccination app would be useful, but should not be required to enter an event or facility. “As long as it is your choice,” Pritzker said. “If people ask you to show that for a particular venue or private venue, they have the ability and right to do that. You don’t have to show that to them. You don’t have to be to go to that venue or be engaged in that activity.” The U.S. is not distributing vaccination passports and there are concerns over falsified records and also potentially violating federal health care privacy laws. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 132 5085180a-20f3-4cf5-a58c-e4f16fcc1c94 Episode 131: Illinois inches its way toward reopening Illinois is nearing another phase in the state’s reopening plan, but things won't open up all at once.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker last week unveiled what he called his “Bridge Phase,” announcing new guidelines that will allow for higher capacity limits at public places such as spectator events. The guidelines also involved fewer restrictions on businesses during the transition between the current Phase 4 and a full reopening in Phase 5.

To reach the Bridge phase, 70% of people 65 and older must have received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Despite a cry by many to speed up the country’s vaccination drive to end the pandemic, the first few months of the rollout suggest faster may not be necessarily better.

An analysis conducted by Surgo Ventures found that states such as Missouri and Florida that raced ahead of other states to offer the vaccine to a larger demographic of people have vaccinated smaller shares of their population than states that moved more slowly, such as Connecticut and Hawaii.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 26 Mar 2021 14:54:40 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Illinois is nearing another phase in the state’s reopening plan, but things won't open up all at once.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker last week unveiled what he called his “Bridge Phase,” announcing new guidelines that will allow for higher capacity limits at public places such as spectator events. The guidelines also involved fewer restrictions on businesses during the transition between the current Phase 4 and a full reopening in Phase 5.

To reach the Bridge phase, 70% of people 65 and older must have received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Despite a cry by many to speed up the country’s vaccination drive to end the pandemic, the first few months of the rollout suggest faster may not be necessarily better.

An analysis conducted by Surgo Ventures found that states such as Missouri and Florida that raced ahead of other states to offer the vaccine to a larger demographic of people have vaccinated smaller shares of their population than states that moved more slowly, such as Connecticut and Hawaii.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 131: Illinois inches its way toward reopening The Center Square 00:43:10 Illinois is nearing another phase in the state’s reopening plan, but things won't open up all at once. Gov. J.B. Pritzker last week unveiled what he called his “Bridge Phase,” announcing new guidelines that will allow for higher capacity limits at public places such as spectator events. The guidelines also involved fewer restrictions on businesses during the transition between the current Phase 4 and a full reopening in Phase 5. To reach the Bridge phase, 70% of people 65 and older must have received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Despite a cry by many to speed up the country’s vaccination drive to end the pandemic, the first few months of the rollout suggest faster may not be necessarily better. An analysis conducted by Surgo Ventures found that states such as Missouri and Florida that raced ahead of other states to offer the vaccine to a larger demographic of people have vaccinated smaller shares of their population than states that moved more slowly, such as Connecticut and Hawaii. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Illinois is nearing another phase in the state’s reopening plan, but things won't open up all at once. Gov. J.B. Pritzker last week unveiled what he called his “Bridge Phase,” announcing new guidelines that will allow for higher capacity limits at public places such as spectator events. The guidelines also involved fewer restrictions on businesses during the transition between the current Phase 4 and a full reopening in Phase 5. To reach the Bridge phase, 70% of people 65 and older must have received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Despite a cry by many to speed up the country’s vaccination drive to end the pandemic, the first few months of the rollout suggest faster may not be necessarily better. An analysis conducted by Surgo Ventures found that states such as Missouri and Florida that raced ahead of other states to offer the vaccine to a larger demographic of people have vaccinated smaller shares of their population than states that moved more slowly, such as Connecticut and Hawaii. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 131 3a1aee52-d2b7-4ac9-b672-4613dcc6e97d Episode 130: Coroner questions Illinois' COVID death count State officials have recorded 21,000 confirmed COVID-19 deaths in Illinois since the outset of the pandemic.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention listed 19,893 deaths through the end of February in Illinois where COVID-19 was listed among multiple causes. Of those deaths, about 1,830, or 9.2%, had COVID-19 listed as the sole cause of death.

That percentage is higher than it was in September 2020 when the rate was about 6%. Monroe County Coroner Bob Hill is calling for a full audit after reviewing some of the deaths in his county.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 19 Mar 2021 15:16:15 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ State officials have recorded 21,000 confirmed COVID-19 deaths in Illinois since the outset of the pandemic.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention listed 19,893 deaths through the end of February in Illinois where COVID-19 was listed among multiple causes. Of those deaths, about 1,830, or 9.2%, had COVID-19 listed as the sole cause of death.

That percentage is higher than it was in September 2020 when the rate was about 6%. Monroe County Coroner Bob Hill is calling for a full audit after reviewing some of the deaths in his county.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 130: Coroner questions Illinois' COVID death count The Center Square 00:48:54 State officials have recorded 21,000 confirmed COVID-19 deaths in Illinois since the outset of the pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention listed 19,893 deaths through the end of February in Illinois where COVID-19 was listed among multiple causes. Of those deaths, about 1,830, or 9.2%, had COVID-19 listed as the sole cause of death. That percentage is higher than it was in September 2020 when the rate was about 6%. Monroe County Coroner Bob Hill is calling for a full audit after reviewing some of the deaths in his county.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support State officials have recorded 21,000 confirmed COVID-19 deaths in Illinois since the outset of the pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention listed 19,893 deaths through the end of February in Illinois where COVID-19 was listed among multiple causes. Of those deaths, about 1,830, or 9.2%, had COVID-19 listed as the sole cause of death. That percentage is higher than it was in September 2020 when the rate was about 6%. Monroe County Coroner Bob Hill is calling for a full audit after reviewing some of the deaths in his county.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 130 cc15d54f-f2a7-4c54-b3e4-aa1f4a273a9a Episode 129: More than 10 billion taxpayer dollars headed to Illinois Despite being the highest taxed state in the nation, financially strapped Illinois is set to get more than $10 billion in federal tax dollars from the $1.9 trillion spending bill that passed the U.S. House Wednesday. Illinois’ Democratic leaders cheered the passage of the bill while Republicans were critical.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2021 16:04:05 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Despite being the highest taxed state in the nation, financially strapped Illinois is set to get more than $10 billion in federal tax dollars from the $1.9 trillion spending bill that passed the U.S. House Wednesday. Illinois’ Democratic leaders cheered the passage of the bill while Republicans were critical.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 129: More than 10 billion taxpayer dollars headed to Illinois The Center Square 00:51:30 Despite being the highest taxed state in the nation, financially strapped Illinois is set to get more than $10 billion in federal tax dollars from the $1.9 trillion spending bill that passed the U.S. House Wednesday. Illinois’ Democratic leaders cheered the passage of the bill while Republicans were critical.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Despite being the highest taxed state in the nation, financially strapped Illinois is set to get more than $10 billion in federal tax dollars from the $1.9 trillion spending bill that passed the U.S. House Wednesday. Illinois’ Democratic leaders cheered the passage of the bill while Republicans were critical.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 129 bfc03a5d-523b-4bcf-a782-c166c21835fe Episode 128: Illinois in limbo as other states open up There’s a growing chorus in Illinois urging Gov. J.B. Pritzker to provide the hospitality sector some clarity and certainty about when things will open more.

Pritzker didn’t give specifics about when he would relax COVID-19 mitigation when asked on Wednesday.

Texas is set to open up 100% March 10.

The Illinois hospitality sector has seen a massive decline in revenue over the past year and the industry warns of long-term consequences for the state if clarity isn’t provided soon.


Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 Mar 2021 16:46:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ There’s a growing chorus in Illinois urging Gov. J.B. Pritzker to provide the hospitality sector some clarity and certainty about when things will open more.

Pritzker didn’t give specifics about when he would relax COVID-19 mitigation when asked on Wednesday.

Texas is set to open up 100% March 10.

The Illinois hospitality sector has seen a massive decline in revenue over the past year and the industry warns of long-term consequences for the state if clarity isn’t provided soon.


Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 128: Illinois in limbo as other states open up The Center Square 00:56:14 There’s a growing chorus in Illinois urging Gov. J.B. Pritzker to provide the hospitality sector some clarity and certainty about when things will open more. Pritzker didn’t give specifics about when he would relax COVID-19 mitigation when asked on Wednesday. Texas is set to open up 100% March 10. The Illinois hospitality sector has seen a massive decline in revenue over the past year and the industry warns of long-term consequences for the state if clarity isn’t provided soon. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support There’s a growing chorus in Illinois urging Gov. J.B. Pritzker to provide the hospitality sector some clarity and certainty about when things will open more. Pritzker didn’t give specifics about when he would relax COVID-19 mitigation when asked on Wednesday. Texas is set to open up 100% March 10. The Illinois hospitality sector has seen a massive decline in revenue over the past year and the industry warns of long-term consequences for the state if clarity isn’t provided soon. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 128 1400cda4-29b3-407d-a01f-faf8230f7220 Episode 127: Madigan's replacement resigns after 2 days Just days after his handpicked replacement to the Illinois House, state Rep. Edward Guerra Kodatt, stepped down, former state Rep. Michael Madigan is now backing Angelica Guerrero Cuellar.

In a joint statement with Chicago Alderman Marty Quinn late Tuesday from a Madigan spokesperson, Madigan suggested Kodatt resign “after learning of alleged questionable conduct.”

Madigan did not elaborate on the nature of the conduct.

Madigan selected Kodatt on Sunday. Madigan has a weighted vote in the district that allowed him to select his replacement. The selection was not unanimous. There were two other candidates that were nominated Sunday by other Democratic party officials from the district.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 26 Feb 2021 16:36:11 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Just days after his handpicked replacement to the Illinois House, state Rep. Edward Guerra Kodatt, stepped down, former state Rep. Michael Madigan is now backing Angelica Guerrero Cuellar.

In a joint statement with Chicago Alderman Marty Quinn late Tuesday from a Madigan spokesperson, Madigan suggested Kodatt resign “after learning of alleged questionable conduct.”

Madigan did not elaborate on the nature of the conduct.

Madigan selected Kodatt on Sunday. Madigan has a weighted vote in the district that allowed him to select his replacement. The selection was not unanimous. There were two other candidates that were nominated Sunday by other Democratic party officials from the district.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 127: Madigan's replacement resigns after 2 days The Center Square 00:48:03 Just days after his handpicked replacement to the Illinois House, state Rep. Edward Guerra Kodatt, stepped down, former state Rep. Michael Madigan is now backing Angelica Guerrero Cuellar. In a joint statement with Chicago Alderman Marty Quinn late Tuesday from a Madigan spokesperson, Madigan suggested Kodatt resign “after learning of alleged questionable conduct.” Madigan did not elaborate on the nature of the conduct. Madigan selected Kodatt on Sunday. Madigan has a weighted vote in the district that allowed him to select his replacement. The selection was not unanimous. There were two other candidates that were nominated Sunday by other Democratic party officials from the district. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Just days after his handpicked replacement to the Illinois House, state Rep. Edward Guerra Kodatt, stepped down, former state Rep. Michael Madigan is now backing Angelica Guerrero Cuellar. In a joint statement with Chicago Alderman Marty Quinn late Tuesday from a Madigan spokesperson, Madigan suggested Kodatt resign “after learning of alleged questionable conduct.” Madigan did not elaborate on the nature of the conduct. Madigan selected Kodatt on Sunday. Madigan has a weighted vote in the district that allowed him to select his replacement. The selection was not unanimous. There were two other candidates that were nominated Sunday by other Democratic party officials from the district. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 127 5c8ed8bf-3043-4380-821f-9e5f8f97173e Episode 126: Madigan calls it quits Former House Speaker Michael Madigan, the longest serving statehouse speaker in the country, and the longest serving state legislator in Illinois, resigned Thursday.

In a statement Thursday, Madigan thanked his family and touted his accomplishments over five decades in office.

He leaves under a cloud of a federal corruption probe involving bribes utility ComEd admitted it paid to associates in an effort to influence Madigan.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 19 Feb 2021 16:13:21 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Former House Speaker Michael Madigan, the longest serving statehouse speaker in the country, and the longest serving state legislator in Illinois, resigned Thursday.

In a statement Thursday, Madigan thanked his family and touted his accomplishments over five decades in office.

He leaves under a cloud of a federal corruption probe involving bribes utility ComEd admitted it paid to associates in an effort to influence Madigan.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 126: Madigan calls it quits The Center Square 00:43:23 Former House Speaker Michael Madigan, the longest serving statehouse speaker in the country, and the longest serving state legislator in Illinois, resigned Thursday. In a statement Thursday, Madigan thanked his family and touted his accomplishments over five decades in office. He leaves under a cloud of a federal corruption probe involving bribes utility ComEd admitted it paid to associates in an effort to influence Madigan. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Former House Speaker Michael Madigan, the longest serving statehouse speaker in the country, and the longest serving state legislator in Illinois, resigned Thursday. In a statement Thursday, Madigan thanked his family and touted his accomplishments over five decades in office. He leaves under a cloud of a federal corruption probe involving bribes utility ComEd admitted it paid to associates in an effort to influence Madigan. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 126 753da15d-6f5d-490a-8e1f-060bbfae5100 Episode 125: Biden asks Madigan investigator to resign Episode 125: Biden asks Madigan investigator to resign

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 12 Feb 2021 16:27:21 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 125: Biden asks Madigan investigator to resign

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 125: Biden asks Madigan investigator to resign The Center Square 00:58:07 Episode 125: Biden asks Madigan investigator to resign --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 125: Biden asks Madigan investigator to resign --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 125 f94b7e17-8c67-480c-8ef8-2bc60018ed04 Episode 124: Lawmakers cut the line for COVID vaccines Episode 124: Lawmakers cut the line for COVID vaccines

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 5 Feb 2021 16:16:30 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 124: Lawmakers cut the line for COVID vaccines

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 124: Lawmakers cut the line for COVID vaccines The Center Square 00:58:23 Episode 124: Lawmakers cut the line for COVID vaccines --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 124: Lawmakers cut the line for COVID vaccines --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 124 f5f47c3a-7dab-48c8-9ff0-406175187a11 Episode 123: High school sports return as new legislature remains absent in Springfield Episode 123: High school sports return as new legislature remains absent in Springfield

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 29 Jan 2021 16:17:47 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 123: High school sports return as new legislature remains absent in Springfield

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 123: High school sports return as new legislature remains absent in Springfield The Center Square 00:45:43 Episode 123: High school sports return as new legislature remains absent in Springfield --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 123: High school sports return as new legislature remains absent in Springfield --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 123 d653de22-c8e0-44e0-9a2c-3a0e8dd4584e Episode 122: Biden inaugurated while Illinois struggles to open schools Episode 123: Biden inaugurated while Illinois struggles to open schools

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 22 Jan 2021 15:41:26 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 123: Biden inaugurated while Illinois struggles to open schools

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 122: Biden inaugurated while Illinois struggles to open schools The Center Square 00:39:12 Episode 123: Biden inaugurated while Illinois struggles to open schools  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 123: Biden inaugurated while Illinois struggles to open schools  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 122 110657a5-cb69-4312-bee7-e6b1d2623769 Episode 121: Madigan out as speaker after decades Episode 121: Madigan out as speaker after decades

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 15 Jan 2021 16:15:31 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 121: Madigan out as speaker after decades

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 121: Madigan out as speaker after decades The Center Square 00:51:23 Episode 121: Madigan out as speaker after decades --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 121: Madigan out as speaker after decades --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 121 04e6b0dd-07bb-4263-8af4-3789da544057 Episode 120: Riots in DC and lame ducks in Springfield Episode 120: Riots in DC and lame ducks in Springfield

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 8 Jan 2021 15:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 120: Riots in DC and lame ducks in Springfield

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 120: Riots in DC and lame ducks in Springfield The Center Square 00:43:09 Episode 120: Riots in DC and lame ducks in Springfield  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 120: Riots in DC and lame ducks in Springfield  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 119 e7e1707f-d562-4f91-a67f-968e86817741 Episode 119: 2020 Year In Review A look back on the top news stories of 2020

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Wed, 30 Dec 2020 15:31:57 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ A look back on the top news stories of 2020

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 119: 2020 Year In Review The Center Square 00:24:00 A look back on the top news stories of 2020  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support A look back on the top news stories of 2020  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 119 e61a8845-c52b-4fec-af18-e4b9c198aa71 Episode 118: Illinois lost 253,000 residents in past decade Episode 118: Illinois lost 253,000 residents in past decade

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 24 Dec 2020 16:03:58 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 118: Illinois lost 253,000 residents in past decade

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 118: Illinois lost 253,000 residents in past decade The Center Square 00:44:23 Episode 118: Illinois lost 253,000 residents in past decade --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 118: Illinois lost 253,000 residents in past decade --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 118 78658a70-3e4e-4a44-8e32-67095c2bb826 Episode 117: Vaccines arrive in Illinois while Pritzker announces $700 million in budget cuts Episode 117: Vaccines arrive in Illinois while Pritzker announces $700 million in budget cuts

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 18 Dec 2020 16:13:52 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 117: Vaccines arrive in Illinois while Pritzker announces $700 million in budget cuts

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 117: Vaccines arrive in Illinois while Pritzker announces $700 million in budget cuts The Center Square 00:47:56 Episode 117: Vaccines arrive in Illinois while Pritzker announces $700 million in budget cuts  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 117: Vaccines arrive in Illinois while Pritzker announces $700 million in budget cuts  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 117 5bebf232-42c3-43ad-a6ef-cbb650a684ab Episode 116: Illinois prepares for the arrival of COVID vaccine Ep 116: Illinois prepares for the arrival of COVID vaccine

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 11 Dec 2020 16:37:32 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Ep 116: Illinois prepares for the arrival of COVID vaccine

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 116: Illinois prepares for the arrival of COVID vaccine The Center Square 00:54:24 Ep 116: Illinois prepares for the arrival of COVID vaccine --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Ep 116: Illinois prepares for the arrival of COVID vaccine --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 116 9787b52c-68f4-434f-9ff7-bffe748146a6 Episode 115: COVID and ComEd continue to make headlines across Illinois Episode 115: COVID and ComEd continue to make headlines across Illinois

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 4 Dec 2020 16:23:07 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 115: COVID and ComEd continue to make headlines across Illinois

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 115: COVID and ComEd continue to make headlines across Illinois The Center Square 00:57:16 Episode 115: COVID and ComEd continue to make headlines across Illinois --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 115: COVID and ComEd continue to make headlines across Illinois --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 115 01b267b1-5eab-4d3b-a0e7-2cbcc4faf3b8 Episode 114: Madigan investigation releases helpings of documents before Thanksgiving Episode 114: Madigan investigation releases helpings of documents before Thanksgiving

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 27 Nov 2020 15:00:00 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 114: Madigan investigation releases helpings of documents before Thanksgiving

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 114: Madigan investigation releases helpings of documents before Thanksgiving The Center Square 00:47:27 Episode 114: Madigan investigation releases helpings of documents before Thanksgiving  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 114: Madigan investigation releases helpings of documents before Thanksgiving  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 113 29afc08b-5304-4015-a659-465d1cf73663 Episode 113: Feds issue more charges implicating Madigan Ep 113: Feds issue more charges implicating Madigan

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 20 Nov 2020 16:37:22 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Ep 113: Feds issue more charges implicating Madigan

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 113: Feds issue more charges implicating Madigan The Center Square 00:55:31 Ep 113: Feds issue more charges implicating Madigan --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Ep 113: Feds issue more charges implicating Madigan --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 113 14ee728d-202c-4b4c-a31a-851bdb514262 Episode 112: Pritzker threatens to lockdown Illinois again Episode 112: Pritzker threatens to lockdown Illinois again

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 13 Nov 2020 16:43:25 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 112: Pritzker threatens to lockdown Illinois again

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 112: Pritzker threatens to lockdown Illinois again The Center Square 00:53:16 Episode 112: Pritzker threatens to lockdown Illinois again --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 112: Pritzker threatens to lockdown Illinois again --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 112 04b4a720-d42a-448c-ad1b-651eb3222160 Episode 111: Illinois voters reject Pritzker's progressive income tax Episode 111: Illinois voters reject Pritzker's progressive income tax

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Fri, 6 Nov 2020 16:05:39 +0000 gbishop@thecentersquare.com (The Center Square) https://www.americastalking.com/ Episode 111: Illinois voters reject Pritzker's progressive income tax

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Episode 111: Illinois voters reject Pritzker's progressive income tax The Center Square 00:58:13 Episode 111: Illinois voters reject Pritzker's progressive income tax --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support Episode 111: Illinois voters reject Pritzker's progressive income tax --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/illinois-in-focus/support false full 111