News Local/State
Illinois Public Media is your source for Midterm Election candidate interviews
Click here for links to our video interviews with candidates for federal, state, and countywide offices.
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The 21st Show
What to know about Illinois’ cell phone ban in schools
School districts across Illinois will be required to ban cell phones and other devices during the school day starting next school year. A state lawmaker, an educator, and an education policy expert discuss how that works, as well as the pros and cons … for students, teachers, and families.
The 21st Show
GOP congressional candidate Jeff Wilson on tariffs, energy production, and immigration policy
Republican Jeff Wilson is hoping to make Illinois' 13th congressional district red again. Running against incumbent Nikki Budzinski, the former Champaign County Board member makes his case.
The 21st Show
Seeking third term, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski talks rising costs, data centers, and AI regulation
Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski is looking to represent Illinois' 13th district for a third term. She discusses what's been accomplished for the district so far and what her future plans are if given the opportunity to serve a third term.
The 21st Show
What’s next in a federal case involving dangerous working conditions at a Southern Illinois coal mine?
Federal charges have been filed against four managers of a Southern Illinois coal mine. This stems from a fire back in 2021. The men are accused of failing to evacuate their people — and then covering up what happened.
The 21st Show
Nearly 50 years later, Oscar-winning filmmaker recounts making highly acclaimed documentary
In the early 1970's, a young filmmaker named Barbara Kopple heard a story on NPR about leadership elections for the United Mine Workers of America, which was among the strongest labor unions in the United States. Nearly 50 years later, Kopple discusses how the film is still relevant.
The 21st Show
Democratic congressional hopeful Paul Nolley on Iran war, ‘chaotic’ tariffs, and workers’ rights
In 2024, Republican Darin LaHood was re-elected unopposed in Illinois’ 16th district. This year, he has a challenger. Democrat Paul Nolley discusses what he brings to the table.
Weather Realness
How can El Niño affect Illinois weather?
Thousands of miles away, the Pacific Ocean is warming which can affect weather patterns worldwide. But how can this affect Illinois?
Weather Realness
What you need to know about “Super” El Niño
You may have heard about a potential “Super” El Niño, but what does that mean? We learn how the warming in the pacific ocean can impact global weather patterns.
The 21st Show
Artist sisters to debut sculpture at Burning Man festival
"Octopolis,” a 20-foot-tall sculpture made from — among other things — salvaged metal and reclaimed fabric will be featured at Burning Man in Nevada this summer. An Illinois woman and her sister came up with the idea from the project and created it.
These programs are partially sponsored by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.
