Darin LaHood

A lifelong resident of Rockford is joining a growing field of candidates from both the left and right looking to unseat Illinois’ U.S. Congressman Darin LaHood in 2026.

Rep. Darin LaHood is considering and is open to a primary run for the U.S. Senate seat, according to a source with direct knowledge of the congressman’s thinking. The congressman has about $5.8 million cash on hand to help a potential bid.

Residents concerned about potential cuts to federal Medicaid staged a protest Monday outside the office of Republican U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood, who represents parts of Bloomington-Normal.

Amid recent calls to host a town hall meeting with constituents, U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood says he frequently makes himself available to the public.

About 90 protesters gathered Monday in Uptown Normal to speak against restrictions to Medicaid and other social services.

A small manufacturer in Bloomington faces many pressures. Joe Diemer has owned Midwest Molding Solutions for a quarter century.

U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen says the Trump administration’s sudden pause of federal grants, loans and other financial assistance programs will result in widespread adverse outcomes.

Illinois is among the states with the largest proportion of workers affected by the Social Security Fairness Act.

U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood, who represents parts of Bloomington-Normal and Peoria, said he hopes the death of the leader of the Hamas movement provides an opportunity to push forward with a deal to release Israeli hostages held in Gaza.

The newly-dedicated expansion of the nursing simulation lab at Illinois State University already is making a difference in the student experience, according to college leaders and students.