Congressman-Elect Mike Bost (R-Murphysboro) joins The Morning Newswatch to discuss his thoughts on various issues as he prepares to step down from his position as State Representative and be sworn into Congress.

Bryan McDaniel with the Citizens Utility Board joins The Morning Newswatch to discuss the rate hikes currently being undertaken by Ameren Illinois and Commonwealth Edison.

Former SIU President and former Congressman Dr. Glenn Poshard joins The Morning Newswatch to discuss the efforts of Governor-Elect Bruce Rauner's transition team and a meeting between all the members of the transition team happening later this week in Chicago.

Gary Williams, the Economic Development Coordinator for the City of Carbondale and Steve Mitchell with Connect SI join The Morning Newswatch to discuss the process underway to build an ultra high-speed broadband internet network in Carbondale, making Carbondale the region's first "Gigabit City."

Annette McMichael, Communications Director for Southern Illinoisans Against Fracturing Our Environment (S.A.F.E.) joins The Morning Newswatch to discuss the appeals process for an injunction on fracking that was denied in Madison County Circuit Court.

Carbondale Interim Police Chief Jeff Grubbs stops by The Morning Newswatch to discuss policing the City of Carbondale, and the relationship the citizens of Carbondale have with officers after the recent events in Ferguson, MO and New York City.

Dr. Kyle Buchman is a General Practitioner based in Herrin. Dr. Buchman joins the Morning Newswatch to discuss tips to protect yourself as we move further into cold and flu season.

State Representative-Elect Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) joins The Morning Newswatch to discuss what she has been learning as she prepares to be sworn into office.

Congressman Bill Enyart (D-Belleville) joins The Morning Newswatch to discuss the upcoming vote on the omnibus bill that, if passed, will avoid a government shutdown.

Marion Mayor Bob Butler joins The Morning Newswatch to discuss the passing of Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka.