Illinois Public Media News

Republican investor Bruce Rauner will be the next governor of Illinois -probably. He declared victory over Gov. Pat Quinn, but the Democrat is refusing to concede.

Voters in two counties have overwhelmingly rejected efforts to place hazardous waste in the Clinton Landfill in an advisory referendum.

In addition to choosing a new governor, Illinois voters approved several ballot questions, including two changes to the state’s constitution.

Democrat Carol Ammons is Representative Naomi Jakobsson's new successor for the retiring lawmaker's seat in the Illinois House. Ammons says she's eager to follow in Jakobsson's footsteps, starting with a tax overhaul.

Congressman John Shimkus is headed back to Washington for a 10th term representing Illinois’ 15th district.

Champaign Democrat Mike Frerichs says it may be a week before voters know who won the contest for Illinois treasurer.

Champaign Public Schools will have to try again for the money to build a new high school and renovate an existing one. The referendum for a $149 million-dollar bond sale failed last night — 52 percent voting no and 47 percent voting yes.

Gov. Pat Quinn is not conceding his re-election bid to Republican Bruce Rauner.  Quinn told supporters Tuesday evening that there are outstanding votes to be counted and he doesn't "believe in throwing in the towel." 

With more than 90 percent of precincts reporting, Rauner led Quinn by about 4 percentage points. Rauner gave a victory speech outlining his goals for the state. However, Quinn spokeswoman Brooke Anderson says there are a large number of votes in Chicago and Cook County to be counted, including provisional and mail ballots.

Rauner is a Winnetka venture capitalist who sought public office for the first time. Quinn is a Chicago Democrat who sought a second full term. It's one of the most competitive governor's races in the nation.

The tiny Jamaica and Catlin school districts will become a little less tiny next summer. Voters in both South Vermilion County districts approved a referendum to consolidate into the new Salt Fork.

Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka has been re-elected to a second term over Democratic challenger Sheila Simon.