Governor Ryan's Legacy

By David Schaper

Published January 11, 2003 at 12:00 AM EST

NPR's David Schaper reports on the legacy of Illinois Gov. George Ryan, who leaves office after major attempts at death-penalty reform in his state.

David Schaper

David Schaper is a correspondent on NPR's National Desk, based in Chicago, primarily covering transportation and infrastructure, as well as breaking news in Chicago and the Midwest.

See stories by David Schaper

Dear Reader:

To make informed decisions, the public must receive unbiased truth.

As Southwestern Pennsylvania’s only independent public radio news and information station, we give voice to provocative ideas that foster a vibrant, informed, diverse and caring community.

WESA is primarily funded by listener contributions. Your financial support comes with no strings attached. It is free from commercial or political influence…that’s what makes WESA a free vital community resource. Your support funds important local journalism by WESA and NPR national reporters.

You give what you can, and you get news you can trust.
Please give now to continue providing fact-based journalism — a monthly gift of just $5 or $10 makes a big difference.

Support WESA

States look to New Jersey as model for child mental health interventions

The groundbreaking services have meant there are fewer children landing in juvenile detention or needing residential treatment.
Chineke! Orchestra is on its first North America tour

The orchestra is playing across the U.S. and Canada while also conducting workshops in each city they visit.
Navajo Nation goes to Supreme Court for access to parched Colorado River

For two decades the Navajo Nation has been trying to clarify its right to access the Colorado River.