Capitol Cast: Illinois

Illinois' political map has shifted dramatically in the 21st century with Democrats now dominating large cities and the suburbs, and Republicans holding small towns and rural areas. Two researchers at Southern Illinois University, John Jackson and John Foster, discuss that trend and the new paper they have just published. (Read the whole paper at https://news.siu.edu/2022/06/061522-Latest-SIU-Paul-Simon-Institute-research-analyzes-2020-election-provides-context-for-22.php)

All six Republican candidates for governor took part in a televised debate this week, discussing their stands on gun control, abortion and other issues. Peter Hancock and Jerry Nowicki discuss where the race is headed.

The Census Bureau says Illinois' population may actually have grown during the 2010s. Plus, DCFS Director Marc Smith is held in contempt again and gas station owners sue over signage they will soon be required to post on gas pumps. Peter Hancock, Jerry Nowicki and Beth Hundsdorfer break down the news of the week.

Illinois politicians react to the leaked draft opinion suggesting the U.S. Supreme Court is about to overturn Roe vs. Wade. Peter Hancock, Jerry Nowicki and Grace Kinnicutt discuss those developments and other news of the week.

A bill that infuses $2.7 billion into the state's beleaguered Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund has become one of the most hotly debated issues in Springfield. Peter Hancock and Jerry Nowicki discuss what it's all about.

Jerry Nowicki speaks with former federal prosecutor and current defense attorney Nancy DePodesta on what to expect in the trial of former speaker Michael Madigan, and why it's not likely to happen soon.

Former House Speaker Michael Madigan was indicted this week on 22 counts of corruption involving a collection of schemes that federal prosecutors are calling "the Madigan Enterprise."

Gov. JB Pritzker announces the statewide indoor mask mandate will expire at the end of February, with some exceptions. The Capitol News Illinois team analyzes that issue and other news of the week.

The 2022 legislative session is hitting its midpoint while the state prepares to lift its indoor mask mandate. The Capitol News Illinois team discusses those issues and other news of the week.

A look at what's in Gov. JB Pritzker's budget address and the history behind his remarks.