By Bernarda MalevskaCapitol News Illinoisbmalevska@capitolnewsillinois.com In his suggested 200-point national agenda for the new incoming Democratic Congress, Illinois governor JB Pritzker called for a comprehensive federal digital protection framework that addresses privacy, Artificial Intelligence safety and data centers. Pritzker’s plan includes three action points: Strengthening digital privacy through durable federal
November 5, 2026Dear editor; November 3, 2026, voters across Kane County made their voices heard, and the results represent a significant moment for the Kane County Board. Democratic candidates for County Board prevailed, including several closely contested races. These results reflect the choices voters made and deserve to be respected.
By Stephanie Kifowit, State representative 84th District November has always held a special place in my heart. As a proud United States Marine Corps veteran, this month brings an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of service, sacrifice and the lifelong bonds shared by those who have worn our nation’s
Congressman Bill Foster, top Democrat on the House Financial Institutions Subcommittee, released the Real-Time Regulatory Study Act. Financial services driven by artificial intelligence and round-the-clock payments systems may contribute to and rapidly spread financial stress. As the financial system accelerates, real-time information and automated tools can help institutions and regulators
Kane County State’s attorney Jamie L. Mosser announced that her office fielded and responded to 12 complaints submitted through the office’s Election Day Hotline during November 3rd’s General Election.Two calls were related to electioneering, two calls were related to campaign signs, three calls were related to ballots, and five calls
By John & Nisha Whitehead “There is something terribly wrong with this country, isn’t there?”— V for Vendetta A revolution can topple a tyrant without dismantling tyranny. An election can replace a president without curbing the powers of the presidency. A new political majority can inherit the instruments of repression
By Brenden Moore, Ben Szalinski, & Peyton CookCapitol News Illinois news@capitolnewsillinois.com Democratic governor JB Pritzker was elected to a rare third term as Illinois governor Tuesday, vanquishing Republican Darren Bailey in a race that was once again called immediately when polls closed as Democrats rode a historic wave of momentum in
By Maggie Dougherty & Bernarda MalevskaCapitol News Illinoismdougherty@capitolnewsillinois.com Democratic Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton will become Illinois’ next U.S. senator after defeating former Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy in a blue wave that swept Democrats into power across the nation. The Associated Press called the race as soon as the
Political campaign signs line the entry to the Fox Valley Park District’s Vaughn Athletic Center in Aurora Monday.
By Ben SzalinskiCapitol News Illinoisbszalinski@capitolnewsillinois.com A Sangamon County judge held the State’s child protective agency in contempt of court October 29 for the department’s ongoing mishandling of a records request by Capitol News Illinois. “I understand this is not a department with 10 employees. It’s a department with thousands of
October 27, 2026Dear editor; I’m writing to ask my neighbors to join me in supporting the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act (BAAJA), a bill that proposes to make our energy permitting process faster and more effective. The bill has support from both parties and aims to lower electricity costs
Nominations are open for Batavia Citizen of the Year Award. The award recognizes a local resident whose exceptional commitment and service have significantly enriched our community. The recipient will be the guest of honor at the Chamber’s annual Inspire Celebration Thursday, April 29, 2027. Award criteria: •The nominee must reside
Kane County is seeking a qualified volunteer to fill a vacancy on its five-member Ethics Commission, which reviews complaints alleging violations of the Kane County Ethics Ordinance by County Board members, the County Board Chair and County employees. The commission investigates complaints, conducts hearings, and makes findings and recommendations regarding
By John & Nisha Whitehead This time of year, there is no shortage of monsters to frighten us. Hollywood has given us vampires, zombies, mad scientists, masked killers, and creatures that emerge from the darkness to prey upon the unsuspecting. But perhaps the most frightening monster of all is the
By Maggie DoughertyCapitol News Illinoismdougherty@capitolnewsillinois.com Data centers have been the focus of growing debate across the U.S., facing a push for regulation that would require operators to pay for the energy and water resources they use, among other proposals. But beyond paying to generate new energy, consumer advocates warn that
October 19, 2026Dear editor; We must put an end to the childish campaign tactics we see far too often in our elections. Negative campaigning may be an effective way to win elections, but does it help elect the best, most qualified candidates? Or are we simply giving in to negativity,
By Heidi Kolbeck-Urlacher, policy director, Center for Rural Affairs For weeks, candidate ads have dominated television viewing. Text messages and phone calls are nonstop. Yard signs are popping up like my late season tomatoes. Much of this messaging is for candidates who will serve in Washington, D.C., or in the
The City of Aurora government has unveiled its proposed 2027 budget, highlighting a continued commitment to strategic infrastructure improvements, public safety, and fiscal responsibility. The proposed budget is currently set at $603,696,865, which represents an $84,736,709 reduction compared to the 2026 fiscal year. This decision allows for a lessened reliance
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and at an Aurora City Council meeting, mayor John Laesch (right) honored the month with leaders from Mutual Ground and Voice of Hope.
As U.S. Census Bureau field operations come to an end, Aurora residents can still complete the 2026 Special Census by calling 630-256-6680. During the 2020 Census, it was reported that the City of Aurora lost approximately 17,000 people. The reported loss in population has led to the City losing over
