Chicago’s police superintendent defended officers at a heated oversight hearing after federal immigration raids and a Border Patrol shooting prompted public outrage. The commission voted to seek an inspector general audit as questions about accountability mount.

DeKalb leaders debated narrowing who sits on city boards and moving some committees to ad‑hoc status; council asked staff to return with a formal proposal.

Alfonso Carmona is leaving CPS for a suburban superintendent role as board members and community groups press for more Latino leadership amid budget strains.

The U.S. sued Illinois in federal court, arguing state cease‑and‑desist orders against prediction‑market platforms overreach and intrude on federal authority. The case could decide who regulates event contracts nationwide.

Mayor Brandon Johnson stood by comments defending immigrant-welcome policies as Sheridan Gorman’s family demanded answers after the March 19 killing. The case has reignited debate over enforcement and cooperation with federal authorities.

Mayor Brandon Johnson has asked for the removal of CHA Operating Chairman Matthew Brewer after the authority’s board appointed a CEO the mayor opposed. Brewer says he will remain in his post, setting up a tense political fight over who runs the agency.

Chicago’s 2026–2031 plan ties prevention to permanent housing and sets 22 goals across seven focus areas.

Jimmy Clayton, 40, was named president and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, becoming the youngest person to lead the statewide business group. Members and lawmakers will watch his early policy moves closely.

Advocates gathered at Rainbow PUSH to press the RACE Act (HB 5414), which would restore voting rights to people serving felony sentences and expand prison civics.

Mayor Brandon Johnson is advancing a $500K Reparations Task Force while Chicago faces a near‑$1B budget gap. The plan raises tough questions about funding and legal risk.

Thousands lined Randall Road and Kimball & Grove on Saturday as local No Kings protests joined a nationwide day of action, with banners, horns and red knit hats. The roadside rallies mixed local grievances with a coordinated national push.

A new Illinois bill would let renters plug small 'balcony' solar kits into household outlets and limits landlord and HOA bans while keeping technical safeguards. Lawmakers say the change would widen access to clean energy for apartment residents.

Illinois senators approved resolutions to swap Cesar Chávez Day for Farmworkers Day and to honor Dolores Huerta, moves tied to national reporting that has reshaped the debate.