217 Today: Former staff attorney releases ‘The Velvet Hammer,’ a song reflecting on Michael Madigan’s legacy
Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times
Monday, June 9, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Illinois teachers are getting new guidelines on how to use artificial intelligence in the classroom.
- Earlier this month, the Trump Administration rescinded guidance directing hospitals to provide emergency abortions to women when necessary to stabilize their medical condition.
- Convicted former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan could get more than a dozen years in prison this week.
- Advocates for a bill to wipe the slate clean for those with non-violent convictions on their record plan to try again in the fall.
In today’s deep dive, a new song explores former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s grip on power as he awaits sentencing.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Ben Thorp, Dave McKinney, Erick Stock and Alex Degman.