Changes

==Politics==

==Politics==

Illinois can be viewed as having a more [[liberal]] concentration in the northeastern portion of the state.  This is often attributed to the large metropolitan area surrounding [[Chicago]].  In contrast, the southern and western portions of the state are typically more [[conservative]].  The state capitol is [[Springfield, Illinois|Springfield]], and there is political tension about state lawmakers who spend too much of their time in either Chicago or Springfield.

Illinois can be viewed as having a more [[liberal]] concentration in the northeastern portion of the state.  This is often attributed to the large metropolitan area surrounding [[Chicago]].  In contrast, the southern and western portions of the state are typically more [[conservative]].  The state capitol is [[Springfield, Illinois|Springfield]], and there is political tension about state lawmakers who spend too much of their time in either Chicago, Champaign-Urbana, or Springfield.

The population distribution has led Illinois to lean politically to the [[left]] in most recent non-local elections.  Many consider Illinois to be a liberal stronghold, especially in regard to [[presidential]] elections.

The population distribution has led Illinois to lean politically to the [[left]] in most recent non-local elections.  Many consider Illinois to be a liberal stronghold, especially in regard to [[presidential]] elections.