Gov. JB Pritzker cruises to a third term amid a massive blue wave nationwide. But Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch is caught in a riptide as 26 members of his caucus force him out.

The Lake Shore Drive bridge malfunctions after a lift — creating an hourslong traffic snafu. And the city sues a South Chicago funeral home where dozens of bodies were found decomposing.

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.

Crowds of mourners line up to pay final respects to civil rights leader Jesse Jackson. And the battle for the Bears stadium heats up as Indiana’s governor signs a bill creating a new stadium authority.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker puts his foot on the gas pedal calling for changes at the CTA. And what’s in store for the Chicago Sky as WNBA ticket sales soar.

Chicago school kids get a day off to get COVID vaccines. Kyle Rittenhouse gives emotional testimony in his Kenosha murder trial. Illinois’ richest resident vows to take down Pritzker. And more.

Mayor Lightfoot unveils an $838 million budget gap. Chicago Public Schools approves its budget despite threats of a teachers strike. The Bears begin the countdown to opening night against the Packers.