May 23 Evening Edition

ABC7
— Coronavirus Illinois: COVID-19 cases top 107K with over 4K deaths as Memorial Day weekend gets underway
By Eric Horng, Craig Wall and Liz Nagy
https://abc7chicago.com/politics/illinois-covid-19-cases-top-107k/6206947/

NBC5
— Illinois Reports 2,352 New Coronavirus Cases, 75 Additional Deaths The state reported 25,114 new test results on Saturday
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/coronavirus/illinois-reports-2352-new-coronavirus-cases-75-additional-deaths/2277240/

CBS2
— Coronavirus In Illinois: 2,352 New COVID-19 Cases, 75 Additional Deaths
https://chicago.cbslocal.com/2020/05/23/coronavirus-in-illinois-2352-new-covid-19-cases-75-additional-deaths/

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— Illinois reports 75 coronavirus deaths Saturday and more than 2,300 new cases
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/illinois-reports-75-coronavirus-deaths-saturday-and-more-than-2300-new-cases

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— 75 more Illinois coronavirus deaths; state testing tops 700K More than half the deaths have occurred during the first three weeks of May, during what Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office has said is a plateau period for the outbreak’s impact on Illinois that could last through June. – Mitchell Armentrout
https://chicago.suntimes.com/coronavirus/2020/5/23/21268596/illinois-coronavirus-cases-deaths-pritzker-reopening-may-23
— Illinois House clears Chicago casino measure in waning hours of special session There were several amendments flying around Saturday morning, but ultimately, bill sponsor state Rep. Bob Rita was able to round up enough support. The measure was pushed by Mayor Lori Lightfoot and is essential in helping the city’s police and fire pensions. – Tina Sfondeles
https://chicago.suntimes.com/2020/5/23/21268597/chicago-casino-bill-fix-springfield-illinois-house-pass-pritzker-gambling-expansion

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Age is more than a number for nation’s geezer politicians – CHARLES SELLE (DIERSEN: What do you say to those who promote age discrimination?)
https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/lake-county-news-sun/opinion/ct-lns-selle-older-politicians-st-0526-20200522-eebmt7cwbfc4fpmxqxgndmplee-story.html
— Chicago faith leaders divided on whether to reopen for in-person service as state adds more than 2,300 new COVID-19 cases – MADELINE BUCKLEY
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-chicago-illinois-update-churches-20200523-bccarmy2y5gznm5rminnpiooci-story.html
— Illinois House passes legislation sought by Mayor Lori Lightfoot in her effort to land a casino in Chicago – JAMIE MUNKS and DAN PETRELLA
https://www.chicagotribune.com/politics/ct-chicago-casino-legislation-20200523-c5sem6ajmrgspme53h2mzgo4gy-story.html

DAILY HERALD
— Illinois reports 2,352 new COVID-19 cases, 75 more deaths Saturday
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200523/illinois-reports-2352-new-covid-19-cases-75-more-deaths-saturday

SPRINGFIELD STATE JOURNAL REGISTER
— Mark Curran takes on Durbin but also some in GOP – Bernard Schoenburg
https://www.sj-r.com/news/20200523/curran-takes-on-durbin-but-also-some-in-gop

BELLEVILLE NEWS DEMOCRAT
— Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker’s executive orders are unconstitutional, lawsuit argues – REBECCA ANZEL
https://www.bnd.com/news/politics-government/article242962006.html
(FROM THE ARTICLE: Two parties in the lawsuit are George Pearson, the Will County Republican Committee chairman, and Steve Balich, a member of the Will County Board. Both claim the state’s restrictions “deprived” them of income. Pearson claims he cannot perform his duties to nominate candidates for the Nov. 3 general election ballot. Balich claims he cannot “effectively represent his constituents” or run for reelection.)

KANKAKEE DAILY JOURNAL
— ‘Freedom is important:’ Few hundred rally to demand reopening of region, state – Lee Provost
https://www.daily-journal.com/news/local/freedom-is-important-few-hundred-rally-to-demand-reopening-of-region-state/article_cd5dc5c8-9bcd-11ea-bd6f-ff3051750016.html

FOX ILLINOIS
— Pandemic halts vaccination for nearly 80 million children – AP
https://foxillinois.com/news/nation-world/pandemic-halts-vaccination-for-nearly-80-million-children
— Memorial Day spurs worries of spikes in cases while warnings come of second outbreak – Ahtra Elnashar
https://foxillinois.com/news/coronavirus/memorial-day-spurs-worries-of-spikes-in-cases-while-warnings-come-of-second-outbreak
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Trump-haters say “Virus, economy, Trump and cash hamper GOP’s bid for House.”
https://foxillinois.com/news/nation-world/virus-economy-trump-and-cash-hamper-gops-bid-for-house

NPR ILLINOIS
— Evangelical Leader Cites ‘Growing Angst’ With Guv’s Covid-19 Response – MAUREEN FOERTSCH MCKINNEY
https://www.nprillinois.org/post/evangelical-leader-cites-growing-angst-guvs-covid-19-response#stream/0

WEST SUBURBAN JOURNAL
— Lightford announces $31.5 million in grant opportunities for historically underserved communities (DIERSEN: Why do some communities need more service than others?)
https://westsuburbanjournal.com/lightford-announces-31-5-million-in-grant-opportunities-for-historically-underserved-communities/

EVANSTON NOW
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: DISGUSTING, TRAGIC: Democrat push pot to push reparations.
https://evanstonnow.com/story/government/bill-smith/2020-05-22/84623/reparations-rally-promotes-more-funding

CHICAGO READER
— When it comes to pandemic planning, is the mayor responsive and collaborative, or dismissive and combative? – Dave Glowacz
https://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/lightfoot-covid-19-funding/Content?oid=80102325&mc_cid=1a233b50a1&mc_eid=c968c7978e

CENTER SQUARE
— DISGUSTING, TRAGIC: Illinois has 9,176 legal cannabis industry jobs, study finds
https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-has-9-176-legal-cannabis-industry-jobs-study-finds/article_a61092be-9aa3-11ea-be40-07b038e94c45.html

ILLINOIS POLICY INSTITUTE
— ILLINOIS TOPS LIST FOR HARSHEST COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS IN AMERICA – Ben Szalinski
https://www.illinoispolicy.org/illinois-tops-list-for-harshest-covid-19-restrictions-in-america/

CAPITOL FAX
— 2,352 new cases, 75 additional deaths
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/23/2352-new-cases-75-additional-deaths/
— Amendment introduced to allow remote legislating
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/23/amendment-introduced-to-allow-remote-legislating/
— House approves gaming bill 77-32
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/23/house-approves-gaming-bill-77-32/
— Sen. Dale Righter cleans up Eastern Bloc member’s mess
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/23/sen-dale-righter-cleans-up-eastern-bloc-members-mess/
— IDPH stops reporting historical nursing home COVID-19 outbreak data
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/23/idph-stops-reporting-historical-nursing-home-covid-19-ourtbreak-data/
— End of session cheat sheet
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/23/end-of-session-cheat-sheet/
— New approp, BIMP amendments surface, casino push continues, cannabis bill hits a snag with Pritzker thumbs down
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/23/new-approp-bimp-amendments-surface-casino-push-continues-cannabis-bill-hits-a-snag-with-pritzker-thumbs-down/

NEWSMAX
— Illegal Aliens Have Major Role in Food Supply – James Walsh
https://www.newsmax.com/jameswalsh/immigration-food-supply/2020/05/22/id/968538/

THE HILL
— Trump campaign: Biden remarks about black people ‘racist and dehumanizing’ – JONATHAN EASLEY
https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/499143-trump-campaign-biden-remarks-about-black-people-racist-and-dehumanizing
— Trump escalates fight against mail-in voting – BRETT SAMUELS
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/499269-trump-escalates-fight-against-mail-in-voting

NBC NEWS
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Trump-haters say “More Americans are souring on Trump’s coronavirus handling.”
https://www.aol.com/article/news/2020/05/22/more-americans-are-souring-on-trumps-coronavirus-handling-new-polling-shows/24389274/

NEW YORK TIMES
— Biden’s ‘Breakfast Club’ Controversy Shows What His Rivals Already Knew – Tariro Mzezewa
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/23/us/politics/joe-biden-breakfast-club.html

BLOOMBERG LAW
— DISGUSTING, TRAGIC: Cannabis Binge in Quarantine Lifts Hope for Federal Legalization – Patrick T. Fallon/
https://news.bloomberglaw.com/coronavirus/quarantined-americans-embrace-cannabis-reshaping-an-industry

JD SUPRA
— Seven Things To Consider When An Employee Refuses To Return to Work (DIERSEN: What percent of employees will use coronavirus to refuse to return to work until their employer gets rid of all its employees who are older, obese, and/or have health problems including diabetes? What percent of members of organizations will use coronavirus to refuse to stay a member until the organization gets rid of all its members who are older, obese, and/or have health problems including diabetes?)
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/seven-things-to-consider-when-an-45827/

ACLU
— America, It Is Time to Talk About Reparations – Jeffery Robinson (DIERSEN: If the leaders of your municipality imposed reparations, which residents would they require to pay the most reparations – those who are Trump supporters, Protestant, conservative, patriotic, Republican, American, White, male, older, heterosexual, non-poor, gun owners, German American, draft avoiders, and/or those whose ancestors have been in America for a long time?)
https://www.aclu.org/news/racial-justice/america-it-is-time-to-talk-about-reparations/

May 22 Evening Edition

ABC7
— Illinois vote by mail bill passes Senate, heads to Governor JB Pritkzer for signature
https://abc7chicago.com/politics/illinois-vote-by-mail-bill-passes-senate-heads-to-governor-for-signature/6205072/
— Coronavirus Chicago: Here’s what businesses can reopen next – and when – Sarah Schulte, Jessica D’Onofrio
https://abc7chicago.com/business/chicago-wont-begin-reopening-until-early-june-lightfoot-says-/6203672/

NBC5
— Illinois Senate Passes Vote-by-Mail Expansion Gov. J.B. Pritzker has said he looks forward to signing the legislation
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-politics/illinois-senate-passes-vote-by-mail-expansion/2277018/
— Trump Declares Churches ‘essential,’ Calls on Them to Reopen – Jill Colvin and Zeke Miller
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/politics/trump-calls-on-churches-to-reopen-this-weekend/2276774/
— Justice Department Supports Lawsuit Challenging Pritzker’s Illinois Stay-at-Home Order The lawsuit filed by State Rep. Darren Bailey claims that state law gives the governor only a 30-day period for exercising emergency powers
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/justice-department-supports-lawsuit-challenging-pritzkers-stay-at-home-order/2276953/

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— Illinois lawmakers wrap up Springfield special session It’s been an eventful few days for Illinois lawmakers at the special session in Springfield. – Mike Flannery
https://www.fox32chicago.com/video/686957
— Illinois continues to increase COVID-19 testing capacity as state reports 2,758 new cases
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/illinois-continues-to-increase-covid-19-testing-capacity-as-state-reports-2758-new-cases
— Biden says he was too ‘cavalier’ about black Trump backers – Bill Barrow
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/biden-says-he-was-too-cavalier-about-black-trump-backers

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Pritzker says he plans to sign vote-by-mail expansion into law Democrats supported the measure saying they worried about a second-wave of the coronavirus suppressing voter turnout for the 2020 election. Republicans contended the bill would make Illinois’ election more vulnerable to fraud. – Neal Earley
https://chicago.suntimes.com/2020/5/22/21267994/vote-by-mail-expansion-senate-pritzker-covid-19-coronavirus
— Downstate judge blasts Pritzker’s stay-at-home-order: ‘Americans don’t get ruled’ Justice Department also sides with Darren Bailey, says he makes a strong case that Pritzker’s orders “exceed the authority granted to the governor by the Illinois legislature.” – Jon Seidel
https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2020/5/22/21267665/downstate-judge-blasts-illinois-governor-jb-pritzker-stay-at-home-order
— Reopening churches ‘dangerous and foolish,’ Lightfoot tells Trump At a Friday press conference announcing plans to “cautiously reopen” parts of Chicago, Lightfoot said people have to recognize that “virtually everything [Trump] says has a political undertone and basis for it.” – Rachel Hinton and Mitchell Armentrout
https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2020/5/22/21267936/churches-lori-lightfoot-donald-trump-coronavirus-covid-worship

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Department of Justice declares its support of lawsuit challenging Pritzker’s stay-at-home order – Robert McCoppin
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-illinois-stay-at-home-order-justice-department-20200523-upjahom3tfdpbizw5ehswtdfoy-story.html
— Elburn business owners say they are just ‘hanging on’ as pandemic continues – MEGAN JONES
https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/ct-abn-elburn-businesses-urge-to-reopen-st-0525-20200523-5l3qe2zmeja43pyug5fhqcgv3y-story.html

DAILY HERALD
— Illinois budget plan needs $6B in federal aid to balance – AP
https://www.dailyherald.com/article/20200522/news/305229923/
— Suburban election clerks ask state to prepare for record demand for vote-by-mail – James Fuller
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200522/suburban-election-clerks-ask-state-to-prepare-for-record-demand-for-vote-by-mail
— Senate Republicans: Stay in session until legislature reaches a bipartisan reopening plan – Jerry Nowicki
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200522/senate-republicans-stay-in-session-until-legislature-reaches-a-bipartisan-reopening-plan

WGN RADIO
— COVID-19: Can Illinois crawl out of $7 billion budget hole? – Roe Conn
https://wgnradio.com/roe-conn/covid-19-can-illinois-crawl-out-of-7-billion-budget-hole/

ILLINOIS PATCH
— Job Openings In IL: CDC Hiring Contact Tracers To Fight Pandemic The CDC is looking for contact tracers, who can make up to $65,000 a year and just need a bachelor’s degree and a positive attitude. – J. Ryne Danielson
https://patch.com/illinois/across-il/job-openings-il-cdc-hiring-contact-tracers-fight-pandemic

GENEVA PATCH
— Families Sue Bria Of Geneva Alleging Negligence Amid Coronavirus The families of two residents who died at the senior living facility filed lawsuits Monday and Tuesday. – Jason Addy
https://patch.com/illinois/geneva/families-sue-bria-geneva-alleging-negligence-amid-coronavirus

PROPUBLICA ILLINOIS
— More Than 1 in 5 Illinoisans Living in State Homes for Adults With Disabilities Have Tested Positive for the Coronavirus In Illinois, at least 355 people who live in state-run homes for adults with disabilities have tested positive for the coronavirus. “They don’t know why their family has stopped coming to visit,” a relative said. – Jennifer Smith Richards and Jodi S. Cohen
https://www.propublica.org/article/more-than-1-in-5-illinoisans-living-in-state-homes-for-adults-with-disabilities-have-tested-positive-for-the-coronavirus

ILLINOIS LEAKS
— Clay County Judge issued Restraining Order against Gov Pritzker – JOHN KRAFT
https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2020/05/clay-county-judge-issued-restraining-order-against-gov-pritzker/

ILLINOIS REVIEW
— 20 GOP IL HOUSE MEMBERS FORM “IL TAXPAYER FREEDOM CAUCUS”
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/20-gop-il-house-members-form-il-taxpayer-freedom-caucus-.html
— THORNER: HOW MAIL-IN BALLOTS WILL END FAIR AND FREE ELECTIONS
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/thorner-hallmark-of-a-democratic-republic-free-and-fair-elections.html
— WHO ARE THE COVID-19 DICTATORS?
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/who-are-the-covid-19-dictators.html
— WEYERMULLER: CHICAGO CATHOLIC FAITHFUL REJECT CARDINAL’S PLAN TO RE-OPEN CHURCHES
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/weyermuller-chicago-catholic-faithful-reject-cardinals-plan-to-re-open-churches.html
— PILL PUSHERS EXPLOITING COVID-19 TO PROMOTE RISKY TELEMEDICINE ABORTIONS
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/pill-pushers-exploiting-covid-19-to-promote-risky-telemedicine-abortions.html

CAPITOL FAX
— Madigan: House will convene tomorrow
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/22/madigan-house-will-convene-tomorrow/
— Thursday session roundup
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/22/thursday-session-roundup/
— $5.8 billion budget hole to be (mostly) “filled” with borrowed federal money, paid back (hopefully) with federal assistance
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/22/58-billion-budget-hole-to-be-mostly-filled-with-borrowed-federal-money-paid-back-hopefully-with-federal-assistance/
— Elections omnibus bill clears Senate on final passage
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/22/elections-omnibus-bill-clears-senate-on-final-passage/
— Pritzker announces childcare reopening schedule – Will use federal $ to pay for federal borrowing – Will be “very disappointed” if legislature doesn’t pass legislation addressing withdrawn IDPH rule – Legislature can stay in town if it wants to – Says “look at the log data” will show only one person accessed IDES info – Says he “regularly” talks to clergy – Asked why legislators haven’t taken up a bill on African Americans, Latinos – Supports Chicago casino bill – Republicans “linked themselves” to fringe protesters – Clay County ruling will only apply to Clay County – Plans to stay in Springfield through end of session – Lightfoot decision to go slower is hers to make – Comments on FEMA letter warning law enforcement about funding – Hasn’t seen Sen. Rose’s letter – Children over 2 will wear masks – Called out on food claim – Dr. Ezike explains spread at restaurants – Dr. Ezike says no easing of nursing home visit restrictions
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/22/pritzker-announces-childcare-reopening-schedule/
— 2,758 new cases, 110 additional deaths
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/22/2758-new-cases-110-additional-deaths/

WASHINGTON TIMES
— U.S. intervenes in case challenging Pritzker’s COVID-19 moves – AP
https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/22/us-intervenes-in-case-challenging-pritzkers-covid-/

DAILY SIGNAL
— 1% of Counties Home to Half of COVID-19 Cases, Over Half of Deaths – Norbert Michel
https://www.dailysignal.com/2020/05/13/covid-19-tracker-shows-cases-deaths-cluster-in-specific-areas/

NBC NEWS
— Justice Department joins push against Illinois coronavirus restrictions DOJ suggested Gov. Pritzker has exceeded his authority with his stay at home orders, and also sent a warning letter to LA Mayor Eric Garcetti
https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/justice-department/justice-department-joins-push-against-illinois-coronavirus-restrictions-n1213491

NEW YORK TIMES
— Trump Orders States to Allow Places of Worship to Open, Though He Has No Authority To
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/22/us/politics/trump-churches.html

NEW YORK MAGAZINE
— Coronavirus May Derail the Republican Convention After All – Ed Kilgore
https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2020/05/coronavirus-may-derail-the-republican-convention-after-all.html

May 21 Evening Edition

ABC7
— Maskless Trump tours Michigan Ford plant producing ventilators – AP
https://abc7chicago.com/politics/maskless-trump-tours-michigan-ford-plant-producing-ventilators/6201653/

NBC5
— Illinois Sets Single-Day Testing Record as 2,268 New Coronavirus Cases Reported Health officials also reported 87 additional deaths Thursday afternoon
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/illinois-coronavirus-cases-rise-to-102686-as-state-reports-2268-new-cases/2276050/
— Pritzker Favors Expanding Vote-by-Mail Program Despite Criticism from Republicans
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/pritzker-favors-expanding-vote-by-mail-program-despite-criticism-from-republicans/2276182/
— Illinois Lawmaker Wears Mask Day After Being Booted From Legislative Session Over Refusal Rep. Darren Bailey has been a frequent critic of coronavirus restrictions, including filing suit against Gov. Pritzker’s stay-at-home order – Shelby Bremer and James Neveau
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-politics/illinois-lawmaker-wears-mask-day-after-being-booted-from-legislative-session-over-refusal/2276011/
— Pritzker Moves Bailey’s Lawsuit Over Stay-at-Home Order to Federal Court State Rep. Darren Bailey’s argument that the governor’s order violated his civil rights provided the basis for the Illinois attorney general’s motion to transfer the case – Shelby Bremer
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-politics/pritzker-moves-baileys-lawsuit-over-stay-at-home-order-to-federal-court/2275951/
— Illinois Lawmakers, 6 Feet Apart, Catch Up on Delayed Work – John O’Connor
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-politics/illinois-lawmakers-6-feet-apart-catch-up-on-delayed-work/2275775/

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— Illinois processes 29,307 coronavirus tests in last 24 hours – the state’s highest total to date
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/illinois-processes-29307-coronavirus-tests-in-last-24-hours-the-states-highest-total-to-date
— Vote-by-mail expansion ready for Illinois House floor vote – AP
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/vote-by-mail-expansion-ready-for-illinois-house-floor-vote-1

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Illinois House committee advances legislation to expand vote-by-mail program despite questions from GOP – JAMIE MUNKS
https://www.chicagotribune.com/politics/ct-illinois-mail-in-voting-20200521-zadsqoq56vh6lf4dhhxumusqta-story.html

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— 87 more Illinois coronavirus deaths as state unemployment tops 16% More than 1.2 million people have filed for unemployment benefits since the beginning of March. More than 4,600 people have died of the coronavirus in Illinois over that time, too. – Mitchell Armentrout
https://chicago.suntimes.com/coronavirus/2020/5/21/21266637/pritzker-illinois-coronavirus-reopening-cases-deaths-may-21
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: A Trump-hater says “Trump smashes the right’s ability to police itself.”
https://chicago.suntimes.com/columnists/2020/5/21/21266542/michelle-malkin-proud-boys-paul-nehlen-vdare-groypers-neo-nazis-mona-charen

DAILY HERALD
— State’s COVID-19 infection rate continues to decline; 87 more dead – Jake Griffin
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200521/states-covid-19-infection-rate-continues-to-decline-87-more-dead
— State has spent nearly $240 million on COVID-19 response – Jake Griffin
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200521/state-has-spent-nearly-240-million-on-covid-19-response

WTTW
— Illinois Set to ‘Chase’ Voters to Mail In Their Ballots – Amanda Vinicky
https://news.wttw.com/2020/05/21/illinois-set-chase-voters-mail-their-ballots

FOX ILLINOIS
— Trump slams mail-in balloting promoted by his own campaign – AP
https://foxillinois.com/news/coronavirus/trump-slams-mail-in-balloting-promoted-by-his-own-campaign

NEWS CHANNEL 20
— Number of unemployed Illinois workers jumps 280%
https://newschannel20.com/news/local/number-of-unemployed-illinois-workers-jumps-280

CRYSTAL LAKE PATCH
— McHenry County Challenges Pritzker’s Executive Order Illinois’ defense of Gov. JB Pritzker’s ban on large church gatherings “is on dangerous ground,” argued McHenry County State’s Attorney. – Danny Wicentowski
https://patch.com/illinois/crystallake/mchenry-states-attorney-challenges-pritzker-executive-order

ILLINOIS POLICY INSTITUTE
— PRITZKER THREATENS LOCAL POLICE WHO DON’T ENFORCE HIS STAY-AT-HOME ORDER – Ben Szalinski
https://www.illinoispolicy.org/pritzker-threatens-local-police-who-dont-enforce-his-stay-at-home-order/

CAPITOL FAX
— Pritzker says vote by mail bill “a reasonable compromise” – Explains federalism – Explains state needs legislation to distribute federal $ to local governments – Explains federalism – Talks about new job report – Dodges childcare question – Concerned about privacy issues with contact tracing apps – Repeats need for federal money – Repeats need for federal money – Repeats need for federal money – Repeats need for federal money – “Running government is not like running a business” – Now unsure about state fairs – IDPH working on guidance for youth sports – Won’t apologize to Florida and Georgia – State workers coming back in Phase 3 – Asked about hiring Illinois union contractors during a recession to work on his Wisconsin farm – Happy for a workers’ comp deal – Still wants a Chicago casino – “An awful lot can happen in a day and a half” – Defers lawsuit question to AG
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/21/pritzker-says-vote-by-mail-bill-a-reasonable-compromise/
— 2,268 new cases, 87 additional deaths
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/21/2268-new-cases-87-additional-deaths/
— COVID-19 roundup
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/21/covid-19-roundup-42/
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Pritzker supporters blast Bailey
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/21/the-democrats-favorite-republican/
— AG Raoul files notice to remove Bailey’s case to federal court
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/21/ag-raoul-files-notice-to-remove-baileys-case-to-federal-court/
— Illinois’ April unemployment rate was 16.4 percent
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/21/illinois-april-unemployment-rate-was-164-percent/
— Illinois eyes borrowing $4.5 billion from Federal Reserve program
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/21/illinois-eyes-borrowing-45-billion-from-federal-reserve-program/
— Illinois set to greatly expand vote by mail
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/21/illinois-set-to-great-expand-vote-by-mail/

WASHINGTON EXAMINER
— Illinois Senate Republican leader Bill Brady files bill to reopen Illinois business by June – Cole Lauterbach
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/politics/senate-republican-leader-files-bill-to-reopen-illinois-business-by-june

CBN NEWS
— 16 Facts That Prove America Is in Deep Trouble and Why ‘The Return’ Is so Critical – Jonathan Cahn, Kevin Jessip
https://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/us/2020/may/16-facts-that-prove-america-is-in-deep-trouble-and-why-the-return-is-so-critical

THE HILL
— Trump says US won’t close over second COVID-19 wave – MORGAN CHALFANT
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/499054-trump-says-he-will-not-close-country-if-there-is-a-second-wave-of

May 20 Evening Edition

ABC7
— Coronavirus Illinois: COVID-19 cases top 100K with over 4K deaths; changes to Phase 3 include outdoor dining, state parks reopening, Pritzker says Illinois SNAP recipients to be able to buy food online, Pritzker says – Jessica D’Onofrio
https://abc7chicago.com/politics/pritzker-announces-major-changes-for-next-phase-of-reopening-/6198318/

NBC5
— Restaurants Can Open With Outdoor Seating in Phase 3 of Illinois’ Reopening: Pritzker The move is a shift from the state’s original guidelines, though restaurants still cannot reopen for dine-in service until phase four
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/restaurants-can-open-with-outdoor-seating-in-phase-3-of-illinois-reopening-pritzker/2275370/
— Illinois Lawmaker Booted From Legislative Session After Refusing to Comply With Mask Requirement Rep. Darren Bailey has been a frequent critic of coronavirus restrictions, including filing suit against Gov. Pritzker’s stay-at-home order – Shelby Bremer and James Neveau
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-politics/illinois-lawmaker-booted-from-legislative-session-after-refusing-to-comply-with-mask-requirement/2275488/

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— Illinois seeing decrease in COVID-19 hospitalizations, people in ICU and on ventilators: IDPH
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/illinois-seeing-decrease-in-covid-19-hospitalizations-people-in-icu-and-on-ventilators-idph

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Bare-faced Bailey gets the boot: Downstate Republican ousted from House for violating COVID-19 rules Democratic Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch made a motion to remove Rep. Darren Bailey from the House proceedings after the Republican responded “I will not,” when he was asked to come into compliance with the face covering requirement. The House voted 81-27 to remove Bailey.
— Tina Sfondeles and Neal Earley
https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2020/5/20/21265240/protests-lawmakers-springfield-faces-covered-durkin-pritzker-madigan-covid-19-coronavirus

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Illinois restaurants and bars can go al fresco as soon as next Friday as Gov. J.B. Pritzker nods to reopening pressure – BILL RUTHHART, LOUISA CHU and NICK KINDELSPERGER
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-illinois-pritzker-restaurants-outdoor-dining-golf-20200520-co7snfsaezffpez4o6nhxhrnhq-story.html
— Pritzker backs down, unmasked lawmaker escorted out: First day of legislature’s special pandemic session a mix of political drama and showmanship – JAMIE MUNKS, DAN PETRELLA and RICK PEARSON
https://www.chicagotribune.com/politics/ct-illinois-legislature-special-session-day-one-20200520-2ope7nh4ufa7pjlzkwbmj3wada-story.html
— Naperville council adopts resolution denouncing racism and lauding diversity in wake of ‘carpetbagger’ comment – ERIN HEGARTY
https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/naperville-sun/ct-nvs-anti-discrimination-racism-resolution-naperville-st-20200520-jbe3pmimyzhvramxk2mu7hsze4-story.html
— AP poll: Americans harbor strong fear of second wave of coronavirus infections, back precautions amid openings – AP
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-nw-poll-coronavirus-attitudes-20200520-5mzt7qichje5zojh27mv2z6ki4-story.html

DAILY HERALD
— Illinois Legislature meets to OK budget under COVID-19 cloud – AP
https://www.dailyherald.com/article/20200520/news/305209945/
— Judge denies Lake County sheriff’s request for information on COVID-19 patients – Doug T. Graham
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200520/judge-denies-lake-county-sheriffs-request-for-information-on-covid-19-patients
— Kane County health official urges everyone get tested regardless of symptoms – James Fuller
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200520/kane-county-health-official-urges-everyone-get-tested-regardless-of-symptoms
— McHenry County Board members refuse vote on salary reduction, timesheet requirement – Kelli Duncan
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200520/mchenry-county-board-members-refuse-vote-on-salary-reduction-timesheet-requirement

CRAIN’S CHICAGO BUSINESS
— Here’s the plan lawmakers are drafting to balance Illinois’ 2021 budget It involves a $4.5 billion loan, for starters. – GREG HINZ
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/greg-hinz-politics/heres-plan-lawmakers-are-drafting-balance-illinois-2021-budget
— McDonald’s tells franchisees they may need to downsize or sell The company has earmarked about $40 million in aid for restaurant owners that are in crisis following the COVID-19 lockdown, but it likely won’t be enough.
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/restaurants/mcdonalds-tells-franchisees-they-may-need-downsize-or-sell
— Ford briefly stops lines at Chicago plant after 2 workers test positive The two employees had made it through Ford’s temperature scanner and daily health survey screening process. – MICHAEL MARTINEZ
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/manufacturing/ford-briefly-stops-lines-chicago-plant-after-2-workers-test-positive
— Pritzker clearing the way for outside activities, including dining The governor says as health numbers improve, he’s easing rules on some popular pursuits as soon as May 29. – GREG HINZ
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/greg-hinz-politics/pritzker-clearing-way-outside-activities-including-dining

SUBURBAN LIFE
— McSweeney sends letter to attorney general to investigate Pritzker’s “unconstitutional” stay-at-home order – NABIHA ASIM AND KATIE SMITH
https://www.mysuburbanlife.com/2020/05/20/mcsweeney-sends-letter-to-attorney-general-to-investigate-pritzkers-unconstitutional-stay-at-home-order/agzpyyk/

FOX NEWS ILLINOIS
— Illinois GOP leaders’ first priority is reopening the state – Matt Roy
https://foxillinois.com/news/local/gop-leaders-first-priority-is-reopening-the-state

ILLINOIS NEWS 20
— Rep. Bailey removed for refusing to wear mask
https://newschannel20.com/news/local/rep-bailey-removed-for-refusing-to-wear-mask

ILLINOIS LEAKS
— Naperville Park District sues Governor Pritzker – KIRK ALLEN
https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2020/05/naperville-park-district-sues-governor-pritzker/
— Pritzker hit with Restraining Order motion yesterday – IDPH withdraws their illegal rule today! – KIRK ALLEN
https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2020/05/pritzker-hit-with-restraining-order-motion-yesterday-idph-withdraws-their-illegal-rule-today/

ILLINOIS REVIEW
— PRITZKER BACKS OFF ATTEMPT TO IMPOSE MISDEMEANOR CHARGES ON IL BUSINESSES VIOLATING COVID EO
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/pritzker-backs-off-attempt-to-impose-misdemeanor-charges-on-il-businesses-violating-covid-eo.html
— REP. BAILEY: WHEN WILL PRITZKER’S EMERGENCY POWERS END?
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/rep-bailey-when-will-pritzkers-emergency-powers-end-.html
— GOV PRITZKER BLASTS “RE-OPEN ILLINOIS” PROTESTS; ACCUSES GOP LAWMAKERS, US SENATE CANDIDATE OF BEING “DANGEROUS”
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/video-shows-re-open-illinois-supporters-complained-to-chicago-cops-about-nazi-flag-bearer.html
— RE-OPEN ILLINOIS GROUP RESPONDS TO “ANTI-SEMITIC CONCERNS”
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/re-open-illinois-group-responds-to-anti-semitic-concerns.html

CAPITOL FAX
— Pritzker changes course, state will allow limited outdoor seating at bars, restaurants in Phase 3 – Boating, camping up to 10 people – Tennis facilities to open – Golf foursomes – All state parks to open
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/20/pritzker-changes-course-state-will-allow-limited-outdoor-seating-at-bars-restaurants-in-phase-3/
— 2,388 new cases, 147 additional deaths
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/20/2388-new-cases-147-additional-deaths/
— House votes 81-27 to remove Rep. Bailey from the House floor
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/20/house-votes-81-27-to-remove-rep-bailey-from-the-house-floor/

FOX NEWS

— Chicago fines churches for holding services in violation of statewide lockdown order – Matt Finn, Tyler Olson
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/chicago-fines-churches-violation-statewide-lockdown-order
— CDC now says coronavirus ‘does not spread easily’ via contaminated surfaces – Madeline Farber
https://www.foxnews.com/health/cdc-now-says-coronavirus-does-not-spread-easily-via-contaminated-surfaces
— Americans are rebelling against neurotic, dumb leaders and extreme coronavirus lockdowns – Tucker Carlson
https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/tucker-carlson-americans-are-rebelling-against-neurotic-dumb-leaders-and-extreme-coronavirus-lockdowns

May19 Evening Edition

ABC7
— Coronavirus Illinois Live: COVID-19 cases top 98K with over 4K deaths as Republicans criticize Pritzker’s order allowing businesses to be penalized – Jessica D’Onofrio
https://abc7chicago.com/society/illinois-covid-19-cases-top-96k-with-over-4k-deaths-/6195552/?cmp=emc-wls-news-headlines-5/19/2020
— Reopening Illinois: Rockford mayor calls for restaurants, childcare facilities to reopen on June 1 – Diane Pathieu
https://abc7chicago.com/business/rockford-mayor-calls-for-restaurants-childcare-facilities-to-reopen-on-june-1/6196016/

NBC5
— Lawmakers Can Be Kicked Out of House for Not Wearing a Mask Under Madigan’s Proposed Rules At least three Republicans in the House had previously indicated that they would not be wearing face coverings when legislators return to Springfield on Wednesday
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-politics/lawmakers-can-be-kicked-out-of-house-for-not-wearing-a-mask-under-madigans-proposed-rules/2274775/
— Illinois Hits Significant Coronavirus Testing Milestone
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/coronavirus/illinois-hits-significant-coronavirus-testing-milestone/2274786/
— Illinois GOP Says Graduated Tax ‘Cash Grab’ Will Stifle Pandemic Recovery – John O’Connor
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-politics/illinois-gop-says-graduated-tax-cash-grab-will-stifle-pandemic-recovery/2274493/
— Illinois Bar Sent Cease and Desist After Opening in Defiance of Stay-at-Home Order JB’s Hideout in Blue Mound, located just outside of Decatur and near Springfield, opened up on Friday for what owner Jason Bliesner called an “anti-corona party”
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/illinois-bar-sent-cease-and-desist-after-opening-in-defiance-of-stay-at-home-order/2274563/
— States Accused of Fudging or Bungling COVID-19 Testing Data The result is Americans who are making decisions about reopening and other day-to-day risks are being left with a false impression – Michelle R. Smith, Colleen Long and Jeff Amy
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/coronavirus/states-accused-of-fudging-or-bungling-covid-19-testing-data/2274807/

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— Illinois overtakes NY in COVID-19 testing per capita; state on track for Phase 3 by May 31
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/illinois-overtakes-ny-in-covid-19-testing-per-capita-state-on-track-for-phase-3-by-may-31

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Pritzker says state now leads nation in per capita daily COVID-19 tests as officials report 1,545 new known cases and 146 more deaths
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-pandemic-chicago-illinois-news-20200519-tclvoywcnre3tb5cpvwedj2hkm-story.html
— The glaring hole in Springfield’s to-do list: A corruption cleanup bill – Editorial
https://www.chicagotribune.com/opinion/editorials/ct-edit-illinois-corruption-ethics-reform-20200519-u4dqm7b435fepa6plbhqzev2wy-story.html
— Will masks be a magnet for racial profiling? Some African Americans put in a tough spot – NAOMI ISHISAKA
https://www.chicagotribune.com/opinion/commentary/ct-opinion-coronavirus-masks-racism-20200519-bactfujmgvfhdazfvpn337lhmi-story.html

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— 146 more Illinois coronavirus deaths, but state still on track for next stage of reopening
https://chicago.suntimes.com/2020/5/19/21263435/latest-coronavirus-news-live-updates-chicago-illinois-2020
— Madigan to make masks a must? Speaker wants bare-faced members booted from session “Staff and members of the public not observing the rules will be asked to leave the premises immediately,” Madigan said “I look forward to focusing on the critical work needed to ensure our state can continue to respond to the COVID-19 health crisis and provide relief to people struggling around the state and not on needless distractions.” – Mitchell Armentrou
https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2020/5/19/21264048/madigan-springfield-house-masks-face-speaker-session-bailey-covid-19-coronavirus
— A pandemic does not suspend the rule of law Courts are beginning to recognize that a government’s public health powers, while broad, are not a blank check. – Jacob Sullum
https://chicago.suntimes.com/columnists/2020/5/19/21264001/pandemic-rule-law-personal-liberties-constitution

DAILY HERALD
— 146 more dead from COVID-19, another 1,545 infections reported – Jake Griffin
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200519/146-more-dead-from-covid-19-another-1545-infections-reported
— Bipartisan group seeks to reduce size of DuPage County Board – Robert Sanchez
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200519/bipartisan-group-seeks-to-reduce-size-of-dupage-county-board
— Elmhurst mayor to governor: Let us reopen sooner – Bob Smith
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200519/elmhurst-mayor-to-governor-let-us-reopen-sooner

NORTHWEST HERALD
— Franks fined after refusing to disclose details about Illinois Integrity Fund ‘Friendly contempt’ order allows county board chairman to seek additional appeal – KATIE SMITH
https://www.nwherald.com/2020/05/19/franks-fined-after-refusing-to-disclose-details-about-illinois-integrity-fund/avvknv6/

SOUTHERN
— Illinois Republicans hope to block rules that making some business openings a crime – PETER HANCOCK
https://thesouthern.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/illinois-republicans-hope-to-block-rules-that-making-some-business-openings-a-crime/article_e9a238a3-42fb-59d7-8848-45126f32814c.html

ALTON DAILY NEWS
— Illinois GOP Take on Governor – Cole Lauterbach
http://altondailynews.com/news/details.cfm?clientid=17&id=304228#.XsRAfSN_OM8

NAPERVILLE COMMUNITY TELEVISION
— DuPage County Sheriff’s Office Won’t Enforce Stay-At-Home Order
https://www.nctv17.com/news/dupage-county-sheriffs-department-wont-enforce-stay-at-home-order/
— Chamber of Commerce hosts Virtual Town Hall with Lawmakers
https://www.nctv17.com/news/chamber-of-commerce-hosts-virtual-town-hall-with-lawmakers/

WTMJ-TV MILWAUKEE
— Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has been spending time in Wisconsin during quarantine – Tess Klein
https://www.tmj4.com/news/coronavirus/illinois-governor-has-been-spending-time-in-wisconsin-during-quarantine

WREX
— Pritzker expresses concerns after Reopen Illinois rallies – Mike Miletich
https://wrex.com/2020/05/19/pritzker-expresses-concerns-after-reopen-illinois-rallies/

WSIL TV
— President Trump calls out Pritzker for coronavirus response efforts
https://wsiltv.com/2020/05/19/president-trump-calls-out-pritzker-for-coronavirus-response-efforts/

ILLINOIS PATCH
— Illinois Has Most Coronavirus Restrictions In Country: Study Here’s how strict Illinois has been with its stay-at-home order compared to other U.S. states, according to WalletHub. – Rebecca Bream
https://patch.com/illinois/across-il/illinois-has-most-coronavirus-restrictions-country-study

ELMHURST PATCH
— Elmhurst Mayor Keeps Emergency Powers The City Council extends the emergency powers for Mayor Steve Morley, who is calling for the governor to end his stay-at-home order. – David Giuliani
https://patch.com/illinois/elmhurst/elmhurst-mayor-keeps-emergency-powers

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO NEWS
— Will coronavirus-related job losses eventually return? Chicago Booth scholar estimates 42% of pandemic-related layoffs could be permanent
https://news.uchicago.edu/story/will-coronavirus-related-job-losses-eventually-return

MCHENRY COUNTY BLOG
— Jack Franks Held in Indirect Contempt of Court & Fined $100 a Day for Refusing to Answer Questions in Illinois Integrity Fund Suit by County Clerk Joe Tirio
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/19/jack-fr-anks-held-in-indirect-contempt-of-court-fined-100-a-day-for-refusing-to-answer-questions-in-illinois-integrity-fund-suit-by-county-clerk-joe-tirio/
— Millionaire Jack Franks Wants to Cut Salaries of Lower Income Elected Officials
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/19/millionaire-jack-franks-wants-to-cut-salaries-of-lower-income-elected-officials/
— Photos from Woodstock’s Friday Rally Against Pritzker’s Coronavirus Order
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/18/photos-from-woodstocks-friday-rally-against-pritzkers-coronavirus-order/

ILLINOIS LEAKS
— Governor Pritzker’s financial disclosure raises questions – you may not like the answer – KIRK ALLEN
https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2020/05/governor-pritzkers-financial-disclosure-raises-questions-you-may-not-like-the-answer/
— Pritzker’s nightmare hit the court docket in Clay County today – Legal Brief in Support of Darren Bailey Motion for Summary Judgment – KIRK ALLEN
https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2020/05/pritzkers-nightmare-hit-the-court-docket-in-clay-county-today-legal-brief-in-support-of-darren-bailey-motion-for-summary-judgment/

CAPITOL FAX
— JB’s Hideout gets hit with a cease and desist order
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/19/jb-cannot-hide-out-at-jbs-hideout/
— 1,545 new cases, 146 additional deaths
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/19/1545-new-cases-146-additional-deaths/
— Dr. Ezike upbeat about latest numbers – Pritzker says no to lump-sum budget – Dr. Ezike talks data challenges, death counts – With $240 million spent on purchases, Pritzker says state watching for fraud – Pritzker says new emergency rule will be re-tooled in 10 days – Refuses to bend to mayors – Dr. Ezike talks excess deaths – “Disgusted by the failure of so many people” to call out extremism at rallies – Will be in Springfield Wednesday – “Optimistic that we are falling from a peak” – Dr. Ezike says it will take some time to see if peak has passed – “The very definition of a blind trust is that it’s blind” – Again commits to making full pension payment – Defends decision not to cut staff – Addresses mask scam – Can’t do widespread testing without more tests – Dr. Ezike says feds urge go-slow on nursing home visits
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/19/dr-ezike-upbeat-about-latest-numbers-pritzker-says-no-to-lump-sum-budget/
— COVID-19 roundup
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/19/covid-19-roundup-41/
— Madigan proposes changes to House rules requiring masks, temperature checks – Violators could be removed by vote of the chamber
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/19/madigan-proposes-changes-to-house-rules-requiring-masks-temperature-checks-violators-could-be-removed-by-vote-of-the-chamber/
— Some of what you can expect this week
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/19/some-of-what-you-can-expect-this-week/
— A poorly drafted rule is causing unnecessary panic and may even be unneeded
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/19/a-poorly-drafted-rule-is-causing-unnecessary-panic-and-may-even-be-unneeded/

BLAZE
— House Democrats just informed the Supreme Court that they may impeach President Trump again by the end of this year – Phil Shiver
https://www.theblaze.com/news/house-democrats-may-impeach-trump-again
— California governor says first responders will be ‘first ones laid off’ without federal government bailout Economic shutdowns taking their toll – Aaron Colen (DIERSEN: GAO employees who were Republican, White, male, and/or non-veteran who had not made GS-13 (currently $101,176) by age 25, GS-14 (currently $119,559) by age 30, GS-15 (currently $140,634) by age 35, and Senior Executive Service (currently $170,800) by age 40 were gotten rid of first by the Democrats who ran GAO in response to Republican-led budget cuts during the 1980s and 1990s.)
https://www.theblaze.com/news/california-governor-first-responders-laid-off-bailout

NEWSMAX
— Rep. Rodney Davis to Newsmax TV: Dems Want to Weaponize Election Process With Ballot Harvesting – Solange Reyner
https://www.newsmax.com/newsmax-tv/democrats-davis-trump-election/2020/05/18/id/967934/

JP MEDIA
— IL Governor Pritzker Announces What Will Happen to Business People Who Defy Restrictions – RICK MORAN
https://pjmedia.com/news-and-politics/rick-moran/2020/05/19/il-governor-pritzer-will-jail-business-people-who-defy-restrictions-n404232

NATIONAL REVIEW
— How Long Should We Keep Bribing People Not to Work? – ROBERT VERBRUGGEN
https://www.nationalreview.com/2020/05/how-long-should-we-keep-bribing-people-not-to-work/

ATLANTIC
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: A Trump-hater says “We Can Prevent a Great Depression. It’ll Take $10 Trillion. Don’t think of that number as “big” or “bold.” Just think of it as the appropriate dosage for a once-in-a-century economic affliction.”
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/05/we-can-prevent-a-great-depression-itll-take-10-trillion/611749/

May 18 Evening Edition

ABC7
— Republican and social justice leaders condemn anti-Semitic signs, rhetoric Pritzker protests – Ravi Baichwal
https://abc7chicago.com/reopening-illinois-illiois-coronavirus-stay-at-home-order-stay-at-home-protest/6194365/
(FROM THE ARTICLE: Politicians were implored to denounce the anti-Semitism, and two leading state Republicans did so Monday. “There is no place for hatred in our state, and I will continue to speak out, as will members of my caucus, against hateful speech,” said State Senator Bill Brady. “I don’t support hate speech, though, so this doesn’t reflect the good people in the Republican party or Independents. They have nothing to do with us, and I would ask in the future that they stay home. We don’t need them,” said House Republican Leader Rep. Jim Durkin.)
— Coronavirus Illinois: COVID-19 cases top 96K with over 4K deaths
https://abc7chicago.com/society/illinois-covid-19-cases-top-96k-over-4k-deaths/6193714/
— Trump says he’s taking malaria drug hydroxychloroquine in case he gets coronavirus – AP
https://abc7chicago.com/health/trump-says-hes-taking-malaria-drug-in-case-he-gets-coronavirus/6193967/

NBC5
— Illinois Coronavirus Cases Surpass 95,000 With 2,294 New Cases Reported All four state healthcare regions remain within the limits prescribed by the governor’s phased reopening plan
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/coronavirus/illinois-coronavirus-cases-surpass-95000-with-2294-new-cases-reported/2274022/
— Much of Illinois is On Track to Enter Phase 3 at End of May, But What About Chicago? Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has unveiled different guidelines for the city
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/much-of-illinois-is-on-track-to-enter-phase-3-at-end-of-may-but-what-about-chicago/2273999/
— Chicago to Fine Churches That Held Services in Violation of Stay-at-Home Order Religious gatherings have been limited to 10 people under Gov. Pritzker’s stay-at-home order
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-to-fine-churches-that-held-services-in-violation-of-stay-at-home-order/2274089/

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— Illinois reports 59 more COVID-19 deaths Monday; 3rd straight day death toll under 100
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/illinois-reports-59-more-covid-19-deaths-monday-3rd-straight-day-death-toll-under-100

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Coronavirus in Illinois updates: Pritzker announces effort to ramp up contact tracing; 2,294 new known COVID-19 infections and 59 additional deaths reported
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-pandemic-chicago-illinois-news-20200518-ae3czc3hnzde3cbzfiub7xferi-story.html
— With a new, stricter grading system — plus warmer weather — Cook County is now getting a D on social distancing – Hal Dardick
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-social-distancing-grade-chicago-cook-county-20200518-eypxs3zrbffo7bqqvhmmmaekvq-story.html
— State legislators who defy the mask requirement should be barred from session – Eric Zorn
https://www.chicagotribune.com/columns/eric-zorn/ct-column-masks-general-assembly-zorn-20200518-d53w5dnqcrfgfhnjrtxy4c7nku-story.html
— Why churches, for now, should remain closed – Editorial
https://www.chicagotribune.com/opinion/editorials/ct-edit-churches-closed-coronavirus-chicago-cupich-20200518-qkcy6u4sgfdjdm7esi2bpo553u-story.html
— Illinois can safely start to reopen, if we follow these measures – ROBERT A. WEINSTEIN AND CORY FRANKLIN
https://www.chicagotribune.com/opinion/commentary/ct-opinion-coronavirus-next-steps-20200518-rkzohcal5rbgfkjrzhi7itkiwa-story.html
— Mayor Lightfoot, it’s time to reopen the lakefront – EDITORIAL
https://www.chicagotribune.com/opinion/editorials/ct-editorial-coronavirus-lakefront-reopen-lori-lightfoot-20200518-kwihu6c2cjhxlkuniz7chzhrom-story.html
— Business owners now face misdemeanor charge if they reopen in spite of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s stay-at-home order – JAMIE MUNKS and RICK PEARSON
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-illinois-pritzker-order-20200518-igdhoofobraevmmrquoqfjbw4a-story.html

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Putting his message where his mouth is? Downstate Republican hopes to make a point by not wearing mask Bailey said not wearing a mask is his way of making Democrats face facts. “These Chicago legislators are making more of a deal of wearing a mask in Springfield than they are about, you know, getting this $7.2 billion deficit that we’re staring at with our budget,” he said. – Neal Earley
https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2020/5/18/21262924/downstate-republican-mask-face-covering-bailey-madigan-durkin-halbrook-covid-19-coronavirus
— GOP: Graduated tax ‘cash grab’ will stifle pandemic recovery House Minority Leader Jim Durkin said this week’s special session in Springfield should consider dumping the plan to alter the state Constitution and discard the current flat-rate income tax. – AP
https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2020/5/18/21262849/gop-graduated-tax-cash-grab-will-stifle-pandemic-recovery
— Illinois reports 3rd straight day with fewer than 100 COVID-19 deaths (LIVE UPDATES) Here’s what we know today about the continuing spread of coronavirus and its ripple effects in Chicago and Illinois.
https://chicago.suntimes.com/essential-coronavirus-news/2020/5/18/21262093/latest-coronavirus-news-live-updates-chicago-illinois-2020
— Showdown looming over Pritzker’s stay-at-home order before skeptical downstate judge A Clay County judge, who is clearly opposed to the order, told lawyers the controversy “begs to be resolved. It’s got to be resolved in this court, and it’s going to be and it’s going to be resolved Friday.” – Jon Seidel
https://chicago.suntimes.com/coronavirus/2020/5/18/21262332/legal-showdown-stay-at-home-order-jb-pritzker-looming-downstate
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Trump-haters use coronavirus a) to promote illegal immigration and b) to demonize, denigrate, and condemn Trump.
https://chicago.suntimes.com/2020/5/18/21260092/coronavirus-undocumented-chicago-grassroots-community-cash-relief-applications
— City looks at fines against churches that defied stay-home order “There were some churches that congregated in excess of the allowable number and we will be taking action as to those individuals and those churches,” Mayor Lori Lightfoot said Monday. – Fran Spielman
https://chicago.suntimes.com/coronavirus/2020/5/18/21262715/churches-stay-home-order-coronavirus-lightfoot-belmont-cragin
— Pandemic shutdown of Chicago economy to cost city ‘probably in excess of $500 million’ says top mayoral aide Mayor Lori Lightfoot has repeatedly refused to project the size of Chicago’s budget shortfall, but under questioning at Monday’s Finance Committee meeting, Chief Financial Officer Jennie Huang Bennett did just that. – Fran Spielman
https://chicago.suntimes.com/city-hall/2020/5/18/21262664/coronavirus-stay-home-shutdown-chicago-economy-cost
— A message to my fellow liberals: Working people are getting angrier and angrier It seems to be therapeutic to many of my friends to have their beliefs reinforced each night that anyone who complains about shutdowns is unintelligent or malevolent. – Richard J. Gonzalez
https://chicago.suntimes.com/2020/5/18/21262758/liberal-media-working-people-shutdown-unemployment-kent-college-richard-j-gonzalez-rachel-maddow

DAILY HERALD
— ‘I am not going to be anybody’s boogeyman’: DuPage sheriff says county is ready to reopen – Robert Sanchez
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200518/i-am-not-going-to-be-anybodys-boogeyman-dupage-sheriff-says-county-is-ready-to-reopen
— DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick’s Facebook message about Gov. Pritzker and COVID-19
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200518/dupage-county-sheriff-james-mendricks-facebook-message-about-gov-pritzker-and-covid-19

CRAIN’S CHICAGO BUSINESS
— GOP leaders turn up heat on Pritzker’s ‘fair tax’ proposal Springfield Democrats are unlikely to heed a call to pull the proposed graduated income tax amendment off the November ballot, but Republicans smell a good issue. – GREG HINZ
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/greg-hinz-politics/gop-leaders-turn-heat-pritzkers-fair-tax-proposal
— Coronavirus will end the golden age for college towns These engines of regional growth will struggle with state funding cuts, fewer foreign students and destroyed household finances. – NOAH SMITH
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/opinion/coronavirus-will-end-golden-age-college-towns?utm_source=today-s-crain-s&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20200518&utm_content=article3-headline
— McDonald’s franchisees face steep costs to bring back dine-in One Illinois franchisee estimates it could cost $1,000 per day per restaurant in added expenses to reopen a dining room. – DALTON BARKER
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/restaurants/mcdonalds-franchisees-face-steep-costs-bring-back-dine
— AS THE DEMOCRAT PARTY’S STRANGLEHOLD ON ILLINOIS, ON COOK COUNTY, AND ON CHICAGO TIGHTENS: The economic tsunami effect of COVID-19 for Latinos here The disproportionate economic damage Latinos have suffered in addition to the tragic physical toll is a crisis within a crisis. It’s hurting the entire state. – SYLVIA PUENTE
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/opinion/economic-tsunami-effect-covid-19-latinos-here
— Pritzker defends new penalties for stores that break shutdown rules The punishments—up to a $2,500 fine and a year in jail—are needed to protect public health, the governor said, and are actually less severe than what the law had allowed. – GREG HINZ
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/greg-hinz-politics/pritzker-defends-new-penalties-stores-break-shutdown-rules

BLOOMINGTON PANTAGRAPH
— Illinois GOP seeks to remove graduated tax measure from ballot – JERRY NOWICKI
https://www.pantagraph.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/illinois-gop-seeks-to-remove-graduated-tax-measure-from-ballot/article_a81a19f8-e25b-5235-affd-bd94df894bc8.html

JOURNAL GAZETTE TIMES COURIER
— Business owners now face misdemeanor charge if they reopen in spite of Pritzker’s stay-at-home order – JAMIE MUNKS and RICK PEARSON
https://jg-tc.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/icymi-business-owners-now-face-misdemeanor-charge-if-they-reopen-in-spite-of-pritzker-s/article_7e3a165e-f2a2-5149-a5e1-6582f2b281ba.html

WAND
— Lawmakers announce resolution to withdraw income tax hike from Nov. ballot
https://www.wandtv.com/news/lawmakers-announce-resolution-to-withdraw-income-tax-hike-from-nov-ballot/article_5200b26c-9922-11ea-a723-97cf8d843747.html

NPR ILLINOIS
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Ever-increasingly, if you do not promote LGBTQ activity, Democrats and Democrat plants, Libertarians and Libertarian plants, Greens and Green plants, and RINOs demonize you, denigrate you, and condemn you.
https://www.nprillinois.org/post/home-not-safe-some-lgbtq-young-people-face-rejection-families-lockdown#stream/0

ILLINOIS LEAKS
— Bailey v. Pritzker: Summary Judgement Motion filed, hearing on Friday – KIRK ALLEN
https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2020/05/bailey-v-pritzker-summary-judgement-motion-filed-hearing-on-friday/
— Governor Pritzker’s nightmare – Executive Order power trumped by Illinois Supreme Court case law and Lisa Madigan written opinion – KIRK ALLEN
https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2020/05/governor-pritzkers-nightmare-executive-order-power-trumped-by-illinois-supreme-court-case-law-and-lisa-madigan-written-opinion/
— If it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck…Pritzker legal case is crumbling in Darren Bailey lawsuit – KIRK ALLEN
https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2020/05/if-it-walks-like-a-duck-quacks-like-a-duck-pritzker-legal-case-is-crumbling-in-darren-bailey-lawsuit/

ILLINOIS FAMILY INSTITUTE
— Governor Pritzker Wants to Criminalize Lock-Down Opposition – David E. Smith
https://illinoisfamily.org/politics/governor-pritzker-wants-to-criminalize-lock-down-opposition/

ILLINOIS REVIEW
— WITH LEADERS LIKE THESE
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/with-leaders-like-these.html
— WHY DOES PRITZKER IGNORE PANDEMIC LAW FORMER STATE SENATOR BARACK OBAMA SPONSORED? – former State Senator Ed Petka
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/opinion-why-does-pritzker-ignore-pandemic-law-former-state-senator-barack-obama-sponsored.html
— 40% MORE LIKELY TO CONTINUE HOMESCHOOLING AFTER COVID SHUTDOWN ENDS
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/40-more-likely-to-continue-homeschooling-after-covid-shutdown-ends-.html

CAPITOL FAX
— Brady and Durkin announce resolution to remove “Fair Tax” from the ballot
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/18/brady-and-durkin-announce-resolution-to-remove-fair-tax-from-the-ballot/
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Trump-haters side with Pritzker against Amy Jacobson. I should write a book about pot pushers who sided with pot pushers against me when I spoke against pot at a DuPage County Board meeting last year.
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/18/reopen-rally-speaker-upset-that-she-cant-ask-governor-questions-during-media-briefing/
— State announces two counties will run pilot contact tracing program – Pritzker explains new IDPH rule – Says it’s a “tool” for law enforcement – “Within the existing law” – Hopeful that people can get back to work at Ford plant – Talks about horse racing reopening – Full investigation of data breach – Blames Deloitte for breach – Free credit reports for victims – Says he’s “reluctant” to interfere with churches – Fall surge would mean “big trouble” – No need for legislation on EO – Worried about family’s safety – Slams legislators who were “perfectly willing” to speak to a crowd displaying Nazi and swastika signs – Won’t ask ISP to enforce mask rule in Clay County court – “Balance weighs in favor of keeping people safe” – Asked about map – “The GOP wants to keep people from voting” on Fair Tax – Repeats that he wants help for small biz, including restaurants – Mail-in ballots top election-related session priority
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/18/state-announces-two-counties-will-run-pilot-contact-tracing-program/
— 2,294 new cases, 59 additional deaths
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/18/2294-new-cases-59-additional-deaths/
— COVID-19 roundup
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/18/covid-19-roundup-40/

CBS NEWS
— Many low-wage workers earn more on unemployment than in their former jobs – KHRISTOPHER J. BROOKS
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/unemployment-benefits-low-wage-workers-make-more-income/

WASHINGTON POST
— Trump says he is taking hydroxychloroquine to protect against coronavirus, dismisses safety concerns
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2020/05/18/coronavirus-update-us/

MACOMB DAILY
— News not so unbiased with political influence – Brian Pannebecker (DIERSEN: I should write a book about those who demonize, denigrate, and condemn my judgment. I would focus on those who demonize, denigrate, and condemn a) the decisions that I make to include hyperlinks to articles in GOPUSA ILLINOIS emails and/or b) the comments that I make on those articles.)
https://www.macombdaily.com/opinion/news-not-so-unbiased-with-political-influence/article_59306d7c-9916-11ea-bcfe-2b792ef09d8c.html

May 17 Morning Edition

ABC7
— Churches to reopen for Sunday service in defiance of Illinois’ stay-at-home order – Jesse Kirsch
https://abc7chicago.com/religion/churches-reopen-for-services-in-defiance-of-illinois-stay-at-home-order-/6190541/
— Obama criticizes US coronavirus response in online commencement speech for HBCU graduates He also addressed the fatal shooting of Ahmaud Arbery – AP
https://abc7chicago.com/politics/obama-criticizes-covid-19-response-in-online-graduation-speech/6189204/
— Chicago Ford assembly plant employees return to work with new COVID-19 safety measures in place; ‘I think they’re rushing it’ – John Garcia
https://abc7chicago.com/business/i-think-theyre-rushing-it-chicago-ford-assembly-plant-employees-return-to-work/6189771/?cmp=emc-wls-news-headlines-5/17/2020

NBC5
— Experts Warn of 2020 ‘Meltdown’ as Election Funding Faces Rocky Path Through Congress “There is a real significant risk to the integrity of the election if we don’t invest now in our election infrastructure.”
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/national-international/experts-warn-of-2020-meltdown-as-election-funding-faces-rocky-path-through-congress/2273343/

CBS2
— Chicago Heights Ford Plant Reopens Monday As Workers Wear COVID-19 ‘Distance’ Watches – Chris Tye
https://chicago.cbslocal.com/2020/05/15/chicago-heights-ford-plant-reopens-monday-as-workers-wear-covid-19-distance-watches/

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— ‘Reopen Illinois’ rallies held as Anti-Defamation League condemns Nazi imagery on signs – Michele Fiore
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/reopen-illinois-rallies-held-as-anti-defamation-league-condemns-nazi-imagery-on-signs

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Federal appeals court says Pritzker’s executive order limiting gatherings will almost certainly withstand legal challenge
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-pandemic-chicago-illinois-news-20200516-ildqrn4e4bhorexpljpc7dur7u-story.html
— Putting ‘me’ first in age of coronavirus not only selfish but dangerous to all of us – DAVID MCGRATH (DIERSEN: Ever-increasingly, Trump-haters demonize you, denigrate you, and condemn you if you do not promote Pritzker.)
https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/naperville-sun/opinion/ct-nvs-mcgrath-column-st-0515-20200515-ilntoackcvcm3jhapo7yqaftqy-story.html
— Find the right person for a job means hunting for ‘unique’ candidates, Naperville recruiter says – STEVE METSCH (DIERSEN: GAO hired me in 1980 because it could not find a qualified Democrat, minority, female, younger person, or veteran who would take the job. IRS hired me in 1971 because it could not find a qualified Democrat, minority, female, or veteran who would take the job. The Post Office hired me in 1966 because it could not find a qualified Democrat, minority, female, or veteran who would take the job.)
https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/naperville-sun/ct-nvs-down-to-business-st-0517-20200515-4pm6sog3arh53fvs47tipx4qwi-story.html
— DuPage PADS unlikely to return to old homeless system in wake of pandemic, outgoing agency CEO says – HILARY DECENT (DIERSEN: What do you say to Democrats and RINOs who have for many decades steered homeless people to DuPage County, and especially to Milton Township and to Wheaton?)
https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/naperville-sun/opinion/ct-nvs-decent-column-st-0517-20200515-gesmcta5wneoblllyzhlgazwgq-story.html
— We need reasonable, sensible plans from the governor in response to the pandemic – ELIZABETH BAUER
https://www.chicagotribune.com/opinion/commentary/ct-opinion-commentary-elizabeth-bauer-pritzker-stay-home-order-20200515-5rtaay64njcl3jbhgwvtnmdt6a-story.html

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Coronavirus live blog, May 16, 2020: Obama criticizes U.S. leaders’ virus response in online graduation speech – Harry Hitzeman (DIERSEN: Those who are sued retaliate against those who sue them. I should write a book about those who I have sued and their retaliation against me.)
https://chicago.suntimes.com/essential-coronavirus-news/2020/5/16/21260717/latest-coronavirus-news-live-updates-chicago-illinois-2020

DAILY HERALD
— Minorities, elderly represent higher rates of COVID-19 infections, deaths – Madhu Krishnamurthy (DIERSEN: Of course, Democrats blame Trump for that.)
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200517/minorities-elderly-represent-higher-rates-of-covid-19-infections-deaths
(FROM THE ARTICLE: In DuPage County, home to communities hardest-hit by the pandemic, Latinos comprise 27.5% of confirmed cases and 14.5% of the county’s population. African Americans make up 5.4% of confirmed cases and 5.3% of the population. Asians represent 6.4% of cases and 12.6% of the population, and whites account for 27.3% of confirmed cases and 79.7% of the population. Mortality rates per 100,000 population are: African Americans, 47.2%, whites, 29.4%, Latinos, 19.8%, and Asians, 16.3%.)
— Elgin church won’t reopen Sunday, threatens suit over COVID-19 shutdown
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200516/elgin-church-wont-reopen-sunday-threatens-suit-over-covid-19-shutdown

WTTW
— Pritzker Creates New Tier of Punishment for Businesses Ignoring COVID-19 Order – Amanda Vinicky (DIERSEN: In Illinois, because of Pritzker and the Democrats, how many businesses are going out of business a) every day and b) every hour?)
https://news.wttw.com/2020/05/16/pritzker-creates-new-tier-punishment-businesses-ignoring-covid-19-order
(FROM THE ARTICLE: Bars, restaurants and other businesses that open to customers in defiance of Illinois’ stay-at-home order now risk being charged with a misdemeanor. The new penalty level has been in effect since Friday afternoon when Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s administration quietly filed the emergency rule. While Pritzker’s executive order requires restaurants, salons and gyms to remain closed to on-site patrons due to COVID-19, the rule change codifies it under Illinois Department of Public Health regulations – violators of which can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor. As of Saturday afternoon there’s no indication it has yet been enforced. A Class A misdemeanor in Illinois is punishable by a fine between $75 and $2500.)

PEORIA JOURNAL STAR
— It’s not the first time the House has taken a hike It is rare, but not unprecedented, for the General Assembly to meet somewhere other than the Capitol. – Doug Finke
https://www.pjstar.com/opinion/20200516/its-not-first-time-house-has-taken-hike

MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL
— No masks. No gloves. No problem. As coronavirus cases soar, carefree day-trippers from Illinois pour in – Elliot Hughes, Talis Shelbourne and Natalie Brophy
https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/2020/05/16/covid-19-cases-spike-but-wisconsin-crowds-kind-done-all/5207558002/

HOMEWOOD FLOSSMOOR CHRONICLE
— DISGUSTING, TRAGIC: Cannabis-infusion business gets green light in Homewood – David P. Funk
https://hfchronicle.com/article/2020/may/15/cannabis-infusion-business-gets-green-light-homewood

FOX ILLINOIS
— Fourth stay at home order protest draws hundreds to Springfield – Jakob Emerson
https://foxillinois.com/news/local/fourth-protest-of-stay-at-home-order-held-at-state-capitol

WGEM
— Protesters rally outside Illinois Capitol, compare Gov. Pritzker to Hitler
https://wgem.com/2020/05/16/protesters-rally-outside-illinois-capitol-compare-gov-pritzker-to-hitler/

CENTRAL ILLINOIS PROUD
— Anti-Defamation League Regional Director calls Pritzker comparisons to Hitler antisemitic, vile – Matt Sheehan
https://www.centralillinoisproud.com/news/local-news/anti-defamation-league-regional-director-calls-pritzker-comparisons-to-hitler-antisemitic-vile/
— Lawmakers debate on Heroes Act; Republicans and some Democrats go against bill – Basil John
https://www.centralillinoisproud.com/washington/washington-dc/lawmakers-debate-on-heroes-act-republicans-and-some-democrats-go-against-bill/

NEWS CHANNEL 20
— Fourth stay at home order protest draws hundreds to Springfield – Jakob Emerson
https://newschannel20.com/news/local/fourth-protest-of-stay-at-home-order-held-at-state-capitol
— Champaign County sees negative impact on tourism and economy – Taylor Deckert
https://newschannel20.com/news/local/champaign-county-sees-negative-impact-on-tourism-and-economy

ILLINOIS LEAKS
— Illinois Governor Pritzker’s emergency rule change locks down the state for 150 days, makes criminals out of those who violated new rules – KIRK ALLEN
https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2020/05/illinois-governor-pritzkers-emergency-rule-change-locks-down-the-state-for-150-days-makes-criminals-out-of-those-who-violated-new-rules/

WASHINGTON FREE BEACON
— Chinese State Media Warn Country Will Interfere in U.S. Election – Adam Kredo (DIERSEN: I should write a book about those who hint/imply/argue/shout that GOPUSA ILLINOIS emails interfere with elections in Illinois, in DuPage County, in Milton Township, in Wheaton, and in Wheaton’s West District. According to them, all government and political news and commentary is false except for the government and political news and commentary that they put out or bless.)
https://freebeacon.com/national-security/chinese-state-media-warn-country-will-interfere-in-u-s-election/

FOX NEWS
— Lawmakers can protect the elderly and reopen the economy – Bobby Jindal
https://finance.yahoo.com/video/lawmakers-protect-elderly-reopen-economy-232246055.html

BREITBART
— Pelosi Coronavirus Plan Bails Out the Rich with Tax Breaks, Cheap Labor – John Binder
https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2020/05/16/pelosi-coronavirus-plan-bails-out-the-rich-with-tax-breaks-cheap-labor/
— Congress Needs to Wake Up About State and Local Government Layoffs – JOEL B. POLLAK
https://www.breitbart.com/economy/2020/05/15/pollak-congress-needs-to-wake-up-about-state-and-local-government-layoffs/

THE HILL
— Trump and Biden signal bitter general election with latest attack ads – TAL AXELROD (DIERSEN: Expect that ever-increasingly, Biden will call Republicans White supremacists, Nazis, KKK member, haters, racists, sexists, bigots, and even worse things who should be gotten rid of once and for all. Expect that ever-increasingly, Biden will promise to use the federal government to get rid of the following once and for all: individuals, organizations, companies, governments, and countries that are Trump supporters, Protestant, conservative, patriotic, Republican, American, White, male, older, non-poor, gun owners, German American, draft avoiders, and those whose ancestors have been in America for a long time.)
https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/497885-trump-biden-signal-bitter-general-election-latest-attack-ads

NBC NEWS
— NYC tourist who posted pics at the beach in Hawaii arrested for violating quarantine rule – Minyvonne Burke
https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/live-blog/2020-05-16-coronavirus-news-n1208496/ncrd1208636#blogHeader

NEW YORK TIMES
— Dealing With the Dark Side of Low Interest Rates When you borrow, low interest rates are fabulous. But if you need to live on your savings, you will be receiving far less income. – Jeff Sommer (DIERSEN: Ever-increasingly, interest rates are less than inflation.)
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/15/business/strategies-investing-interest-rates.html
— I’m Sick of Asking Children to Be Resilient It’s time for reparations and resources and to not expect kids to “rise above.” – Mona Hanna-Attisha (DIERSEN: In what municipality were you raised? I was raised in Crete 1948-1972. I should write a book about Crete-haters who demonize, denigrate, and condemn a) Crete and b) those like me who were raised in Crete who are White, male, German American, Missouri Synod Lutheran, and/or non-veteran. I would focus on Crete-haters in Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, Milton Township, DuPage County, and Illinois. I would focus on Crete-haters who have lots of religious, government, political, and/or financial clout. I would focus on Crete-haters who continue to demonize, denigrate, and condemn me as being a newcomer even though I have lived in Wheaton since 1978.)
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/12/opinion/sunday/flint-inequality-race-coronavirus.html
— FRONT PAGE: How Washington Learned to Embrace the Budget Deficit Many economists who once warned of mounting debt are now urging lawmakers to spend more to combat economic pain from coronavirus. – Jim Tankersley (DIERSEN: Until last year, my wife and I had never spent more than our income. According to my critics/opponents, we were able to do that only because a) we gave up trying to have children, we did not adopt, and we did not become foster parents, b) the federal government grossly overpaid me, c) my federal retirement benefits are much too generous, d) my wife had good jobs, e) I avoided the draft, and f) I have had good health.)
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/16/business/deficits-virus-economists-trump.html

WASHINGTON POST
— Crisis exposes how America has hollowed out its government. – Dan Balz (DIERSEN: I should write a book about a) how Republicans used budget cuts to hollow out GAO and b) how the Democrats who ran GAO used those budget cuts to get rid of their employees who were Republican, White, male, and/or non-veteran and who they had not promoted to GS-13 (currently $101,176) by age 25, GS-14 (currently $119,559) by age 30, GS-15 (currently $140,634) by age 35, and Senior Executive Service (currently $170,800) by age 40.)
https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/politics/government-hollowed-out-weaknesses/
(FROM THE ARTICLE: Chronic weaknesses are well known Gene Dodaro, the comptroller general, leads the Government Accountability Office, the agency that is tasked with being a watchdog for government performance. He sees structural weaknesses that constantly impede performance. “The hardest part of my job is getting people to focus on things before they become a crisis,” he said. The GAO regularly produces a list of areas of high risk in government performance. The most recent, issued in 2019, began with this assessment: “The ratings for more than half of the 35 areas on the 2019 High Risk List remain largely unchanged. Since GAO’s last update in 2017, seven areas improved, three regressed, and two showed mixed progress.”)

FORBES
— Republicans ‘Appalled’ By $3 Trillion Heroes Act, As Democrats Urge Its Passing – Sergei Klebnikov
https://www.forbes.com/sites/sergeiklebnikov/2020/05/16/republicans-appalled-by-3-trillion-heroes-act-as-democrats-urge-its-passing/#40f808ec7599

TIME
— Welcome to the First Global Economic Depression of Our Lifetimes – IAN BREMMER
https://time.com/5837442/first-global-depression-our-lifetimes/

DAILY BEAST
— It’s Not Just Sheriffs—Now Prosecutors Refuse to Enforce Illinois Lockdown – Tracy Connor
https://www.thedailybeast.com/prosecutors-refuse-to-enforce-illinois-gov-jb-pritzkers-lockdown

SUN
— ‘OPEN ILLINOIS’ Protesters calling for end to coronavirus lockdown have tense standoff with Chicago cops despite gov’s vow to open state – Erica Davies
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/11641674/illinois-coronavirus-lockdown-protests-standoff-cops-chicago/

May 16 Evening Edition

ABC7
— Coronavirus Illinois: COVID-19 cases top 92K with over 4K deaths; Chatham testing site opens – Eric Horng, Stacey Baca and Sarah Schulte
https://abc7chicago.com/society/illinois-covid-19-cases-top-92k-over-4k-deaths/6189070/
— Debate: More coronavirus aid or wait for economy to rebound? – AP
https://abc7chicago.com/politics/debate-more-stimulus-checks-or-wait-and-see/6188793/
— Coronavirus Chicago: Cook County Jail sees ‘steady decrease’ in COVID-19 cases, officials say
https://abc7chicago.com/cook-county-jail-coronavirus-illinois-chicago-covid-19/6189171/

NBC5
— Illinois Counties Push Back Against Pritzker’s ‘Stay-at-Home’ Order As neighboring states begin to reopen, Illinois counties become restless – Chris Hush
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/illinois-counties-push-back-against-pritzkers-stay-at-home-order/2273248/
— Illinois Reports 2,088 New Cases of Coronavirus, 74 Additional Deaths The state announced it had returned 23,047 new test results in the last 24 hours
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/coronavirus/illinois-reports-2088-new-cases-of-coronavirus-74-additional-deaths/2273201/
— McHenry County Sheriff Says Deputies Won’t Enforce Pritzker’s ‘Stay-at-Home’ Order
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/coronavirus/mchenry-county-sheriff-says-deputies-wont-enforce-pritzkers-stay-at-home-order/2273187/

CBS2
— Coronavirus In Illinois: 2,088 New COVID-19 Cases, 74 Additional Deaths
https://chicago.cbslocal.com/2020/05/16/coronavirus-in-illinois-2088-new-covid-19-cases-71-additional-deaths/

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— Questions raised over accuracy of US coronavirus death toll – Robert Gearty
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/questions-raised-over-accuracy-of-us-coronavirus-death-toll

WGN TV
— Protesters flock to Illinois Statehouse, Thompson Center to voice displeasure with stay-at-home order – Gaynor Hall
https://wgntv.com/news/protesters-flock-to-illinois-statehouse-thompson-center-to-voice-displeasure-with-stay-at-home-order/
— Suburbs divided over governor’s stay-at-home order – Meghan Dwyer
https://wgntv.com/news/coronavirus/suburbs-divided-over-governors-stay-at-home-order/

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— 74 more coronavirus deaths announced as protesters rally again for Pritzker to reopen Illinois More than 1,800 coronavirus deaths have been reported in the state this month alone, but a vocal contingent of protesters say it’s time to restart the state economy immediately. – Mitchell Armentrout and Tyler LaRiviere
https://chicago.suntimes.com/coronavirus/2020/5/16/21261143/illinois-reopen-protest-coronavirus-cases-pritzker-deaths-may-16
— Coronavirus masks a boon for crooks who hide their faces Just how many criminals are taking advantage of the pandemic to commit crimes is impossible to estimate, but law enforcement officials have no doubt that the numbers are climbing. – AP
https://chicago.suntimes.com/crime/2020/5/16/21261008/coronavirus-masks-a-boon-for-crooks-who-hide-their-faces

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Officials see some progress in COVID-19 battle but call for cautious reopening steps that are too slow for some – MADELINE BUCKLEY and JASON MEISNER
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-saturday-update-20200516-orvgxk4kh5dlrdcsrdsu2etbai-story.html

DAILY HERALD
— Illinois reports more than 2,000 additional cases, 74 deaths on Saturday – AP
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200516/illinois-reports-more-than-2000-additional-cases-74-deaths-on-saturday
— Some Northwest suburbs ask to be split from Chicago in governor’s Restore Illinois plan – Eric Peterson
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200515/some-northwest-suburbs-ask-to-be-split-from-chicago-in-governors-restore-illinois-plan

WTTW
— Illinois’ COVID-19 Testing Positivity Rate Takes Another Small Dip New statewide totals: 92,457 cases, 4,129 deaths – Amanda Vinicky
https://news.wttw.com/2020/05/16/illinois-covid-19-testing-positivity-rate-takes-another-small-dip

HERALD & REVIEW
— Illinois reports more than 2,000 additional cases as protests continue – AP
https://herald-review.com/news/state-and-regional/illinois-reports-more-than-2-000-additional-cases-as-protests-continue/article_09d9f580-34d5-5f68-8ed0-4fb0400a13b4.html

ROCK RIVER TIMES
— Pritzker criminalizes stay-at-home violations, Rep. John Cabello responds – Jim Hagerty
http://rockrivertimes.com/2020/05/16/pritzker-criminalizes-stay-at-home-violations-rep-john-cabello-responds/

NPR ILLINOIS
— GOP Officials Say They’re Expecting 50,000 In Charlotte For Republican Convention – SARAH MCCAMMON
https://www.nprillinois.org/post/gop-officials-say-theyre-expecting-50000-charlotte-republican-convention#stream/0
— Trump Slams China Over Coronavirus, Ratcheting Up Hostilities
https://www.nprillinois.org/post/trump-slams-china-over-coronavirus-ratcheting-hostilities#stream/0

MCHENRY COUNTY BLOG
— State’s Attorney Patrick Kenneally Files Federal Court Brief Arguing that Pritzker Has 30-Day Limit to Emergency Order Authority
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/16/states-attorney-patrick-kenneally-files-federal-court-brief-arguing-that-pritzker-has-30-day-limit-to-emergency-order-authority/
— Pritzker Sticks to Stupid Two-Person a Boat Rule
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/16/pritzker-sticks-to-stupid-two-person-a-boat-rule/
— Sheriff Bill Prim Has No Intention of Enforcing Pritzker Order as Criminal Offense
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/16/sheriff-bill-prim-has-no-intentions-of-enforcing-pritzker-order-as-criminal-offense/
— IL-06/IL-14: House Democrats Pass HEROES Act with Ballot Harvesting Included
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/16/il-06-il-14-house-democrats-pass-heroes-act/
— Dems Want to Stop Congressional Republicans from Sleeping in Their Offices
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/16/dems-want-to-stop-republicans-from-sleeping-in-their-offices/
— Time for Independence from Pritzker Emergency Order
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/15/time-for-independence-from-pritzker-emergency-order/
— Pritzker Doesn’t Want Legislative Oversight on Coronavirus Orders
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/15/pritzker-doesnt-want-legislative-oversight-on-coronavirus-orders/
— McHenry County Real Estate Tax Bills Go in the Mail Today, Information Available Online
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/15/mchenry-county-real-estate-tax-bills-go-in-the-mail-today-information-available-online/
— Jack Franks: “Do You Believe in Transparency or Not?”
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/15/do-you-believe-in-transparency-or-not/
— Jim Ryan to the Rescue of the Economy
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/15/jim-ryan-to-the-rescue-of-the-economy/
— Ripsnorting McHenry County Board Meeting
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/14/ripsnorting-county-board-meeting/
— McHenry County Board of Health Position Statement on Enforcing and Not Enforcing Governor’s Executive Orders on Coronavirus
http://mchenrycountyblog.com/2020/05/16/mchenry-county-board-of-health-position-statement-on-enforcing-governors-executive-orders-on-coronavirus/

WASHINGTON TIMES
— Illinois reports more than 2,000 additional cases, 74 deaths – AP
https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/16/illinois-reports-more-than-2000-additional-cases-7/

GOPUSA
— From Nanny State To Orwell’s ‘Big Brother’
https://www.gopusa.com/from-nanny-state-to-orwells-big-brother/

THE HILL
— Class of 2020 set to join worst job market in history – J. EDWARD MORENO AND JUSTINE COLEMAN
https://thehill.com/homenews/news/497981-class-of-2020-set-to-join-worst-job-market-in-history
— GOP Alaska legislator compares coronavirus screening sticker to Nazi Germany’s Star of David – MORGAN GSTALTER
https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/498138-gop-alaska-legislator-compares-coronavirus-screening-sticker-to-nazi
— Why Donald Trump could thank the media if he wins reelection this fall – JONATHAN TURLEY
https://thehill.com/opinion/campaign/498111-why-donald-trump-could-thank-the-media-if-he-wins-reelection-this-fall

May 16 Morning Edition

ABC7
— Coronavirus Illinois: COVID-19 cases top 90K with over 4K deaths; GOP congressmen write angry letter responding to Pritzker funding comments Republican congressmen fire off letter after Pritzker says counties that don’t comply risk losing federal aid – Eric Horng, Stacey Baca and Sarah Schulte
https://abc7chicago.com/society/state-remains-on-track-to-move-to-next-reopening-phase;-gop-lawmakers-lash-out/6186133/
— Coronavirus deaths: Nearly half of Illinois COVID-19 deaths linked to long-term care facilities, according to IDPH – Chuck Goudie, Barb Markoff, Christine Tressel, Ross Weidner and Jonathan Fagg
https://abc7chicago.com/health/nearly-half-of-illinois-covid-19-deaths-linked-to-long-term-care-facilities/6186917/

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— Illinois widens test eligibility as COVID-19 deaths pass 4,000 – AP
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/illinois-widens-test-eligibility-as-covid-19-deaths-pass-4000

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Face off on masks looming in Springfield? Two downstate Republicans balk at COVID-19 precautions Mulling an about-face, state Rep. Brad Halbrook and fellow Republican state Rep. Darren Bailey said they won’t commit to wearing masks when the House meets on Wednesday, potentially creating a standoff between them and Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan. – Neal Earley
https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2020/5/15/21260692/face-masks-covering-springfield-downstate-republican-darren-bailey-halbrook-covid-19-coronavirus
— With the focus on the coronavirus, Lightfoot opts for bare-bones capital plan The capital plan is on the agenda for Monday’s Finance Committee meeting. – Fran Spielman
https://chicago.suntimes.com/city-hall/2020/5/14/21259380/with-the-focus-on-the-coronavirus-lightfoot-opts-for-bare-bones-capital-plan

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Coronavirus deaths at long-term care facilities grow to nearly 2,000, accounting for nearly half of overall state total – Joe Mahr
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-long-term-care-facilities-data-20200515-asxjczfnojem5fkhncnnyrvgze-story.html

SPRINGFIELD STATE JOURNAL REGISTER
— State Rep. Tim Butler, R-Springfield, takes drive-through COVID-19 test
https://www.sj-r.com/news/20200515/lawmaker-takes-drive-through-covid-19-test

FOX ILLINOIS
— Blue Mound bar throws ‘anti-corona party’ despite cease and desist order
https://foxillinois.com/news/coronavirus/blue-mound-bar-throws-anti-corona-party-despite-cease-and-desist-order

NEWS CHANNEL 20
— Congressmen urge lawmakers to prevent Pritzker from withholding funds from counties
https://newschannel20.com/news/local/congressmen-urge-lawmakers-to-prevent-pritzker-from-withholding-funds-from-counties

CENTRAL ILLINOIS PROUD
— Peoria Humane Society to host ‘pet food’ drives – Nick Molinari
https://www.centralillinoisproud.com/news/local-news/peoria-humane-society-to-host-pet-food-drives/

NAPERVILLE COMMUNITY TELEVISION
— Three Downtown Businesses Close Down
https://www.nctv17.com/news/three-downtown-businesses-close-down/

CHICAGO CITY WIRE
— University of Illinois professors ‘do not recommend’ mask requirement for general public without COVID-19 symptoms – Glenn Minnis
https://chicagocitywire.com/stories/536900058-university-of-illinois-professors-do-not-recommend-mask-requirement-for-general-public-without-covid-19-symptoms

PRAIRIE STATE WIRE
— Already the highest taxed in the nation, Pritzker wants Illinois residents to pay more – Bob Pepalis
https://prairiestatewire.com/stories/532463877-already-the-highest-taxed-in-the-nation-pritzker-wants-illinois-residents-to-pay-more
— Illinois Policy Institute writer says Pritzker should stall automatic pay raises for state workers – John Sammon (DIERSEN: Step increases recognize/reward experience that employees gain. I should write a book about those who have demonized, denigrated, and condemned the experience that I gained a) working for GAO for almost 18 years, the last 11 years of which at the GS-13 Step 1-10 levels, currently $101,176–$131,532/year; b) working for IRS for almost 9 years, the last 5 1/2 years of which at the GS-12 Step-1-5 levels, currently $85,084-$96,431/year; c) passing the CPA and Certified Internal examinations on my first attempt; and d) earning master’s degrees in business, accounting, and finance. I would focus on those in Wheaton’s West District, Wheaton, Milton Township, DuPage County, and Illinois who have/had lots of religious, government, political, and/or financial clout. I would focus on present/past leaders of the Wheaton Chamber of Commerce, Milton Township Republican Organization, DuPage County Republican Central Committee, Illinois Republican Party, TAPROOT Republicans of Illinois, Illinois Center Right Coalition, and American Association of Political Consultants Midwest Chapter. I would focus on the aforesaid who blame me and my GOPUSA ILLINOIS emails for their problems, for your problems, for my problems, and for everyone’s problems.)
https://prairiestatewire.com/stories/532398116-illinois-policy-institute-writer-says-pritzker-should-stall-automatic-pay-raises-for-state-workers
— Orland Park mayor Keith Pekau: Pritzker acts like North Korean dictator during COVID-19 crisis – W.J. Kennedy
https://prairiestatewire.com/stories/536974311-orland-park-mayor-pritzker-acts-like-north-korean-dictator-during-covid-19-crisis

ILLINOIS FAMILY INSTITUTE
— Coronavirus Should Remind Us Big Government Isn’t The Answer – Peter Heck
https://illinoisfamily.org/marriage/coronavirus-should-remind-us-big-government-isnt-the-answer/

ILLINOIS FAMILY ACTION
— The Party of Contradictions: Feminism vs. Islam – Mason Beasler
https://illinoisfamilyaction.org/2020/05/the-party-of-contradictions-feminism-vs-islam/
— Greasing the Skids Toward Socialism? – Jerry Newcombe
https://illinoisfamilyaction.org/2020/05/greasing-the-skids-toward-socialism/

WASHINGTON TIMES
— Illinois agencies unsure about reopening pools amid pandemic – AP
https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/16/illinois-agencies-unsure-about-reopening-pools-ami/

DAILY SIGNAL
— Trump Says US Will Resume Funding WHO — At Same Level As China – DAVID KRAYDEN
https://dailycaller.com/2020/05/15/donald-trump-us-resume-funding-who-same-level-china/
— US Manufacturing Output Plunges To Record Low – JAKE MERCIER
https://dailycaller.com/2020/05/15/u-s-manufacturing-output-plunges-record-low-according-to-fed/
— Record-Setting Fundraising Proves Americans Want More Trump – KIMBERLY GUILFOYLE
https://dailycaller.com/2020/05/15/guilfoyle-record-setting-fundraising-proves-americans-want-more-trump/

THE HILL
— House passes massive $3T coronavirus relief package – MIKE LILLIS AND SCOTT WONG
https://thehill.com/homenews/house/498054-house-passes-massive-3t-coronavirus-relief-package
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Trump-haters want Trump to issue a “national plan on coronavirus” so that they can demonize it, denigrate it, and condemn it.
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/498078-trump-faces-criticism-over-lack-of-national-plan-on-coronavirus

CNN
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: A Trump-hater says “White House ramps up PR campaign to improve Trump’s image.”
https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/16/politics/trump-coronavirus-vaccine-image/index.html

NEW YORK TIMES
— FRONT PAGE TOP OF FOLD: DIERSEN HEADLINE: Trump-haters say “A Sitting President, Riling the Nation During a Crisis. By smearing his opponents, championing conspiracy theories and pursuing vendettas, President Trump has reverted to his darkest political tactics in spite of a pandemic hurting millions of Americans.”
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/15/us/politics/president-trump-coronavirus-pandemic-response.html
— Give Businesses Better Guidelines, Not Immunity A heedless rush to protect businesses from the legal system endangers workers, customers and everyone else. – Editorial (DIERSEN: How many employers will go out of business because of the cost of implementing coronavirus guidelines?)
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/15/opinion/coronavirus-liability-business-safety.html
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: A man-hater asks “Why Are Women-Led Nations Doing Better With Covid-19?”
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/15/world/coronavirus-women-leaders.html
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: A Trump-hater says “Trump, Biden and the Myth of ‘But 2016’ There are members of both parties who believe the president has the ability to defy the normal rules of politics. That view ignores electoral trends of recent years.”
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/15/us/politics/trump-vs-biden-polls.html
— FRONT PAGE TOP OF FOLD: When Shoppers Venture Out, What Will Be Left? A 16.4 percent sales decline in April may signal the bottom for retailers, but the climb back will be hard, and some companies may not make it. – Ben Casselman and Sapna Maheshwari
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/15/business/economy/coronavirus-retail-reopening.html

WASHINGTON POST
— Never Trumpers will host their own ‘Republican convention’ during the RNC – David Weigel
https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2020/05/15/never-trumpers-will-host-their-own-republican-convention-during-rnc/

LOS ANGELES TIMES
— Put NIMBYism under quarantine, before homeless people with coronavirus get even sicker – CARLA HALL (DIERSEN: What do you say to politicians and to others who steer Democrats, Libertarians, Greens, RINOs, illegals, homeless people, low-income people, refugees, recent immigrants, minorities, LGBTQers, stoners, drinkers, etc. to certain municipalities, to certain municipal districts, to certain precincts, and/or to certain neighborhoods?)
https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2020-04-17/nimby-homeless-covid-19

WALL STREET JOURNAL
— Campaigns, Like the Country, Begin Reawakening Trump ad tries to turn anger at China against former Vice President Biden, while Biden ad charges the president was slow and weak in coronavirus pandemic – Gerald F. Seib
https://www.wsj.com/articles/campaigns-like-the-country-begin-reawakening-11589601690
— Scenes From the Class Struggle in Lockdown Those who are anxious to open up the economy have led harder lives than those holding out for safety. – Peggy Noonan (DIERSEN: The operatives and the dupes who work for my critics/opponents hint/imply/argue/shout a) that they have led hard lives through no fault of their own and b) I did not really earn or disserve anything that I have. I should write a book about my critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes.)
https://www.wsj.com/articles/scenes-from-the-class-struggle-in-lockdown-11589498276
— The Often Distorted Reality of Hate Crime in America Racism remains a blight, but one-sided reporting and misrepresented facts don’t help – Gerard Baker
https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-often-distorted-reality-of-hate-crime-in-america-11589562033
— When It’s Time to Go Back to the Office, Will It Still Be There? As companies prepare for employees to return, they are asking whether a traditional headquarters is still necessary. The workplace will likely never be the same again. – Dana Mattioli and Konrad Putzier (DIERSEN: Do/did you work in an office? I did 1971-1997 – in Chicago working for IRS in 1971 and 1973-1980, in Harvey and Joliet working for IRS in 1973 and 1974, and in Chicago working for GAO 1980-1997.)
https://www.wsj.com/articles/when-its-time-to-go-back-to-the-office-will-it-still-be-there-11589601618
— When Epidemics Give a Voice to the Forgotten During London’s 1849 cholera outbreak, an unlikely chronicler let the city’s poor speak out—in ways now echoed on social media during the coronavirus crisis – Richard Holmes
https://www.wsj.com/articles/when-epidemics-give-a-voice-to-the-forgotten-11589471833
— Sales Report Puts the Second Quarter in a Deep Hole After April’s slump in retail sales, even pessimistic forecasts for the current quarter could be too upbeat – Justin Lahart
https://www.wsj.com/articles/sales-report-puts-the-second-quarter-in-a-deep-hole-11589561770
— Coronavirus Bolsters Car Ownership as Consumers Rethink Shared Rides As ride-hailing hits the skids amid the pandemic, auto makers see renewed interest in personal vehicles – William Boston in Berlin and Mike Colias (DIERSEN: I have owed a car since I was 16 in 1964.)
https://www.wsj.com/articles/coronavirus-bolsters-car-ownership-as-consumers-rethink-shared-rides-11589564566
— FRONT PAGE: Google Hides News, Tricked by Fake Claims Dubious copyright complaints citing 1998 law led the search giant to make unfavorable articles vanish – Andrea Fuller, Kirsten Grind and Joe Palazzolo (DIERSEN: I should write a book about my critics/opponents a) who demonize, denigrate, and condemn my stressing the source, title, author, and hyperlink of articles in GOPUSA ILLINOIS emails and b) who do everything that they can to make the original work of others to look like is their own work.)
https://www.wsj.com/articles/google-dmca-copyright-claims-takedown-online-reputation-11589557001

BUSINESS INSIDER
— Losing the party conventions would hurt (seriously) – Anthony L. Fisher
https://www.businessinsider.com/losing-democratic-republican-political-conventions-would-hurt-seriously-2020-5

CHARLOTTE OBSERVER
— The Republican convention, 100 days out, looms as a lifeline to Charlotte businesses – JIM MORRILL AND AUSTIN WEINSTEIN
https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/politics-government/rnc-2020/article242745381.html

WBTV
— Republican National Committee chairwoman speaks about RNC plans with convention 100 days away – Alex Giles
https://www.wbtv.com/2020/05/16/republican-national-committee-chairwoman-speaks-about-rnc-plans-with-convention-days-away/

WFAE
— On Charlotte RNC, Trump Says Gov. Cooper Is ‘Playing Politics’ By Reopening Slowly – STEVE HARRISON
https://www.wfae.org/post/charlotte-rnc-trump-says-gov-cooper-playing-politics-reopening-slowly#stream/0

AMERICAN REPORTER
— Strong Immune System can help overcome the Covid 19 Virus
https://www.theamericanreporter.com/strong-immune-system-can-help-overcome-the-covid-19-virus-says-research/

ATLANTIC
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: A Trump-hater says “Trump Is Putting Himself at Risk for COVID-19. The president has faced greater exposure to the virus than he might let on.”
https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2020/05/trump-risk-covid-19/611746/

JD SUPRA
— Age Is More Than A Number: Trends In Workforce Composition, Ageism, And Efforts To Address The Elephant In The Room – Fisher Phillips (DIERSEN: I should write a book about age discrimination. How soon, if not already, will employers and organizations officially adopt “up-or-out” policies for their employees and members who are Republican, White, male, and/or non-veteran? For example, will the Illinois Republican Party (IRP) officially adopt the following policy those who are White, male, and/or non-veteran: township/ward party organization officers must be under age 30, county party organization officers must be under age 35, IRP State Central Committee members must be under age 40, and IRP officers must be under age 50?)
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/age-is-more-than-a-number-trends-in-89175/

(FROM THE ARTICLE: Various factors have created a workplace phenomenon that is both underreported and underestimated: an aging workforce and increasing incidence of age discrimination. As people in this country are living longer, the cost of living continues to rise, and the pension model nears extinction, many older Americans continue to work well into their 70’s. Combine that with stereotypes borne of both bygone eras and the current tech-forward attitudes of the younger workforce, and the incidence of age-based discrimination in the workplace is increasing – though the problem is not typically viewed or treated as seriously as other forms of discrimination. Despite laws in place to protect older workers, many hurdles exist in identifying and addressing the issue.)

May 15 Evening Edition

ABC7
— Coronavirus Illinois: COVID-19 cases top 90K with over 4K deaths; GOP congressmen write angry letter responding to Pritzker funding comments Republican congressmen fire off letter after Pritzker says counties that don’t comply risk losing federal aid – Eric Horng, Stacey Baca and Sarah Schulte
https://abc7chicago.com/society/coronavirus-illinois-covid-19-cases-top-90k-with-over-4k-deaths/6186133/
— Chicago Reopening: Lightfoot warns churches, worshipers who plan to defy stay-at-home order through Sunday service – Evelyn Holmes
https://abc7chicago.com/community-events/mayor-lightfoot-warns-churches-who-plan-to-defy-illinois-stay-at-home-order/6186498/

NBC5
— 2,432 New Coronavirus Cases Reported in Illinois as Total Inches Closer to 100,000 There were also an additional 130 deaths
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/coronavirus/2432-new-coronavirus-cases-in-illinois-as-total-inches-closer-to-100000/2272805/
— Illinois GOP Agitates for Chance to Negotiate COVID-19 Reopening
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-politics/illinois-gop-agitates-for-chance-to-negotiate-covid-19-reopening/2272528/
— Unemployed, Business Owners File Suit Against Pritzker and Illinois, Seek Compensation The plaintiffs named in the lawsuit claimed their “livelihoods and income were taken for a public purpose”
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/unemployed-business-owners-file-suit-against-pritzker-and-illinois-seek-compensation/2272824/

CBS2
— Gov. JB Pritzker Urges Republican Critics To Stop ‘Pushing Stories’ About His Family’s Whereabouts; ‘There Are Threats To My Safety And To Their Safety’
https://chicago.cbslocal.com/2020/05/15/gov-jb-pritzker-urges-republican-critics-to-stop-pushing-stories-about-his-familys-whereabouts-there-are-threats-to-my-safety-and-to-their-safety/

WGN TV
— As retail sales plummet, Chicago small shops look to survive pandemic – AP
https://wgntv.com/chicago-news/as-retail-sales-plummet-chicago-small-shops-look-to-survive-pandemic/
— Critics of stay-at-home order want churches to reopen – Gaynor Hall
https://wgntv.com/chicago-news/critics-of-stay-at-home-order-want-churches-to-reopen/

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— Illinois surpasses 4,000 COVID-19 deaths and 90,000 cases statewide
https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/illinois-surpasses-4000-covid-19-deaths-and-90000-cases-statewide

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Southland communities lay off, furlough staff as coronavirus pandemic craters revenue projections – ZAK KOESKE
https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/daily-southtown/ct-sta-municipal-impact-coronavirus-st-0517-20200516-4u6f4ebsrbd6lo4bedns522mxi-story.html
— State says COVID-19 testing expanded to include many workers who aren’t exhibiting symptoms – JAMIE MUNKS and RICK PEARSON
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-illinois-pritzker-testing-20200516-adn2oqzf6jbhvlvkfquqy5vebi-story.html
— Preckwinkle’s Cook County disaster proclamation could extend to Sept. 30: ‘The more time we give, the better’ – ALICE YIN
https://www.chicagotribune.com/coronavirus/ct-coronavirus-cook-county-preckwinkle-disaster-proclamation-20200515-crkchleuiraudhclatdday2uma-story.html

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Preckwinkle to seek extension of disaster proclamation until end of September — but one commissioner suggests it’s illegal Preckwinkle’s March 10 order is set to expire at the end of May, though, if approved by the board of commissioners at their May 21 meeting, the order could be extended through Sept. 30. – Rachel Hinton
https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2020/5/15/21260245/preckwinkle-extension-disaster-proclamation-september-morrison
— Everything must be on the table as city, state fight back from financial devastation With help from Congress at a standstill, Illinois and Chicago leaders will have to take painful measures, possibly including service cuts, furloughs, layoffs and changes in pensions – Editorial
https://chicago.suntimes.com/2020/5/15/21256032/illinois-chicago-government-finances-j-b-pritzker-lori-lightfoot-city-budget-coronavirus-economic
— Coronavirus now in 100 Illinois counties as state tops 4K deaths, 90K cases With 130 deaths reported on Friday, the state has lost 1,727 people so far in May and 4,058 overall. – Tina Sfondeles
https://chicago.suntimes.com/coronavirus/2020/5/15/21260348/illinois-coronavirus-pritzker-testing-cases-deaths-counties-may-15

DAILY HERALD
— Some Northwest suburbs ask to be split from Chicago in governor’s Restore Illinois plan – Eric Peterson
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200515/some-northwest-suburbs-ask-to-be-split-from-chicago-in-governors-restore-illinois-plan
— McHenry County Board members discuss salary reduction for elected officials – Kelli Duncan
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200515/mchenry-county-board-members-discuss-salary-reduction-for-elected-officials
— New committeeperson named for Republicans in Barrington Township
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200515/new-committeeperson-named-for-republicans-in-barrington-township
— Cook County is now the county with most COVID-19 cases in U.S.
https://www.dailyherald.com/news/20200515/sun-times-cook-county-is-now-the-county-with-most-covid-19-cases-in-us

CRAIN’S CHICAGO BUSINESS
— Lightfoot: Chicago staring down another $1 billion budget hole A year into office, the mayor faces a budget gap similar to what she started with, and there are fewer options to fill it. Without federal aid, “we are going to be in a world of hurt.” – A.D. QUIG and GREG HINZ
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/government/lightfoot-chicago-staring-down-another-1-billion-budget-hole
— Illinois sees some good news on the pandemic The rate of positive COVID tests continues to decrease, indicating fewer people are getting sick from the virus. – STEPHANIE GOLDBERG
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/government/illinois-sees-some-good-news-pandemic
— McDonald’s franchisees face steep costs to bring back dine-in The fast-food giant’s guidelines for reopening during the pandemic come with costs that burden operators. – DALTON BARKER
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/restaurants/mcdonalds-franchisees-face-steep-costs-bring-back-dine

QUAD CITY TIMES
— Census outreach ‘incredibly stymied’ by COVID-19 pandemic – JERRY NOWICKI
https://qctimes.com/business/census-outreach-incredibly-stymied-by-covid-19-pandemic/article_30472e26-ed0f-5867-9f6a-64c39b019e66.html

ALTON DAILY NEWS
— Illinois Unemployment Numbers Continue to Climb – Cole Lauterbach
http://altondailynews.com/news/details.cfm?id=304066#.Xr8OoiN_OM8

EFFINGHAM DAILY NEWS
— Pritzker’s graduated tax fails on all counts – Jim Nowlan
https://www.effinghamdailynews.com/opinion/columns/jim-nowlan-guest-columnist-pritzker-s-graduated-tax-fails-on-all-counts/article_f457fa1c-96ec-11ea-9bc2-6745501b967f.html

FOX ILLINOIS
— Coronavirus decimates state budgets, federal funding uncertain – Leandra Bernstein
https://foxillinois.com/news/connect-to-congress/coronavirus-decimates-state-budgets-federal-funding-uncertain
— Pandemic planning becomes political weapon as deaths mount – AP
https://foxillinois.com/news/nation-world/pandemic-planning-becomes-political-weapon-as-deaths-mount

CENTER SQUARE
— Illinois GOP Congressmen ask Washington to protect local aid from Pritzker threats over orders – Cole Lauterbach
https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/illinois-gop-congressmen-ask-washington-to-protect-local-aid-from-pritzker-threats-over-orders/article_25835954-96ef-11ea-bbd9-efbef4b24a36.html

ILLINOIS LEAKS
— Rep Bailey’s Clay Co. case v. Gov Pritzker to stay in Clay Co. – JOHN KRAFT
https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2020/05/rep-baileys-clay-co-case-v-gov-pritzker-to-stay-in-clay-co/
— You have the key to open your doors, not the Government – Know your rights – KIRK ALLEN
https://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2020/05/you-have-the-key-to-open-your-doors-not-the-government-know-your-rights/

ILLINOIS REVIEW
— ORLAND PARK MAYOR CALLS FOR REDRAWING OF “RESTORE ILLINOIS” COVID PLAN’S REGIONAL BOUNDARIES
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/orland-park-mayor-calls-for-redrawing-of-restore-illinois-covid-plans-regional-boundaries.html
— H.R. 6666 – A Devilish Surveillance Plot – Kathy Valente
https://illinoisfamily.org/federal/h-r-6666/
— GOP STATE LAWMAKERS PROPOSE LIMIT ON GOVERNOR 30-DAY DISASTER DECLARATIONS
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/gop-state-lawmakers-propose-limit-on-governor-30-day-disaster-declarations.html
— THORNER/INGOLD: IF WE OPEN, WILL THEY COME?
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/thorneringold-if-we-open-businesses-will-they-come.html
— CONGRESS SHOULD PREVENT GOVS FROM KEEPING FEDERAL FUNDS FROM LOCAL MUNICIPALITIES, IL DELEGATION SAYS
https://www.illinoisreview.com/illinoisreview/2020/05/congress-should-prevent-govs-from-keeping-federal-funds-from-local-municipalities-il-delegation-says.html

CAPITOL FAX
— 2,432 new cases, 130 additional deaths
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/15/2432-new-cases-130-additional-deaths/
— Pritzker announces expanded testing – Talks about positivity rates – Warns people in QC to be careful about Iowa – Says he’s at home in Chicago – Wife and daughter were in Florida before stay at home order and stayed there – Says wife and daughter are “home now” – Regarding Georgia, it takes weeks to see changes after opening up – Explains why charter boat tours are still banned – Regarding letter from GOP congressmen: “They’re missing the point” – Still waiting to see if antibody tests are accurate – On a path to more testing in every region – Addresses Naperville Park District lawsuit threat – Says family was in Wisconsin at “working farm” – Claims GOP is “putting my children and my family in danger” – Governor’s office clarifies that family is in Chicago now – Discouraging use of ABS rapid tests until FDA guidance issued
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/15/pritzker-announces-expanded-testing/
— COVID-19 roundup
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/15/covid-19-roundup-39/
— Duckworth to interview for veep spot
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/15/duckworth-to-interview-for-veep-spot/
— Unprecedented economic carnage
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/15/unprecedented-economic-carnage/
— Some Eastern Bloc members say they won’t wear face masks during session, but they won’t be allowed inside
https://capitolfax.com/2020/05/15/some-eastern-bloc-members-say-they-wont-wear-face-masks-during-session-but-they-wont-be-allowed-inside/

WASHINGTON EXAMINER
— ‘The founders would be ashamed’: Kevin McCarthy slams new remote Congress rules – Susan Ferrechio
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/congress/the-founders-would-be-ashamed-mccarthy-slams-new-remote-congress-rules

FEDERALIST
— 100,000 Businesses Have Permanently Collapsed Under Pandemic Lockdowns – Tristan Justice
https://thefederalist.com/2020/05/15/100000-businesses-have-permanently-collapsed-under-pandemic-lockdowns/

NEW YORK TIMES
— J.C. Penney, 118-Year-Old Department Store, Files for Bankruptcy The chain’s move came after J. Crew and the Neiman Marcus Group filed, and represented the biggest casualty amid retail closures tied to the coronavirus pandemic. – Sapna Maheshwari and Michael Corkery
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/15/business/jc-penney-bankruptcy-coronavirus.html

WASHINGTON POST
— Wondering what’s safe as states start to reopen? Here’s what some public health experts say. – Katherine Shaver
https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/wondering-whats-safe-as-states-start-to-reopen-heres-what-some-public-health-experts-say/2020/05/14/9e684e3c-949d-11ea-91d7-cf4423d47683_story.html