Peoria Standard

In a recent press conference held at the Illinois Capitol, Republican leaders updated the public on their ongoing lawsuit concerning redistricting filed with the Illinois Supreme Court. The suit alleges that the Democratic majority gerrymandered electoral districts to the party's advantage. Tony McCombie, the House Republican Leader, along with Deputy Leader Ryan Spain and Assistant Leader Dan Ugaste, highlighted that the Illinois Attorney General has refrained from taking a stance on behalf of the State Board of Elections. Speaker Welch and Senate President Harmon have relied on a legal technicality called 'laches,' a defense that claims the plaintiff delayed their legal action, potentially impacting voters' rights. Deputy Leader Spain criticized the hiring of prominent lawyer Mike Kasper, stating, "Speaker Welch has come forward and hired Mike Madigan’s favorite henchman, Mike Kasper, to defend his overtly partisan gerrymandered legislative maps."

In a separate matter, House Republicans are opposing House Bill 2827, known as the "Homeschool Act," which mandates that non-public schools and homeschools register with the State Board of Education. The bill has faced opposition from thousands of residents who argue it infringes on parental rights and freedom. "This bill attempts to solve a problem that does not exist,” said Rep. Amy Elik. Deputy Leader Spain echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of allowing children to learn in environments suitable to their needs.

Regarding federal mandates, the House Republican caucus has demanded a response from the Illinois High School Association on aligning sports policies with President Trump's Executive Order banning biological men from competing in women's sports. “Fairness and safety in sports is not a political issue and should not be up for debate," stated Leader McCombie.

Further calls for reform were expressed by House Republicans, advocating for an ethics reform package due to repeated public corruption cases. The proposed measures, which aim to prevent legislators from lobbying and using campaign funds for legal defense, have not advanced out of committee. "While House Republicans continue to wait for Illinois Democrats to take the issue of public corruption seriously, we’ve been busy filing and sponsoring comprehensive legislative ethics reforms to stamp out corruption," said Rep. Patrick Windhorst.

Economic concerns were marked by a slight decrease in the state's unemployment rate to 4.8% in February, which is still above the national average. Some sectors saw increases, while others like government and leisure services faced declines.

In heritage news, an $8 million funding announcement was made for repairs at Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site. "Today’s funding announcement of $8 million in state capital funding for Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site is greatly appreciated and sorely needed,” stated Gina Gillmore-Wolter, President of the New Salem Lincoln League.