Violent crime can hurt job opportunities in high-poverty neighborhoods

By Katie Crain, Jon Josko

10/20/2026

Policymakers can create conditions to help businesses and residents succeed.

Illinois SNAP enrollment falls to another 13-year low

By DaNae Estabine

10/19/2026

But the state’s error rate is fifth-highest in the country, which could bring costly penalties.

TAGS: SNAP

California vs. Illinois: Who’s more reckless with pensions?  

By Adam Gorcyca

10/15/2026

Gov. Gavin Newsom said no to a sweetener, while Gov. J.B. Pritzker added $11 billion to Chicago’s liabilities.

TAGS: JB Pritzker

3 problems remain in mayor’s revised Chicago renter ordinance

By DaNae Estabine

10/09/2026

The Protecting Renters Ordinance risks hurting affordability.

TAGS: Brandon Johnson, PRO: Protecting Renters Ordinance

Who is running for Chicago school board in 2026?

By Lilly Rossi

10/06/2026

Chicago voters will determine who’s on the first fully elected Chicago Board of Education.

TAGS: Chicago Board of Education

Skokie zoning reform would make home renovations easier

By Lilly Rossi

10/06/2026

Homeowners in the suburb could soon have more freedom to renovate their homes without being forced to add parking spaces.

How will Chicago address a projected $882 million budget deficit?

By Ethan Soifer

10/06/2026

Aldermen have warned Mayor Brandon Johnson what they will not support.

Late fees almost half of Chicago’s red-light camera revenue in 2025

By Lilly Rossi

10/05/2026

The city collected $47.1 million from the cameras last year.

TAGS: red light cameras

Illinois Policy Institute sends cease-and-desist letter to 17 Tazewell County school districts

By Mailee Smith

10/02/2026

At least 17 school districts in Tazewell County appear to be engaging in election interference.

Your vote can make a difference in Illinois elections

By Jon Josko, Lilly Rossi

09/30/2026

Illinoisans can vote on races ranging from U.S. Senate and governor to state lawmakers and local officials in the Nov. 3 election.

Chicago

Violent crime can hurt job opportunities in high-poverty neighborhoods

Illinois SNAP enrollment falls to another 13-year low

California vs. Illinois: Who’s more reckless with pensions?

3 problems remain in mayor’s revised Chicago renter ordinance

Who is running for Chicago school board in 2026?

Skokie zoning reform would make home renovations easier

How will Chicago address a projected $882 million budget deficit?

Late fees almost half of Chicago’s red-light camera revenue in 2025

Illinois Policy Institute sends cease-and-desist letter to 17 Tazewell County school districts

Your vote can make a difference in Illinois elections

Who Lives Below the Poverty Line in Illinois? Family Structure and Education Mark the Highest Risk

Report Archive

Take advantage of the various ways to vote

Process for unionizing non-state workers raises red flags

CBS Chicago: Illinois’ highest-paid superintendent receives $400K per year to oversee 1,200 students