Monday, March 9, 2026

Illinois abolished the death penalty 15 years ago today, when former Governor Pat Quinn signed a bill into law banning the punishment. We’ve got record warmth around Chicago today with highs in the low 70s. The Chicago White Sox have named Shane Smith their starting pitcher for Opening Day. Plus, Illinois residents soon have a big choice to make: who should represent them in the U.S. Senate for the next six years? All eyes are on the Democratic primary in the race to replace longtime retiring U.S. Senator Dick Durbin.