Republican Party

Many new lawmakers come to government with big dreams but often find they have little power. This is how several first-time Central Illinois lawmakers learned how to enact change in their own ways.

Republican state Rep. Dennis Tipsword, who represents parts of rural Bloomington-Normal in the 105th House District, will head to Washington, D.C., for Inauguration Day on Monday.

Democrats hold supermajorities in both chambers in the Illinois legislature. They also occupy the governor's office, all statewide offices and 14 of 17 congressional seats.

The freshman Democratic House Rep. said conversations with constituents across Illinois' 17th Congressional District prompted him to issue a statement calling for President Joe Biden to end his bid for reelection in November.

Illinois Republicans prepare to celebrate Trump’s nomination as recent infighting has mired the state party.

Dennis Grundler said he's believes there's too much division within the Republican party in McLean County as some have strayed from fiscal conservatism.

George Wendt has served the largely rural and very Republican leaning McLean County Board District three for 14 years. In an unusual event, Wendt faces a primary challenge from Brian Loeffler, a farmer in the southern and western part of the county.

Democrats meet in Chicago in August. Republicans gather in Milwaukee in July, with both events offering thousands of volunteer opportunities.

Pat Brady, a regular commentator on political news, told guests at the annual fundraiser for the McLean County League of Women Voters that a variety of factors contributed to the current state.

The potential for a shift in control of the state’s highest court could impact major issues, including abortion and gun rights.