The former governor's request for permission to leave the country to participate in a reality show in Costa Rica was denied today in federal court. Rich Samuels has the latest on Rod Blagojevich's legal troubles.

The firing of Cook County Board President Todd Stroger's cousin, the county's chief financial officer, has created a firestorm. Elizabeth Brackett gets some reaction from Cook County commissioners.

We hear what you had to say about Carol Marin's interview with Todd Stroger when we read some of our viewer mail.

The state gained federal approval to use stimulus money for a number of projects that would fix roads and bridges. Elizabeth Brackett tells us what projects have been approved and how much of the funding they are receiving.

We hear what you had to say about some of our recent stories when we read our viewer mail.

Mayor Daley's plan to lease Midway Airport fell apart as the company seeking to lease the airport could not secure the necessary financing. Rich Samuels has the latest details on the failed deal and tells us what this means for the city's finances.

Is Cook County Board President Todd Stroger a lame duck? The latest scandal involving his cousin, whom he recently fired as chief financial officer, and a county worker with a history of criminal charges who is currently in Cook County jail, has Stroger on the hot seat. Todd Stroger sits down with Carol Marin and tells his side of the story.

Joel and his panel discuss the week's top headlines: Mayor Daley says 1,600 city workers may lose their job unless the union agrees to concessions; obese passengers on United Airlines could be forced to pay for an extra seat; express bus service coming to the Stevenson Expressway; Cook County Board President Todd Stroger proposes cutting the sales tax; Rod Blagojevich could be heading to reality TV; the Chicago Tribune announces major newsroom cuts; the foreclosure rate in Illinois the 5th highest in the nation; and Bulls and Blackhawks playoff fever is red hot.

Yesterday, protesters in Chicago, the suburbs, and across the country participated in "tea party" themed tax day demonstrations. Is there a major grass roots tax revolt brewing, or was yesterday's "Tea Party" an organized political stunt? Eddie Arruza and his panel weigh in.

Cook County President Todd Stroger is talking about cutting the sales tax. Rich Samuels tells us how much that amount could decrease, and why the county board is considering this measure.

From the infamous to the world-famous, Chicago Tonight’s guest list over the past 25 years reads like a “who’s who” of American politics. 

Rod Blagojevich told a Federal judge today that he is not guilty. Rich Samuels shows us what else the former Illinois governor had to say on the day of his arraignment.

A former Mayor Daley aide has been chosen to replace Congressman-elect Mike Quigley on the Cook County Board. New county commissioner Bridget Gainer tells us about her plans.

President Obama is breaking ranks with his predecessors when it comes to dealing with Cuba. This week he lifted travel restrictions for visiting relatives on the island. We take a closer look at the latest developments.

Republican Congressman Mark Kirk and Democratic Congresswoman Melissa Bean join Eddie Arruza for a political roundtable.

Joel and his panel discuss the week's top headlines: Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. facing an ethics probe; Mike Quigley wins Rahm Emanuel's congressional seat; frustrated Chicagoans take to the streets filling potholes; the International Olympic Committee gets a firsthand look at Chicago; 22 Illinois firms planning major layoffs; President Obama urges homeowners to refinance; the Bulls and Blackhawks charging into the playoffs; and the Cubs and Sox open the new season. Guests: