Sound of the State

Apr 10 2025 685 ep. 7 mins 18

Sound of the State Podcast artwork

Follow our channel for the latest news from the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus.

Copy RSS

Subscribe on Podcast Addict

News Brief - April 10, 2025

Apr 10 2025 7 mins

From smarter policies regarding the presence of cellphones in the classroom to combatting elder financial fraud, this episode of the News Brief features legislation from State Senators Cristina Castro, Karina Villa, Paul Faraci, and Steve Stadelman.

News Brief - March 19, 2025

Mar 19 2025 7 mins

In this episode of the News Brief, Senator Celina Villanueva advocates for increased wages for home care workers in Illinois, Senator Cristina Castro backs limitations on cellphone use in the classroom, and Senator Rachel Ventura looks to take steps to reform the juvenile justice system in the state.

News Brief - March 6, 2025

Mar 06 2025 4 mins

This episode of the News Brief highlights three Illinois legislative measures aimed at saving lives and strengthening communities in Illinois. Learn more about these proposals from State Senators Doris Turner, Mike Simmons, and Christopher Belt when you listen now.

News Brief - March 5, 2025

Mar 05 2025 5 mins

In this edition of the News Brief, State Senator Willie Preston calls for insurance coverage for speech therapy to treat stuttering, State Senator Julie Morrison advocates for food assistance for veterans, and State Senator Sara Feigenhotlz pushes for FMLA rights for short-term teachers.

Honoring the Impact of the Pullman Porters in American Labor History

Feb 25 2025 26 mins

In this Black History Month episode, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. sits down with the president of the Pullman Porter Museum, Dr. David Peterson Jr., to discuss the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters – a pivotal moment in the labor and civil rights movements.

News Brief - February 21, 2025

Feb 21 2025 12 mins

Governor JB Pritzker presented his FY2026 budget proposal this week. Hear reaction from members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus and more, in this edition of the News Brief.

Karina's Law: Protecting Survivors & Strengthening Justice

Feb 14 2025 14 mins

In this episode, we dive into Karina’s Law—a groundbreaking measure to protect domestic violence survivors by closing loopholes in firearm removal. Senator Villanueva shares how this law honors Karina Gonzalez and others affected by similar tragedies, the challenges faced during the legislative process, and what’s next in the fight for survivor safety. Tune in to learn how th

News Brief - February 7, 2025

Feb 07 2025 5 mins

In this edition of the News Brief, Senator Doris Turner introduces measures for reform after the death of Sonya Massey. Plus, the Senate recognizes Wear Red Day and Senator Michael Hastings calls for water contract transparency

News Brief - February 6, 2025

Feb 06 2025 6 mins

In this edition of the News Brief, State Senator Mattie Hunter celebrates the signing of the KIND Act, prioritizing placement with and support for relative caregivers of children in the foster care system. Plus, Senators Willie Preston and Karina Villa advance measures addressing food safety and rising congenital syphilis cases, respectively.

Senator Robert Peters Highlights African Americans in Illinois Labor History

Feb 05 2025 11 mins

In this Black History Month episode, State Senator Robert Peters discusses the history of African American labor movements in Illinois, his advocacy for labor rights and state efforts to support Black laborers and promote workforce equality. #AfricanAmericansAndLabor #BHM2025