In a close contest with Alexi Giannoulias, Republican Mark Kirk takes President Obama's former Senate seat. Meanwhile, Republican congressional candidates score impressive victories in the suburbs, but Democrats maintain control of the Illinois House and Senate as they return immediately to Springfield to tackle the $13 billion budget deficit. Toni Preckwinkle wins big in the race for Cook County Board President, and Independent Forrest Claypool fails to beat Democratic Party heavyweight Joe Berrios for Cook County Assessor. In sports, the Bears are back from their bye week. And Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg refuses more minor managing for the Cubs.

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