Podcasts about capitol news illinois

Ben Szalinski of Capitol News Illinois joins Patrick to discuss major issues outstanding for next week's veto session at the Statehouse. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National Democrats have urged Illinois to join the congressional redist ricting frenzy to counter efforts in other states to gerrymander maps in favor of Republicans. But will Illinois go along? Meanwhile Gov. JB Pritzker has formed a commission to collect reports and monitor the activities of federal immigration agents operating in the Chicago area. The Capitol News Illinois team discusses those stories and looks ahead to events coming up next week.

Capitol News Illinois reporter Brenden Moore joins Patrick to discuss the push to redrew Illinois' congressional districts and the entrance of Republican businessman Rick Heidner in the race for governorSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Szalinski, Statehouse reporter at Capitol News Illinois, joins Jon Hansen to talk about what is happening in Illinois politics. Ben breaks down the latest in funding public transportation and the veto session at the end of the month. The two also discuss JB Pritzker taxes and more. For more reporting by Ben, visit capitolnewsillinois.com.

Ben Szalinski of Capitol News Illinois joins Patrick to discuss the status of major issues that are still pending during the fall veto session and what may get across the finish line this month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brenden Moore of Capitol News Illinois joins Patrick to discuss the slow start to the fall veto session and what issues lawmakers may take up this month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brenden Moore, statehouse reporter for Capitol News Illinois, looks atprospects for action on transit, energy and affordability legislation,as well as potential responses to ICE and National Guard deployments inChicago.

Capitol News Illinois reporter Ben Szalinski joined Patrick to discuss Governor Pritzker's Executive Order on state spending and looming issues facing lawmakers in the veto session next month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Illinois joins more than a dozen states that, in response to federal changes regarding the distribution guidelines of vaccines, is directing their public health departments to establish their own guidelines. Capitol News Illinois reporter Peter Hancock discusses those changes and how the state of Illinois aims to create a safe and clear path for those looking to get themselves and their families vaccinated.

Ben Szalinski, Statehouse reporter at Capitol News Illinois, joins Jon Hansen to talk about what is happening in Illinois politics. Ben discusses the upcoming fall legislative session, the governor’s race, cash bail, and other issues that affect Illinois residents.

Ben Szalinski of Capitol News Illinois joins Patrick to discuss Ted Dabrowski's entrance into the race for Governor and how Governor Pritzker's team is preparing for their eventual opponent. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Szalinski of Capitol News Illinois joins Patrick to discuss why the state is paying $800,000 in taxpayer dollars to sponsor a NASCAR race and the latest on ICE and National Guard deployments to Illinois. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Szalinski of Capitol News Illinois joins Patrick to talk about Governor Pritzker's response to President Trump's suggestion he'll send troops into Chicago. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peter Hancock of Capitol News Illinois joins Patrick to discuss a controversial move to change the proficiency standards for students in Illinois schools. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Szalinski of Capitol News Illinois joins Patrick to discuss the Texas legislators who fled to Illinois, Governor Pritzker's redistricting hypocrisy, and the dearth of Republican candidates statewide next year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Capitol News Illinois reporter Beth Hundsdorfer joins Patrick to discuss her reporting on failures at DCFS and what lawmakers may do to reform the agency. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Capitol News Illinois reporter Hannah Meisel joins Patrick to discuss the sentencing of former legislator and lobbyist Michael McClain in the "ComEd Four" case and if Michael Madigan will ever actually see prison time. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beth Hundsdorfer of Capitol News Illinois joins Patrick to discuss repeated failures by DCFS and why politicians aren't doing anything to reform the troubled agency. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Capitol News Illinois' Beth Hundsdorfer joins Megan Lynch. Shes been looking into the death of 18-year-old girl last year in a foster home in Fairview Heights, Illinois, where she lived for four years. Now there are questions about why the state Department of Children and Family Services isn't releasing more information about their actions in the case.

Capitol News Illinois reporter Ben Szalinski joined Patrick to discuss Governor JB Pritzker's continued efforts to position him as a foil to President Trump. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gov. JB Pritzker is seeking a third term. Jerry Nowicki, Ben Szalinski and Public Affairs Reporting intern Jade Aubrey discuss the announcement and Aubrey's time at Capitol News Illinois.

Ben Szalinski of Capitol News Illinois joins Patrick to discuss the new state budget, if lawmakers will come back this summer, and where transit reform stands.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Capitol News Illinois reporter Hannah Meisel joined Springfield's Morning News to discuss former House Speaker Michael Madigan's sentencing on federal corruption charges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Statehouse Reporter for Capitol News Illinois, Ben Szalinski, joined Jon Hansen on Let's Get Legal to talk about the latest state legal news. Ben gives his key takeaways from the budget. From spending growth and new revenue to possible transit layoffs, Ben and Jon discuss what’s in the latest Illinois budget.

Illinois lawmakers closed out the 2025 spring session by passing a $55.2 billion budget and a revenue package to help pay for it. But the session was marked as much by what didn't get through the process as what did. The Capitol News Illinois team breaks down the major issues that were confronted in the final days of the session.

Ben Szalinski, Capitol News Illinois, joins Megan Lynch with a wrap of the legislative session that just ended in Springfield, IL.

Illinois lawmakers passed several bills this week including reform for the Prisoner Review Board and banning carbon sequestration near the Mahomet Aquifer. But with one week left in the spring session, big issues like the budget and mass transit reform still remain. Hosted by Jak Tichenor.GUESTS:Jerry Nowicki, Editor-in-Chief, Capitol News IllinoisSen. Don Harmon (D-Oak Park), Senate PresidentSen. Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet)Rep. Eva-Dina Delgado (D-Chicago), Assistant House Majority LeaderABOUT THE SHOW:“Illinois Lawmakers” is the longest-running television series offering continuing coverage of the Illinois General Assembly. Now in its 40th year of production, the series has found a new home with Capitol News Illinois. Learn more at capitolnewsillinois.com. Capitol News Illinois is a program of the Illinois Press Foundation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heartland-newsfeed-radio-network--2904397/support.

As state lawmakers head towards their May 31 adjournment, House leaders sit down to discuss crafting a budget in a tight fiscal year. Meanwhile, a Democratic lawmaker has been removed from his committee chairmanship with only two weeks left of the session. Hosted by Jak Tichenor.GUESTS:Peter Hancock, Statehouse Reporter, Capitol News IllinoisEmanuel “Chris” Welch (D-Hillside), House SpeakerTony McCombie (R-Savanna), House Minority LeaderABOUT THE SHOW:“Illinois Lawmakers” is the longest-running television series offering continuing coverage of the Illinois General Assembly. Now in its 40th year of production, the series has found a new home with Capitol News Illinois. Learn more at capitolnewsillinois.com. Capitol News Illinois is a program of the Illinois Press Foundation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heartland-newsfeed-radio-network--2904397/support.

With less than a month left in their spring session, Illinois lawmakers continue to work on a state budget with concerns about economic uncertainty from the federal government. While a fiscal plan may be the highest priority, legislators are also looking at issues including higher education, energy generation, and Tier 2 pensions. Hosted by Jak Tichenor.GUESTS:Ben Szalinski, Statehouse reporter, Capitol News IllinoisSen. Kimberly Lightford (D-Westchester), Senate Majority LeaderSen. Steve McClure (R-Springfield), Assistant Senate Republican LeaderRep. Jay Hoffman (D-Swansea), Assistant House Majority LeaderRep. Ryan Spain (R-Peoria), Deputy House Republican LeaderABOUT THE SHOW:“Illinois Lawmakers” is the longest-running television series offering continuing coverage of the Illinois General Assembly. Now in its 40th year of production, the series has found a new home with Capitol News Illinois. Learn more at capitolnewsillinois.com. Capitol News Illinois is a program of the Illinois Press Foundation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heartland-newsfeed-radio-network--2904397/support.

Statehouse Reporter for Capitol News Illinois, Ben Szalinski, joined Jon Hansen on Let’s Get Legal to talk about the latest state legal news. Ben and Jon discuss proposed legislation, public defender reform, and public transit reform.

With just five weeks to go in the spring session, Illinois lawmakers are racing to finalize a state budget and address a $1 billion public transit shortfall. Rep. Robyn Gabel highlights the ripple effects of federal Medicare cuts on more than 800,000 residents. Rep. Charles Meier shares updates on agriculture bills aimed at expanding access to specialty crops like poultry. Sen. Robert Peters outlines new legislation to strengthen worker rights and increaseaffordable housing, while Sen. Sally Turner focuses on support for young farmers and the future of Logan Correctional Center. Hosted by Jak Tichenor.GUESTS:Rep. Robyn Gabel (D-Evanston), House Majority LeaderRep. Charles Meier (R-Okawville)Sen. Robert Peters (D-Chicago), Majority Caucus WhipSen. Sally Turner (R-Beason), Senate WhipJerry Nowicki, Editor-in-Chief, Capitol News IllinoisABOUT THE SHOW:“Illinois Lawmakers” is the longest-running television series offering continuing coverage of the Illinois General Assembly. Now in its 40th year of production, the series has found a new home with Capitol News Illinois. Learn more at capitolnewsillinois.com. Capitol News Illinois is a program of the Illinois Press Foundation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heartland-newsfeed-radio-network--2904397/support.

One-on-one with Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton by Capitol News Illinois

As state representatives return to Springfield, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin announces he won't seek reelection. Reaction to the announcement, budget updates, and other key issues are in focus this week. Hosted by Jak Tichenor.GUESTS:Peter Hancock, Statehouse Reporter, Capitol News IllinoisRep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago), House Speaker Pro TemporeRep. Amy Elik (R-Godfrey), Assistant House Republican LeaderRep. Laura Faver Dias (D-Grayslake)Rep. Patrick Windhorst (R-Metropolis), Assistant House Republican LeaderABOUT THE SHOW:“Illinois Lawmakers” is the longest-running television series offering continuing coverage of the Illinois General Assembly. Now in its 40th year of production, the series has found a new home with Capitol News Illinois. Learn more at capitolnewsillinois.com. Capitol News Illinois is a program of the Illinois Press Foundation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heartland-newsfeed-radio-network--2904397/support.

With state lawmakers on spring break, Capitol News Illinois reporters join host Jak Tichenor to discuss the spring session so far. From the budget to homeschool regulation, funding for higher education and more, there are still numerous issues for lawmakers to address in the next few weeks.GUESTS: Ben Szalinski, Statehouse Reporter, Capitol News IllinoisMolly Parker, Investigative Reporter, Capitol News Illinois/ProPublicaPeter Hancock, Statehouse Reporter, Capitol News IllinoisABOUT THE SHOW:“Illinois Lawmakers” is the longest-running television series offering continuing coverage of the Illinois General Assembly. Now in its 40th year of production, the series has found a new home with Capitol News Illinois. Learn more at capitolnewsillinois.com. Capitol News Illinois is a program of the Illinois Press Foundation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heartland-newsfeed-radio-network--2904397/support.

It's Good Friday, April 18th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus and Jonathan Clark Chinese Communists sentence Christians for Bible distribution Chinese Communists gave nine Christians prison sentences and large fines for re-selling and distributing Bibles in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia located in North China, reports International Christian Concern. On April 10th, the religious freedom magazine Bitter Winter reported their prison sentences were four years long and their fines ranged from $68 to more than $136,000. The sentences stem from charges and arrests in 2021, where the Christians bought legally published Bibles in Nanjing but ended up re-selling and distributing them at much lower prices as they wanted to share God's Word as a means of evangelism. These Chinese Christians will be inspired by 2 Corinthians 4:16-17. It says, “Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” Salvadoran President: Deported man will not be sent back to US When Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele came to the White House on April 14th, CNN host Kaitlan Collins asked a question about an illegal alien El Salvadoran man from Maryland, named Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who had been deported back to his country on March 15th. TRUMP: “Let's hear the question from this very low rated anchor.” COLLINS: “Do you plan to return him?” To be clear, Garcia was arrested in Baltimore, Maryland on March 12 by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. Attorney General Pam Bondi explained that he is a member of MS-13, a gang, which Trump has now designated a terrorist organization. BONDI: “In 2019, two courts, an immigration court and an appellate immigration court, ruled that he was a member of MS-13 and he was illegally in our country.” In response to Kaitlan Collins' question, Salvadoran President Bukele laughed, reports The Epoch Times. BUKELE: “The question is preposterous. How could I smuggle a terrorist to the United States? I don't have the power to return him to the United States.” Later, outside the White House, Stephen Miller, Trump's Deputy Chief of Staff, schooled reporters who seem to be more concerned with illegal alien MS-13 gang members than they are with the laws of our country. MILLER: “A judge has said he must be deported from the country. He has no right to remain here any longer. He must be removed from the country. So, his only options are to be deported to his home country or another country. That's it. There's no other option. He doesn't get to stay here. He doesn't get to live here. He has no future here. He has no right to be here. He's an illegal alien. “So, when you keep saying ‘return' because you've been spun up by the Open Borders advocates, you all seem to be operating under the illusion that he would be able to come to United States and just continue to live here illegally. That's not an option available to him. His only choices in life are to live in El Salvador or to live in another country. That's it. There's no other option, legally or otherwise, because he came to our country illegally. Do you understand that?” Trump administration examines negative impacts over "transgendering" The Trump administration ordered the National Institutes of Health to study the effects of so-called “gender transitioning.” A leaked memo indicates the agency must investigate the “chemical and surgical mutilation” of children and adults.  In particular, the Trump administration wants to identify negative impacts on physical and mental health caused by such practices. The investigation will also look into “regret and detransition” by people who have pretended to be the opposite sex.  Trump hosted an Easter prayer service On Wednesday night, President Donald Trump hosted an Easter prayer service dinner at the White House, reports The Associated Press. He affirmed the ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Listen. TRUMP: “Nearly 2,000 years ago, during the sacred week, the living Son of God entered Jerusalem in triumph. Soon after, the Savior of mankind, who brought truth and light into the world, was betrayed, arrested and tried, beaten and nailed to a cross and crucified. “For our sake, He gave up His life and, as the very great Reverend Billy Graham once said, ‘God proved His love on the cross. When Christ hung and bled and died, it was God saying to the world, ‘I love you.' “The death and resurrection of Jesus are the essence of the Christian faith. Whether rich or poor, healthy or sick, young or old, or in times of peace or war, Christians everywhere find solace and hope in the knowledge that Christ died for them and that they could be united with Him in Heaven. And that's what we want. That's what we all want.” Luke 24:6 says, “He is not here; He has risen! Remember how He told you, while He was still with you in Galilee.” 2 killed, 6 wounded at Florida State University shooting On Thursday, two people were killed at Florida State University in Tallahassee and six others were wounded by Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old political science major, as he opened fire from an orange Hummer.  The son of a Leon County Sheriff's deputy, he used his mother's handgun in the campus rampage, reports the Miami Herald. Appearing on Fox News Channel, FSU student Owen Girard described what he witnessed. GIRARD: “Sounded like a jackhammer, of these repetitive beats going on in the distance. Thought it was construction. Next thing you know, you have all of these students running at you, yelling that there's a shooter, so you just drop everything and run. That was our experience. We ran. We hid on the outskirts of campus.” Florida State University President Rick McCullough spoke at the press conference. McCULLOUGH: “This is a tragic day for Florida State University. We are absolutely heartbroken by the violence that occurred on our campus earlier today. Two have died. Five other innocents are being treated for their injuries. We're working to support the victims, their families, and everyone affected by this traumatic event.” Texas school choice passes the state House Texas lawmakers are one step closer to approving a $1 billion private school voucher program hours after passing a bill to allocate $7.7 billion in funding for public schools, reports The Christian Post. The voucher proposal, known as Senate Bill 2, passed the Texas House of Representatives on Thursday by a largely party-line vote of 85-63, in which all Democrats and two Republicans voted against it. Illinois bill hostile to homeschooling dies for now And finally, an Illinois bill, hostile to homeschoolers as well as private schools, missed a procedural deadline in April, reported Capitol News Illinois.  If it became law, homeschoolers could face penalties for not filling out government paperwork. However, the bill's main sponsor, Democratic State Rep. Terra Howard, has requested an extension to keep it on life support. On March 19th, 8,000 homeschooling parents and kids traveled to the Illinois state capitol where they packed the committee room and extended into the hallways and the Capitol Rotunda, reports HSLDA. Close And that's The Worldview on this Good Friday, April 18th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

In the latest episode of Illinois Lawmakers, host Jak Tichenor spoke with legislators about key issues at the Capitol. Discussions included the ongoing budget process, how federal government decisions are affecting Illinois, and Tier 2 pension reform. Other issues discussed include concerns about synthetic cannabis getting into Illinois prisons by mail.GUESTS: Ben Szalinski, Statehouse Reporter, Capitol News IllinoisSen. Elgie Sims Jr., Senate Majority Caucus Appropriations Leader (D-Chicago)Rep. Travis Weaver (R-Edwards)Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, (D-Oswego)Sen. Terri Bryant, Assistant Senate Republican Leader (R-Murphysboro)ABOUT THE SHOW:“Illinois Lawmakers” is the longest-running television series offering continuing coverage of the Illinois General Assembly. Now in its 40th year of production, the series has found a new home with Capitol News Illinois. Learn more at capitolnewsillinois.com. Capitol News Illinois is a program of the Illinois Press Foundation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heartland-newsfeed-radio-network--2904397/support.

In the latest episode of Illinois Lawmakers, host Jak Tichenor spoke with legislators about key issues at the Capitol. Discussions included reactions to Gov. JB Pritzker's budget proposal, mass transit reform, and the potential impacts from federal funding cuts to Medicaid and education. Other issues discussed include a proposed bill to ban cell phones in Illinois schools. Hosted by Jak Tichenor.GUESTS:Sen. John Curran, Senate Minority Leader (R-Downers Grove)Sen. Cristina Castro, Majority Caucus Whip (D-Elgin)Sen. Ram Villavalam, Majority Caucus Whip (D-Chicago)Peter Hancock, Statehouse Reporter, Capitol News Illinois ABOUT THE SHOW:“Illinois Lawmakers” is the longest-running television series offering continuing coverage of the Illinois General Assembly. Now in its 40th year of production, the series has found a new home with Capitol News Illinois. Learn more at capitolnewsillinois.com. Capitol News Illinois is a program of the Illinois Press Foundation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heartland-newsfeed-radio-network--2904397/support.

Trade mission to Mexico by Capitol News Illinois

Ben Szalinski, Statehouse reporter at Capitol News Illinois joins Dane Neal on Let’s Get Legal to discuss the end of reimbursements for Illinois food programs.

An investigation by ProPublica and Capitol News Illinois discovered that children were being mistreated and neglected while being homeschooled. State Representative and Chair of the Adoption and Child Welfare Committee in the Illinois House, Terra Costa Howard, joins Dane Neal for Let’s Gel Legal. The two discuss homeschooling and the new bill that hopes to protect children’s […]

The Supreme Court opined for the first time that Trump administration officials may be exceeding their authority to reshape the federal government by refusing to honor completed contracts, even as lower-court judges started blocking efforts to fire workers, freeze funding, and cancel ongoing contracts. Meanwhile, public health officials are alarmed at the Department of Health and Human Services' public handling of Texas' widening measles outbreak, particularly the secretary's less-than-full endorsement of vaccines. Lauren Weber of The Washington Post, Joanne Kenen of the Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health and Politico Magazine, and Stephanie Armour of KFF Health News join KFF Health News' Julie Rovner to discuss these stories and more.Plus, for “extra credit” the panelists suggest health policy stories they read this week that they think you should read, too: Julie Rovner: KFF Health News' “Future of Cancer Coverage for Women Federal Firefighters Uncertain Under Trump,” by Kylie Mohr. Joanne Kenen: ProPublica's “How Illinois' Hands-Off Approach to Homeschooling Leaves Children at Risk,” by Molly Parker and Beth Hundsdorfer, Capitol News Illinois. Stephanie Armour: The New York Times' “Organ Transplant System ‘in Chaos' as Waiting Lists Are Ignored,” by Brian M. Rosenthal, Mark Hansen, and Jeremy White. Lauren Weber: The Washington Post's “Amid West Texas Measles Outbreak, Vaccine Resistance Hardens,” by Fenit Nirappil and Elana Gordon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Illinois lawmakers are returning for a short lame duck session starting Saturday and a new legislative session begins Wednesday. Capitol News Illinois reporters Peter Hancock, Andrew Adams and Ben Szalinski discuss some of the issues that could be addressed.

How do you keep a grocery store open in a small or low-income community? The answer might involve regulating big box stores like Walmart and Kroger. Guest: Molly Parker, investigative reporter for Capitol News Illinois and a Local Reporting Network fellow at ProPublica. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you keep a grocery store open in a small or low-income community? The answer might involve regulating big box stores like Walmart and Kroger. Guest: Molly Parker, investigative reporter for Capitol News Illinois and a Local Reporting Network fellow at ProPublica. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you keep a grocery store open in a small or low-income community? The answer might involve regulating big box stores like Walmart and Kroger. Guest: Molly Parker, investigative reporter for Capitol News Illinois and a Local Reporting Network fellow at ProPublica. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you keep a grocery store open in a small or low-income community? The answer might involve regulating big box stores like Walmart and Kroger. Guest: Molly Parker, investigative reporter for Capitol News Illinois and a Local Reporting Network fellow at ProPublica. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Citizens Club of Springfield convened in November with a panel of political reporters to discuss the 2024 election and what it means. The panel featured retired reporter and columnist for The State Journal-Register Bernie Schoenburg, Illinois Times reporter Scott Reeder and Peter Hancock from Capitol News Illinois. The discussion was moderated by Kent Redfield, professor emeritus from the University of Illinois Springfield.

"The Election is Over. Now What?" That was the name of the panel discussion held by the UIS School of Politics and International Affairs, featuring UIS professors Matthew Geras, Isabel Skinner and Jason Pierceson. Jennifer Fuller from Capitol News Illinois moderated the discussion which provided analysis on the outcome of the election and what we are likely to see in future elections.

Biden bombs, Trump pounces in first debate of 2024 | Supreme Court rejects Missouri lawsuit alleging feds bullied social media platforms | The unemployment rate in Kansas has been under 3% for 30 months | Sean Diller mourns the senseless loss of another progressive Colorado Democrat, as incumbent State Representative Elisabeth Epps was defeated in a primary this week | IL Gov JB Pritzker announces new Department of Early ChildhoodFrom Eugene Daniels at Politoco: Dems freak out over Biden's debate performancehttps://www.politico.com/news/2024/06/27/biden-debate-opening-concerns-00165595One prominent operative texted, “Time for an open convention.”President Joe Biden stands on stage during a commercial break in a presidential debate at CNN Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 27, 2024. | Francis Chung/POLITICOBy EUGENE DANIELS06/27/2024 10:15 PM EDTUpdated: 06/27/2024 10:27 PM EDTPresident Joe Biden opened the debate with a raspy voice and disjointed, rambling answers, reigniting Democratic concerns about his age and ability to take on former President Donald Trump.Many of the president's answers were hard to follow. At one point, seemingly losing his train of thought, Biden said “we finally beat Medicare,” misspeaking about his own policy on earned benefits.In text messages with POLITICO, Democrats expressed confusion and concern as they watched the first minutes of the event. One former Biden White House and campaign aide called it “terrible,” adding that they have had to ask themselves over and over “What did he just say? This is crazy.”Another veteran Democratic operative texted, “Biden seems to have needed a few minutes to warm up. I wonder if the lack of an audience was the right decision. And poor guy needs a tea. Maybe a whiskey.”An attorney and Democratic activist from New Hampshire said, “Biden is toast — calling it now.”Biden's rambling answers provided Trump multiple opportunities to jump in with retorts. At one point, after an answer ostensibly on immigration, Trump said, “I don't know what he said at the end there. I don't think he knows what he said.”The president's performance was widely panned online and will likely reinforce the impression that he's lost a step. The 81-year-old president's age has long been a liability, with poll after poll showing even many Democrats concerned about his age.Biden aides and allies had hoped the on-stage split screen between the two men would help to focus voters' attention on the race. But during the debate, many Democrats have begun to doubt that strategy would actually work out in Biden's favor.A person familiar with Biden's health claimed that his performance is due to a cold. But the president's team hadn't mentioned that to reporters until Biden began to answer questions in the debate.One prominent operative texted, “Time for an open convention.”Better call the waaaambulance! Supreme Court rejects Missouri AG's petition trying to connect the government, to social media, to his own challenges and inadequacies.https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/26/scotus-rejects-suit-alleging-federal-government-bullied-social-media-into-censoring-content/SCOTUS rejects Missouri lawsuit alleging feds bullied social media into censoring contentThe lawsuit was filed in 2022 by Missouri and Louisiana, along with seven people who were either banned or throttled by social media companiesBY: JASON HANCOCK - JUNE 26, 2024 9:15 AMThe U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected arguments by Missouri and Louisiana that the federal government violated the First Amendment in its efforts to combat false, misleading and dangerous information online.In a 6-3 decision written by Justice Amy Coney Barrett, the court held that neither the states nor seven individuals who were co-plaintiffs in the case were able to demonstrate any harm or substantial risk that they will suffer an injury in the future.Therefore, they do not have legal standing to bring a case against the federal government.Plaintiffs failed to prove that social media platforms acted due to government coercion, Barrett wrote, rather than their own judgment and policies. In fact, she wrote, social media platforms “began to suppress the plaintiffs' COVID–19 content before the defendants' challenged communications started.”Plaintiffs cannot “manufacture standing,” Barrett wrote, “merely by inflicting harm on themselves based on their fears of hypothetical future harm that is not certainly impending.”The ruling overturns a lower court decision that concluded officials under Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump unlawfully coerced social media companies to remove deceptive or inaccurate content out of fears it would fuel vaccine hesitancy or upend elections.Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey called the federal government's actions “the biggest violation of the First Amendment in our nation's history.”But those arguments were greeted with skepticism by the court in March, with justices from across the ideological spectrum punching holes in the lawsuit and raising concerns about the consequences for public safety and national security.In an emailed statement, Bailey made no mention of the court's decision to dismiss the case, instead declaring that his office will continue to pursue evidence of social media censorship by the federal government.“Missouri is not done,” Bailey said. “We are going back to the district court to obtain more discovery in order to root out Joe Biden's vast censorship enterprise once and for all.”The lawsuit was filed in 2022 by Missouri and Louisiana, along with seven people who either were banned from a platform or whose posts were not prominently featured on social media sites such as Facebook, YouTube and X, then known as Twitter.Among the co-plaintiffs is Jim Hoft, founder of the St. Louis-based right-wing conspiracy website Gateway Pundit. Hoft has built a career on promulgating false conspiracies on a wide range of topics, from the 2018 Parkland school shooting to former President Barack Obama's birth certificate.His company recently filed for bankruptcy as it faces defamation lawsuits in Missouri and Colorado filed by people who say they faced threats after being vilified by Gateway Pundit in false stories.Hoft claims claims that Twitter, in December 2020, censored content about the Hunter Biden laptop story at the urging of the federal government. But Barrett wrote that Twitter acted according to its own rules against posting or sharing “privately produced/distributed intimate media of someone without their express consent.”There is no evidence, Barrett wrote, that Twitter adopted its policy in response to pressure from the federal government.3. Kansas unemployment has been under 3% for almost 3 years runninghttps://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-unemployment-rate-climbs-for-second-consecutive-month-to-2-9-in-may/Kansas unemployment rate 2.9%BY: TIM CARPENTER - JUNE 24, 2024 3:30 PMTOPEKA — The unemployment rate in Kansas was 2.9% in May, for an unprecedented 30 consecutive months with unemployment under 3%. The state's unemployment rate has remained under 3% since October 2021, after reaching double-digits in the twilight of Trump's presidency in 2020.In the past 12 months, Kansas' total nonfarm employment climbed by 24,000 jobs. The Department of Labor says that was due to a surge of 18,700 private sector positions and the addition of 5,300 government jobs.The average nominal hourly earnings in Kansas for private sector workers has increased 3.4% over the past 12 months to $30.09.4.  Go along to get along type wins Colorado blue seat primaryhttps://coloradonewsline.com/2024/06/25/camacho-leads-epps-in-closely-watched-colorado-statehouse-race/Camacho beats Epps in closely watched Colorado statehouse raceBY: SARA WILSON - JUNE 25, 2024 10:07 PM   Challenger Sean Camacho defeated Rep. Elisabeth Epps in the Democratic primary for state House District 6, according to early results from the Colorado secretary of state.Camacho was ahead with 63% of the vote, according to the results as of 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, and Associated Press-subscribed outlets reported that the AP called the race for Camacho.Camacho was the establishment-backed candidate. Epps was the more progressive, yet controversial, first-term lawmaker. The race was seen as a bellwether among many state Capitol observers.Epps, who heads the Colorado Freedom Fund, won her first term in office in 2022 after another tough primary challenge from Katie March. During her two years in office, she championed progressive legislation including a ban on most semi-automatic firearms and a bill to allow overdose authorization centers. She also publicly criticized House leadership over their handling of floor speech and open meetings practices. She was reprimanded by House leadership after she joined pro-Palestinian protestors in the chamber gallery during a special session last fall.Epps was backed by labor and grassroots groups including the AFL-CIO and SEIU Local 105.Camacho had endorsements from the Democratic establishment of Colorado, including Gov. Jared Polis, Attorney General Phil Weiser, House Speaker Julie McCluskie and Senate President Steve Fenberg.Camacho vastly outraised and outspent Epps, according to campaign finance records. He also benefited from outside spending. Various committees spent over $120,000 for communications opposing Epps and over $250,000 supporting him. That included a series of negative mailers targeting Epps.5. IL Gov JB Pritzker signs bill creating new Depaartment of Early Childhoodhttps://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/pritzker-signs-bill-creating-new-department-of-early-childhoodPritzker signs bill creating new Department of Early ChildhoodGov. JB Pritzker holds up Senate Bill 1 after signing it into law, flanked by Reps. Mary Beth Canty, D-Arlington Heights, and Will Davis, D-Homewood (left) and lead Senate sponsor Sen. Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood (right). Pritzker said the agency is expected to be up and running in 2026. (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)Tuesday, June 25, 2024New agency to bring multiple programs under one roofBy PETER HANCOCKCapitol News Illinoisphancock@capitolnewsillinois.comSPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation Tuesday creating a new cabinet-level state agency dedicated to early childhood education and development.The new Department of Early Childhood, which will become operational in July 2026, will take over programs currently housed across three state agencies, including funding for preschool programs, child care centers and the licensing of day care centers.Speaking at a bill signing ceremony at a preschool in Chicago, Pritzker said the streamlined agency  should make it easier for new parents to access critical services for their children.“It's hard enough juggling all the responsibilities that fall on the shoulders of parents,” he said. “And on top of that, they shouldn't have to navigate a complex bureaucracy to get the care that they and their children deserve.”  A chalkboard welcome sign for Gov. JB Pritzker inside Eyes On The Future Child Development Center in Chicago's far north side neighborhood of Rogers Park. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1 there, which will create the framework for a new state agency geared towards early childhood development. (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)  Pritzker first unveiled his plan for a consolidated agency last fall, just as lawmakers were beginning their annual fall veto session, when he issued an executive order establishing an Office of Early Childhood within the governor's office. Read more: Pritzker proposes creation of new standalone early childhood agencyThat order directed the Department of Human Services, the Department of Children and Family Services, and the Illinois State Board of Education to begin working on a transition plan to move the administration of their early childhood programs into a new agency.The formal bid to establish the new agency was part of Pritzker's budget proposal to the General Assembly in February, along with a second year of increased funding for those programs under Pritzker's Smart Start initiative.Under the plan, the new agency will take over the Early Childhood Block Grant program from the State Board of Education, which funds the Preschool for All and Prevention Initiative programs; the Child Care Assistance Program, Home Visiting programs, and Early Intervention Services currently housed in the Department of Human Services; and licensing of day care facilities, which is currently managed by the Department of Children and Family Services.The legislation authorizing the new agency, Senate Bill 1, passed unanimously in the Senate in April, and last month passed with bipartisan support in the House, 93-18.“The foundation of a child's success and well-being is built starting the moment they are born,” Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood, the lead Senate sponsor of the bill, said in a statement. “As a state, it is our duty to provide the necessary support and resources to build such stability. The creation of this unique agency will break ground on our transition to a whole, trauma-informed approach to meeting children's diverse needs.”  Gov. JB Pritzker poses for photos with early childhood advocates following a signing event for Senate Bill 1, which creates the Department of Early Childhood. Pritzker said the agency will immediately “make life simpler, better, and fairer for tens of thousands of Illinois families.” (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)Much of the debate over the bill in the legislature focused on the cost of launching a new state agency. Lawmakers appropriated $14 million in the upcoming fiscal year for initial startup costs, which include such things as hiring executive staff and opening new office space.But administration officials were reluctant to provide estimates of how much the new agency would cost annually once it's fully operational, and whether those administrative costs would outweigh what the state is spending currently.Responding to questions from reporters Tuesday, Pritzker again declined to offer specific cost estimates but suggested consolidating the programs into a single agency could result in efficiencies and cost savings. But he did chide “people who want to complain” about how new state agencies will “cost...taxpayers.”  “I really don't think it will,” Pritzker said. “I think there's real efficiency and taking programs that are desperately located in different departments and bringing them all together.”Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, radio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association. @TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Threads)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Threads) Sean Diller (no social)The Heartland Collective - Sign Up Today!JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Biden bombs, Trump pounces in first debate of 2024 | Supreme Court rejects Missouri lawsuit alleging feds bullied social media platforms | The unemployment rate in Kansas has been under 3% for 30 months | Sean Diller mourns the senseless loss of another progressive Colorado Democrat, as incumbent State Representative Elisabeth Epps was defeated in a primary this week | IL Gov JB Pritzker announces new Department of Early ChildhoodFrom Eugene Daniels at Politoco: Dems freak out over Biden's debate performancehttps://www.politico.com/news/2024/06/27/biden-debate-opening-concerns-00165595One prominent operative texted, “Time for an open convention.”President Joe Biden stands on stage during a commercial break in a presidential debate at CNN Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 27, 2024. | Francis Chung/POLITICOBy EUGENE DANIELS06/27/2024 10:15 PM EDTUpdated: 06/27/2024 10:27 PM EDTPresident Joe Biden opened the debate with a raspy voice and disjointed, rambling answers, reigniting Democratic concerns about his age and ability to take on former President Donald Trump.Many of the president's answers were hard to follow. At one point, seemingly losing his train of thought, Biden said “we finally beat Medicare,” misspeaking about his own policy on earned benefits.In text messages with POLITICO, Democrats expressed confusion and concern as they watched the first minutes of the event. One former Biden White House and campaign aide called it “terrible,” adding that they have had to ask themselves over and over “What did he just say? This is crazy.”Another veteran Democratic operative texted, “Biden seems to have needed a few minutes to warm up. I wonder if the lack of an audience was the right decision. And poor guy needs a tea. Maybe a whiskey.”An attorney and Democratic activist from New Hampshire said, “Biden is toast — calling it now.”Biden's rambling answers provided Trump multiple opportunities to jump in with retorts. At one point, after an answer ostensibly on immigration, Trump said, “I don't know what he said at the end there. I don't think he knows what he said.”The president's performance was widely panned online and will likely reinforce the impression that he's lost a step. The 81-year-old president's age has long been a liability, with poll after poll showing even many Democrats concerned about his age.Biden aides and allies had hoped the on-stage split screen between the two men would help to focus voters' attention on the race. But during the debate, many Democrats have begun to doubt that strategy would actually work out in Biden's favor.A person familiar with Biden's health claimed that his performance is due to a cold. But the president's team hadn't mentioned that to reporters until Biden began to answer questions in the debate.One prominent operative texted, “Time for an open convention.”Better call the waaaambulance! Supreme Court rejects Missouri AG's petition trying to connect the government, to social media, to his own challenges and inadequacies.https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/26/scotus-rejects-suit-alleging-federal-government-bullied-social-media-into-censoring-content/SCOTUS rejects Missouri lawsuit alleging feds bullied social media into censoring contentThe lawsuit was filed in 2022 by Missouri and Louisiana, along with seven people who were either banned or throttled by social media companiesBY: JASON HANCOCK - JUNE 26, 2024 9:15 AMThe U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected arguments by Missouri and Louisiana that the federal government violated the First Amendment in its efforts to combat false, misleading and dangerous information online.In a 6-3 decision written by Justice Amy Coney Barrett, the court held that neither the states nor seven individuals who were co-plaintiffs in the case were able to demonstrate any harm or substantial risk that they will suffer an injury in the future.Therefore, they do not have legal standing to bring a case against the federal government.Plaintiffs failed to prove that social media platforms acted due to government coercion, Barrett wrote, rather than their own judgment and policies. In fact, she wrote, social media platforms “began to suppress the plaintiffs' COVID–19 content before the defendants' challenged communications started.”Plaintiffs cannot “manufacture standing,” Barrett wrote, “merely by inflicting harm on themselves based on their fears of hypothetical future harm that is not certainly impending.”The ruling overturns a lower court decision that concluded officials under Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump unlawfully coerced social media companies to remove deceptive or inaccurate content out of fears it would fuel vaccine hesitancy or upend elections.Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey called the federal government's actions “the biggest violation of the First Amendment in our nation's history.”But those arguments were greeted with skepticism by the court in March, with justices from across the ideological spectrum punching holes in the lawsuit and raising concerns about the consequences for public safety and national security.In an emailed statement, Bailey made no mention of the court's decision to dismiss the case, instead declaring that his office will continue to pursue evidence of social media censorship by the federal government.“Missouri is not done,” Bailey said. “We are going back to the district court to obtain more discovery in order to root out Joe Biden's vast censorship enterprise once and for all.”The lawsuit was filed in 2022 by Missouri and Louisiana, along with seven people who either were banned from a platform or whose posts were not prominently featured on social media sites such as Facebook, YouTube and X, then known as Twitter.Among the co-plaintiffs is Jim Hoft, founder of the St. Louis-based right-wing conspiracy website Gateway Pundit. Hoft has built a career on promulgating false conspiracies on a wide range of topics, from the 2018 Parkland school shooting to former President Barack Obama's birth certificate.His company recently filed for bankruptcy as it faces defamation lawsuits in Missouri and Colorado filed by people who say they faced threats after being vilified by Gateway Pundit in false stories.Hoft claims claims that Twitter, in December 2020, censored content about the Hunter Biden laptop story at the urging of the federal government. But Barrett wrote that Twitter acted according to its own rules against posting or sharing “privately produced/distributed intimate media of someone without their express consent.”There is no evidence, Barrett wrote, that Twitter adopted its policy in response to pressure from the federal government.3. Kansas unemployment has been under 3% for almost 3 years runninghttps://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-unemployment-rate-climbs-for-second-consecutive-month-to-2-9-in-may/Kansas unemployment rate 2.9%BY: TIM CARPENTER - JUNE 24, 2024 3:30 PMTOPEKA — The unemployment rate in Kansas was 2.9% in May, for an unprecedented 30 consecutive months with unemployment under 3%. The state's unemployment rate has remained under 3% since October 2021, after reaching double-digits in the twilight of Trump's presidency in 2020.In the past 12 months, Kansas' total nonfarm employment climbed by 24,000 jobs. The Department of Labor says that was due to a surge of 18,700 private sector positions and the addition of 5,300 government jobs.The average nominal hourly earnings in Kansas for private sector workers has increased 3.4% over the past 12 months to $30.09.4.  Go along to get along type wins Colorado blue seat primaryhttps://coloradonewsline.com/2024/06/25/camacho-leads-epps-in-closely-watched-colorado-statehouse-race/Camacho beats Epps in closely watched Colorado statehouse raceBY: SARA WILSON - JUNE 25, 2024 10:07 PM   Challenger Sean Camacho defeated Rep. Elisabeth Epps in the Democratic primary for state House District 6, according to early results from the Colorado secretary of state.Camacho was ahead with 63% of the vote, according to the results as of 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, and Associated Press-subscribed outlets reported that the AP called the race for Camacho.Camacho was the establishment-backed candidate. Epps was the more progressive, yet controversial, first-term lawmaker. The race was seen as a bellwether among many state Capitol observers.Epps, who heads the Colorado Freedom Fund, won her first term in office in 2022 after another tough primary challenge from Katie March. During her two years in office, she championed progressive legislation including a ban on most semi-automatic firearms and a bill to allow overdose authorization centers. She also publicly criticized House leadership over their handling of floor speech and open meetings practices. She was reprimanded by House leadership after she joined pro-Palestinian protestors in the chamber gallery during a special session last fall.Epps was backed by labor and grassroots groups including the AFL-CIO and SEIU Local 105.Camacho had endorsements from the Democratic establishment of Colorado, including Gov. Jared Polis, Attorney General Phil Weiser, House Speaker Julie McCluskie and Senate President Steve Fenberg.Camacho vastly outraised and outspent Epps, according to campaign finance records. He also benefited from outside spending. Various committees spent over $120,000 for communications opposing Epps and over $250,000 supporting him. That included a series of negative mailers targeting Epps.5. IL Gov JB Pritzker signs bill creating new Depaartment of Early Childhoodhttps://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/pritzker-signs-bill-creating-new-department-of-early-childhoodPritzker signs bill creating new Department of Early ChildhoodGov. JB Pritzker holds up Senate Bill 1 after signing it into law, flanked by Reps. Mary Beth Canty, D-Arlington Heights, and Will Davis, D-Homewood (left) and lead Senate sponsor Sen. Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood (right). Pritzker said the agency is expected to be up and running in 2026. (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)Tuesday, June 25, 2024New agency to bring multiple programs under one roofBy PETER HANCOCKCapitol News Illinoisphancock@capitolnewsillinois.comSPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation Tuesday creating a new cabinet-level state agency dedicated to early childhood education and development.The new Department of Early Childhood, which will become operational in July 2026, will take over programs currently housed across three state agencies, including funding for preschool programs, child care centers and the licensing of day care centers.Speaking at a bill signing ceremony at a preschool in Chicago, Pritzker said the streamlined agency  should make it easier for new parents to access critical services for their children.“It's hard enough juggling all the responsibilities that fall on the shoulders of parents,” he said. “And on top of that, they shouldn't have to navigate a complex bureaucracy to get the care that they and their children deserve.”  A chalkboard welcome sign for Gov. JB Pritzker inside Eyes On The Future Child Development Center in Chicago's far north side neighborhood of Rogers Park. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1 there, which will create the framework for a new state agency geared towards early childhood development. (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)  Pritzker first unveiled his plan for a consolidated agency last fall, just as lawmakers were beginning their annual fall veto session, when he issued an executive order establishing an Office of Early Childhood within the governor's office. Read more: Pritzker proposes creation of new standalone early childhood agencyThat order directed the Department of Human Services, the Department of Children and Family Services, and the Illinois State Board of Education to begin working on a transition plan to move the administration of their early childhood programs into a new agency.The formal bid to establish the new agency was part of Pritzker's budget proposal to the General Assembly in February, along with a second year of increased funding for those programs under Pritzker's Smart Start initiative.Under the plan, the new agency will take over the Early Childhood Block Grant program from the State Board of Education, which funds the Preschool for All and Prevention Initiative programs; the Child Care Assistance Program, Home Visiting programs, and Early Intervention Services currently housed in the Department of Human Services; and licensing of day care facilities, which is currently managed by the Department of Children and Family Services.The legislation authorizing the new agency, Senate Bill 1, passed unanimously in the Senate in April, and last month passed with bipartisan support in the House, 93-18.“The foundation of a child's success and well-being is built starting the moment they are born,” Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood, the lead Senate sponsor of the bill, said in a statement. “As a state, it is our duty to provide the necessary support and resources to build such stability. The creation of this unique agency will break ground on our transition to a whole, trauma-informed approach to meeting children's diverse needs.”  Gov. JB Pritzker poses for photos with early childhood advocates following a signing event for Senate Bill 1, which creates the Department of Early Childhood. Pritzker said the agency will immediately “make life simpler, better, and fairer for tens of thousands of Illinois families.” (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)Much of the debate over the bill in the legislature focused on the cost of launching a new state agency. Lawmakers appropriated $14 million in the upcoming fiscal year for initial startup costs, which include such things as hiring executive staff and opening new office space.But administration officials were reluctant to provide estimates of how much the new agency would cost annually once it's fully operational, and whether those administrative costs would outweigh what the state is spending currently.Responding to questions from reporters Tuesday, Pritzker again declined to offer specific cost estimates but suggested consolidating the programs into a single agency could result in efficiencies and cost savings. But he did chide “people who want to complain” about how new state agencies will “cost...taxpayers.”  “I really don't think it will,” Pritzker said. “I think there's real efficiency and taking programs that are desperately located in different departments and bringing them all together.”Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, radio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association. @TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Threads)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Threads) Sean Diller (no social)The Heartland Collective - Sign Up Today!JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium http://www.americanaquarium.com/