Past Programming

Legislative Reaction to Governor Quinn's Budget Address

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we hear what legislative leaders and others have to say about Governor Quinn's proposed budget.

Recorded March 10, 2010.  Aired the week of March 15, 2010.  1 hour.

Sen. Kwame Raoul (D) on Changing How We Select Lt. Governors

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Senator Kwame Raoul shares his plans for having voters decide on several constitutional issues in the fall election. He tells us how he would change how Lt. Governors are selected and his attempt to replace Illinois' flat income tax with a progressive tax.

For more information on Sen. Raoul, click here.

Recorded February 16, 2010.  Aired the week of February 22, 2010.  15 minutes.

Limiting Financial Contributions of Legislative Leaders to Candidates

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: House Republican Leader Tom Cross briefs reporters on proposed legislation that would limit the financial support legislative leaders can give to candidates. The proposal would also limit how much state parties can give in support of candidates for the legislature, the judiciary, or the executive branch.

Recorded January 26, 2010.  Aired the week of February 1, 2010.  20 minutes.

Reaction to Governor Quinn's State of the State Address

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we hear reaction from lawmakers to the Governor's State of the State Address, including several Republican Gubernatorial candidates and Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno.

Recorded January 13, 2010.  Aired the week of January 18, 2010.  15 minutes.

Press Conference by Senate President John Cullerton (D)

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: Senate President John Cullerton was named chairman of the American Lung Association of Illinois' Christmas Seals campaign, which helps funds the Association. Following an unveiling of the 2009 Christmas Seal, Senator Cullerton took reporters' questions on policy issues.

For more information, click here.

Recorded December 2, 2009.  Aired the week of December 7, 2009.  10 minutes.

State Senator Rickey Hendon (D):

Economic Woes in Illinois State Government

From the State Capitol in Springfield: as the legislature meets for the Fall Veto Session, we speak with Senator Rickey Hendon on the continuing economic woes in Illinois state government.

Recorded October 28, 2009.  Aired the week of November 2, 2009.  5 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS:

Former Senate Republican Leader Frank Watson

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we visit with former Senate Republican Leader Frank Watson, just after he was honored for his service by his former colleagues. Senator Watson left the Senate earlier this year to focus on recovering from a stroke he suffered a year ago.

Recorded October 14, 2009.  Aired the week of October 19, 2009.  5 minutes.

Senate Agriculture & Conservation Committee:

Crops, Chemicals and Public Health

From the State Capitol in Springfield: the Senate Agriculture and Conservation Committee holds an informational hearing on the affect the spraying of chemicals on crops has on nearby organic farms, vineyards, and communities.  Senators hear testimony from those concerned about spraying as well as those in the crop-spraying business.

Recorded September 30, 2009.  Aired the week of October 12, 2009.  1 hour & 20 minutes.

Rep. Tom Cross (R) Reacts to the Budget Stalemate

From the State Capitol in Springfield: House Minority Leader Tom Cross discusses the budget stalemate with reporters and reacts to the Governor's promise to hold-out for a fully-funded budget.

Recorded June 30, 2009.  Aired the week of July 6, 2009.  5 minutes.

Senate Republicans React to the Budget Stalemate

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno and fellow senators react to the budget stalemate and why they oppose new taxes to close the budget deficit.

Recorded June 30, 2009.  Aired the week of July 6, 2009.  10 minutes.

Senate Debate on Borrowing to Pay Pension Payments

From the Senate Chamber at the State Capitol: after senators voted to increase state funding levels by $2 billion, we hear a portion of the floor debate over how to pay for that increase and whether to allow the state to borrow this money to pay state pensions, leaving $2 billion in available funds to spend on other programs.

Recorded June 30, 2009.  Aired the week of July 6, 2009.  15 minutes.

Senate Democrats Address Issues in Special Session

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: Senate President John Cullerton briefs reporters on the hold-up in passing a state budget and why he feels the fault lies with Senate Republicans and members of the House.

Recorded June 23, 2009.  Aired the week of June 29, 2009.  15 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS:

Senator Kirk Dillard (R)

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we go one-on-one with Republican State Senator Kirk Dillard.  We hear his thoughts on the budget impasse and if he is close to announcing a run for the Governor's office.

Recorded June 24, 2009.  Aired the week of June 29, 2009.  15 minutes.

The Importance of Signing the Capital Bill

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: Senate Democrats, labor officials, and educators brief reporters on how the state may lose the entire construction season if the recently passed Capital Bill is not soon signed into law.

Recorded June 24, 2009.  Aired the week of June 29, 2009.  35 minutes.

Illinois State Senate:

Debate on Revisions to Tax Code

From the Senate Chamber at the State Capitol: a portion of the debate in which senators consider whether to revamp the Illinois tax code and apply taxes to business services in addition to manufactured products.

*Program Update: While House Bill 174 passed the Senate 31-27-1, it did not subsequently pass the House.

Recorded May 30, 2009.  Aired the week of June 8, 2009.  40 minutes.

Illinois House of Representatives:

Annual Memorial Service for Fallen Soldiers

From the House Chamber at the State Capitol: Illinois House members hold their annual tribute to the young men and women from Illinois who lost their lives in the past year as members of the military.

Recorded May 26, 2009.  Aired the week of June 8, 2009.  25 minutes.

Senate Executive Committee:

Gov. Pat Quinn (D) Testifies on Proposed Government Reforms

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Governor Pat Quinn testifies before the Senate Executive Committee on proposed government reforms and campaign financing.  This testimony is part of a longer hearing that also heard from those who say the proposed reforms are not strong enough.

Recorded May 28, 2009.  Aired the week of June 1, 2009.  25 minutes.

Rep. Jim Durkin (R) on Sen. Roland Burris' Taped Conversations

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Rep. Jim Durkin reacts to the recent release of taped conversations between Roland Burris and Rob Blagojevich, the former governor's brother.  Recordings show they discussed campaign contributions and Burris' possible appointment to the U.S. Senate.  At issue is whether Senator Burris perjured himself in January before the House Special Committee on Impeachment when he was questioned under oath by Rep. Durkin.

Recorded May 28, 2009.  Aired the week of June 1, 2009.  10 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS:

EMT Licensure for Military Medics

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Sen. Pam Althoff tells us about her bill that will allow those who served as medics in the military to apply their experiences to becoming Emergency Medical Technicians.  We also hear from Carol Spizzirri of the Save a Life Foundation.

Recorded May 27, 2009.  Aired the week of June 1, 2009.  10 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS:

Reviving Civic Education in Illinois Schools

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Rep. Will Davis and Cindi Canary of the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform discuss the need to revive civic education in Illinois schools.  They also discuss details of a proposed "Blueprint for Civic Education."

Recorded May 27, 2009.  Aired the week of June 1, 2009.  10 minutes.

State Senate Passes a Capital Bill

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we hear part of the Senate debate where senators came together to pass the first Capital Bill in ten years.

Recorded May 20, 2009.  Aired the week of May 25, 2009.  20 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS:

Impact of Increased Rail Traffic in Northern Illinois

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we hear from Karen Darch, Mayor of Barrington, and Senator Linda Holmes about the impact increased rail traffic poses to public safety in the Chicago suburbs.

Recorded May 12, 2009.  Aired the week of May 25, 2009.  15 minutes.

2009 House vs. Senate Softball Game

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From Lincoln Park in Springfield: one of the great traditions of the Spring legislative session is the annual legislative softball game, pitting House members against the Senate.  Our extraordinarily gifted softball correspondent is Matt Jones.

Recorded May 20, 2009.  Aired the week of May 25, 2009.  15 minutes.

CAPTIOL INSIGHTS:

Senator Kirk Dillard (R)

From the State Capitol in Springfield: as the Spring legislative session nears its scheduled adjournment date of May 31, we hear from lawmakers on the progress on the budget and other pending issues.  In this segment, we hear from State Senator Kirk Dillard on the status of the Illinois State Budget.

Recorded May 12, 2009.  Aired the week of May 18, 2009.  10 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS:

Representative Bob Flider (D)

From the State Capitol in Springfield: as the Spring legislative session nears its scheduled adjournment date of May 31, we hear from lawmakers on the progress on the budget and other pending issues.  In this segment, we hear from State Representative Bob Flider on electric generation and capacity.

Recorded May 12, 2009.  Aired the week of May 18, 2009.  10 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS:

Representative Dan Brady (R)

From the State Capitol in Springfield: as the Spring legislative session nears its scheduled adjournment date of May 31, we hear from lawmakers on the progress on the budget and other pending issues.  In this segment, we hear from State Representative Dan Brady on funding problems with pre-planned funerals.

Recorded May 12, 2009.  Aired the week of May 18, 2009.  5 minutes.

Illinois Business Day Annual Luncheon:

Sen. Christine Radogno (R), Senate Minority Leader

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From Springfield: at the annual luncheon hosted by the Illinois Manufacturers' and Retail Merchants Associations, Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno talks about the challenge to pass a budget and the new relationship between the governor and legislative leaders.

Recorded May 6, 2009.  Aired the week of May 11, 2009.  10 minutes.

Illinois Business Day Annual Luncheon:

Sen. John Cullerton (D), Senate President

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From Springfield: at the annual luncheon hosted by the Illinois Manufacturers' and Retail Merchants Associations, Senate President John Cullerton comments on the effort to pass a state budget.

Recorded May 6, 2009.  Aired the week of May 11, 2009.  5 minutes.

Illinois Business Day Annual Luncheon:

Rep. Michael Madigan (D), Speaker of the House

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From Springfield: at the annual luncheon hosted by the Illinois Manufacturers' and Retail Merchants Associations, House Speaker Michael Madigan describes his intention to pass a budget that funds a limited number of priorities.  Speaker Madigan also discusses the new working relationship between the governor and other legislative leaders.

Recorded May 6, 2009.  Aired the week of May 11, 2009.  15 minutes.

Joint Committee on Government Reform:

Alleged Corruption in the Health Facilities Planning Board

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the State Capitol in Springfield: House and Senate members serving on the Joint Committee on Government Reform hear hospital executive Pam Davis recount her suspicions of wrongdoing by some on the Health Facilities Planning Board.  Following Ms. Davis' testimony, members of the Health Facilities Planning Board address the suspicions and allegations.

Recorded May 5, 2009.  Aired the week of May 11, 2009.  1 hour & 10 minutes.

House Republicans' Reforms to Control Government Spending

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: House Republican Leader Tom Cross and other House Republicans are joined by John Tillman of the Illinois Policy Institute.  They brief reporters on their proposed reforms to open the legislative process and their economic reforms which they say will put an end to excessive government spending.

Recorded April 29, 2009.  Aired the week of May 4, 2009.  35 minutes.

Reflections on President Obama's First 100 Days in Office

From the State Capitol in Springfield: on the 100th day of the Obama Administration, we get reactions to the President's job performance from two of his former colleagues in the Illinois Senate.  We speak with former Senator Denny Jacobs (D) and Senator Dave Syverson (R).

Recorded April 29, 2009.  Aired the week of May 4, 2009.  15 minutes.

Legalizing Medical Marijuana in Illinois

From the State Capitol in Springfield: State Senator Bill Haine of Alton tells us about his bill to make the use of marijuana legal for some patients suffering from illnesses that cannot be treated with standard medical prescriptions.

Recorded March 2009.  Aired the week of April 6, 2009.  10 minutes.

Fiscal Year 2010 Funding for the University of Illinois

From the State Capitol in Springfield: University of Illinois President Joe White testifies before the Senate Appropriations II Committee.  President White speaks on the funding level the University is seeking for Fiscal Year 2010 and also answers questions on the impact of the University’s delayed maintenance, tuition levels, and suggested legislative spending cuts.

Recorded March 25, 2009.  Aired the week of March 30, 2009.  40 minutes.

Reactions to Governor Quinn's Budget Address

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we hear reactions from educators and legislative leaders to the Governor's Budget Address.

Recorded March 18, 2009.  Aired the week of March 23, 2009.  30 minutes.

Senate President John Cullerton (D):

Efforts to Balance the State Budget

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the Institute of Government & Public Affairs at the University of Illinois: Senate President John Cullerton addresses students and faculty on efforts to balance the Illinois state budget and the new working relationship between lawmakers and the governor.

Recorded March 9, 2009.  Aired the week of March 16, 2009.  1 hour.

Illinois House Republicans:

Enacting Budget Reforms

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: House Minority Leader Tom Cross is joined by other House members and John Tillman, CEO of the Illinois Policy Institute.  They discuss efforts to control state spending before any new taxes are imposed.

Recorded March 11, 2009.  Aired the week of March 16, 2009.  20 minutes.

Developing Illinois' Energy Infrastructure

From the State Capitol in Springfield: State Senator James Clayborne and State Representative Dan Reitz discuss their bill that would create incentives to develop Illinois' energy infrastructure.  They explain how their bill would encourage nuclear energy, clean coal, and alternative energies such as wind and solar.

Recorded March 4, 2009.  Aired the week of March 9, 2009.  10 minutes.

House Bill 3923:

Ensuring Rate Fairness in Illinois' Health Insurance Market

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: State Representative Greg Harris briefs reporters on his bill that would regulate health insurance firms by mandating they accept anyone who applies and establish an appeal process if the insurers decide they will not pay for a procedure.

For more information, click here.

Recorded March 4, 2009.  Aired the week of March 9, 2009.  30 minutes.

Joint Committee on Government Reform:

Testimony of Shawn Denney & Scott Turow of the Executive Ethics Commission

From the State Capitol in Springfield: House and Senate members serving on the Joint Committee on Government Reform hear from attorney and author Scott Turow, who also serves on Illinois' Executive Ethics Commission.  Mr. Turow testifies on how the state can strengthen ethical behavior.  We also hear from the Chair of the Executive Ethics Commission, Shawn Denney.

For more information on the Executive Ethics Commission, click here.

Recorded February 24, 2009.  Aired the week of March 2, 2009.  20 minutes.

Issues Surrounding U.S. Senator Roland Burris (D):

A Review of Senator Burris' Testimony to the Special House Committee on Impeachment

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the State Capitol in Springfield: controversy surrounds statements made under oath by Senator Roland Burris to the Special House Committee on Impeachment on January 8.  Since testifying, Senator Burris has altered some of the information he told the committee.  We review the portion of his testimony that is now generating controversy.

Recorded January 8, 2009.  Aired the week of February 23, 2009.  10 minutes.

Issues Surrounding U.S. Senator Roland Burris (D):

Reaction of Representative Jim Durkin (R) to Senator Burris' Testimony

From the State Capitol in Springfield: our one-on-one conversation with Representative Jim Durkin who led the questioning of Senator Burris before the Special House Committee on Impeachment.  He tells us why he now feels Senator Burris lied to committee members.

Recorded February 19, 2009.  Aired the week of February 23, 2009.  5 minutes.

Issues Surrounding U.S. Senator Roland Burris (D):

Democratic Lawmakers Call for Senator Burris' Resignation

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Representatives Jack Franks and Susana Mendoza, who both served on the Special House Committee on Impeachment, tell reporters about their calling on Senator Burris to resign and why they feel he misled lawmakers in his testimony.

Recorded February 18, 2009.  Aired the week of February 23, 2009.  30 minutes.

Republican Lawmakers Call for a Special Election

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Republican lawmakers discuss proposed legislation that would remove the power of a governor to appoint someone to fill a senate vacancy and require instead a special election be held when vacancies occur.

Recorded February 19, 2009.  Aired the week of February 23, 2009.  30 minutes.

House Minority Leader Tom Cross (R) on a Proposed Investigation of Legislative Wrongdoing

From the House Chamber at the State Capitol: House Minority Leader Tom Cross reacts to a proposed House resolution that would have the Sangamon County State's Attorney launch an investigation of legislators based on claims of wrongdoing made by former Governor Blagojevich.

Recorded February 18, 2009.  Aired the week of February 23, 2009.  5 minutes.

President Barack Obama: The Man, The Politician, The Leader

Sen. Rickey Hendon: Black Enough, White Enough: The Obama Dilemma

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From Springfield: just before leaving for Washington, we spoke with Illinois State Senator Rickey Hendon about his friend Barack Obama and his recent book about President Obama, Black Enough, White Enough: The Obama Dilemma.

Recorded January 13, 2009.  Aired the week of February 9, 2009.  10 minutes.

The Impeachment Trial of Gov. Rod Blagojevich:

Closing Arguments of Prosecutor David Ellis

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the State Capitol in Springfield: senators listen to David Ellis, prosecutor for the impeachment trial of Gov. Rod Blagojevich.  Mr. Ellis makes his closing arguments, which include a replay of some of the wiretap evidence, and explains why he feels these support the Governor's removal from office.

Recorded January 29, 2009.  Aired the week of February 2, 2009.  40 minutes.

The Impeachment Trial of Gov. Rod Blagojevich:

Closing Arguments of Gov. Rod Blagojevich

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Gov. Rod Blagojevich addresses senators as they were about to vote on whether to remove him from office.

Recorded January 29, 2009.  Aired the week of February 2, 2009.  45 minutes.

Swearing-In Ceremony of the New Illinois State Senate

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Governor Rod Blagojevich opens the first session of the Illinois State Senate in the 96th General Assembly.  During this first session, members elect a new Senate President and Minority Leader.  We hear the nomination speeches for and the inaugural addresses by new Senate President John Cullerton and new Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno.

The Illinois Channel's coverage of the 96th General Assembly is made possible in-part by Springfield's Capital Airport.

Recorded January 14, 2009.  Aired the week of January 19, 2009.  1 hour.

Swearing-In Ceremony of the New Illinois House of Representatives

From the University of Illinois at Springfield: the swearing-in ceremony of the Illinois House of Representatives.  We hear the inaugural addresses of House Speaker Michael Madigan and Minority Leader Tom Cross.  Then, in a dramatic conclusion to the inaugural ceremony, the new House members repeat a vote taken during the last General Assembly...the vote to impeach Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

The Illinois Channel's coverage of the 96th General Assembly is made possible in-part by Springfield's Capital Airport.

Recorded January 14, 2009.  Aired the week of January 19, 2009.  1 hour.

Rep. Lou Lang (D) Lays Out the Allegations of the Governor's Pay-to-Play Hiring Practices

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Rep. Lou Lang of the Special House Committee on Impeachment discusses allegations of wrongdoing by Gov. Blagojevich in the hiring of state workers.

Recorded January 7, 2009.  Aired the week of January 12, 2009.  15 minutes.

Illinois House of Representatives Debates & Votes to Impeach Gov. Rod Blagojevich

From the State Capitol in Springfield: the full House debates on and votes to impeach Gov. Rod Blagojevich.  This debate was held on January 9, 2009, and came one day after the Special House Committee on Impeachment voted 21-0 in favor of impeaching the Governor.

Recorded January 9, 2009.  Aired the week of January 12, 2009.  1 hour & 10 minutes.

House Minority Leader Tom Cross (R) Reacts to the Impeachment of Governor Blagojevich

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: House Minority Leader Tom Cross reacts to the vote to impeach the Governor and offers his own impression of the Governor's record in office.

Recorded January 9, 2009.  Aired the week of January 12, 2009.  15 minutes.

Special House Committee on Impeachment:

Ed Genson, Attorney for Governor Blagojevich

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we continue our special coverage of the impeachment proceedings against Governor Blagojevich.  This week, we hear testimony before the Special House Committee on Impeachment from the governor's attorney, Ed Genson.

Recorded December 29, 2008.  Aired the week of January 5, 2009.  1 hour & 55 minutes.

Special House Committee on Impeachment:

Cindi Canary, Director of the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Cindi Canary, Director of the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform, testifies before the Special House Committee on Impeachment about possible connections between the Governor's campaign donors and the awarding of government contracts.

Click here to read the text of Cindi Canary's testimony.

Recorded December 22, 2008.  Aired the week of December 29, 2008.  1 hour & 15 minutes.

House Speaker Madigan Reacts to the Governor's Conduct in Office and the Intention to Form a Special House Committee on Impeachment

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: a portion of a press conference in which House Speaker Michael Madigan discusses the coming House debate on forming a Committee on Impeachment.

Recorded December 15, 2008.  Aired the week of December 22, 2008.  15 minutes.

House Floor Debate on Forming a Special House Committee on Impeachment

From the House Chamber at the State Capitol: a portion of the Illinois House's debate on establishing a committee on Impeachment.  The debate also concerns whether Illinois voters should have the opportunity to vote for who will replace Barack Obama in the U.S. Senate.

Recorded December 15, 2008.  Aired the week of December 22, 2008.  40 minutes.

Senate President-Elect John Cullerton (D) Briefs Reporters on Establishing Senate Standards on Impeachment

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: Senate President-Elect John Cullerton briefs reporters on the formation of a committee to establish Senate Standards on Impeachment.

Recorded December 16, 2008.  Aired the week of December 22, 2008.  10 minutes.

Senate Minority Leader-Elect Christine Radogno (R) Explains Republicans' Preference for a Special Election to Fill Senate Seat

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we speak with Senate Minority Leader-Elect Christine Radogno as she discusses Republicans' desire to have special elections to fill U.S. Senate seats.  She also talks about her experience in dealing with Governor Blagojevich.

Recorded December 16, 2008.  Aired the week of December 22, 2008.  5 minutes.

Special House Committee on Impeachment Counsel David Ellis

Testimony on the Governor's Alleged Misconduct

From the State Capitol in Springfield: a portion of testimony offered before the Special House Committee on Impeachment.  We hear Committee Counsel David Ellis recount a portion of the allegations of the Governor's misconduct.

Recorded December 17, 2008.  Aired the week of December 22, 2008.  35 minutes.

Senator Bill Brady (R) On the Need for a Special Election, the Need to Recall Elected Officials, and a New Political Climate in 2009

From Springfield: Illinois State Senator Bill Brady discusses the changes in Illinois' State Senate Leadership and what it may mean for the state should Lt. Governor Quinn become the state's next governor.

Recorded December 17, 2008.  Aired the week of December 22, 2008.  5 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS: Senator Larry Bomke (R)

Reaction to Charges Against Gov. Rod Blagojevich

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we talk with Republican Senator Larry Bomke to hear his reaction to the Governor's arrest and hear about his own experience of dealing with the Governor over the last six years.

Recorded December 9, 2008.  Aired the week of December 15, 2008.  10 minutes.

State Senator Kirk Dillard (R) on Party Politics and Coming Budget Battles

From Chicago: our contributing correspondent, Jeff Berkowitz, talks with State Senator Kirk Dillard about the new Senate leadership, the growing budget deficit, and the future of the Illinois Republican Party.

Video Courtesy of Public Affairs with Jeff Berkowitz.

Recorded November 23, 2008.  Aired the week of December 8, 2008.  30 minutes.

Senate President-Elect John Cullerton (D)

6th District, Chicago

From our Past Archives in Denver, Colorado and Chicago, Illinois: Senator John Cullerton of Chicago was recently elected as the new Illinois Senate President.  We take a look back at some of his previous policy statements taken from our past coverage.

Recorded 2008.  Aired the week of December 1, 2008.  10 minutes.

Senate Minority Leader-Elect Christine Radogno (R)

41st District, Lemont

From our Past Archives in Springfield: Senator Christine Radogno of Lemont was recently elected as the new Illinois Senate Minority Leader.  We take a look back at some of her previous policy statements taken from our past coverage.

Recorded 2008.  Aired the week of December 1, 2008.  5 minutes.

State Representative Lou Lang (D)

16th District, Skokie

From Chicago: State Representative Lou Lang of Skokie tells our contributing correspondent, Jeff Berkowitz, his view of the multi-billion dollar deficit in the state budget, his insights on who may be picked to replace Barack Obama in the U.S. Senate, and his view of the job Governor Rod Blagojevich is doing.

Video Courtesy of Public Affairs with Jeff Berkowitz.

Recorded November 16, 2008.  Aired the week of December 1, 2008.  30 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS:

Electing a New Illinois State Senate President and Minority Leader

From Springfield: Political Columnist Bernard Schoenburg talks about who might replace Illinois Senate President Emil Jones and Senate Minority Leader Frank Watson and how this choice may change the political stalemate in Springfield.

Recorded November 6, 2008.  Aired the week of November 10, 2008.  15 minutes.

Senator Dan Rutherford (R)

53rd District, Pontiac

From Chicago: Contributing Correspondent Jeff Berkowitz goes one-on-one with Senator Dan Rutherford.  Senator Rutherford shares his thoughts on his former colleague, Senator Barack Obama; state finances; and the future of the Republican Party in Illinois.

Video Courtesy of Public Affairs with Jeff Berkowitz.

Recorded October 12, 2008.  Aired the week of October 27, 2008.  30 minutes.

Working Effectively With Your State Senator and Representative

From the Illinois Municipal League's Annual Conference in Chicago: a panel of Illinois lawmakers explain the dos and don'ts when it comes to contacting and working effectively with state legislators.

Recorded September 26, 2008.  Aired the week of October 12, 2008.  1 hour.

Senator Kwame Raoul's Reflections on Senator Barack Obama

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Sen. Kwame Raoul, who replaced Sen. Barack Obama in the Illinois legislature, tells us about the Obama he knows and offers insights into Sen. Obama's approach to issues. 

Recorded 2008.  Aired the week of October 5, 2008.  5 minutes.

Republican Lawmakers on Legislative Stalemate

From Springfield: Illinois Senate Republicans hold a press conference in which they charge the state government is failing to meet the needs of the people and make their case that the actions of the Democratic legislative leaders are to blame.

Recorded August 13, 2008.  Aired the week of September 1, 2008.  15 minutes.

Testimony on the Proposed IDOT Traffic Safety Division Move

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Illinois lawmakers hear testimony concerning Governor Blagojevich's plan to move 140 IDOT Traffic Safety Division jobs from Springfield to Harrisburg.  We hear from IDOT Acting Secretary Milton Sees as he defends the administration's proposal, as well as testimony from those opposed to the proposed move.

Recorded July 31, 2008.  Aired the week of August 11, 2008.  1 hour and 10 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS: Rep. Robert Molaro (D)

21st District, Chicago

From Springfield: Governor Blagojevich recently vetoed $1.4 billion from the new state budget.  In response, the House returned to Session this week.  In this segment, we hear insights on these budget cuts from State Representative Robert Molaro (D).

Recorded July 15, 2008.  Aired the week of July 21, 2008.  10 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS: Rep. Mike Bost (R)

115th District, Carbondale

From Springfield: in the second of this week's Capitol Insights segments, we hear insights on the Governor's budget cuts from State Representative Mike Bost (R).

Recorded July 15, 2008.  Aired the week of July 21, 2008.  10 minutes.

Floor Debate in the House of Representatives

From the House Chamber of the State Capitol in Springfield: members met to debate the Governor's recent veto of spending in the new state budget, but floor debate began with objections by some members to statements made in an earlier committee hearing by State Representative Monique Davis of Chicago.  Following those objections, we hear debate on a bill that would increase funding of State Police vehicles.

Recorded July 16, 2008.  Aired the week of July 21, 2008.  15 minutes.

Rep. Mark Beaubien (R):

Capital Spending and Fall Elections

From Chicago: our contributing correspondent, Jeff Berkowitz, goes one-on-one with State Representative Mark Beaubien to hear his thoughts on the political tug-of-war between House Speaker Michael Madigan and Governor Rod Blagojevich.  We also hear insights on the Fall elections and what candidates are already positioning themselves to run for Governor in 2010.

Video Courtesy of Public Affairs with Jeff Berkowitz.

Recorded June 29, 2008.  Aired the week of July 14, 2008.  30 minutes.

House Debate on a Proposed Capital Bill

From the State Capitol in Springfield: House members hear testimony from both supporters and opponents to a proposed $34 billion Capital Bill.  This testimony was part of a two-day special session of the legislature called by Governor Blagojevich to address the Capital Bill, pension debt, and to close an estimated $2 billion deficit in the recently passed state budget.

Recorded July 9, 2008.  Aired the week of July 14, 2008.  1 hour and 10 minutes.

Lawmakers Seek Strategic Plan on Prisons and a Halt to the Governor's Proposed Closures

From the Lincoln Correctional Center: Republican Senators call on Governor Blagojevich to halt proposed prison closures and to create a long-range strategic plan for the state's correctional facilities.

Recorded June 24, 2008.  Aired the week of June 30, 2008.  10 minutes.

Senator John Cullerton (D):

The State of Illinois' Political Climate

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From Chicago: State Senator John Cullerton tells our contributing correspondent Jeff Berkowitz why he feels the state needs to raise taxes to meet its growing debt problem and fund a Capital Bill.  Senator Cullerton also offers his insights into how he feels Democrats will do in the Fall's legislative elections.

Video Courtesy of Public Affairs with Jeff Berkowitz.

Recorded June 8, 2008.  Aired the week of June 16, 2008.  30 minutes.

House Minority Leader Tom Cross:

The 2008 Republican State Convention

From Decatur: Illinois Republicans hold their state convention.  In this segment, we hear from House Minority Leader Tom Cross.

Recorded June 7, 2008.  Aired the week of June 16, 2008.  8 minutes.

Senate Minority Leader Frank Watson:

The 2008 Republican State Convention

From Decatur: Illinois Republicans hold their state convention.  In this segment, we hear from Senate Minority Leader Frank Watson.

Recorded June 7, 2008.  Aired the week of June 16, 2008.  7 minutes.

Representative Aaron Schock:

The 2008 Republican State Convention

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From Decatur: Illinois Republicans hold their state convention.  In our final segment, we hear the keynote address by Representative Aaron Schock who discusses what he sees as the road back for the state GOP.

Recorded June 7, 2008.  Aired the week of June 16, 2008.  20 minutes.

Memorial Service for Illinois' Fallen Military Members

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the House Chamber in the State Capitol: in a moving memorial service, House members read the names of Illinois soldiers and sailors who have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Recorded May 29, 2008.  Aired the week of June 16, 2008.  25 minutes.

Senator Kirk Dillard (R):

A Republican's View of Senator Barack Obama

From Chicago: Illinois Channel Contributing Correspondent Jeff Berkowitz goes one-on-one with Republican State Senator Kirk Dillard.  Their conversation focuses largely on the 2008 Presidential campaign.  Sen. Dillard discusses his friend and former colleague, Sen. Barack Obama, and why he is supporting Sen. John McCain for President.

Video Courtesy of Public Affairs with Jeff Berkowitz.

Recorded April 27, 2008.  Aired the week of June 9, 2008.  30 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS: Senator Gary Dahl (R)

The Rising Price of Diesel Fuel

From the State Capitol in Springfield: our new Capitol Insights segment continues with State Senator Gary Dahl, a trucking executive, who discusses the rising price of diesel fuel.

Recorded May 21, 2008.  Aired the week of June 9, 2008.  10 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS: Senator Kwame Raoul (D)

Overcoming Regional Misconceptions

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we launch our new Capitol Insights segment, in which we talk with lawmakers, lobbyists, and members of the media about legislation, policy, and politics.  We begin this series with State Senator Kwame Raoul.

Recorded May 28, 2008.  Aired the week of June 2, 2008.  12 minutes.

CAPITOL INSIGHTS: Senator William Haine (D)

Federal Review of Illinois' River Levies

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the State Capitol in Springfield: our new Capitol Insights segment continues with State Senator William Haine who discusses a federal review of Illinois' river levies.

Recorded May 21, 2008.  Aired the week of June 2, 2008.  9 minutes.

Raising Auto Emission Standards in Illinois

From the State Capitol in Springfield: a bipartisan group of lawmakers propose a bill that would significantly increase the state's emissions standards on new cars sold in Illinois.

Recorded May 28, 2008.  Aired the week of June 2, 2008.  39 minutes.

Progress in Forming the Fiscal Year 2009 State Budget

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Republican Senator Christine Radogno and Democratic Representative Gary Hannig update us on the effort to pass a new state budget by the regular deadline of the end of May.  We hear how the House has layered its spending bills and the prospects for passing the first Capital Budget in seven years.

Recorded May 21, 2008.  Aired the week of May 26, 2008.  15 minutes.

2008 House vs. Senate Softball Game

From Lincoln Park in Springfield: legislators from the House and Senate square off in their annual softball game.  This competition between House and Senate members is a long-standing legislative tradition.  Our Contributing Correspondent for this year's event is Matt Jones.

Recorded May 14, 2008.  Aired the week of May 19, 2008.  20 minutes.

Legislators Brief Businesses on Budget Stalemate

From Springfield: at the Illinois Manufacturers and Retailers annual Business Day gathering, executives hear legislators discuss how poisoned personal relationships continue to plague negotiations on a new Capital Budget and state Operating Budget.

Recorded May 7, 2008.  Aired the week of May 12, 2008.  50 minutes.

Ending "Pay-to-Play" Politics in Illinois Government

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the State Capitol in Springfield: state legislators join with a political reform organization to announce an agreement to end what they call "pay-to-play" relationships.

Recorded April 30, 2008.  Aired the week of May 5, 2008.  35 minutes.

John Fritchey (D):

Illinois State Representative

From Chicago: State Representative John Fritchey discusses the state's finances with our contributing correspondent, Jeff Berkowitz.  Representative Fritchey talks about his desire to increase funding for education, how to catch up on the state's pension obligations, and his thoughts on the possibility that Senator Obama will be the next President.

Video Courtesy of Public Affairs with Jeff Berkowitz.

Recorded March 6, 2008.  Aired the week of April 28, 2008.  30 minutes.

Christine Radogno (R):

Illinois State Senator

From Chicago: Illinois Channel Contributing Correspondent Jeff Berkowitz interviews Republican State Senator Christine Radogno.  We hear Senator Radogno's views on the state's finances, her observations from having served with Senator Barack Obama in the legislature, and whether she is considering a run for Governor in 2010.

Video Courtesy of Public Affairs with Jeff Berkowitz.

Recorded March 30, 2008.  Aired the week of April 21, 2008.  30 minutes.

Senate Republicans' Plan to Boost Illinois' Economy

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Republican Senators brief reporters on a list of steps they say would boost the Illinois economy, create jobs, and enhance the state's ability to attract new business.

For more information, click here.

Recorded April 3, 2008.  Aired the week of April 14, 2008.  30 minutes.

Republican Medicaid Reform Proposals

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Republican Senators propose changes they say would cut down on waste and fraud in the Medicaid system, which is one of the fastest growing segments of the state budget.

Recorded March 12, 2008.  Aired the week of March 24, 2008.  25 minutes.

House Republican Leader Tom Cross:

Governing Illinois and Statehouse Relations

From the City Club of Chicago: Illinois House Republican Leader Tom Cross talks about his legislative agenda, the personal divisions between the legislative leaders and Governor Blagojevich, and why the legislature needs to pass its first Capital Budget in nine years.

Video Courtesy of CAN-TV.

Recorded January 23, 2008.  Aired the week of March 10, 2008.  35 minutes.

Reaction to the Governor's FY 2009 Budget Address

From the State Capitol in Springfield: following the Governor's Budget Address, lawmakers and others offered their reaction to the proposed budget.

Recorded February 20, 2008.  Aired the week of February 25, 2008.  1 hour.

Legislative Leaders Forum

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From Northwestern University in Evanston: in a forum moderated by Northwestern University President Henry Bienen, Illinois' four legislative leaders discuss current issues within the state and the importance of civic participation in the democratic process.  We hear comments from Senate President Emil Jones, Senate Minority Leader Frank Watson, House Speaker Michael Madigan, and House Minority Leader Tom Cross.

Recorded January 23, 2008.  Aired the week of February 4, 2008.  1 hour & 15 minutes.

Reflecting on Senator Obama's Experience & Judgement

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Republican State Senator Kirk Dillard, a friend and former colleague of Senator Obama, gives his perspective of Senator Obama's judgement, his ability to work across party lines, and how Senator Obama's experience in the state senate might apply to his being President.

Recorded January 17, 2008.  Aired the week of January 28, 2008.  15 minutes.

Lawmaker Called to Active Duty in Iraq

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Rep. Jim Watson discusses his recent call to active duty in Iraq and how he will continue to serve as a member of the legislature during the nine months he will be serving overseas.

Recorded January 17, 2008.  Aired the week of January 28, 2008.  10 minutes.

Illinois House Gaming Committee:

Gambling Expansion in Illinois

From the State Capitol in Springfield: the Illinois House Gaming Committee hears testimony concerning House Bill 4194.  This is a bill that would expand gambling in the state of Illinois and create a new Gaming Commission.  Parts of the bill would also designate gaming funds to go to increase the purse at Illinois horse racing tracks.

Recorded January 8, 2008.  Aired the week of January 14, 2008.  1 hour.

Senator Emil Jones, Jr. (D)

Illinois Senate President

Video Courtesy of CAN-TV

Recorded December 6, 2007.  Aired the week of December 17, 2007.  40 minutes.

Senator Frank Watson (R)

Illinois Senate Minority Leader

Video Courtesy of CAN-TV

Recorded December 10, 2007.  Aired the week of December 17, 2007.  50 minutes.

Vacancies on Health Facilities Planning Board

From the State Capitol in Springfield: a press conference held by Republican Senator Bill Brady.  Senator Brady tells reporters why he feels healthcare planning in Illinois is being jeopardized by vacancies on the Health Facilities Planning Board.

Recorded October 9, 2007.  Aired the week of October 15, 2007.  10 minutes.

Illinois House of Representatives Committee of the Whole:

Testimony on FY 2008 State Budget Vetoes

From the State Capitol in Springfield: the Illinois House of Representatives meets in a Committee of the Whole to hear testimony on the impact of Governor Blagojevich's veto of some $483 million from the FY 2008 budget, which was passed in August.  The vetoed funds include programs for bridge construction, social service agencies, and veterans, to name just a few.  This hearing is part of the annual Fall Veto Session, when legislators decide whether or not to override gubernatorial vetoes.

Recorded October 1, 2007.  Aired the week of October 8, 2007.  1 hour & 5 minutes.

Capitol Politics and the Legislative Agenda

From the Farm Progress Show in Decatur: Senate Republican Leader Frank Watson talks about this summer's prolonged legislative session and the Governor's recent decision to file suit against House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Recorded August 28, 2007.  Aired the week of September 3, 2007.  10 minutes.

Delays in Capital Funding for Schools

From the State Capitol in Springfield: leaking roofs, one-room libraries, and over-crowded classrooms: these are all part of what Superintendents from three school districts say is the result of the state failing to pass a capital spending bill for the past several years.  We also hear from legislators who discuss the political problems that continue to hold up a capital spending bill.

Recorded August 21, 2007.  Aired the week of August 27, 2007.  35 minutes.

Illinois House Welcomes Former Speaker Robert Blair

From the State Capitol in Springfield: former Illinois House Speaker Robert Blair returns to the State Capitol to view the recently renovated House Chamber.  Former Speaker Blair was the last House Speaker to oversee a renovation of the Chamber.

Recorded July 31, 2007.  Aired the week of August 20, 2007.  10 minutes.

Negotiations on State Operating & Capital Budgets

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we go one-on-one with lawmakers and journalists to hear the inside story of negotiations on forming a new state budget.  We hear why an expansion of gambling may be the lynchpin to a new budget and hold the key to increased spending on Illinois' infrastructure and schools.

Recorded August 8, 2007.  Aired the week of August 13, 2007.  25 minutes.

Issues Behind the Budget Deadlock

From the State Capitol in Springfield: lawmakers, journalist Aaron Chambers, and Comptroller Daniel Hynes discuss reasons behind the continuing deadlock in efforts to create a new state budget and what would happen if state government is forced to shut down.

Recorded July 31, 2007.  Aired the week of August 6, 2007.  30 minutes.

State Budget Process and Negotiations

From Addison: Republican Senators Dan Cronin and Carole Pankau discuss the ongoing deadlock in trying to pass a new state budget.  This summer, the Illinois legislature set a new record for the length of time they have met without passing a permanent state budget.  The lawmakers' presentation was part of a larger event organized by Americans for Prosperity.

Recorded July 28, 2007.  Aired the week of August 6, 2007.  30 minutes.

Electric Rate Relief Agreement:

Legislative View

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Representative John Bradley comments on the recently passed electric rate relief agreement and what it will mean for residents and businesses in Southern Illinois.  Rep. Bradley chaired the House's Committee of the Whole meeting earlier this year which examined the rising cost of electricity.

Recorded July 24, 2007.  Aired the week of July 30, 2007.  15 minutes.

Fiscal Year 2008 State Budget Negotiations

From the State Capitol in Springfield: our one-on-one interviews with lawmakers who tell us about the policy divisions that have kept the legislature from passing a new state budget.  We also hear from Dan Long, Executive Director of the Commission on Government Forecasting & Accountability, who tells us how much new money is coming into the state budget from the growth of the economy.

Recorded July 18, 2007.  Aired the week of July 23, 2007.  35 minutes.

Increasing Passenger Rail Service in Illinois

From the State Capitol in Springfield: members of the Illinois House Railroad Safety Committee hear testimony looking into whether the state should push for increased passenger rail service in Illinois.  Among the issues before the committee is whether there is evidence that potential passengers would use railroads for transportation if service was increased.  One of those testifying is David Laney, Chairman of the Board for Amtrak.

Recorded April 20, 2007.  Aired the week of July 9, 2007.  1 hour.

Gaming and Budget Negotiations

From the State Capitol in Springfield: as the legislative session goes into overtime, we talk with: Rep. Lou Lang, Chairman of the House Gaming Committee, on what new revenues might come from a gaming expansion; House Budget Negotiator Rep. Gary Hannig, who tells us where the budget process now stands; and Associated Press Correspondent Christopher Wills, who shares his insights on how the overtime session is causing some strained legislative relations.

Recorded June 7, 2007.  Aired the week of June 11, 2007.  25 minutes.

Review of the Spring 2007 Legislative Session

From the State Capitol in Springfield: on what should have been the last day of the Legislative Session, we talk with legislators and lobbyists about the budget stalemate.  We also hear their thoughts on why the Gross Receipts Tax failed, what the future may hold for healthcare, and how rising electric rates affected this year's legislative agenda.

Recorded May 31, 2007.  Aired the week of June 4, 2007.  20 minutes.

2007 House vs. Senate Softball Game

From Springfield: lawmakers from the House and Senate battle in the annual legislative softball game.  This game is a long-standing tradition with Illinois legislators that is held each year near the end of the Spring Session.  Our thanks to contributing correspondent Matt Jones who tells us not only about the sluggers on the field, but shares some thoughts with the heavy hitters on the sidelines.

Recorded May 23, 2007.  Aired the week of June 4, 2007.  20 minutes.

Illinois House Meets in the Committee of the Whole:

Testimony in Favor of the Gross Receipts Tax

From the State Capitol in Springfield: House members meet in a Committee of the Whole to debate the Governor's proposed Gross Receipts Tax.  In this panel, Governor Blagojevich defends his proposed Gross Receipts Tax and explains how it would allow the state to increase spending on healthcare and education.

Recorded May 9, 2007.  Aired the week of May 14, 2007.  40 minutes.

Illinois House Meets in the Committee of the Whole:

Testimony in Opposition to the Gross Receipts Tax

From the State Capitol in Springfield: House members gather in a Committee of the Whole to hear testimony on the Governor's proposed Gross Receipts Tax.  Testifying against the tax in this panel are the Presidents of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, the Illinois Manufacturers' Association, and the Commercial Club of Chicago's Civic Committee.

Recorded May 9, 2007.  Aired the week of May 14, 2007.  40 minutes.

House Speaker Michael Madigan (D):

The Gross Receipts Tax and the Legislative Agenda

From Springfield: House Speaker Michael Madigan speaks to a gathering of the Illinois Manufacturers' Association and the Illinois Retail Merchants Association.  Speaker Madigan discusses the Governor's proposed Gross Receipts Tax and how he intends to make that issue the focus of a Committee of the Whole hearing in the House of Representatives.

Recorded May 2, 2007.  Aired the week of May 7, 2007.  15 minutes.

Senate Minority Leader Frank Watson (R):

The Gross Receipts Tax and the Legislative Agenda

From Springfield: the Illinois Manufacturers' Association and the Illinois Retail Merchants Association hear from Senator Frank Watson, the Republican leader in the Senate.  Senator Watson discusses his caucus' opposition to the Governor's proposed Gross Receipts Tax.

Recorded May 2, 2007.  Aired the week of May 7, 2007.  10 minutes.

Senate Testimony from Those Favoring the Gross Receipts Tax

From the State Capitol in Springfield: a joint committee hearing between the Senate Education and Senate Revenue Committees, in which Senators hear testimony on the Governor’s proposed Gross Receipts Tax (GRT).  The tax would be based on a business’ top line - revenues - instead of its profit, as is the case under current law.  During this hour of testimony, Senators hear from those supporting passage of the GRT.

Recorded April 18, 2007.  Aired the week of April 30, 2007.  1 hour.

Senate Testimony from Those Opposing the Gross Receipts Tax

From the State Capitol in Springfield: in this second hour of testimony before the joint committee hearing of the Senate Education and Senate Revenue Committees, Senators hear from those opposed to the Governor’s proposed Gross Receipts Tax (GRT). Among those testifying against the GRT are small businessmen, who say the GRT would drive them out of business.

Recorded April 18, 2007.  Aired the week of April 30, 2007.  1 hour.

Opposition to Statewide Franchise for AT&T

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: we hear from municipal officials and television programmers who oppose House Bill 1500, legislation that would allow AT&T to launch its television service statewide without having to first negotiate agreements with local communities.

Recorded March 22, 2007.  Aired the week of April 2, 2007.  40 minutes.

Gross Receipts Tax, Borrowing, and Pensions

From Springfield: Senator Christine Radogno, one of the leading Republican spokespersons on the state budget, discusses the Governor's proposals to create a Gross Receipts Tax, borrow money to pay down the pension debt, and lease the lottery.

Recorded March 20, 2007.  Aired the week of March 26, 2007.  35 minutes.

Property Tax and School Funding Reform in Illinois

From the State Capitol in Springfield: a hearing of the House Appropriations Committee for Elementary and Secondary Education.  Members of the committee hear from witnesses concerning House Bill 750.  The bill is an education financing reform bill that, in part, would increase funding for education as well as increase taxes on individuals, trusts, estates, and corporations.  However, in exchange, it would provide for property tax relief.

Recorded March 20, 2007.  Aired the week of March 26, 2007.  1 hour & 20 minutes.

Rally for Increasing Transportation Funding

From the State Capitol in Springfield: noting the lack of a Capital Spending Bill for the last three years, business groups, labor organizations, and lawmakers rally on behalf of a legislative effort to spend $25 billion over the next five years to improve Illinois' transportation infrastructure.

Recorded March 14, 2007.  Aired the week of March 19, 2007.  40 minutes.

Reforming the Budget Process

From Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: Senate Republicans discuss their proposals to reform the budget process to increase both accountability and transparency.  These proposals come in the wake of past years when the state budget would be passed just hours after it arrived on legislators' desks and after budgets were found to contain millions of dollars in undesignated funds.

Recorded March 8, 2007.  Aired the week of March 19, 2007.  15 minutes.

Opposition to Proposed 2007 "Assault Weapons" Ban

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: members of the Illinois State Rifle Association and legislators brief reporters on their efforts to kill legislation that would increase regulation on so-called "Assault Weapons."

Recorded March 14, 2007.  Aired the week of March 19, 2007.  25 minutes.

Rep. Arthur Turner on Public Service

From Southern Illinois University in Carbondale: Representative Arthur Turner speaks on his 26 years of service in the Illinois legislature and the impact the average citizen can still have on the legislative process.  Representative Turner spoke as the 2007 recipient of the Ralph Dunn Public Service Award, named for the former House member who served 22 years in the Illinois legislature.

Recorded February 19, 2007.  Aired the week of March 19, 2007.  40 minutes.

Legislative Reaction to the Governor's Fiscal Year 2008 Budget Address

From the State Capitol in Springfield: members of the legislature and others offer their reaction to the Governor's budget plan.

Recorded March 7, 2007.  Aired the week of March 12, 2007.  50 minutes.

House Bill 1750:

Effort to Rollback Electric Rates

From the House Chamber at the State Capitol in Springfield: the House meets in a rare Committee of the Whole to consider the impact of increased electric rates since deregulation took effect January 1.  Our coverage will bring you extended portions of this debate, which began at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 27, and continued into the early hours of the following morning.

Recorded February 27, 2007.   Aired the week of March 5, 2007.  1 hour & 20 minutes.

House Bill 1500:

Cable Competition in Illinois

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol in Springfield: lawmakers unveil legislation that would allow AT&T to roll out a new television service around the state without having to first negotiate with communities.  Supporters of the bill say this would bring competition to cable companies and lower costs to consumers.

Recorded February 22, 2007.   Aired the week of February 26, 2007.  40 minutes.

Opposition to House Bill 1500

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we speak with Terry Miller, an attorney with the city of Naperville and opponent of House Bill 1500, who questions some of the assertions made by the bill's supporters.

Recorded February 22, 2007.  Aired the week of February 26, 2007.  5 minutes.

Sen. W. Russell Arrington and the Modern General Assembly

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library in Springfield: former governor Jim Edgar, former legislator Jim Nowlan, and author Taylor Pensoneau discuss the legacy of Illinois State Senator W. Russell Arrington.  This panel marks the release of Mr. Pensoneau's book, "Power House: Arrington of Illinois."  The book and discussion highlight Sen. Arrington's career in the Illinois legislature from 1945 to 1973.

Recorded February 21, 2007.  Aired the week of February 26, 2007.  1 hour & 10 minutes.

Funding Education, Pensions, and Property Tax Relief

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: Senator James Meeks (D) introduces legislation which he says will address school under-funding, put additional funds into the state's ailing pension systems, and offer property tax relief.

Recorded February 8, 2007.  Aired the week of February 12, 2007.  35 minutes.

Tougher Standards on Teen Drivers

From the Press Briefing Room at the State Capitol: Secretary of State Jesse White and State Senator Bill Brady of Bloomington announce legislation that will require more time behind the wheel in order for teens to receive their drivers license.  This legislation would also put further limits on the hours that teen drivers will be allowed on the roads.

Recorded January 24, 2007.  Aired the week of February 5, 2007.  25 minutes.

Opening Session:

Illinois Senate

From Springfield: the swearing-in ceremony of Senators serving in Illinois' 95th Legislature.  First, Governor Rod Blagojevich opens the Senate, as Senators go about electing a President.  We then hear comments from the newly elected Senate President and from the Minority Leader.

Recorded January 10, 2007.  Aired the week of January 22, 2007.  1 hour & 5 minutes.

Opening Session:

Illinois House of Representatives

From Springfield: following a General Election held every two years, a new legislature is formed.  On opening day, House members elect their leader, the House Speaker, as well as a Minority Leader.  We listen in on those selections and the inaugural speeches of the two newly-elected House leaders.

Recorded January 10, 2007.  Aired the week of January 22, 2007.  50 minutes.

Illinois Economy and Legislative Process

From Springfield: our one-on-one interview with Senator Steve Rauschenberger, who leaves the Illinois legislature in January after serving 14 years in the Senate.  For eight of those years, Senator Rauschenberger served as Chairman of the Appropriations Committee.  We speak with him about the Illinois economy, the budget process, and the insights he learned during his one-year term as President of the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Recorded November 29, 2006.  Aired the week of December 11, 2006.  20 minutes.

Legislative Agenda

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Senate Majority Leader Emil Jones talks with reporters about the agenda for the legislature's Fall Veto Session.  Among the topics, Senator Jones discusses his opposition to extending the price freeze on electric rates.

Recorded November 14, 2006.  Aired the week of November 20, 2006.  5 minutes.

Implications of Extending the Electric Rate Freeze:

House Committee on Electric Utility Oversight

From the State Capitol in Springfield: a portion of a hearing held by the House Committee on Electric Utility Oversight.  The Committee met to consider the issues involved in extending the ten-year-old electric rate freeze that is scheduled to expire at the end of 2006.  During this portion of the hearing, legislative members question Frank Clark, Chairman of ComEd, and members of his management team about the impact of a rate freeze extension on ComEd and its customers.

Recorded October 9, 2006.  Aired the week of October 16, 2006.  1 hour and 5 minutes.

Policy Initiatives to Benefit the Disabled

From Peoria: State Representatives and advocates for the disabled discuss their efforts to raise awareness of the issues faced by those with disabilities and some of their policy initiatives that might be offered in the state legislature.

Recorded August 16, 2006.  Aired the week of September 11, 2006.  40 minutes.

Proposed Solutions to High Fuel Prices

From the State Capitol in Springfield: House Republican Leader Tom Cross is joined by other Representatives in offering the House Republicans' solutions to higher fuel costs, including a call for a Special Session of the legislature to cut the state's sales tax on gasoline.

To view a copy of the House Republican Motor Fuel Task Force Executive Report, click here.

Recorded August 23, 2006.  Aired the week of August 28, 2006.  30 minutes.

Wineries and Tourism in Southern Illinois

From the Rend Lake Resort and Conference Center in Whittington, Illinois: State Representatives Kurt Granberg and Brandon Phelps discuss their recent hearings with Southern Illinois winery owners.  The Representatives discuss the growth of the wine industry in Southern Illinois and other ideas under development which may increase tourism in the region.

Recorded June 21, 2006.  Aired the week of July 3, 2006.  10 minutes.

Questions Concerning State Hiring Practices

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Senator Bill Brady meets with reporters to explain why he wants the Attorney General to investigate the Blagojevich Administration's approach to filling state jobs.  Some media reports allege the administration engaged in hiring practices that violated civil service rules.

Recorded June 1, 2006.  Aired the week of June 12, 2006.  15 minutes.

Political and Legislative Leadership in Illinois

From Southern Illinois University in Carbondale: House Republican Leader Tom Cross discusses bills, budgets, and the legislative process in Illinois from his perspective as one of the state's four legislative leaders.

Recorded April 24, 2006.  Aired the week of June 5, 2006.  45 minutes.

Illinois State Budget

From the State Capitol in Springfield: lawmakers and Budget Director John Filan discuss the budget process and their thoughts on this year's $56 billion budget.  They talk about what happens next year when the state will have to resume making its pension payments.

Recorded May 3, 2006.  Aired the week of May 8, 2006.  30 minutes.

Review of the Spring Legislative Session

From the Union League Club in Chicago: a panel reviews actions thus far in the Illinois Legislature during this Spring Session.  Among those speaking are Senator James Meeks (I) of Calumet City; Rich Miller, Publisher of "Capitol Fax;" and Kristen McQueary, Government & Political Reporter with the Daily Southtown.

Recorded April 25, 2006.  Aired the week of May 1, 2006.  1 hour and 30 minutes.

Questioning Problems in Cook County Voting

From Springfield: Representative Jim Durkin, leading Republican on the House Elections and Campaign Reform Committee, discusses his call for hearings to determine why election results were so delayed in Cook County during the March Primary.

Recorded April 11, 2006.  Aired the week of April 17, 2006.  10 minutes.

Senator Meeks & AFSCME Call for Increased Government Staffing

From Springfield: Senator James Meeks, who is considering running for Governor as an Independent, and Henry Bayer, head of AFSCME Council 31, call for legislative funding to increase staffing at state agencies, which they claim is so low it is creating dangerous conditions.

Recorded April 5, 2006.  Aired the week of April 10, 2006.  20 minutes.

Senator Dan Rutherford (R) on WFMB-AM

From Springfield: Senator Dan Rutherford, who is also the Republican candidate for Secretary of State, gives WFMB-AM's Sam Madonia his assessment of legislative developments in the Spring session and changes he would bring to the Secretary of State's office if elected.

Recorded April 6, 2006.  Aired the week of April 10, 2006.  40 minutes.

House vs. Senate Annual Softball Game

From Springfield: Illinois House and Senate members square off on the softball diamond in the annual legislative softball game.  This long-running tradition is held every Spring as the legislative session nears its end.  In addition to the legislators on the field, the sidelines are filled with members, former members, staffers, and administrators.  We take a look at this legislative slice of life.

Recorded April 4, 2006.  Aired the week of April 10, 2006.  20 minutes.

Reaction to Proposed Motor Fuel Export Tax

From Springfield: Republican and Democratic lawmakers object to a proposal that would apply a tax of one cent-per-gallon to fuel refined in Illinois, but exported to other states.

Recorded March 28, 2006.  Aired the week of April 3, 2006.  12 minutes.

Regulating Protests at Military Funerals

From Springfield: legislators push for passage of a bill that would keep demonstrators from disrupting funerals of service personnel.  The bill would set limitations on how close any demonstration can be to the service.

Recorded March 27, 2006.  Aired the week of April 3, 2006.  18 minutes.

Rally in Support of "Assault Weapons" Ban

From Springfield: Governor Rod Blagojevich, legislators, and family members of gun-violence victims rally in support of House Bill 2414, which would ban certain semi-automatic guns, which bill supporters call “assault weapons.”

For more information, click here.

Recorded March 23, 2006.  Aired the week of March 27, 2006.  40 minutes.

Illinois Channel Legislative Profile:

Senate Minority Leader Frank Watson (R)

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From Springfield: Illinois Channel Contributor Bernard Sieracki talks with Senator Frank Watson, leader of the Senate Republicans.  Senator Watson shares his views on government and what he sees as the fundamental differences between Republicans and Democrats when it comes to solving society's problems.

Recorded March 22, 2006.  Aired the week of March 27, 2006.  35 minutes.

Electric Deregulation & Electric Rate Pricing

Click here for more information on House Bill 5766.

Recorded March 1, 2006.  Aired the week of March 6, 2006.  30 minutes.

Officials & Gun Manufacturers Claim Gun Control Bill Would Hurt Communities and Drive Businesses from State

Click Here For More Information on House Bill 2414.

Recorded March 1, 2006.  Aired the week of March 6, 2006.  15 minutes.

Diverting Dedicated Funds for General Operations

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Republican lawmakers hold a press conference to discuss the Blagojevich Administration's diverting money from special funds to cover the cost of general operations.  The Republicans claim more than $1.2 billion has been diverted from dedicated funds since 2004.

Recorded February 21, 2006.  Aired the week of February 27, 2006.  15 minutes.

Senate President Emil Jones (D)

This program is archived.  Click on the photo to view via video-stream.

From Springfield: a conversation with Senate President Emil Jones.  The Senator reflects on his experiences of growing up in Chicago and some of the events and individuals who were instrumental in forming his character.  We also hear how these experiences affected the Senator's philosophies on governing and the role of government in society.  Senator Jones is interviewed by Illinois Channel Contributor Bernard Sieracki, a Lobbyist and Professor of Politics and Government at Illinois State University.

Recorded February 23, 2006.  Aired the week of February 27, 2006.  40 minutes.

Reactions to the Governor's Fiscal Year 2007 Budget

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we hear reaction to the Governor's budget from legislators and several gubernatorial candidates.

Recorded February 15, 2006.  Aired the week of February 20, 2006.  50 minutes.

Regulating Tattoo & Body Piercing Establishments

From the State Capitol in Springfield: a portion of a recent House Registration & Regulation Committee Hearing.  At issue is the increased regulation on establishments that provide tattoo and body piercing services.

Recorded February 15, 2006.  Aired the week of February 20, 2006.  20 minutes.

Legislation to Regulate Public Contracts

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Republican legislators call for reforms on how state contracts are awarded and managed after the contract is assigned.  The legislators also take reporters' questions on several pending legislative issues.

Recorded February 1, 2006.  Aired the week of February 13, 2006.  25 minutes.

Reaction to the State of the State Address

From the State Capitol in Springfield: we hear reactions to the State of the State Address from legislators and from some of the gubernatorial candidates seeking to replace Governor Blagojevich in this year's election.

Recorded January 18, 2006.  Aired the week of January 23, 2006.  1 hour and 5 minutes.

Legislative Oversight of Electric Deregulation

From Springfield: Representative George Scully discusses the upcoming power auctions that promise to change the way electricity is bought and sold in Illinois, beginning in January 2007.  Before a gathering of power producers, Representative Scully warns that he and other members of the legislature will not stand by if they feel the new process is not fairly structured.

Recorded November 10, 2005.  Aired the week of November 27, 2005.  30 minutes.

Auditor General's Review of Central Management Services

From Springfield: the Legislative Audit Commission hears testimony from the Illinois Auditor General’s office and from Central Management Services (CMS).  This testimony regards an October report, issued by Auditor General William Holland, critical of CMS’s efforts to improve operations after a Spring audit showed multiple inefficiencies.

Recorded November 2, 2005.  Aired the week of November 6, 2005.  2 hours.

State Government Administration Committee Hears Proposed Ethics Reforms

From the State Capitol in Springfield: the House State Government Administration Committee hears about proposed ethics changes to the state's pension systems, procurement policies, and naming rights to buildings.  The draft proposals are presented to the committee by Rob Uhe, Chief Counsel to House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Recorded October 21, 2005.  Aired the week of October 30, 2005.  1 hour.

How the Legislature Really Works

From the Illinois Municipal League Conference in Chicago: a panel discussion on how the legislature really works.  Panel members include lobbyists who explain how they work with lawmakers to pass, or defeat, certain bills.  We also hear the reaction from some legislators who were part of the audience.

Recorded September 24, 2005.  Aired the week of October 23, 2005.  1 hour and 15 minutes.

Senate President Emil Jones' Policy Perspectives

From Chicago: Illinois Senate President Emil Jones (D) gives an address before the City Club of Chicago on a variety of topics that the Illinois legislature will soon address, and actions already taken.  Among his topics are reforms to educational funding and delaying payments to the state's pension system.

Recorded September 19, 2005.  Aired the week of September 25, 2005.  40 minutes.

GOP Legislators on Constituents Concerns

From Decatur: Republican legislators, Sen. Dale Righter, Rep. David Reis, and Rep. Bill Black, discuss what their constituents are telling them is of major concern.  Among those concerns are rising gas prices.  The legislators discuss potential solutions to fuel costs, and other issues on their legislative agenda in the months ahead.

Recorded August 31, 2005.  Aired the week of September 4, 2005.  15 minutes.

Rep. Aaron Schock (R) Addresses Political Science Students

From Springfield:  Republican House Member Aaron Schock talks to a Political Science class at Lincoln Land Community College about the series of events that led to his interest in politics.  He also discusses his election to the Illinois legislature in November 2004 at the age of 23.

Recorded May 5, 2005.  Aired the week of July 10, 2005.  1 hour.

$54 Billion Fiscal Year 2006 State Budget

We get reactions from State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka, Budget Director John Filan, and Senators Steve Rauschenberger (R) and Kwame Raoul (D).

Recorded May 31, 2005.  Aired the week of June 5, 2005.  30 minutes.

Sen. Frank Watson (R) on the Budget & Medical Malpractice

From Springfield: Senate Minority Leader Frank Watson appears as a guest on WFMB's morning radio program, hosted by Sam Madonia and Jeff Hofmann.  Senator Watson comments on and takes listeners' questions concerning the state budget, online pharmaceutical sales, and next year's race for Governor.

Recorded May 17, 2005.  Aired the week of May 22, 2005.  45 minutes.

Senate Republicans on Medicaid Reform

From the State Capitol: Senate Republicans propose changes to Medicaid, the federal program designed to provide healthcare for the poor.  Republicans say Illinois could save millions of dollars annually if Medicaid operated as a "managed care" program.

Recorded May 10, 2005.  Aired the week of May 15, 2005.  20 minutes.

Senator Emil Jones (D) on Budget Negotiations

From Springfield: at a luncheon co-hosted by the Illinois Manufacturers' Association and the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, Senate President Emil Jones comments on budget negotiations being held between the party leaders and Governor Blagojevich.  Following his remarks, we hear from businessman Glen Johnson, who currently heads the Illinois Manufacturers' Association.

Recorded May 3, 2005.  Aired the week of May 15, 2005.  20 minutes.

Road Fund Diversion

From Chicago: Senator Wendell Jones of Palatine is joined by Doug Whitley of the State Chamber of Commerce, Don Schaefer of the Mid-West Truckers Association, and others who allege the Blagojevich Administration is diverting money from the Road Fund to spend on other programs.

Recorded May 2, 2005.  Aired the week of May 8, 2005.  15 minutes.

Speaker Madigan Sides with Republicans on Budget

From Springfield: at the annual legislative luncheon held by the Illinois Manufacturers' and Illinois Retail Merchants Associations, House Speaker Michael Madigan tells the gathering why this year he is again siding with House and Senate Republicans on budget issues.

Recorded May 3, 2005.  Aired the week of May 8, 2005.  10 minutes.

Rewriting Regulations on Telecommunication Providers

From the State Capitol: the House Telecommunications Committee hears testimony concerning an effort to change the current regulations on phone companies.  Traditional phone companies, such as SBC Communications, note growing competition from cell phones, cable firms, and local exchange carriers.  We hear testimony from an SBC representative on proposed changes included in Senate Bill 1700.

Recorded April 27, 2005.  Aired the week of May 1, 2005.  30 minutes.

Impact of Tourism on Illinois Economy

From Springfield: spokesmen for Illinois tourism testify before the House Tourism and Conventions Committee.  In 2003, Illinois reported visitors to the state spent $23 billion, which produced $1.7 billion in tax revenues.  We will hear tourism participants testimony concerning the economic impact of tourism on state and local economies and their desire to avoid further cuts in state funds for marketing Illinois tourism.

Recorded April 12, 2005.  Aired the week of April 17, 2005.  25 minutes.

Senate Judiciary Committee

From Springfield: medical malpractice reform was also on the legislative agenda in Springfield.  One bill backed by portions of the medical community is Senate Bill 150.  It was scheduled to be heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee and was one of several issues brought up during this hearing.

Recorded March 15, 2005.  Aired the week of March 20, 2005.  30 minutes.

Long Term Debt in Public Pensions and

Campaign 2006: Potential Candidate for Illinois Governor

From the State Capitol: Senator Bill Brady of Bloomington is the Senate Republicans point-man on pension issues. In this one-on-one interview, he discusses the growing unfunded debt in state pensions and Republicans' reaction to the Governor's plan to alter the current pension system.  Sen. Brady also recently announced he is considering running for Governor.  We will hear why he is considering a run and what he needs to know before making a final determination.

Recorded March 10, 2005.  Aired the week of March 13, 2005.  30 minutes.

Second Annual Legislative Latino Caucus Conference

From Chicago: a panel discussion on the growing Hispanic population in Illinois and what impact this immigration is having on public services and education.  This panel was held during the Second Annual meeting of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus.

Recorded December 10, 2004.  Aired the week of March 13, 2005.  60 minutes.

Lobbying a New Political Regime

From Springfield: Lobbyist Dan Burkhalter of the Illinois Education Association talks about the strategies used when new administrations come to power.  This was part of a day-long seminar on lobbying tactics held at the University of Illinois at Springfield.

Recorded December 3, 2004.  Aired the week of March 6, 2005.  30 minutes.

Legislative Reaction to Governor's Budget Address

From the State Capitol: legislators react to the Governor's proposals, with support and criticism coming from both sides of the aisle.

Recorded February 16, 2005.  Aired the week of February 20, 2005.

Senate Republicans React to Budget Address

From the State Capitol: Senate Republican leaders offer their analysis of the state's budget woes and why they reject many of the Governor's proposals.

Recorded February 16, 2005.  Aired the week of February 20, 2005.

2005 State of the State Address

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Governor Rod Blagojevich delivers the annual State of the State Address.  This is the third time Governor Blagojevich has delivered this address, which covers the Governor's assessment of past accomplishments and remaining challenges facing Illinois.  Immediately following the Governor's remarks, legislators share their thoughts on the speech.

  Speech Transcript - PDF       Speech Transcript - HTML

Recorded February 3, 2005.  Aired the week of February 6, 2005.  84 minutes.

Lobbying Ethics: Where to Draw the Line

From the University of Illinois at Springfield: all may be fair in love and war, but when it comes to lobbying the legislature, regulations and historical practices govern what is - and is not - considered ethical.  Cindi Canary, Executive Director of the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform discusses the ethical issues involved in lobbying.

Recorded December 3, 2004.  Aired the week of February 6, 2005.  36 minutes.

House Republicans' Legislative Agenda

From Springfield: State Representative Tom Cross is beginning his second term as Leader of the Illinois House Republicans.  From his office at the Capitol, he tells us about his role as leader and what Republicans' legislative priorities will be in the 94th General Assembly.

Recorded January 26, 2005.  Aired the week of January 30, 2005.  15 minutes.

House Speaker's Inaugural Address and New Legislative Members

From the State Capitol in Springfield: coverage of the opening session of the 94th General Assembly, in which legislators take the oath of office and elect their leaders.  We hear from Representative Michael Madigan (D), reelected as House Speaker; Representative Aaron Schock (R), who at 23 is the youngest member of the legislature; and Senator Kwame Raoul (D), selected to replace U.S. Senator Barack Obama in the State Senate.

Recorded January 11 & 12, 2005.  Aired the week of January 16, 2005.  35 minutes.

Lobbying for State Funding

From the University of Illinois at Springfield: Former State Representative and Budget Negotiator Tom Ryder discusses how the state budget is formed and shares his thoughts on how groups seeking state funding should approach legislators to gain their funding goals.

Recorded December 3, 2004.  Aired the week of January 9, 2005.  60 minutes.

Grassroots Lobbying

From the University of Illinois at Springfield: a panel discussion of effective grassroots lobbying techniques.  This panel was part of a day-long seminar entitled "The Third House," which refers to lobbyists playing such a critical role in the legislative process...that they act as a so-called "third house" of the legislature.

Recorded December 3, 2004.  Aired the week of January 2, 2005.  50 minutes.

Lobbying Basics: The Third House

From Springfield: We will hear how lobbyists work to pass or stop legislation and how they see their role from Randy Witter of Cook-Witter Lobbying Group.  This program is from a day-long seminar on the lobbying process held at the University of Illinois at Springfield.

Recorded December 3, 2004.  Aired the week of December 12, 2004.  60 minutes.

Homeowners Using Guns for Self-Defense

From the State Capitol in Springfield: comments on Senate Bill 2165 from its sponsor, Senator Ed Petka (R) of Plainfield.  SB 2165 covers homeowners using a gun for self-defense where guns are locally banned.  This bill passed in both houses of the legislature during the recent veto session.

Recorded November 18, 2004.  Aired the week of November 28, 2004.  3 minutes.

AARP Legislative Lobby Day Rally

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Governor Rod Blagojevich talks to AARP members about his efforts to allow importation of prescription drugs from Canada.  We will also hear from the state’s newest Senator, Kwame Raoul, who replaced Barack Obama in the Illinois Legislature.

Recorded November 16, 2004.  Aired the week of November 21, 2004.  20 minutes.

Senator-Elect Obama's Legislative Farewell and Press Conference

From the State Capitol in Springfield: United States Senator-Elect Barack Obama says farewell to his State Senate colleagues.  It was in the Illinois Senate where he began his legislative career, serving two terms as the Senator representing the state's 13th Senate District.  Following his farewell in the Senate chamber, Senator-Elect Obama gave a press conference in the Press Briefing Room of the State Capitol.

Recorded November 8, 2004.  Aired the week of November 14, 2004.  38 minutes.

Budget Wrangling Review

From Springfield: Senator Dan Rutherford (R-Pontiac) discusses the past negotiations in the legislature that led to the long delay in passing a new state budget.  Senator Rutherford was a guest on the "Abdul in the Morning" program, on Springfield's WMAY radio station.

Recorded July 30, 2004.  Aired the week of August 8, 2004.  35 minutes.

Budget Negotiations

From Springfield: Senate Republican Leader Frank Watson briefs reporters in the Capitol on the progress of negotiations to form a state budget and address the medical malpractice problem.  The legislature set a new record this year for being in session without approving a permanent budget for the new fiscal year.  Fiscal Year 2005 began on July 1.  On Saturday, July 24, the legislature and Governor agreed to a budget, but malpractice reform was not part of the agreement.

Recorded July 21, 2004.  Aired the week of July 25, 2004.  5 minutes.

Proposal to Close Health Facilities Planning Board

From Springfield: State Representative Elizabeth Coulson and several of her House Republican colleagues host a press conference to announce the introduction of House Bill 7310. This bill calls for the complete elimination of the Health Facilities Planning Board. This state board, which has only been in existence one year, reviews hospital construction and expansion plans. The board has recently been under fire for alleged influence-peddling. At this press conference, Representative Coulson and her colleagues explain their reasoning behind calling for this elimination.

Recorded July 13, 2004.  Aired the week of July 18, 2004.  10 minutes.

Resolving the State Budget

From Springfield: Illinois Senators Steven Rauschenberger and Donne Trotter discuss the State Budget negotiations that the Governor and the party leaders are holding.  The budget was to be passed by the end of spring session, which ended on May 31. The new fiscal year began on July 1.

Recorded July 8, 2004.  Aired the week of July 11, 2004.  30 minutes.

Illinois State Budget Process Continues

From Springfield: Senators Steve Rauschenberger (R) and Patrick Welch (D) are experts on the state budget process.  In this program, they explain the issues that are holding up passage of a state budget for Fiscal Year 2005.

Recorded June 29, 2004.  Aired the week of July 4, 2004.  40 minutes.

Special Legislative Sessions Called to Resolve the State Budget

From Springfield: With the new fiscal year beginning on July 1, and no budget in sight, Governor Blagojevich says he will call legislators to Special Session every day until a new budget is passed.  The Governor's political tug-of-war is not only with legislative Republicans, but also with House Speaker Michael Madigan, who opposes the Special Sessions.

Recorded June 23, 2004.  Aired the week of June 27, 2004.  30 minutes.

House Appropriations Committee

From the State Capitol in Springfield: In the wake of the on-going budget impasse, the House Appropriations Committee took testimony from state agencies on what they will need as a minimum in order to operate in the coming fiscal year.  Those testifying included Budget Director, John Filan, pictured to the left.

Recorded June 16, 2004.  Aired the week of June 20, 2004.  1 hour and 20 minutes.

Legislators Discuss Budget Stalemate

From Springfield: Representatives Raymond Poe and Rich Brauer, along with Senator Larry Bomke, discuss the legislative stand-off that has prevented passage of a new state budget.  All three are Republicans.  Now their votes are far more meaningful as a new budget will require a 3/5 majority, giving the GOP minority legislators the power to approve or block passage of a new budget.  The three were guests on Abdul Shabazz's morning program on Springfield's WMAY talk radio. 

Recorded June 3, 2004.  Aired the week of June 6, 2004.  40 minutes.

Diverting Local Government Health Funds

From Springfield: Legislators allege Governor Blagojevich is diverting funds set up to fund local government health care.  They claim the Governor is using these funds to offset state expenses.  The legislative members say this use is illegal as the funds are collected for local government use and are not a part of the state's budget.

Recorded May 28, 2004.  Aired the week of June 6, 2004.  15 minutes.

Revamping the Board of Education

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Senator Pat Welch (D-Peru), Senate President Emil Jones (D-Chicago), and Senate Education Committee Chairman, Senator Miguel del Valle (D-Chicago), join Governor Rod Blagojevich in announcing an agreement on reforming the State Board of Education.  In lieu of the Governor's State-of-the-State proposal to create a new department of education, this new proposal will allow the governor to appoint the majority of board members on the State Board of Education, thus giving the Governor effective control over that agency.

Recorded May 13, 2004.  Aired the week of May 16, 2004.

Proposals to Avoid a Malpractice Crisis

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Republican legislative leaders, Senator Frank Watson and Representative Tom Cross, are joined by other members of the Republican caucus to announce a series of proposed changes that they believe would avoid the flurry of medical malpractice lawsuits aimed at Illinois doctors.

Recorded May 12, 2004.  Aired the week of May 16, 2004.  40 minutes.

Funeral of Senator Vince Demuzio

From Carlinville: Senate President Emil Jones (D-Chicago), was one of several state dignitaries to deliver memorials at the funeral of Senate Majority Leader, Senator Vince Demuzio (D-Carlinville) who lost his battle with cancer.  Senator Demuzio was the longest serving member of the Illinois Senate when he died, and was the only member of the Democratic caucus to have previously served in the Senate majority.  While Senator Demuzio's funeral ran over an hour, we air here the comments of Senator Jones, which run about 15 minutes.

Recorded May 2, 2004.  Aired the week of May 9, 2004.  15 minutes.

Lieutenant Governor Pat Quinn and Representative Mike Boland on Prescription Drug Costs

From Springfield: Lieutenant Governor Pat Quinn and Representative Mike Boland (D-Moline) meet with reporters to discuss the rising cost of prescription drugs and their efforts to control the cost of prescription drugs.

Recorded April 28, 2004.  Aired the week of May 2, 2004.  30 minutes.

Regulating Cable Fees

From Springfield: The Illinois House Consumer Protection Committee hears testimony concerning proposed regulations on cable companies when they increase their service fees.

Recorded February 24, 2004.  Aired the week of March 1, 2004.

Preventing Misuse of Road Funds

From the Capitol Press Room in Springfield: We cover the Illinois Senate Republicans, led by Senator Frank Watson, who proposes a constitutional amendment designed to restrict the Governor from using highway road funds for any other purpose.

Recorded February 24, 2004.  Aired the week of March 1, 2004.

Legislative Reaction

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Senate President, Senator Emil Jones (D-Chicago), responds to questions from members of the Capitol press corps, who wanted to know the senator's reaction to the Governor's budget.  State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka also reacts.

Recorded February 18, 2004.  Aired the week of February 23, 2004.

Eliminating Statewide Offices

From the State Capitol in Springfield: State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka is joined by House Republican Leader, Representative Tom Cross and Senate Republican Leader, Senator Frank Watson at a press conference in which they announce their plan to combine the Treasurer's office with the Comptroller's office and eliminate the office of the Lieutenant Governor.  The Republican leaders claim this will save the state between $4 million to $15 million a year and will lead to better operations within state government.

Recorded February 4, 2004.  Aired the week of February 9, 2004.  12 minutes.

Republican Response to the State of the State Address

From Springfield: House Republican Leader, Representative Tom Cross responds to the Governor's State of the State immediately following its conclusion.  Our coverage of reaction to the speech includes comments by State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka (R), Senate Minority Leader Frank Watson (R), other legislative members, and State Superintendent of Schools, Robert Schiller, Ph.D., who rebuts the Governor's criticisms.

Recorded January 15, 2004.  Aired the week of January 18, 2004.  25 minutes.

Illinois Healthcare Issues

From Springfield: Members of the Illinois legislature discuss a number of health issues affecting both rural and urban areas of the state. This forum was organized by the SIU School of Medicine.  Participating legislators include Rep. Patty Bellock (R) of Westmont , Sen. James Clayborne (D) of East St. Louis, and Sen. Dale Righter (R) of Mattoon.

Recorded November 2,  2003.  Aired the week of January 11, 2004.  1 hour and 25 minutes.

America's Changing Foreign Policy

From Knox College in Galesburg: Former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell discusses changes in US foreign policy over the last decade.  Since leaving the US Senate, Sen. Mitchell has served both President Clinton and President Bush on diplomatic missions

Recorded November 4, 2003.  Aired the week of December 7, 2003.  45 minutes.

Veterans Benefits & Services

From the State Military Museum in Springfield: Republican senators are holding hearings on the services state and federal agencies are providing veterans, and whether these should be improved.

Recorded November 7, 2003.  Aired the week of November 16, 2003.  40 minutes.

Illinois Legislators Lobby Congress

Recorded July 31, 2003.  Aired the week of August 3, 2003.  7 minutes.

House Executive Committee

From Springfield: Lieutenant Governor Patrick Quinn is among those testifying on legislation before the House Executive Committee. The Lieutenant Governor proposes changes to help those fighting asthma.

Recorded May 28, 2003.  20 minutes.

Senator Dan Rutherford and Representative Eileen Lyons on Nursing Home Funding

Recorded May 7, 2003.  Aired the week of May 11, 2003.  20 minutes.

Lieutenant Governor Pat Quinn and Legislators Propose Benefits for Guard and Reservists

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Lieutenant Governor Pat Quinn and a bipartisan group of lawmakers propose a legislative package designed to add a series of new benefits for those serving on active duty.  Some benefits include automatic renewal of  licenses and lend $300,000 to the newly created "Illinois Military Family Relief Fund."

Recorded April 16, 2003.  Aired the week of April 20, 2003.  30 minutes.

Legislative Reaction to Budget Address

Recorded April 12, 2003.  Aired the week of April 13, 2003.  20 minutes.

House Committee on Development Disability and Mental Illness

From Springfield: Speaker Michael Madigan and others testify before a House Committee on the impact of the state's late payments to care providers for the developmentally disabled.

Recorded March 26, 2003.  Aired the week of March 31, 2003.  1 hour.

Press Conference on the Merits of SB-1518, Changing  DSL Broadband Regulations

From Springfield: SBC President Carrie Hightman and Senator Denny Jacobs (D) join with others in a press conference on the merits of changing regulations on DSL broadband.

Recorded March 26, 2003.  Aired the week of March 31, 2003.  32 minutes.

Press Conference by Those Opposed to SB-1518, Changing DSL Broadband Regulations

From Springfield: Representative Jack Franks (D) and others share their view that changing DSL regulations would harm consumers.

Recorded March 27, 2003.  Aired the week of March 31, 2003.  17 minutes.

Proposed Changes in Gambling Legislation

From the State Capitol in Springfield: Aaron Chambers, the Capitol Bureau Chief for Illinois Issues Magazine, discusses his recent article about  proposed legislative changes that would allow for an increase in gambling within Illinois.

Recorded March 5, 2003.  15 minutes.

Senate Appropriations Committee on Fiscal Year 2004 Funding Requests

From Springfield: Testifying for FY04 budget requests are Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice Mary Ann McMorrow, Illinois Community College Board President and CEO Joseph Cipfl, and others.

Recorded March 5, 2003.  1 hour and 30 minutes.

House Appropriations Committee on Education

From Springfield: House members hear from educators on funding formulas impacting the state's financial contribution to the state's school districts.

Recorded February 19, 2003.  1 hour and 40 minutes.

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