Stories by WTTW News

What a future with a shrinking Department of Education looks like. And reaction to the latest on Trump’s ban of transgender troops in the military.

Chicago Board of Education members kick the can on a budget amendment. And a new lawsuit alleges a pattern of illegal arrests by ICE agents in the Chicago area.

Universities brace for a loss in funding following federal anti-DEI orders. And the future of police reform amid changes at an agency tasked with investigating officer misconduct.

Debate over a $175 million pension payment is heating up. And a local nonprofit is suing the Trump administration over its anti-DEI order.

What you should know about the Kennedy construction starting tonight. And how Illinois says it can save you money on prescriptions.

A controversial plan to expand a toxic dump on Lake Michigan is dropped. Why medical schools are enrolling fewer Black and Latino students. And what you should know about tonight’s lunar eclipse.

How major cuts to the Department of Education could impact local schools. And Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton on Illinois’ push against the Trump administration.

It’s been five years since COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic. What we learned and whether we’re prepared for the next one.

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias on the Real ID deadline. A look at Chicago’s most iconic foods. And entrepreneurs react to the city’s Small Business Administration office relocating.

How businesses and consumers are reacting to Trump’s tariff plans. And a program aimed at improving fresh food access loses federal funding.

Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events announced Thursday the dates for this year’s spring and summer festivals.

Mayor Brandon Johnson defends Chicago’s status as a sanctuary city before Congress. And the latest on contract negotiations with the Chicago Teachers Union.

The stock market tumbles as the president’s tariffs go into effect — what it means for Illinois. And the state’s attorney general on legal challenges under the Trump administration.

Tuesday marks the city’s 188th birthday. Here's a look back at some Chicago history you need to know.

A surprise move in court today as the man charged in the Highland Park parade shooting changes his plea. And local lawmakers react to Trump’s agenda ahead of his congressional address.

Parents push back on the potential closures of some charter schools. Some undocumented immigrants are at risk of losing their health care coverage. And the leader of the Chicago Park District is stepping down.

City Hall narrowly approves a controversial new borrowing deal. And the history behind the Chicago dance style known as steppin’.

The mayor’s $830 million borrowing proposal faces pushback. A look at plans to rid the Chicago Police Department of extremist officers. And remembering legendary soul singer Jerry “Iceman” Butler.

The trial begins for the accused gunman in the Highland Park parade shooting. And the head of the Chicago Fed on inflation, tariffs and Chicago’s economy.

Schools are facing a deadline to cut diversity programs or lose funding — how it could change the education landscape. And inside a local organization helping teens tell their stories.

What’s in Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s budget plan. An effort to lower Chicago’s default speed limit stalls. And civil rights icon Ida B. Wells is honored on a quarter.

A push to create a Department of Government Efficiency in Illinois. And Gov. J.B. Pritzker prepares to unveil his budget plan.

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.