Stories by Nicole Cardos

The new Cook County assessor has vowed to bring fairness, transparency, ethics and modernization to the office. Fritz Kaegi joins us to discuss his 100-day plan and more.

How did we get the free speech protections we enjoy today, and where might they head in the future? A new book uncovers that – and more.

Activist and entrepreneur Ja’Mal Green has dropped out of the race to become Chicago’s next mayor. His departure brings to 17 the number of candidates vying for the seat.

Who were the central players behind America’s U-2 spy program? A new book by Monte Reel tells all. 

Six days of a federal shutdown with no budget deal in sight. What’s happening in and out of the nation’s capital, and what can we expect? Lisa Desjardins of the “PBS NewsHour” joins us.

Local author William Hazelgrove debunks what he calls “the Wright Brothers myth” in his new book about the history-making duo.

The attorney and former 2nd Ward alderman tells us why he’s running for Chicago mayor – again.

A new lawsuit claims DCFS is keeping Illinois children in psych wards beyond medical necessity. We hear from the plaintiff in that case.

A federal judge’s ruling puts the future of Obamacare on the line. Is the sweeping health care initiative again in peril?

The recent Marriott hotel data breach affected half a billion people. Who’s behind the attack, and what can we learn from it? We speak with Blase Ur, assistant professor of computer science at the University of Chicago.

Some City Council members want to put the $100 million-a-year workers’ compensation program in new hands. We hear from the alderman leading the charge. 

Mayor Rahm Emanuel makes a major announcement on addressing the city’s pension crisis. What the plan calls for – and what it means moving forward.

Just days after he said he was going to file petitions to seek re-election as 25th Ward alderman, Danny Solis announced he’s not pursuing another term. He joins us to reflect on his career and look to the city’s future.

From monsters and novelists to a depressed construction foreman in Belarus, the Chicago theater scene is as varied as ever. Hedy Weiss joins us with reviews and recommendations.

Gang violence in Chicago has been researched, debated and battled for years. What role might artificial intelligence play in preventing violence?

President Donald Trump has been vocal on the topic of where the GOP stands, but where do Republicans in Illinois think they’re headed?

Electric scooters are growing in popularity across the country, and now leaders of scooter-sharing companies – and residents themselves – want to bring them to Chicago.

A tense news conference with the president, and a new head of the Justice Department after Jeff Sessions resigns. A report from Yamiche Alcindor of the “PBS NewsHour.”

Closing arguments and tight races on this election eve. Lisa Desjardins of the “PBS NewsHour” breaks down the high stakes of the midterms.

She is a poet, sociologist, podcaster and now comic book writer. Eve Ewing’s list of professional titles keeps growing, but her focus on Chicago Public Schools endures. And her interest is not just academic – it’s personal.

Lisa Desjardins of the “PBS NewsHour” joins us to discuss how things are looking for candidates in Illinois and other key states, and whether some districts are still expecting a so-called blue wave on Nov. 6.

An update on a pedestrian path set below CTA train tracks on the city’s North Side: what’s become of the project since our spring 2017 visit, and what is yet to come.

Her campaign ads focus on health care, but what are her plans for other issues? We hear from 14th Congressional District candidate Lauren Underwood.

President Donald Trump is visiting southern Illinois this weekend. What our colleges at the “PBS NewsHour” say we can expect from that visit. 

“Consent on Campus: A Manifesto” looks at how colleges can improve their policies and education on sexual violence and consent. We speak with the book’s author, Donna Freitas.

A new survey finds Americans are optimistic about manufacturing. But with a looming trade war and uncertainty over a new deal with Canada and Mexico, there’s still some concern for the future.