Quinn Ready To Play Hardball For Tax Hike?
While he never explicitly linked the redistricting process to votes for hiking the state's income tax rate, Gov. Pat Quinn told the Crain's editorial board that he's prepared to use next year's remap as a pressure point on lawmakers. 

Officials Press Feds For Answers On Levees
Because federal officials might force thousands of Illinois property owners to spend more for flood insurance until $500 million in repairs are made to Mississippi River levees, officials from the southwest part of Illinois are demanding to know exactly what's wrong with the levees.

Illinois Prison Employees Under Gag Order
Illinois Department of Corrections Director Michael Randle issued a written warning last week to state prison workers: If you talk to the media, you could be fired.

O'Brien Fudges Endorsements
Cook County Board president candidate Terrence O'Brien has run afoul of Democratic organizations in Wheeling and Palatine, which are complaining that he's falsely suggesting that they endorsed him.

Chicago Unveils New Round Of Closures
Today, Chicago schools CEO Ron Huberman is expected to announce that another 14 schools will be closed or revamped under the controversial Renaissance 2010 initiative. 

Image used under a Creative Commons license by Flickr user K e v i n.