State Week

Democrats in control of state government were racing to approve a budget and public safety legislation, among other items, before their self-imposed adjournment deadline passed. The budget plan included several tax relief proposals, which will be heavily touted during the upcoming campaigns.

Both parties are pointing fingers on the issue of crime as election year messaging ramps up. Republicans have continued to criticize criminal justice legislation Democrats approved last year. Meanwhile, the Democratic Governors Association issued an attack ad against GOP gubernatorial candidate Richard Irvin, targeting some of the clients he represented as a defense attorney. And statehouse Democrats have also unveiled a new anti-crime package in the final days of the spring legislative session.

The Illinois Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund has racked up a $4.5 billion in debt. Democrats this week voted to pay off a chunk of what's owed through the use of federal pandemic aid funds. But Republicans say there's still a large hole that will need to be filled, most likely through borrowing and paying interest for several years.

The end of the period where candidates file petitions brings us closer to the final ballot lineup. The primary is set for June and candidates are picking up the pace in efforts to introduce themselves to voters and get their message across. We'll discuss the governor's race and more.

Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was arraigned on bribery and racketeering charges this week. He entered a not guilty plea. We discuss what's next for the case. And, candidates are filing their paperwork to run for office. The filing is later than past years because the primary election has been moved to June.

The bombshell news dropped Wednesday that former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was indicted on federal racketeering and bribery charges. While reaction poured in, Madigan denied wrongdoing. Now that he faces charges, another chapter is being written in the story of the longest serving legislative leader.

Illinois' indoor mask mandate will end on Monday, February 28, in most locations. But a court battle continues over the governor's authority to issue such orders. The attorney leading the charge against masking has announced he will run for Illinois Attorney General as a Republican. And, the debate over masks results in drama on the Illinois House floor.

Our panel tries to bring clarity over the legal fight regarding masks in Illinois schools.

A judge's decision created confusion around COVID-19 mitigations in schools. Meanwhile, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced he will lift the state's indoor mask mandate at the end of the month in most locations, except schools, health care settings and congregate care facilities. All of this happening as COVID numbers continue to fall.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker outlined his budget proposal for the next fiscal year. During his speech, the governor touted an improved financial outlook. Pritzker wants to use some of the projected windfall for temporary tax relief along with additional spending on education and other areas. He also targeted Republican critics. Our panel discusses the governor's plan and reaction to it.