Illinois quick hits: DOJ seizes illegal vaping products in Bensenville; NFIB optimism index rises

Illinois quick hits: DOJ seizes illegal vaping products in Bensenville; NFIB optimism index rises

September 10, 2025/
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By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

DOJ seizes illegal vaping products in Bensenville

A major raid in a Chicago suburb has led to the seizure of hundreds of thousands of illegal vaping products.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said many of the items found at Midwest Goods in Bensenville were smuggled in from China and contained undisclosed chemicals.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. joined Bondi in Bensenville for the announcement.

Alderman announce county president race

Chicago Alderman Brendan Reilly has announced that he is running for Cook County Board president.

In a campaign video released Wednesday, Reilly said current board President Toni Preckwinkle and her political allies claim Chicago is safe and doesn’t need help.

Reilly also said corruption and insider deals are rotting Cook County government inside out. Preckwinkle has held the office since 2010.

NFIB optimism index rises

The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index rose 0.5 points in August to 100.8, nearly 3 points above the 52-year average of 98.

The Uncertainty Index fell by 4 points to 93 but remained well above the historical average.

NFIB Illinois State Director Noah Finley said Illinois policymakers should avoid further tax increases and work to make it easier for employers to find, recruit and train employees.

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