September 23rd: Senate shoots down veto, Daley strikes back, Blago can’t remember…

The Illinois Senate approved a state ethics bill Monday in a special session by a 55-0 vote. Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s proposed changes were denied just days after U.S. Sen. Barack Obama called Senate President Emil Jones and urged the Senate to take up the Bill. Ray Long at the Tribune has more. Also, you can [...]

Around the state on September 15th

After getting blasted over the weekend by rain, Gov. Rod Blagojevich declared seven counties disaster areas on Monday. Will, LaSalle, Kane, Grundy, DeKalb, DuPage and Cook county were all declared disaster areas. Read the Tribune for more. 
Here’s a YouTube video showing some flooding around Des Plaines:

Blagojevich doesn’t think he’s “cuckoo,” despite [...]

Around the state on September 10th

A meausre to lease the Illinois lottery has garnered some support — at least enough to make it out of a house committee. The move could potentially raise $10 billion, much of which would be used for a capital construction plan. Read the SJ-R for more.
The Illinois House of Representatives unanimously voted down Gov. [...]

Around the State on Sept. 9

Riding the CTA in Chicago could get a little more expensive. Mayor Ricahrd Daley didn’t come right out and say it, but implied Gov. Rod Blagojevich is to blame for any increase that may be on the way. Read the Sun-Times to find out why. 
U.S. Sen. Barack made a comment about Sarah Palin, turning around [...]

Around the state on September 8th

In an ABC interview, Sen. Barack Obama accidently said the words “my muslim faith” while dismissing related rumors. The Tribune has a video of the slip-up.
A year ago, Gov. Rod Blagojevich announced additional benefits of the All Kids program, which allowed some young adults to be covered under their parents insurance until age 21. However, [...]

Around the state on September 5th

The Illinois House of Representatives will be back in session a little sooner than planned. According to the SJ-R, the House will be back in session starting Thursday at the request of Speaker Michael Madigan to start talking about a statewide construction plan. 
Former U.S. House Minority Leader Bob Michel didn’t sugarcoat his message to Illinois Republicans [...]

Around the state on September 2nd

Sen. James Meeks led a boycott of Chicago Public School’s first day of classes. While some were behind Meeks, Chicago Mayor Richard Daley didn’t exactly lend his support. The Tribune has the story. 
Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan wants legislators back in session earlier than normal, as he hopes they will consider leasing the Illinois Lottery. [...]