The Latest Breaking News from JB Pritzker

Pritzker gave $500,000 each to the candidates from his campaign fund — and another $500,000 to each from a personal trust fund. Republicans accuse him of skirting limits he himself signed into law. But the Illinois State Board of Elections says the contributions are allowed.

DU QUOIN, Ill. — In his thick country drawl, Darren Bailey stood at a lectern clutching a microphone, trying to convince a crowd in his rural home base of southern Illinois that he speaks their language.

The incumbent and his Republican opponent on the November ballot are on opposite ends of, among other things, the fight over a major criminal justice reform signed into law last year.

Today’s update is a 5-minute read that will brief you on the day’s biggest stories.

The massive criminal justice bill that ends cash bail in Illinois also supports crime victims and increases police oversight.

Planners hope a new rail bridge will resolve one of the largest chokepoints for passenger and freight rail traffic in the nation.

The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs said 23 staff and 42 residents have tested positive for COVID-19 at the Illinois Veterans’ Home at LaSalle. No one has required hospitalization.

While the Sun-Times is finding complaints of absentee politicians commonplace this election season, Dolton residents said their community needs elected officials’ attention and help more than most places.

CHICAGO — A new TV spot from Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker touts an endorsement from former President Barack Obama just as the governor’s opponents are seeking to weaken his support among Black voters.