The 217 Today Podcast

217 Today: Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021

Brian Moline
 
Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., questions witnesses before a House Committee on Foreign Affairs hearing looking into the firing of State Department Inspector General Steven Linick, Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2020 on Capitol Hill in Washington.

Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., questions witnesses before a House Committee on Foreign Affairs hearing looking into the firing of State Department Inspector General Steven Linick, Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2020 on Capitol Hill in Washington. Kevin Deitsch/Pool via AP

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Thursday Feb. 25, 2021

Today's headlines:

  • Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker made a stop in Champaign on Wednesday to champion new criminal justice and police reforms, which he signed into law on Monday.

  • A new lawsuit against the University of Illinois claims the university failed to investigate claims of sexual harassment and assault in a timely and adequate manner.

  • Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's handpicked replacement for his House seat has resigned less than three days after his appointment.

  • The number of active COVID-19 cases in Champaign County has reached its lowest level since Nov. 10, as the number of people vaccinated continues to rise.

In today's deep dive, we take a look at how U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger's time at Illinois State University and serving on the McLean County Board shaped the politician he is today.

Reporting today contributed by Dana Cronin, Mary Hansen, Hannah Meisel, and Eric Stock.