East Central Reporter

Former Chicago Alderman Ed Burke has been sentenced to two years in prison and fined $2 million following his conviction on 13 counts of extortion, bribery, and racketeering charges last December. Federal prosecutors had sought a 10-year sentence for the 80-year-old Burke.

Under current Illinois law, Burke may be allowed to use his campaign funds to pay the fine. Republicans have long aimed to close this loophole and prevent convicted politicians from using campaign money for legal fees or corruption fines. Burke is required to surrender on September 23 to begin serving his sentence.

Burke’s trial spanned six weeks at a federal courthouse in Chicago, concluding with his conviction on December 21. He served on the Chicago City Council for 54 years and spent nearly $4 million in legal fees during the trial. The proceedings were notable for several outlandish quotes from lawyers, key witnesses, and undercover audio recordings. Here are ten of the most striking quotes:

1. “As far as I’m concerned, they can go f— themselves,” said a judge while denying Ed Burke’s mistrial motion.

2. “So, did we, uh, land the tuna? If we land the tuna there certainly will be a day of accounting,” stated during closing arguments by Burke's defense.

3. “Well, maybe if they don’t have any access to the property because the driveway isn’t legal, they might get the message,” recorded call involving Gery Chico.

4. “If Alderman Burke asked you questions it could be terrifying,” highlighted by witnesses during the trial.

5. “Next to the mayor, Burke is arguably the most powerful politician in Chicago," testified by a Burger King executive.

6. “Where’s the beef? You’ve gotten nothing but bun from the government so far,” said by Burke's defense attorney.

7. “They’re just pretty naïve on this stuff...we’ll have a nice event,” another recording involving Gery Chico.

8. “Hey, you’re not gonna get in any trouble...I’m certainly not gonna get in any trouble at this stage of the game,” witness testimony during trial proceedings.

9. "Exhibit A in the world of people who are corrupt and untruthful," describing an FBI informant's testimony against Burke.

10. "If we’re not signed up...The cash register has not rung yet," concluded testimony by Danny Solis.

In other news, Governor Pritzker recently signed House Bill 5005 which expands tax credits for electric vehicle manufacturers, quantum computing firms, and filmmakers among others. Critics argue that while large businesses benefit from these tax advantages, small businesses and taxpayers face increased burdens.

Additionally, Illinois motorists will see an increase in state motor fuel tax starting July 1st—a rise to 47 cents per gallon due to inflationary adjustments initiated under Governor Pritzker's administration.

Governor Pritzker's economic policies continue to face scrutiny as Illinois grapples with one of the highest unemployment rates in the country and a declining labor force participation rate.

Furthermore, House Bill 2161 seeks to address workplace discrimination based on family responsibilities—a move critics claim could lead to frivolous lawsuits against business owners.

Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx has announced that certain lenient policies towards protestors will not apply during the upcoming Democratic National Convention in Chicago—a decision seen as contradictory given previous stances since George Floyd protests began.

Representative Miller encourages constituents to stay informed through future town halls where discussions about budgets and passed bills will take place.

For assistance with state agency interactions or inquiries about district matters:

- Contact: Rep Miller's office at 217-508-4108

- Location: 1113 Lincoln Ave., Charleston (Open Mon-Fri from 9 am - 4 pm)

Independence Day celebrations date back to John Adams' vision of grand festivities across America—traditions that continue today.