Updates

Big money in Chicago’s school board races

The Chicago Tribune interviewed RFI Executive Director Alisa Kaplan about the large amounts of campaign cash flowing into Chicago’s first-ever elected school board races. The latest numbers are unsurprising, she said, “but it is alarming. And Illinois’ unique rule allowing…

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RFI ED talks start of Madigan trial

RFI Executive Director Alisa Kaplan spoke with The Center Square about former Illinois House Speaker Madigan’s upcoming trial.  “I do think that [Madigan’s trial] sends a powerful signal that the Chicago Way and business as usual is not the same…

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RFI Statement on Ethics Legislation in Chicago

After months of political maneuvering, yesterday the Chicago City Council approved a measure banning lobbyists from making campaign contributions to the mayor and mayoral candidates. The ordinance was the ultimate no-brainer: its purpose was just to codify a similar 2011…

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Madigan trial renews interest in lobbying reform

Advantage News interviewed RFI Executive Director Alisa Kaplan about lobbying reforms passed in 2021 and potential additional avenues for reform.  “We just want what a vast majority of states have, which is a one to two year waiting period for…

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DNC fundraising effort raises eyebrows

The Chicago Tribune interviewed RFI ED Alisa Kaplan about Johnson ally Charles Smith’s fundraising on behalf of GoChiLife, a nonprofit that solicited large contributions for events planned during the DNC.  “Does it raise eyebrows? Certainly,” she said. “It raises questions,…

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RFI ED comments on GoChiLife convention fundraising

RFI ED Alisa Kaplan spoke with Crain’s Chicago Business about GoChiLife, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit with ties to an ally of Mayor Johnson that recently solicited significant contributions for events planned during the Democratic National Convention.  “I think Smith’s relationship with…

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Zombie state boards and commissions undermine public trust

In a recent publication by the Chicago Tribune’s Editorial Board, RFI ED Alisa Kaplan voiced frustration with Illinois’ continued struggle to fill vacant positions on state boards. According to one study, it was found that over 100 state boards in…

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