Perspectives

Illinois Redistricting Hearings Fail to Engage the Public. Ask Yourself Why

Everybody Says They Want a Fair Map. But What Does That Mean?

It's inherently unfair for lawmakers to draw their own districts, but that's what we're stuck with in Illinois. Check out our non-partisan maps for comparison.

Lessons From the November 2020 Election

More than 6 million Illinoisans voted, despite a deadly pandemic, thanks to emergency measures passed by the General Assembly. Now is the time to build on that success.

Vote with Confidence, in Person or by Mail. But Vote.

Running a safe and secure election isn't easy during a pandemic. State and local election officials throughout Illinois are rising to the challenge.

Dillon: Let’s Get Back to Business on Ethics Reforms

A lot of questionable behavior by public officials is perfectly legal in Illinois. That's because the state has some of the weakest ethics laws in the nation.

Worried About Vote By Mail? Here's What You Can Do

If threatened postal delays are giving you second thoughts, remember that there are other ways to cast your ballot safely for the November election.

What's Your Plan B For Nov. 3?

Voting in person could be risky due to COVID-19, so it's important to know your options.

Dillon: Why the BGA is Suing the Chicago City Council

Private conference calls between aldermen and Mayor Lori Lightfoot violated "nearly every meaningful requirement” of the Illinois Open Meetings Act, the lawsuit says.

Dillon: How To Keep An Eye on Government During COVID-19 Emergency

Public bodies throughout Illinois are holding virtual meetings during the statewide stay-at-home order. The Open Meetings Act still protects the right of citizens to observe and participate.

Dillon and Topic: FOIA Is Essential During COVID-19 Emergency (and Always)

State and local governments have exercised extraordinary authority to deal with the public health crisis. That calls for more transparency, not less.