Illinois’ comeback story starts here.

Eric Zamarripa

Eric Zamarripa

“Currently the state requires 1,500 hours of training to get your barber license. You also have to pass a test, but many schools won’t even approve for you to take the test until you’ve finished paying off tuition. I personally know three people who have finished their schooling but they can’t take their licensing test...

Pritzker’s $1.5B in wishful thinking might leave taxpayers poorer

Pritzker’s $1.5B in wishful thinking might leave taxpayers poorer

Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s record $55.2 billion budget for 2026 relies on more than $1.55 billion in newly increased revenue estimates to cover cost. That optimism collides with state agencies’ and experts’ sober predictions, meaning taxpayers are again at risk?

By Patrick Andriesen

Pritzker’s magic beans: Growing a record-setting $55B Illinois budget

Pritzker’s magic beans: Growing a record-setting $55B Illinois budget

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker invoked a fairy tale about magic beans and a giant during his annual state of the state and budget address. Too bad he forgot to take an ax to the giant, record-setting budget he has grown by $16.7 billion since taking office.

By Bryce Hill