Rock Island Today

Election Day is approaching in Illinois, with polls open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday. Early voting continues until Monday, and public schools will be closed as the day is a state holiday. Voters are encouraged to contact their county clerk for any questions.

In legal news, federal prosecutors have begun presenting evidence in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan. The trial involves allegations that Madigan exchanged legislation for benefits such as jobs or contracts for his associates. Indicted in 2022, Madigan's case follows convictions of executives and lobbyists at Commonwealth Edison related to the scandal. A mistrial occurred earlier this year involving an AT&T executive.

The prosecution has introduced wiretap recordings featuring statehouse lobbyist Mike McClain, alleged to be a key figure in the bribery scheme and previously convicted in the Commonwealth Edison trial. Former legislators testified about pressure tactics used by Madigan and McClain.

The fall veto session of the Illinois General Assembly is set for later this month, starting November 12 with a three-day session followed by another beginning November 19. This year’s agenda remains uncertain as no gubernatorial vetoes were issued over the summer.

In other news, nearly 5000 designs were submitted for a new Illinois state flag following a call from the Secretary of State. The Illinois Flag Commission will select ten finalists for public voting starting January.

Additionally, daylight savings time ends this weekend at 2 a.m. on Sunday; clocks should be set back one hour before bedtime on Saturday night.

Other headlines include cautionary advice about deer on roads during fall, economic impacts at Rock Island Arsenal, efforts against distracted driving in Illinois, potential issues from erosion of state funds, and encouragement from ICC for eligible natural gas customers to enroll in low-income discount rates.