Chambana Sun

Congressional candidate Smith rants on Facebook about social issues, local Democratic party

By Vimbai Chikomo | Feb 22, 2020

A far-left Downstate Democratic candidate vying for Republican Congressman Rodney Davis’ 13th District seat in November is speaking out about the lack of accountability in government, injustice and immigration policies, among other things.

From Prairie State Wire

Former Illinois LIG says ethics commission 'squashed' her findings of 'wrongdoing'

By Vimbai Chikomo | 5 years ago

Former Illinois Legislative Inspector General Julie Porter is speaking out about the Legislative Ethics Commission’s effort to squash her reports on “wrongdoing.”

Batinick: AFSCME members authorizing a strike is 'disappointing'

By Vimbai Chikomo | Mar 6, 2017

When the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) scheduled a strike vote earlier this year, many viewed the move as another tactic orchestrated by the union to prevent Gov. Bruce Rauner from imposing his last, best offer.

Bill designed to help non-citizens become student trustees now before governor

By Vimbai Chikomo | May 30, 2016

A bill permitting non-citizens to become student members of the board of trustees at public universities in Illinois has been voted through the General Assembly and now heads to the governor’s desk.

GOP lawmakers send third letter to Auditor General demanding answers on questionable campaign spending

By Vimbai Chikomo | May 7, 2016

Republicans in the Illinois General Assembly have tried once again to get answers from Illinois Auditor General Frank Mautino regarding his campaign spending while serving in the House.

Proposal for per-mile tax on Illinois drivers creates challenges

By Vimbai Chikomo | Apr 29, 2016

Illinois Senate President John Cullerton’s proposal to tax Illinois drivers based on road usage may generate more revenue to maintain the state’s roads, but such a complex task may prove immensely difficult to implement and sustain.

Dist. 52 candidate: Audit paints grim fiscal picture for state

By Vimbai Chikomo | Apr 12, 2016

The annual state audit revealed that the last time Illinois successfully balanced its budget was 15 years ago, prompting Dist. 52 GOP Senate candidate Mike Madigan to take to Facebook to comment on the state’s long-standing money problems.

'The Other' Mike Madigan not happy with House Speaker's move to adjourn

By Vimbai Chikomo | Mar 11, 2016

State Senate District 52 candidate Mike Madigan has the same name as the Illinois House Speaker, but the Republican said he is not pleased with his namesake’s recent actions and has called out House Democrats for taking a monthlong break at such a crucial time in budget discussions.

Dist. 52 GOP Senate candidate targets CPS high-interest bond issues

By Vimbai Chikomo | Mar 10, 2016

Illinois' Dist. 52 Senate candidate Mike Madigan, often referred to as "The Other Mike Madigan," is frowning upon a newly minted Chicago Public Schools bond deal that has incurred a lot of new debt for taxpayers by transferring Chicago Public School (CPS) wealth to capital markets through borrowing at steep interest rates, which has become common place and affects taxpayers outside Chicago.