Stories by Nick Blumberg

President Donald Trump says he’s hopeful that talks with North Korea’s leader will end that nation’s nuclear weapons program, but that “if it’s not a success, I will respectfully leave.”

The soundtrack to first loves, bad fights and family memories: Robert Elder’s new “music memoir” helps you create the mixtape of your life.

The Cook County circuit court clerk talks about her surprise run for mayor of Chicago.

The ranks of challengers to Mayor Rahm Emanuel are swelling. The educator and entrepreneur tells us what’s fueling his run for office.

After massive layoffs in Harvey because of its underfunded pensions, a look at which other municipalities could be in similar trouble.

Congress makes another attempt at passing a balanced budget amendment as a new report shows the federal deficit skyrocketing.

As special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election moves forward, Illinois is in line for some $13 million in federal money to bolster election security.

What Cub fans can expect from the latest round of off-season renovations.

Ralph Martire of the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability explains this week’s ruling and what city leaders might do next to address the Chicago Park District’s financial woes.

From the constitution to the courts to the ballot box, how corporations boosted their legal standing in the U.S. A conversation with author Adam Winkler.

From celebrity to corporate life, a new book explores how our culture is shaped by religious traditions.

It might be hard to believe, but Chicago is less than one year away from its next mayoral election. Willie Wilson talks about why he’s looking to unseat Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

Why President Donald Trump’s election wasn’t an outlier, but part of a worldwide surge in populism. A discussion with author and scholar Yascha Mounk.

After a fatal crash in Arizona, the safety measures for autonomous cars come under intense scrutiny.

Pritzker wins big. Rauner squeaks by in what could be the costliest race for governor ever. Garry McCarthy announces and Rahm Emanuel pounces. And the Ramblers ramble on.

Eddie Arruza and guests discuss the 3rd Congressional District candidate described by his party as a neo-Nazi.

A big-picture look at what the primary results say about where November’s election might be headed.

Despite a challenge from former Chicago alderman and unsuccessful mayoral candidate Bob Fioretti, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle will once again take the top post in Cook County for what she says will be her final term.

J.B. Pritzker’s offshore holdings draw fire. Gov. Bruce Rauner vetoes a gun dealer bill. Should the public be able to fire the Chicago Police chief? And Loyola rambles on in the NCAA tournament.

Paris Schutz and guests discuss the massive O’Hare expansion plan and why Mayor Rahm Emanuel is pulling Chicago out of the running to host the 2026 World Cup.

In their final meeting before the primary, the top three Democratic candidates for governor explain why they should represent their party in November. J.B. Prizker, Chris Kennedy and Daniel Biss join us. 

Just how complicated is election law? An unexpected opening on the Cook County primary ballot offers some insight.

An extensive investigation found evidence the revered conductor, who was for years associated with the Ravinia Festival and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, committed sexual abuse and harassment, the New York Times reports.

Accusations and endorsements fly as the primary election nears. House Speaker Michael Madigan warns Democrats against harassment – again. The city sues opioid distributors. And Loyola preps for the Big Dance.

Paris Schutz and guests discuss the ongoing debate over House Speaker Michael Madigan’s handling of allegations of sexual harassment in his political offices.

A new poll shows J.B. Pritzker leading not only the Democratic pack of governor hopefuls, but also the embattled incumbent. High-flying plans for a major O’Hare expansion hit turbulence. And Loyola tries to keep its March Madness dream alive.