Robert Judelson News Today

James Ascot and Bill Conway are both pro-development and rank public safety high, but also unproven in world of politics and government.

More than three years after his turn as a government mole ended, former Ald. Daniel Solis is finally set to answer to bribery allegations in court Wednesday — virtually, at least.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Amarjeet Bhachu said he learned of the city’s interest in filing a pleading in Solis’ case Wednesday morning. Neither he nor Solis’ attorney, Lisa Noller, objected to a short delay in Solis’ case so the city could make its argument.

Solis, who turned government mole to help federal investigators build cases against Ald. Edward Burke and ex-House Speaker Michael Madigan, was charged with a single bribery count on Friday.

After a first-quarter fundraising frenzy, the mayor has $1.7 million in cash in her primary political account. But veteran political operatives she may need $15 million to mount a successful defense of her record in a re-election campaign.

As Illinois lawmakers race to wrap up unfinished business before the end of the session this week, we learn more about the mayor's latest fundraising efforts and also anticipate historic Supreme Court news.