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Statewide: The rise of conspiracy theories

NPR Illinois | 91.9 UIS | By Sean Crawford
Published January 9, 2026 at 12:26 PM CST
List of question marks
quimono

Some of the most extreme sounding ideas are gaining traction with people beyond the traditional fringe groups. That might include family and friends.

A sociologist who studies conspiracy theories discusses why more individuals are buying into these beliefs and how to respond.

Also:

* NPR Illinois J-Corps reporter Ko'u Hopkins talks with some visa students about the political climate is impacting them.

* We have details on Generation Lead, a program to combat youth substance abuse. The Illinois Association for Behavioral Health is teaming up with youth sports organizations to spread the word.

* Charlie Schlenker reports on concerns among the agricultural community.

* Former State Department officials and UIS Professor Emeritus Roy Wehrle talks about the U.S. goals and obstacles in Venezuela.

* Elissa Eaton reports from Champaign County about efforts to improve a shortage of skilled nursing beds.

* We learn about an investigation into the company that handles health care inside Illinois prisons.

A wetland in Canton
Rich Egger/TSPR
A wetland in Canton

* Rich Egger visits a wetland preservation project as the number of wetlands continues to decline in the Midwest.
Illinois
Sean Crawford
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