"Chicago Mayoral Race: Endorsements, Environmental Plans, and Controversial School Plan in Focus"

Senator Dick Durbin has endorsed Paul Vallas for Chicago mayor, calling him a "lifelong Democrat" who can be a "bridge" to the community and offer "support and straight talk" to law enforcement. Durbin's endorsement gives cover to moderate Democrats who have been wavering on voting because they see Vallas as too far right or his rival, Brandon Johnson, too far left. The endorsement comes ahead of Sen. Bernie Sanders headlining a pre-election rally for Johnson. Meanwhile, a 2021 state auditor general's report warned the Illinois Secretary of State's Office had problems in keeping its cybersecurity data safe.