Prairie politicians didn't let challenges, like rules, get in their way, historians say.

Commentary: Trying to impose his will rather than seeking compromise and calling counterparts corrupt got the one-term politician nowhere. Like an actor in a Greek drama or a Shakespearean character, Gov. Bruce Rauner will leave office as a tragic figure, felled by his overriding hubris -- excessive pride or self-confidence, arrogance -- that led to his political downfall. The private equity investor never seemed to grasp -- or was not willing to accept -- that he no longer was someone who could

Commentary: A North Shore suburban native reflects on the community's troubled racial history.

Former and outgoing Illinois leaders offer suggestions for the man going to the mansion.

In an especially contentious election year, there are a couple alternatives to the major party candidates in the race for Illinois governor. But, even some backers of third parties say they aren’t great options either, though that’s not where they want the story to end.

The upcoming general election will decide whether Republican Bruce Rauner gets another term as Illinois governor or if the voters will choose to go with Democrat J.B. Pritzker. But there’s one outcome of the election we already know for certain: Illinois will continue its experiment with amateur politicians running state government.

A statewide series of forums this year found plenty of concern about the direction Illinois is heading. But we also found work is being done at the local level to solve some of the problems.

Voters this fall are choosing who will occupy the state’s two financial offices: treasurer and comptroller. Even during campaigns, these positions rarely get much attention. In fact, their very existence usually comes into question in proposals to merge the offices into one. Years ago, one person was in charge. It all changed after a massive scandal filled with fast moves, fancy cars and fraud tarnished state government moneyhandling forever.

Secretary of State Jesse White has held the elected office nearly two decades. This year, his Republican opponent is questioning whether White will be able to serve out another four-year term if elected.

The 2018 Illinois Issues Survey produced by the UIS Center for State Policy & Leadership's Survey Research Office and NPR Illinois shows dissatisfaction with state government, as nearly 3 out of 4 respondents feel the state is on the wrong track. That sentiment appears to be impacting the race for governor.