Illinois Quick Hits: Independents launch campaigns for governor, Congress

May 27, 2026/

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By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

(The Center Square) – Independent gubernatorial candidate Collin Corbett has filed petitions to challenge Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Republican Darren Bailey in November. Corbett is a former Republican who said on Tuesday that the GOP nominated someone who has no shot in the general election.

Also on Tuesday, Mayra Macias and Chicago Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez filed petitions to run for Congress against Democrat Patty Garcia and Republican Lupe Castillo in Illinois’ fourth district.

Sigcho-Lopez is a member of the city council’s Democratic Socialist Caucus.

ALEXANDER’S TO CLOSE NORMAL LOCATION

Alexander’s Steakhouse has announced that May 31 will be the final day of service at its location in Normal.

The restaurant posted on social media that its longtime Peoria location will remain open. Alexander’s closed its Springfield restaurant in 2024.

ILLINOIS FUEL PRICES SHOW MODEST DECLINES

Illinois fuel prices have dropped in recent days but remain far higher than they were one year ago.

According to AAA, the average price for regular unleaded on Wednesday was $4.90 per gallon, down from $5 per gallon the previous week. The price on May 27, 2025 was $3.41.

The average Illinois price for diesel on Wednesday was $5.99 per gallon.

INDEX SUGGESTS INCREASED ECONOMIC GROWTH

The Chicago Fed National Activity Index increased to +0.14 in April from –0.15 in March, suggesting economic growth increased.

The index is a weighted average of 85 growth indicators in national economic activity.

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