Chicago representatives unveiled the Living Wage For All Act, a proposal to lift the federal minimum to $25 with a decade‑plus phase‑in and an end to subminimum wages. Sponsors say it’s about affordability; critics warn of costs to small businesses.

USDA rejected four women nominated to the United Soybean Board and appointed men instead, prompting appeals from state boards and criticism from farmer leaders. The choices reshape who controls checkoff priorities.

Chicago has signed a new contract with Ernst & Young to hunt for budget savings; procurement records show a multi‑million dollar ceiling as aldermen demand details. EY’s 2025 review flagged $530M–$1.4B in possible efficiencies.

A randomized Vera Institute evaluation of Chicago’s MIDA found detained immigrants with counsel were far more likely to win relief and to be released on bond.

Mayor Brandon Johnson nominated David Glockner, a former federal prosecutor and Exelon compliance chief, to be Chicago's next inspector general. Council confirmation is pending.

A Suffolk-Tribune survey finds Mayor Brandon Johnson with a 44% unfavorable rating and 34% favorable, exposing sharp racial and partisan splits ahead of 2027. The results underline crime and affordability as top voter concerns.

An inspector general's report ties a former top mayoral aide to a paid internship and nearly $10 million in contested invoices.

An OIG audit finds COFA’s reports were often late or thin and urges staffing, data-access and records fixes to strengthen City Council oversight.

Bill Daley says former mayor Richard M. Daley suffered a third stroke earlier this month but has returned home and is undergoing rehab ahead of his 84th birthday.

Lake County’s elections board voted to let Democrats fill travel‑board and absentee‑ballot counter vacancies when Republicans miss appointment deadlines to avoid staffing gaps. Officials say the change is meant to protect homebound voters.

Donna Miller won a crowded, money-fueled Democratic primary in Illinois' 2nd District. Outside spending and national groups shaped the outcome.

The Citizens Utility Board told Illinois regulators the proposed American Water‑Essential Utilities merger would not serve consumers, citing rising bills and service problems.

Cook County’s Circuit Court Clerk is waiving collection fees on eligible moving-violation tickets during a five-day Amnesty Week, April 27–May 1. In-person and phone payments will be accepted.