Overview
- Democrats convened at the State Fair on Wednesday to launch the midterm push by framing the election as a fight against President Trump focused on lowering costs and tackling corruption.
- House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch missed Governor’s Day and faces growing scrutiny over his handling of sexual‑harassment complaints tied to former Rep. Harry Benton and a reported $1.4 million linked to Benton’s 2024 reelection effort.
- Republicans used their day at the fair to spotlight affordability, public safety and education while attacking Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s record and positioning themselves as challengers in November.
- The Illinois Tollway board approved a large rate rise that increases car tolls by 57% and truck tolls by 30% next year to pay for a capital plan under last year’s transit reform law.
- Pritzker defended a $65 million personal contribution to his reelection campaign as Democrats honored retiring Sen. Dick Durbin and statewide officials jostled over Chicago mayoral plans, a dynamic that could reshape candidate focus and turnout this fall.