Prairie State Wire

Late Illinois Gov. 'Big Jim' Thompson remembered for 'kindness, decency, cleaning up corruption'

By John Sammon | Aug 19, 2020

Illinois' longest-serving former Gov. James Thompson, who died on Aug. 14, was remembered as a caring man who made great contributions to the state during his tenure.

Popular Chicago restaurant remains shuttered after owner reportedly made racist remarks

By John Sammon | Jul 21, 2020

A restaurant serving Cuban-style food remains closed after the owner of the popular eatery allegedly made a racist statement on Instagram in June resulting in protests protestors showing up.

Illinois Policy Institute writer says Pritzker should stall automatic pay raises for state workers

By John Sammon | May 16, 2020

CHICAGO – Given the COVID-19 pandemic, its subsequent economic shutdown, and the need for emergency funding, a staff attorney and labor policy director for the Illinois Policy Institute said Gov. J.B. Pritzker should freeze automatic pay raises for state workers.

COVID-19 pandemic adds to financial strain for Illinois' underfunded pensions

By John Sammon | May 9, 2020

Financial insiders said pension funds already beset with under-funding problems are taking a huge additional hit with the closing of businesses, job loss and tumbling markets due to the COVID-19 pandemic.