(SPRINGFIELD) Illinois U.S. Representative Darin LaHood of Dunlap has announced that he will seek reelection to Congress in 2026. After speculation swirled around the upstate Republican as a possible candidate for Governor, LaHood said he was humbled for the encouragement to seek statewide office. LaHood has served in the U.S. House since 2015.
(CHAMPAIGN) After opening the state’s first Department of Motor Vehicles facility with expanded services outside of the Chicago area, the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office says more DMV+ locations are planned across the state. The opening of the new facility in Champaign will utilize a one-stop-shop design that involves cross-training employees to accommodate customers seeking all DMV tasks, including driver and vehicle services, plus it will be especially helpful for driver’s license reinstatements, certified copies of businss records, adoption-related documents, and much more.
(SPRINGFIELD) Yesterday was the first day to circulate nominating petitions for established party candidates in Illinois. Both Republicans and Democrats can now officially collect signatures to get on the March 2026 primary ballot. Races up for grabs include statehouse seats and Illinois’ statewide offices like Governor and U.S. Senator. The official filing week will begin later this fall on October 27th throughout the State of Illinois.
(BLOOMINGTON) Around $4 million in taxpayer funds will bring about 4.5 miles of new trails in McLean County for the Route 66 Trail. IDOT officials say the new section up in the Bloomington area will enhance a popular travel and recreation option in north-central Illinois that will also attract tourists. Two new trailheads will lead to the 10-foot-wide paved trails with construction anticipated to be completely finished by the end of December.