Good morning, Chicago. The cost of my car insurance is relatively reasonable, all things considered. I have a clean record as a driver. But I was genuinely taken aback when I found out the factors that insurers in Illinois consider when they calculate how much to charge.

In an op-ed today, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias calls out auto insurance companies for basing premiums on a driver’s ZIP code and credit score — rather than their driving record. A driver with a DUI but excellent credit is going to pay less, on average, than someone with a clean record but a humble score. Giannoulias wants to pursue a study to get to the bottom of this issue, and he urges state lawmakers to authorize it this legislative session.

In its editorials today, the Tribune Editorial Board has a critique to offer Mayor Brandon Johnson after he spoke recently about his administration’s thought process for awarding contracts to businesses. And in reacting to Indiana’s recent execution, the board reflects on the dangers of capital punishment.

Elsewhere in Tribune Opinion, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and the head of Cook County’s health care system warn readers of what work requirements for Medicaid recipients could do to Illinoisans who rely on the federal health care program — as well as the state’s economy. And columnist Laura Washington has advice for Democrats: Show your patriotism by waving more flags and push back against the narrative that Dems are anti-America.

Plus, in our letters section, a couple of readers wonder why Huntley appears to be taking it easy on the proprietor of a Donald Trump-themed store.

Have a good week and stay safe on the road, whether you’re a driver, a cyclist or a pedestrian. We’ll see you tomorrow.

— Colleen Kujawa, opinion editor

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