Two members of Congress join us to discuss the looming fiscal cliff and what Congress is doing to avoid it.

Pulitzer Prize-winner Hedrick Smith examines the roots of American income inequality. 

Sen. Dick Durbin joins us for a frank talk on the presidential election, partisan gridlock, and his own future in the Democratic Party.

We asked what you thought about Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr.’s extended absence. We read what some of you had to say in Viewer Mail.

Multiple news outlets are reporting that Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. is being treated for a "mood disorder." This, after NBC News reported that he is being treated for alcoholism, a claim his office denies. We have reaction.

Tuesday night marked the end of an undoubtedly contentious primary season in Illinois. Learn more about how it all went down.

Millions of Americans are likely to see their payroll taxes go up in January. We hear from both Illinois U.S. senators about the prospects for a deal.

A super bust. That is what many are saying about the Congressional debt super committee after members admit they will not come to an agreement to cut the deficit. We take a look at why no deal came together.

Spirited debate between a congressman and constituents? Or a congressman stepping over the line? We have the latest on a controversial video of Congressman Joe Walsh that's making the rounds online.

Could Democrats and Republicans in Congress be supporting tax increases to fix the nation's finances? Carol Marin sits down with Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky for answers as the deadline for a deal on the nation's debt looms.

Illinois House Republican Leader Tom Cross joins Eddie Arruza to talk about the many contentious issues facing lawmakers in next week’s fall veto session.

The risk of that third shutdown may now be over late today after a funding announcement from FEMA and a tentative stop-gap measure in the U.S. Senate. Carol Marin and her panel have the latest. 

Was President Obama disrespected when he was forced to change the day of his speech to a joint session of Congress? Chicago Sun-Times' Washington Bureau Chief Lynn Sweet tells us what she’s heard from both sides of the story. Then, Eddie Arruza talks with a political analyst for his take on the latest partisan bickering.