Illinois Politics

Illinois politics is characterized by a blend of urban and rural interests, heavily influenced by Chicago, the state's largest city. The Democratic Party holds significant power, particularly in urban areas, while Republicans tend to dominate rural regions. The state government consists of three branches: the executive, led by the Governor; the legislative, with a bicameral General Assembly; and an independent judiciary. Key issues often include economic policies, education funding, public safety, and social issues. Political corruption has been a longstanding challenge, with notable scandals affecting various administrations over the years, making transparency a vital public concern.