It’s unclear what prompted the feds’ reversal on forfeiture, but it’s notable that the office is recently under new leadership. “This decision is independent from any other issue or briefing in this matter,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker wrote. “The government’s position in this filing relates solely to forfeiture and not to any other issue in the case.”

State Rep. La Shawn Ford introduced a bill that would give law enforcement the power to remove trespassers from properties where the owner is able to establish legal ownership. The measure has already passed in the Illinois Senate.

Upwards of 50 towns across Illinois are set to enact a 1 percent grocery sales tax by 2026 — replacing the statewide one already in place

“There’s the problem in a nutshell: Riders have not returned in part due to hybrid work schedules, maintenance costs have been deferred, and the federal COVID money is running out. Meanwhile, the Chicago Transit Authority now is spending a stunning $5.1 billion on the Red Line extension (RLE).”

Vantive American’s new headquarters will give 50 new full time job opportunities to Illinoisan workers. Vantive could receive more tax credits from the state if they add more jobs to Illinois.

In January 2024, a First Supply delivery truck was struck by an alleged drunk driver, but despite having no fault in the accident, the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office unlawfully seized the company’s truck without a warrant or justification, according to LJC.

“There are legislative things that can be done to help curtail some of this corruption, and yet our General Assembly doesn’t seem interested or doesn’t feel any urgency in pushing through legislative reforms,” said Connie Mixon, professor of political science and director of the Urban Studies Program at Elmhurst University.

2024, a total of 10 police officers were killed in the line of duty in Illinois.

“It’s obvious (Gov. JB) Pritzker and (Mayor Brandon) Johnson see Trump as a political bogeyman they can use to leverage their own political fortunes,” says Paul Vallas. “But their rhetoric is political fearmongering at its finest. Both the state and city are well equipped to protect people’s ‘fundamental rights’ and have policies in place to protect against government overreach, real or imagined.”