Illinois Insights: An Update from Cozen O’Connor (9/23)

September 23, 2026

ILLINOIS

AROUND THE STATE

Pritzker establishes AI cabinet amid calls for greater regulation 

“Pritzker signed an executive order on Tuesday to establish an AI Cabinet made up of experts and representatives from several state agencies. The unpaid group, which will formulate policy proposals through 2027, will analyze and assess ‘the various risks posed by AI to the safety of Illinois residents and the critical infrastructure residents rely on,’” by Capitol News Illinois.   

Subscribe

Illinois attorney general claims victory in lawsuit against Trump administration

“Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul has claimed victory in a legal battle against the Trump administration over noncitizens’ access to a host of publicly funded health, education and social service programs,” by Capitol News Illinois.  

Duckworth slams Trump for ‘cozying up’ to Xi as Illinois waits on China trade 

“With President Donald Trump set to host Chinese President Xi Jinping at the White House this week, U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth is warning that the president’s approach to China is hurting Illinois farmers and manufacturers — and putting U.S. allies in Asia at risk,” by the Crain’s Chicago Business. 

Great Lakes senators call on Trump to stop delaying invasive carp barrier 

“Great Lakes Democratic lawmakers — including Illinois Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth — are warning the Trump administration that any more delays to a $1.15 billion barrier project to keep invasive carp out of Lake Michigan could put the economy of the region at risk,” by the Chicago Sun-Times.     

CHICAGO

MORE FROM CITY HALL

Mayoral allies stall measure that would raise the bar on City Hall’s ability to take on more debt 

“Forty percent of Chicago’s operating budget is gobbled up by pension and debt payments — which is why opposition aldepersons want to make it tougher for Mayor Brandon Johnson or his successor to add to that mountain of debt,” by the Chicago Sun-Times.      

Mayor Brandon Johnson proposes Chicago data center moratorium: ‘We can’t wait’ 

“Mayor Brandon Johnson proposed a data center moratorium ordinance Wednesday aimed at blocking the controversial developments from popping up in Chicago for one year,” by the Chicago Tribune.      

Mayor Johnson’s top lawyer will step down, UIC law professor poised to step into the job

“Mary Richardson-Lowry is stepping down from her role as the city’s corporation counsel after more than three years, Johnson told WBEZ. She is the latest and one of the last remaining original appointees to leave Johnson’s administration,” by the Chicago Sun-Times.   

Chicago mayoral candidates running for two offices at once drives a wedge in 2027 race

“On Tuesday, mayoral candidate and lawyer William J. Quinlan sued Giannoulias, U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley and Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, all Democrats, for being on the ballot this November for another term in their current seats while also launching, or in Pappas’ case saying she intends to launch, campaigns for mayor,” by the Chicago Tribune. 

FEDERAL

Cozen Currents: Okay Doomer

Doomerism is dominating the debate over regulating AI with different implications for major labs and smaller firms. 

While political support for data centers continues to collapse, politicians are trying to walk a line between appearing tough on AI and not scaring away investment. 

When President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping meet in Washington this week, the summit will prioritize stability and tangible deliverables will likely be relatively modest. Read the Cozen Currents here.

The Beltway & Beyond: The 2026 Midterms: A Battle for the Senate and Both Parties’ Futures

With early voting approaching, the 2026 midterms are emerging as a consequential test for both parties. Our team examines the closely watched Senate races, the voter sentiment shaping the cycle, and what the results could mean for control of Congress and the road to 2028. Featuring Public Strategies’ Howard Schweitzer (DC), Mark Alderman (DC), and Patrick Martin (DC). Listen here.

Authors

About Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies

Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, an affiliate of the international law firm Cozen O’Connor, is a bipartisan government relations practice representing clients before the federal government and in cities and states throughout the country. With offices in Washington D.C., Richmond, Albany, New York City, Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Chicago, and Santa Monica, the firm’s public strategies professionals offer a full complement of government affairs services, including legislative and executive branch advocacy, policy analysis, assistance with government procurement and funding programs, and crisis management. Its client base spans multiple industries, including healthcare, transportation, hospitality, education, construction, energy, real estate, entertainment, financial services, and insurance.

About Cozen O’Connor

Established in 1970, Cozen O’Connor has over 775 attorneys who help clients manage risk and make better business decisions. The firm counsels clients on their most sophisticated legal matters in all areas of the law, including litigation, corporate, and regulatory law. Representing a broad array of leading global corporations and middle-market companies, Cozen O’Connor serves its clients’ needs through 31 offices across two continents.

Explore Articles and News

See All News