New Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch Calls For ‘Unity’ In Springfield
It’s the beginning of a new era in Springfield.
Politics
With one of Illinois’ largest political reporting teams, WBEZ’s Government & Politics desk holds elected officials and government bodies accountable. We cover the policy debates and political machinations happening at the state Capitol in Springfield, in Cook County government and at Chicago’s City Hall.
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WBEZ’s Friday News Roundup: Jan. 15, 2020
The House votes to impeach President Trump. Mike Madigan’s reign as speaker comes to an end. Plus, lawmakers pass a sweeping police reform bill.
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‘We’re In A War With This Virus’: Biden Lays Out COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan
Health experts say Biden’s American Rescue Plan offers bold national leadership for tackling the country’s public health crisis. It will likely get pared down.
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Big Wins For CTU, Illinois Black Caucus On Education Reform
The Legislative Black Caucus and the Chicago Teachers Union both scored major victories during the lame-duck session in Springfield.
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Illinois Gov. Pritzker Activates National Guard To Protect The State Capitol Ahead Of Inauguration
The governor says he’ll activate 250 soldiers to protect the Springfield Capitol from the potential for armed violence ahead of Wednesday’s presidential inauguration.
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What We Know So Far: A Timeline Of Security At The Capitol On January 6
Despite days of widespread incitement on social media in advance of the insurrection, law enforcement was unprepared and overwhelmed.
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$1,400 Checks And Help For The Jobless: What’s In Biden’s Plan To Rescue The Economy
President-elect Joe Biden is proposing a $1.9 trillion plan to address the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting economic crisis.
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President Trump Impeached For Inciting Capitol Hill Insurrection
President Donald Trump on Wednesday became the first president in U.S. history to be impeached twice.
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How Illinois Lawmakers Voted On Impeachment
Illinois Congressman Brad Schneider talks about the historic impeachment vote and his recent COVID-19 diagnosis.
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The End Of An Era In Springfield: Goodbye Speaker Madigan, Hello Speaker Welch
After nearly four decades in power, recent scandals and investigations surrounding Michael Madigan left him politically vulnerable.
