Free Republic

The Democrat-controlled Illinois House approved protections for illegal immigrants, made voter registration automatic for state residents, and passed more severe punishments for gun crimes Tuesday, the Chicago Tribune reports. Senate President and Democrat John Cullerton, who supported the immigration bill in the Senate, said it will “provide stability” for Illinois’ estimated half-million illegal immigrants by preventing state and local law enforcement from arresting them. Democratic legislators admit the measure is a direct response to President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, which they say has caused Illinois communities to “live in fear.”

Barack Obama's name is revered in his home state. But the Illinois House has rejected making his birthday a state holiday. [Snip] The Republican floor leader says even Obama wouldn't want the cash-strapped state to give state workers another paid day off.

House Speaker Mike Madigan is the most powerful man in Illinois politics. He controls whether bills live or die. He controls the legislative map. He controls a property tax law firm that makes millions on the back of his influence. But on Nov. 8, Illinois voters proved he can be beaten. Madigan will no longer control a veto-proof supermajority in the Illinois House. The election results will likely change what was once the easiest and most obvious vote for House Democrats – Madigan for speaker – into one of the most contentious of the upcoming legislative session. Voters in five...