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Starting in January, the amount of federal money states use to provide permanent supportive housing for disabled residents who have experienced homelessness is decreasing by two-thirds. This is part of the Trump administration's shift away from the housing first model in favor of transitional housing with work and treatment requirements. In the Loop makes sense of how this major shift could affect Illinoisans with Thresholds CEO Mark Ishaug and Illinois Chief Homelessness Officer Christine Haley. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.
Angel Studios https://Angel.com/HermanJoin the Angel Guild today where you can stream Thank You, Dr. Fauci and be part of the conversation demanding truth and accountability. Renue Healthcare https://Renue.Healthcare/ToddYour journey to a better life starts at Renue Healthcare. Visit https://Renue.Healthcare/Todd Bulwark Capital https://KnowYourRiskPodcast.comBe confident in your portfolio with Bulwark! Schedule your free Know Your Risk Portfolio review. Go to KnowYourRiskPodcast.com today. Alan's Soaps https://www.AlansArtisanSoaps.comUse coupon code TODD to save an additional 10% off the bundle price.Bonefrog https://BonefrogCoffee.com/ToddThe new GOLDEN AGE is here! Use code TODD at checkout to receive 10% off your first purchase and 15% on subscriptions.LISTEN and SUBSCRIBE at:The Todd Herman Show - Podcast - Apple PodcastsThe Todd Herman Show | Podcast on SpotifyWATCH and SUBSCRIBE at: Todd Herman - The Todd Herman Show - YouTubeThe nation has a gift for you. Starting in Illinois, Apple is rolling out a more “convenient”, “portable”, “accessible” form of digital ID. Here's why I call it a “Fauci Phone”...Episode Links:The View Tells Service Members ‘Following Orders' Won't Save ThemRemember when Dr. Fauci told Americans to prohibit unvaccinated family members from Thanksgiving dinner? I do. We can never allow this tyranny again.Illinoisans can now add digital ID to their Apple Wallet - KSDK, ChicagoHow to add a digital Illinois driver's license to your Apple Wallet - NBC ChicagoIL Sec of State announces IDs for Apple WalletWill humanoid robots become superhuman soldiers?Capehart Bristles At The Idea That Calling Trump An Authoritarian Is Bad
The longest government shutdown in U.S. history came to an end Wednesday. The bill signed by President Trump provides back pay for federal employees and funds some federal agencies until September 2026. What it doesn't do is extend subsidies for the Affordable Care Act, which are set to expire at the end of the year. Some can expect to see their insurance premiums rise to the point it's unaffordable to have health insurance. In the Loop sits down with Community Health CEO Stephanie Willding and UIC health policy professor Justin Markowski to hear how skyrocketing insurance premiums could impact the work of people providing healthcare. For a full archive of In the Loop interviews, head over to wbez.org/intheloop.
State Senator Ram Villivalam recently led a transformative measure through the Senate to ensure the world-class public transit system that Illinoisans deserve. Learn more about that legislation and what it means for the future of public transit in our state, in this edition of the News Brief.
SNAP benefits are set to end for millions in Illinois this Saturday, leaving families in Springfield's 16th District vulnerable to hunger. State Senator Willie Preston called attention to the crisis at a recent press conference, stressing that 1.9 million Illinoisans—including children, seniors, and veterans—will lose critical food assistance. Preston urged community members to support local food pantries, reminding listeners that pantries alone can't fill the gap left by the federal program. He praised Governor Pritzker for dedicating $20 million to state food banks and coordinating ongoing efforts to support residents in the face of escalating food insecurity.
The loss of federal food assistance due to the government shutdown will affect nearly 2 million Illinoisans. Gov. JB Pritzker is directing $20 million to help close the gap, but Sun-Times reporter Tina Sfondeles explains that's only a fraction of the need. She talks with executive producer Simone Alicea and Alex Nitkin with the Illinois Answers Project about what's next. Plus, they discuss the charges facing local political candidates, transit funding, suburban tax loopholes, and a couple of architectural projects worth taking a look at. UPDATE: Early Friday, about an hour after this episode came out, state lawmakers passed a $1.5 billion transit bailout. Instead of some of the more controversial statewide taxes, money will come from the Road Fund and a localized sales tax increase. We'll have more next week. An earlier version of this episode's title has been changed to reflect the news. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Oct. 31 episode: Broadway in Chicago Deborah's Place Window Nation MUBI Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Mayor Brandon Johnson's $16.6 billion budget revives the head tax and tests the limits of his support in the City Council. Crain's reporter Justin Laurence discusses with host Amy Guth.Plus: Cboe looks to extend options hours in overnight trading push, nearly 2 million Illinoisans set to lose SNAP benefits amid congressional stalemate, BDO faces a reputational test after the First Brands bankruptcy, Medline net sales in first half reach $13.5 billion ahead of IPO and Spirit Halloween to open Christmas-themed stores in Illinois this season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
As the government officially shuts down, Congressman Sean Casten shares his thoughts on what could have been done to prevent this situation and what this means for Illinoisans. The 21st Show is Illinois' statewide weekday public radio talk show, connecting Illinois and bringing you the news, culture, and stories that matter to the 21st state. Have thoughts on the show or one of our episodes, or want to share an idea for something we should talk about? Send us an email: talk@21stshow.org. If you'd like to have your say as we're planning conversations, join our texting group! Just send the word "TALK" to (217) 803-0730. Subscribe to our podcast and hear our latest conversations. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PT6pb0 Find past segments, links to our social media and more at our website: 21stshow.org.
A few years ago, a group of researchers asked thousands of Illinois workers how they feel about their jobs as part of a study for the Project for Middle Class Renewal, which is part of the School of Labor and Employment Relations at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. One of the researchers joins the program to discuss some of the findings. The 21st Show is Illinois' statewide weekday public radio talk show, connecting Illinois and bringing you the news, culture, and stories that matter to the 21st state. Have thoughts on the show or one of our episodes, or want to share an idea for something we should talk about? Send us an email: talk@21stshow.org. If you'd like to have your say as we're planning conversations, join our texting group! Just send the word "TALK" to (217) 803-0730. Subscribe to our podcast and hear our latest conversations. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PT6pb0 Find past segments, links to our social media and more at our website: 21stshow.org.
In a collaboration between the Illinois Department of Health and Human Services and several nonprofits, Governor JB Pritzker recently announced a new resource for LGBTQ individuals in the state. This comes as the Trump administration rolls back similar supports for the community. The 21st Show is Illinois' statewide weekday public radio talk show, connecting Illinois and bringing you the news, culture, and stories that matter to the 21st state. Have thoughts on the show or one of our episodes, or want to share an idea for something we should talk about? Send us an email: talk@21stshow.org. If you'd like to have your say as we're planning conversations, join our texting group! Just send the word "TALK" to (217) 803-0730. Subscribe to our podcast and hear our latest conversations. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PT6pb0 Find past segments, links to our social media and more at our website: 21stshow.org.
In today’s deep dive, tattoo removal programs could help people in Illinois prisons and jails find a fresh start.
Former Congressman John Shimkus joined Patrick to discuss the ongoing negotiations in the Ukraine/Russia war and the high energy prices currently impacting Illinoisans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A new program is helping Illinoisans of African descent reconnect and reclaim ancestral ties lost due to the transatlantic slave trade. In a period spanning over 400 years, more than 13 million men, women, and children were forcibly transported across the Atlantic Ocean to work in the Americas, devastating familial bonds. Now, the Illinois Family Roots Pilot program is offering free DNA testing so people can trace their roots into the past and connect with living relatives. Reset learns more about the state program and hears from two Chicago-area residents who connected after DNA testing showed they were related. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.
The Trump administration is requesting voting data from numerous states across the country including Illinois.The head of an election research center and a politcal science professor weigh in.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias joins Lisa Dent to advocate for a change in car insurance pricing in Illinois. Giannoulias, in an effort to combat auto insurance pricing, is asking for Illinoisans to report any instance of pricing discrimination based on factors other than driving record.
U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL 8) joins Lisa Dent while on the road to share some stories from rural Illinoisans that will be affected by President Trump’s budget bill. Then, Rep. Krishnamoorthi addresses questions concerning the Epstein files. And he shares his thoughts on a potential presidential pardon for Epstein’s accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell.
Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski shares her views on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and how it will impact her constituents.
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is changing the country's vaccine policies- from childhood vaccinations to COVID immunizations. Many experts are raising concerns about what that could mean for public health.
The newly enacted Big Beautiful Bill Act will require states to cover some or all of the costs of providing SNAP benefits and Medicaid, tighten work requirements and essentially reshape who qualifies for help and for how long. So what does this all mean for Illinoisans who are at risk for losing critical support?
10:05 – 10:22 (17mins) Weekly: Tim Jones @SpeakerTimJones “The Tim Jones and Chris Arps Show” weekdays 4p-6p on NewstalkSTL 10:41 – 10:56 (15mins) Dylan Sharkey, assistant editor, ILLINOIS POLICY INSTITUTE Illinois gas tax hike, Chicago minimum wage increase among new laws effective July 1Illinois Policy Institute reveals the typical driver will pay $143 more in gas taxes this year than in 2019 CHICAGO (June 30, 2025) – Illinois’ second-highest in the nation gas taxes will rise again tomorrow as the state motor fuel tax hits 48.3 cents per gallon.That means the average driver in Illinois will pay $143 more in state gas taxes annually compared to before Gov. J.B. Pritzker doubled the tax in 2019, according to the Illinois Policy Institute.In total, when combined with existing federal, state and local fuel taxes, Illinois’ gas tax burden can reach up to 85 cents per gallon. Drivers in Chicago pay even more, with an additional 8 cents in city tax and 3 cents from Cook County, along with added sales taxes for each.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Ferguson in the Morning - Where does Iran go from here? President Trump said that with their Nuclear capabilities devastated, he's not interested in any further involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict. -The "Missouri Screw Job" that cost Sen. Brattin his spot in the Freedom Caucus may backfire, as it's likely the tax reduction deal will be blocked in court. -JB Pritzker has announced he is seeking a 3rd term as Illinois Governor - and clearly is setting up to launch his presidential campaign down the road. IL State Rep Adam Niemerg explains why Pritzker is a disaster not only for Illinoisans, but the United States in whole. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
MO Attorney General Andrew Bailey gives us an invitation to see the way Missouri handles things vs. Illinois! And we end the hour talking VIPness, and other misstatements.
President Donald Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" calls for big cuts to social welfare programs including Medicaid. How will this impact Illinoisans?
From renters facing hidden housing costs to families looking for afforadble libary access and diners unknowingly paying inflated reservation fees, members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus are taking action to protect everyday Illinoisans. In this edition of the News Brief, learn more about legislative efforts from State Senators Mike Simmons, Laura Ellman, and Sara Feigenholtz.
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning Illinoisans to keep on the lookout for text message scams claiming to be from the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles”.
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning Illinoisans to keep on the lookout for text message scams claiming to be from the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles”.
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning Illinoisans to keep on the lookout for text message scams claiming to be from the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles”.
On Memorial Day, we learn about the ongoing work to identify missing soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines from America's past wars. That includes Illinoisans who've finally been accounted for, like Marine Sgt. Robert F. Van Heck of Chicago, killed at age 25 during the Battle of Tarawa in World War II. Plus, we'll talk about the enduring symbolism and mythology of soldiers thought left behind in Vietnam.
Illinois continues to see a troubling trend: a significant population decline, especially among young adults and families. Since April 2020, the state's population under 18 has dropped by 6.1%, outpacing the national decline. Wealthy millennials and young professionals are also leaving, citing difficult public policies. State Representative Dan Swanson is proposing HB1501, a bill targeting one major barrier for young Illinoisans: access to farmland. The legislation would offer tax credits to those selling or renting agricultural assets to beginner farmers. Swanson says soaring land prices—now exceeding $20,000 an acre—make farming unattainable without family inheritance.
Illinois Senate Democrats are advancing legislative efforts to support youth, families, and educators across the state, creating healthier, safer, and more equitable futures for all Illinoisans. Learn more about measures from State Senators Adriane Johnson, Mike Porfirio, and Robert Peters in this edition of the News Brief.
President Trump signed an executive order barring birthright citizenship for children whose parents lack legal status in the U.S. and for some visa holders. Three judges have filed national injunctions to block this order, and the Supreme Court is deliberating the case. If the court sides with the Trump administration, automatic citizenship could be denied to kids in 28 states. Reset learns what's at stake for Illinoisans from UIC law professor Steve Schwinn, Dulce Ortiz of the Illinois Coalition of Immigrant and Refugee Rights and the Mano a Mano Family Resource Center and Ana Gil Garcia the Illinois Venezuelan Alliance. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.
Because of crime-free housing ordinances, 1 in 4 Illinoisans live in rental properties that require them to sign a lease that says they could be evicted if accused of a crime – even a minor offense that isn't prosecuted. A year-long investigation by the New York Times combed through police data and interviewed dozens of landlords and tenants to learn the effects of these laws. Reset learns more about these ordinances and hears about potential solutions with Illinois Answers Project reporter Sidnee King Pineda, and journalist Ben Austen. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.
(The Center Square) – A visit to Springfield Wednesday by U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is sparking debate over Illinois' migrant sanctuary policies. Noem flew into Springfield's airport and then went to a Springfield DHS processing center to talk with federal agents and two non-citizens being processed. The motorcade then stopped in a residential area of Springfield near downtown, where she stood with family of Illinoisans who lost lives allegedly at the hands of illegal immigrants or by fentanyl overdose. Noem urged Gov. J.B. Pritzker to cooperate with federal officials.
Habemus papem — we have a new pope, and he is from Illinois! Pope Leo XIV — born Robert Francis Prevost — was raised in Dolton, in the south suburbs of Chicago. We'll talk about what his selection means for Catholics around the world, and back home in the 21st state.
Farmers across Illinois may soon see relief from increasing wildlife-related crop damage. Legislation sponsored by Senator Neil Anderson, Senate Bill 710, cleared the State Senate unanimously and now moves to the House for review. The bill aims to help manage deer overpopulation, a persistent issue causing both agricultural losses and vehicle accidents. Key measures include automatic issuance of extra hunting permits for qualifying landowners, expanded free permits for those with at least 40 acres, and new guest permit options. The initiative was developed with input from local farm bureaus and state officials, underscoring the push for practical, bipartisan solutions. “Agriculture is Illinois' leading industry, and when experts in the field raise concerns, it's our responsibility as lawmakers to find real solutions,” said Senator Anderson. “This is a bipartisan issue, and I'm grateful my colleagues recognized the significant impact deer overpopulation has on both agriculture and public safety.” “This bill is a result of collaboration with local farm bureaus, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and the Illinois Farm Bureau,” Senator Anderson added. “It's a strong first step, and I'm committed to continuing our conversations further based on continued feedback from our agricultural community.” Anderson also stressed the public safety benefits of the legislation regarding deer-related vehicle accidents. Reducing deer populations near roadways is a crucial part of protecting drivers, especially in rural areas where these collisions are most frequent. “This bill supports our farmers, but it also looks out for everyday Illinoisans who drive our roads,” said Senator Anderson. “It's about protecting crops, ensuring road safety, and managing wildlife in a responsible, effective way.”
Greg Bishop discusses the news of Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin announcing he's not seeking reelection, which opens up the seat for voters to pick a new Senator in 2026.
Todd Shapiro, Vice Chancellor and incoming Chancellor of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois, joins Lisa Dent to discuss the Lincoln Academy of Illinois. The academy bestows the Order of Lincoln Award to Illinoisans for their contributions to humanity. This year’s ceremony is open to the public, free of charge, on May 3rd.
Giordano's new CEO is eyeing an expansion and a digital overhaul. Crain's reporter Brandon Dupre talks with host Amy Guth about the pizza chief's company vision and about Michelin-starred Moody Tongue's new tasting menu.Plus: United Airlines makes a play for O'Hare's road warriors, Microsoft pulls back on data centers from Chicago to Jakarta, Illinoisans on Forbes' latest billionaires list and new Choose Chicago CEO embraces "challenge" of marketing the city.
The weekly news roundup turns this week to Champaign-Urbana, where we hear about a fired-and-rehired worker at the VA, the man expected to be Urbana's first Black mayor, and more.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) joins the show to talk about how he is fighting the Trump administration, the steps he is taking to make life better for Illinoisans, and how Democrats can do the same for all Americans.
May 7 is the deadline to acquire a Real ID before the new federal guidelines are enforced. DMVs all across the country are seeing unprecedented demand. Illinoisans are experiencing long lines and even longer wait times. Last year, the “Get Real, Illinois” campaign launched to encourage residents to “get real” well in advance of the deadline. However, only around 30% of Illinois residents have Real IDs. Despite the looming cutoff, state officials are reminding Illinoisans not to panic. Reset learns more about the Real ID mandate from Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.
In the 6 AM Hour: Larry O’Connor and Julie Gunlock discussed: DNI Tulsi Gabbard moves to terminate, revoke security clearances of NSA employees tied to explicit chatrooms Julie Gunlock’s Oped in RealClearHealth on RFK and restoring trust in public health JB Pritzker on X: "RFK Jr’s views are dangerous, misguided, and deeply disturbing. Frankly, his policies will hurt people. I will push back on any attempts to disrupt the health and safety of Illinoisans. Nicole Shanahan announces conversion to Christianity WMAL GUEST: 6:35 AM - INTERVIEW - CAL THOMAS - Syndicated columnist CAL THOMAS: Democrats cry ‘constitutional crisis,’ but they created itUS and Ukraine agree to terms on natural resources and reconstruction deal, Ukrainian official says Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow the Show Podcasts on Apple podcasts, Audible and Spotify. Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @Jgunlock, @patricepinkfile, and @heatherhunterdc. Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Show Website: https://www.wmal.com/oconnor-company/ How to listen live weekdays from 5 to 9 AM: https://www.wmal.com/listenlive/ Episode: Wednesday, February 26, 2025 / 6 AM Hour See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Indiana has looked at adding 33 counties from Illinois that signaled they want to leave the state - which could lead to whole new maps of the U.S.Indiana House Republicans have listed embracing the counties from neighboring Illinois as one of their top 2025 legislative session priorities. House Speaker Todd Huston said Thursday that Republicans are considering the proposal after roughly a third of counties in the Prairie state voted to break away.If successful, it will drastically alter the map for Illinoisans.“We just think this is a great opportunity for people that are interested in Illinois that want to secede, but we say, ‘join us.' Low taxes, low regulatory environment, a ton of economic development already taking place,” Huston told Fox32. “We're kinda raising our hand to say 'hey don't start a 51st state, we'd love to have you in Indiana.'”
State Representative Travis Weaver, representing the 93rd District in Illinois, was sworn in for his second term today in Springfield. Weaver emphasized his commitment to education, fiscal responsibility, job growth, and agriculture. He aims to address significant budget deficits while reducing taxes and regulations. “It is the honor and privilege of a lifetime to represent the amazing people of the 93rd District in the Illinois House of Representatives,” said Rep. Weaver. “I look forward to continuing to bring effective, common-sense conservative reform to Springfield. My bipartisan legislative priorities continue to be Education, Fiscal Responsibility, Job Growth, and Agriculture. We are facing huge budget deficits this year, and in the future, if we don't start enacting common-sense reforms and impactful legislation. Illinoisans are tired of being over-taxed and over-regulated, and I'll continue to fight for the hard-working folks of the 93rd District.”
The state minimum wage is increasing, Gov. Pritzker's healthcare reforms are going into effect, and digital IDs are now legal for Illinoisans. Reset got a round up of some of the most notable laws of 2025 from WBEZ statehouse reporter Mawa Iqbal. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.
Some Illinois residents checking the mail have been in for a big surprise: A letter confirming that their medical debt has been erased. Reset learns more about the program and looks at other recent efforts to erase medical debt in our area with Elizabeth Whitehorn, director of the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services and Rev. Otis Moss III, senior pastor at Trinity United Church of Christ. For a full archive of Reset interviews, head over to wbez.org/reset.