Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston speaks with reporters on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026. (Photo by Tom Davies/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

A year ago, Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston wanted to annex some counties from Illinois. Now, he’s diving into Indiana’s bid to snatch away the Chicago Bears.

The Republican speaker announced Thursday that he’s taking the unusual step of becoming the lead House sponsor on the bill aimed at luring the planned new stadium for the National Football League team into northwest Indiana.

Huston told reporters he was focusing on discussions about a possible deal for the stadium.

“I’m going to spend the next two days up in Lake County and Porter County having conversations with local elected officials to do everything we can,” Huston said.

The state Senate last week endorsed Senate Bill 27 that would create the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority.

That state body that would have the power to acquire land, issue long-term bonds and finance the construction of a professional football stadium and related facilities.

The bill, however, does not specify how much taxpayer money would go toward the project and which local taxes might be tapped. It also doesn’t include details of what, if anything, the Bears would contribute to the new stadium.

Huston said he didn’t have any meetings set with Bears officials, indicating that Gov. Mike Braun’s staff has “done a fantastic job. It’s been a cooperative effort.”

Hammond mayor calls site evaluation “advanced”

Bears officials have publicly explored relocating to northwest Indiana amid stalled negotiations in Illinois over a proposed stadium development in the Chicago suburb of Arlington Heights.

Hammond Mayor Tom McDermott told the Indiana Capital Chronicle that he would be meeting with Huston and the speaker would tour a possible stadium site in the city that’s being evaluated by Bears and state officials.

McDermott said Thursday he believed Indiana’s bid for the Bears relocation is “extremely serious.”

“I think it’s advanced,” he said. “I could confirm that a huge amount of money has been spent by the state of Indiana and by the Chicago Bears.”

McDermott said millions of dollars have been spent by the team and the state so far.

“Environmental research, all kinds of consultants and attorneys and engineers,” he said. “If the Bears are going to make a move of this magnitude, they’ve got to know full well what they’re getting themselves into. They want to make sure that it’s a good situation.”

Braun not detailing negotiations

Braun’s office did not answer questions Thursday about the status of the negotiations with the Bears.

But the governor told the Indiana Capital Chronicle on Tuesday that he wanted to see a deal reached with the Bears before the end of this year’s legislative session, which is expected to conclude Feb. 27.

“We’re getting down to a point where there’s been enough due diligence, and when it comes to who’s going to pay for what, I think that’s going to be worked out in a model, maybe similar to the Colts, may vary a little bit. It’ll depend on how we flesh that out,” Braun said. “Some of it will need to be done just through negotiations.”

Public financing covered most of the $720 million cost of building Lucas Oil Stadium for the Indianapolis Colts but the team contributed about $100 million. The stadium opened in 2008, with the money coming from a variety of taxes that include food and beverage sales taxes in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray said many details are still to be sorted out but called the discussions productive.

“We don’t have any idea if this is going to happen. I don’t have any details to give you,” he said. “We want to put our hand forward and said, we’d love to do business with you. We’d love to have them. And I think, frankly, we’ve got a really, really, really good product here in Indiana and northwest Indiana to to house them that would be more advantageous than Illinois.”

Huston sponsored a bill last year establishing a commission to consider shifting several rural southern Illinois counties into Indiana. Illinois officials have refused to take part, with Gov. J.B. Pritzker dubbing the effort “a stunt.”

Huston said he has great interest in getting a stadium deal done.

“I think it’s an incredible economic opportunity for northwest Indiana and for the state of Indiana,” he said. “Hopefully we’ll be moving something forward soon.”

McDermott said the cooperation of the governor’s office and legislative leaders was “impressive” in pursuit of the stadium project.

“I’ve been mayor 23 years and I’ve never seen any project as advanced as this, in as much detail as this, but that makes sense, because we’re talking about a multibillion dollar investment,” he said. “It’s transformational for my city.”

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

The New England Patriots have earned their spot in Super Bowl LX, where they’ll face off against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 8. As the big game approaches, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is offering essential travel advice to Patriots fans flying from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to the highly anticipated Super Bowl. With a surge in travelers expected to head to the event, TSA urges fans to take key steps to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Why TSA Is Alerting Patriots Fans

With an increase in passengers flying out of Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) for Super Bowl LX, TSA has announced a set of recommendations aimed at reducing stress and confusion for travelers. The agency anticipates heavier traffic at BOS this week, meaning that time and preparation are crucial for passengers. TSA officials recommend that fans plan ahead to avoid any delays that could arise from longer-than-usual security lines.

Boston’s Logan International Airport is one of the primary departure points for fans traveling to Super Bowl LX, and with the influx of travelers heading to Levi’s Stadium, it’s essential for all Patriots fans to arrive at least two hours before their scheduled flight. This early arrival ensures that there’s enough time for a thorough security check and for any last-minute packing adjustments.

What to Pack and What to Leave Behind

Fans attending the Super Bowl are advised to review TSA guidelines to ensure they are well-prepared for airport security procedures. TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids, aerosols, and gels remains a key guideline for travelers. The rule allows passengers to carry only 3.4 ounces or less of liquids, aerosols, and gels, packed in a quart-sized, resealable bag. Each traveler is allowed only one bag, and items exceeding the limit must be packed in checked luggage.

Many fans plan to bring home Super Bowl souvenirs, including programs, apparel, and collectibles. TSA encourages travelers to pack items like hats, T-shirts, jackets, footballs, and even rally flags in either their carry-on or checked baggage. For souvenir metal beer cans, those without beer can be packed in both checked and carry-on luggage, while fans who want to bring home cans of beer must ensure they are placed in checked bags.

If travelers are uncertain about whether a specific item can be brought on board, TSA offers a helpful solution through their “What Can I Bring?” tool, available on the MyTSA app. Fans can also directly message @AskTSA on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook Messenger to get quick responses to any travel-related questions.

How TSA’s New ConfirmID Program Will Help Fans

As part of TSA’s ongoing efforts to streamline the travel experience, the agency has introduced the TSA ConfirmID program. This new system offers an alternative identity verification process for a fee of $45. ConfirmID aims to provide smoother access to air travel for those who may have difficulty with standard identity checks. However, for most travelers, using their REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification will suffice. TSA lists all acceptable IDs on its website at TSA.gov, ensuring that fans are prepared before they reach the security checkpoint.

The introduction of ConfirmID is part of TSA’s broader strategy to provide fans with a more efficient and secure experience, particularly as more people travel for major events like the Super Bowl.

What’s New at TSA Security Checkpoints

For those unfamiliar with air travel or concerned about the security process, TSA has also announced a change to its security procedures. Travelers are now permitted to keep their shoes on during the screening process, making it easier and more convenient for fans rushing to catch their flights. This change, which applies to all U.S. airports, is one less thing for Patriots fans to worry about as they prepare for the big game in Santa Clara.

When and Where to Arrive

To avoid unnecessary stress, Patriots fans should plan ahead and aim to arrive at Boston Logan International Airport at least two hours before their flight departs. This extra time will ensure that there is enough leeway for security screenings, potential lines at check-in counters, and any last-minute travel preparations.

While Super Bowl travel may seem daunting, with proper planning and awareness of TSA’s guidelines, fans can ensure a smooth journey to Levi’s Stadium. The TSA’s advice includes checking the status of their flight before leaving for the airport, making sure all items comply with TSA’s guidelines, and confirming that they have a valid ID or other accepted form of identification.

Why Fans Should Listen to TSA’s Advice

The tips provided by TSA are more than just recommendations—they’re essential for a smooth and timely experience. Given the high volume of passengers expected to fly out of Boston for Super Bowl LX, arriving early, packing smart, and staying informed will help Patriots fans avoid delays and potential mishaps. With TSA’s guidance, fans can focus on enjoying the Super Bowl experience rather than worrying about travel-related stress.

For more information about what you can and cannot pack, as well as TSA’s detailed rules and regulations, visit the official TSA website.

Conclusion

Patriots fans heading to Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara can ease their travel experience with TSA’s essential tips. By following TSA’s guidelines, arriving early at Boston Logan International Airport, and being mindful of packing rules, fans will be well on their way to enjoying the excitement of Super Bowl Sunday without any travel hiccups.

Shane van Gisbergen spent the first half of the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray in the back half of the field. During that first half, he got into it with Austin Cindric and former Trackhouse teammate Daniel Suarez.

At one point, he spun Cindric out in frustration and radioed, "People just kept running into me and I got sick of it." 

In regards to Suarez, he added: "It's the third time the #7's got me...Guess he's excited he's not my teammate, he can hit me now."

While tempers began to overflow between several drivers around the tight quarter-mile, a new concern grabbed everyone's attention during the halfway break. Rain and sleet began to fall during the mid-race break, and NASCAR ordered teams to switch to wet-weather tires.

SVG restarted 15th, but rapidly began to march forward in the tricky conditions, avoiding the chaos and making it all the way to the race lead. SVG led 15 laps and battled back-and-forth with eventual race winner Ryan Preece. 

Shane van Gisbergen, Trackhouse Racing

However, his advantage began to fade as the track dried out. Despite that, SVG was still running second in the exhibition race with less than 40 laps to go. Unfortunately, that's when Chase Briscoe got into his left-rear, sending the Kiwi around in one of the 17 caution flags that flew during the chaotic race.

He was never able to recover and ultimately finished 20th in the wounded No. 97 Chevrolet, a bitter end to an otherwise impressive showing.

“It was a good bit of fun," said SVG after the race. "There were moments of brilliance and moments that weren’t. It was cool to get to the front. We were just trying to search for the grip. The wet weather conditions were very different than what I’ve raced in Supercars, just with the way the corners are and the way the rubber lays down. But then it started to come back up again and dry up. It was pretty wild.

"But all-in-all, happy with our run and it’s a good way to start the season for this No. 97 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet team.”

The championship officially begins next week with the 68th running of the Daytona 500 as SVG embarks on his second full-time season in the Cup Series.

Tearful Ryan Preece wins mad wet/dry NASCAR Clash at Bowman Gray

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In a field of 18 desperate drivers, only the top two finishers + the points provisional (Alex Bowman) were going to transfer from the last-chance-qualifier (LCQ) into the main event.

Bowman was happy to take the points provisional on offer to him (as the highest driver from the 2025 championship not yet locked in) instead of racing for it and risking his car, so the No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet dropped from fifth on the grid to the very back for the start of the LCQ.

Josh Berry cruised to the checkered flag in the No. 21 Wood Brothers Ford, saying after the race: "I feel good about (the car). Just struggling a little bit on the restarts. Cold temperatures there and locking up the left-front. I got it locked up a bit under AJ (Allmendinger). But once we were able to settle in and get some heat into the tires, I felt good about our car. I think we can make a few small adjustments to make the car a little bit better, but obviously we don't have track position. It's a long night when you don't make this race, though."

Josh Berry, Wood Brothers Ford

He will be joined by fellow Ford driver and pseudo-teammate Austin Cindric, who prevailed in a made battle for second that turned into bumper cars between himself, Corey LaJoie, and AJ Allmendinger.

"That was about as fair as I think that could have gotten for an LCQ," said Cindric. "I appreciate Corey racing hard, and obviously, we advanced in, but long road ahead starting last with some scuffs for the final here."

Cindric then added: "I don't think I got full throttle for the entire race there (due to the increased horsepower), except for when emotions got high. Pretty interesting to try and manage. Hopefully we didn't get too much damage there, and we'll try to have a good final."

Berry will start 21st, Cindric 22nd, and Bowman 23rd in the main event. Kyle Larsonearned pole position for the feature race in qualifying, beating Hendrick Motorsports teammate William Byron.

Kyle Larson earns Clash pole as 20 cars lock into Bowman Gray feature

Race recap

Battle for the final transfer spit between Corey LaJoie, Austin Cindric, AJ Allmendinger

It didn't take look for the Madhouse to live up to its reputation in the 75-lap LCQ. Just six laps into the race, Riley Herbst got spun out, and John-Hunter Nemechek slammed into his driver's door. Cody Ware also spun out, and various other cars sustained minor damage.

Additionally, race leader McDowell was black-flagged for jumping the initial start over pole-sitter Berry.

On the following restart, there was a lot of contact as Allmendinger powered into the race lead from the outside. Berry took it back a few laps later, and they both enjoyed a comfortable margin over third.

Herbst's race didn't get much better after that first caution, and got spun sideways after contact from Cole Custer, but the race remained green.

LaJoie muscled his way by Nemechek for third, but he had a lot of ground to make up in order to reach one of those transfer spots.

Todd Gilliland limped his car behind the wall after abruptly falling off the pace, but the race remained green as Berry began to lap into the top ten.

With 14 laps to go, LaJoie caught Allmendinger and immediately moved him out of the way for the final transfer spot. But immediately afterwards, he faced an attack from Cindric.

What followed was a tense back-and-forth as LaJoie and Cindric traded blows in a full-contact battle. On the final lap, Cindric was on the inside and LaJoie was on the outside. Allmendinger drove in deep and pushed them both up the track, but Cindric managed to hand on.

As Berry captured the checkered flag, Cindric crossed the line in second, while LaJoie was third, Allmendinger fourth, and Nemechek fifth.

Trading paint for the final transfer spot! Josh Berry and Austin Cindric advance to the main event. Alex Bowman gets the provisional. pic.twitter.com/s0iJE8Rq95

— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) February 4, 2026

"It was like a game of chess at like 50mph," said LaJoie. "He wanted to be the guy on the inside, obviously, but you didn’t want to pass the guy either because then he had the opportunity to get back to you. Came up a little short, but it was exciting, it was fun to be in the fight.

"Hadn’t been in the fight like that in a long time. Kudos to the #6 team man, they had a lot to deal with during the offseason. I know Brad is watching from home, and he’ll be ready to go next week. It was really cool to get in this car and knock the rust off. Unfortunately, we’ll be watching from the couch, but I feel really good about next week (at Daytona).

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