Illinois lawmakers are focused on passing a state budget and ensuring the Chicago Bears remain in Illinois. Meanwhile, Mayor Brandon Johnson visited the Vatican, accompanied by a delegation, including Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates. Despite the trip, Gates faced a setback as union members rejected a proposed dues increase of $8.5 million for school board election funding.

Governor JB Pritzker remains optimistic about an agreement to retain the Bears in Illinois. This comes after Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas highlighted the extensive tax implications of the proposed Arlington Heights stadium megaproject.

In Texas, Ken Paxton, supported by President Donald Trump, won the GOP Senate runoff. The president is also nearing a decision on a ceasefire extension in Iran.

The Tribune Editorial Board presents a selection of noteworthy quotes from the week:

Mayor Brandon Johnson: “It’s a real Chicago style in terms of the way the pope delivers his message and justice. What I witnessed was an incredibly humble individual whose roots defined his leadership… A pope who can talk about international population shifts and still enjoy a Cubs versus Sox debate, that’s true Chicago.”

Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas: “My dead grandmother would have to come back to life for the Bears to go to Indiana. That is all B.S., that they’re going to Indiana. It is a toxic site.”

Sharla Roberts, Chicago’s Chief Procurement Officer: “We’re working diligently to get this (process) across the finish line. The size and complexity take time.”

Ald. Pat Dowell: “If I had a dollar for the word diligent, I could go buy a nice lunch today.”

Howard Lutnick to President Donald Trump: “You have changed America and created the golden age.”

Readers are encouraged to submit letters to the editor at the email provided. Opinions on various topics, from Chicago’s need for a new sports field to reflections on AIDS in the community, are featured.