Illinois quick hits: DHS ordered to address ICE facility conditions; Garcia explains retirement decision

By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

DHS ordered to address ICE facility conditions

A U.S. District Court judge in Chicago has issued a temporary restraining order directing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and federal immigration enforcement officials to address living conditions at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Broadview.

The order issued Wednesday by Judge Robert Gettleman instructs the feds to provide clean conditions, basic hygiene supplies and access to counsel, among other things.

The order remains in effect until Nov. 19, when a status hearing is scheduled.

Garcia explains retirement decision

U.S. Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia has explained his decision not to seek reelection after he initially submitted nominating petitions for the 2026 Democratic primary.

Garcia told NBC Chicago that both his cardiologist and his wife advised him not to run for another term.

Garcia’s chief of staff, Patty Garcia, who is not related to the congressman, filed her petitions at the 5 p.m. deadline on the final day, making her the only Democrat in the primary.

Lupe Castillo is running for the Republican nomination.

Per person library funding increases

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is touting his efforts that led the General Assembly to increase state taxpayer-funded library equalization grants.

A measure approved by the General Assembly increased equalization aid funding. Giannoulias’ office said the secretary spearheaded an effort to raise the base minimum funding from $7.50 per person in a library’s service population to $17.50 per person.