BEAR DOWN, CHICAGO!

Congratulations to all the runners today at the Chicago Marathon! Take a moment after crossing that finish line today to enjoy all that the best big city in the nation has to offer; you deserve it!

Last year, I led a trade mission to Mexico focused on strengthening ties between our two countries and identifying new ways our industries can grow together. Viakable’s expansion is a step forward in realizing the promise of that partnership.

Aermec chose to locate its first U.S. manufacturing site right here in DeKalb – reaffirming Illinois’ position as a top destination for manufacturers and job creators looking to do business in America.

ICYMI: Chicago was voted the Best Big City in the nation for the tenth consecutive year. It’s a credit to what truly makes Chicago the best – the inimitable spirit of the people who call this city home.

I'm proud to announce the expansion of the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center at SIUE. We're working to provide relief while supporting innovation to help farmers grow. This expansion will turn Illinois crops into new products, create opportunities, and generate jobs.

For every dollar we invest in the Illinois Film Production Tax Credit, we generate nearly $7 in activity — amounting to billions added to Illinois’ economy over the past decade.

Nearly 12,000 book bans took place in schools over the past year. Here in Illinois, we were the first to fight back and ban those very book bans. We stand for free expression, diverse ideas, and the right to see ourselves in the books we read.

I've made it my mission to give filmmakers every opportunity to bring their productions to Illinois, while creating good jobs and opportunities for our people.

Da Coach was not only an icon in Chicago, but the entire football world. Our thoughts are with Mike Ditka’s family, friends, and Bears fans today. May his memory be a blessing.

Here in Illinois, we're reducing food insecurity while strengthening local economies. By equipping producers with development and expansion funds, we're helping farmers, food processors, and small businesses provide local food across the state.

Empowering the future of Illinois ag is a true cause for celebration! Under my administration, we've excused school absences for 4-H programs, allowing students to build lifelong skills. This 4-H Week, let's recognize the members, families, mentors, and volunteers leading here.

NEW: The Trump Administration has denied our request for emergency assistance after storms in August. Our communities are still picking up the pieces, but this President is playing politics instead. Illinois will keep fighting to help our people recover and rebuild.

Today, I'm proud to announce that we formalized the PJM Governors’ Collaborative - a multi-state, bipartisan organization designed to hold PJM accountable. We are working together to reduce costs for working families and strengthen grid reliability.

Illinois farmers don’t want a handout — they want a fair shot at making a buck. They want stable markets and reasonable input costs. They want a chance to make a living. I’m proud to have their backs and give them the support they deserve.

Diesel costs are up 68% since Trump's war of choice in Iran began. I've signed an Executive Order to lower fuel prices for farmers during the fall harvest by allowing them to use dyed diesel in ag vehicles beyond the farm. We want to make sure they can compete and make a living.

Illinois farmers need all the support we can give because of this federal administration's reckless policies. Today, we are launching low-interest loans to help farmers finance infrastructure, expand capacity, and navigate this challenging market.

Another manufacturing win for Illinois' economy and the workers of La Salle. Following our trade mission to Mexico, Viakable is doubling down on its commitment to Illinois by investing an additional $55 million to expand and nearly double its workforce.

Judaism has taught us to mourn, to remember, and to repair. Three years after October 7th, we honor those who were lost, and we are reminded that we must all work toward building a future where Israelis and Palestinians live side by side in peace, security, and safety.

The MetroLink extension to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport is a ride to a better job, a new opportunity, or a plane for a business trip or vacation.