Wildfire smoke clouds the Chicago region, closing beaches and canceling outdoor events. Plus, a bleak budget reality as Chicago Public Schools eyes layoffs and a spending freeze.

Federal prosecutors charge state lawmaker Carol Ammons with fraud and lying to the FBI. And a judge scolds U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros for publicly discussing a sealed indictment.

The Bears are still in talks to make an Illinois stadium deal. And the Supreme Court expands the Trump administration’s power over immigration enforcement.

The Obama Presidential Center draws massive crowds to Jackson Park for its grand opening. And former Ald. George Cardenas is the newest candidate to announce a bid for mayor of Chicago.

More than 100 former federal prosecutors slam Chicago’s U.S. attorney. And the Chicago Public Schools CEO defends district policy from GOP attacks in Congress.

The Chicago Bears move forward with an Indiana stadium. And Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza announces her mayoral run.

Illinois lawmakers race to finish a state budget and a Bears stadium deal. And Mayor Brandon Johnson journeys to meet Pope Leo XIV.

Federal prosecutors drop all charges against Broadview demonstrators. And City Council delays a phaseout of the tipped minimum wage.

Mourners gather for the funeral of a Chicago police officer killed in a hospital shooting. And Mayor Brandon Johnson lobbies state lawmakers for more funding.

A state commission says federal immigration agents were violent and lawless during “Operation Midway Blitz.” And Democrats weigh a response after the U.S. Supreme Court further hobbles the Voting Rights Act.

Local leaders rally around Pope Leo after attacks from President Donald Trump. And CPS reaches a deal with CTU to hold May Day classes.

Illinois Democrats call for removing the president from office after he threatens to wipe out Iran. And planned May Day demonstrations have the Chicago Teachers Union and new CPS CEO at odds.

Mayor Brandon Johnson moves to oust the head of the Chicago Housing Authority’s board. And the U.S. Supreme Court casts a skeptical eye on the president’s plan to curtail birthright citizenship.

Chaos at airports as TSA workers go unpaid — but could those long security lines be coming to an end? And a federal judge rules the Trump administration must unfreeze funding for the CTA Red Line.

Juliana Stratton notches a commanding win in the Democratic U.S. Senate primary. And a busy week at City Hall as Mayor Brandon Johnson pledges a veto — and fires a top deputy.

Three leading candidates in a contentious Senate fight and a host of other races make their closing arguments as Election Day fast approaches.