Stories by WTTW News

Meet outreach workers trying to keep their communities safe. And a push to expand Chicago’s violence prevention efforts hits an inflection point.

As the federal workforce is undergoing layoffs, buyouts and changing policies, WTTW News is looking to hear directly from those impacted. If you have a story to share, or you just want to pass along your contact information, we are eager to hear from you.

A push to require proof of citizenship when you register to vote. And love it or hate it — we explore the history of dibs.

A split verdict in the landmark corruption trial of Michael Madigan. And what funding cuts could mean for local early childhood programs.

President Donald Trump pardons former Gov. Rod Blagojevich — how local politicians are reacting. And a project aimed at keeping invasive carp out of the Great Lakes is on hold.

The Trump administration plans to dissolve USAID — a look at the potential impact. And unlocking the secrets of life in some of the most extreme environments on Earth.

The Trump administration is targeting Illinois over its protections for undocumented immigrants. And how deportations could affect Illinois’ farming industry.

Diversity, equity and inclusion programs are being targeted — a look at the potential impact. And actress Keke Palmer on embracing her natural beauty.

How local leaders are responding to the Trump administration’s executive orders. And Republican lawmakers file a lawsuit over Illinois’ legislative districts.

A WTTW News special: Mayor Brandon Johnson and community stakeholders join us for a town hall discussion to address major issues facing the city like public safety, immigration, housing and much more.

The impact immigration raids are having on local businesses. And the stability of federal funding going forward for local nonprofits.

The White House rescinds its memo freezing federal funding. And a plan to hold companies complicit in slavery to account.

Illinois reacts to the president’s move to pause federal funding. Calls for cancer warning labels on alcohol. And the mayor weighs in on immigration raids in Chicago.

Could a blanket pardon for Jan. 6 rioters lead to more political violence? And a tool to file taxes for free hits Illinois — what that means for taxpayers.

How officials are preparing immigrants as deportation threats loom. Mexico launches an app to help people facing deportation. And the debate over ending birthright citizenship.

The city’s new director of reentry on his plans for those returning from prison. Black migration’s profound impact on American culture. And a play takes us into the world of an African salon.

How the state is bracing for mass deportations. And he never holds back — one on one with Michael Eric Dyson.

Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th president — a look at his priorities. And local reaction to his first day plans.

Local activists share plans to demonstrate on Inauguration Day. Two Chicago colleges are offering free tuition. And conservation efforts aimed at protecting monarch butterflies.

City Council votes on an effort to weaken protections for undocumented immigrants. Why Black Illinoisans are experiencing homelessness at a high rate. And a push to wipe medical debt from credit reports.

Chicago Public Schools chief Pedro Martinez joins us in his first sit-down interview since being fired. And former House Speaker Michael Madigan wraps up his testimony.

David W. Grainger, a longtime supporter of WTTW who led W.W. Grainger Inc. for almost three decades and ran a family foundation dedicated to making a “positive difference,” died Jan. 9 at age 97.

Michael Madigan faces questions from prosecutors in his corruption trial. One on one with the CTU president on contract negotiations. And Chicago’s history as a sanctuary city.

Some alderpeople push to weaken Chicago’s sanctuary city ordinance. And we explore why a Pilsen church is moving its masses online.

Illinois’ new legislative session begins. Making it easier for kids in foster care to live with relatives. And connecting pregnant patients with free doula services in Cook County.

In a bombshell move, Michael Madigan takes the stand in his corruption trial. The Bears end a disappointing season on a high. And recreating a beloved lunchroom cookie.