We’re looking ahead to the stories likely to shape 2026 — from immigration enforcement and midterm elections to Chicago’s budget struggles and a new school board.

Chicago may see its fewest homicides in years. And residents are calling for a referendum on the new quantum campus.

New laws are taking effect in the new year — what you should know. And America’s fight for independence is documented in a new series.

We’re looking back at the stories that defined 2025 — from a massive immigration crackdown and congressional musical chairs to city budget battles and a hometown Holy Father.

Revisiting some of our favorite conversations that we've had on "Chicago Tonight" this year.

The mayor lets the budget he objects to go into effect. And a Chicagoan wins CNN’s Hero of the Year Award.

Are Chicago police officers being held accountable for misconduct? And the years-long battle over police discipline makes its way to the Illinois Supreme Court.

The Chicago City Council takes the first step toward passing a rival budget plan. And the Bears threaten to take their ball and go to a new home — in Northwest Indiana.

The first meeting of the state's Immigration Enforcement Accountability Commission looks at the deployment of chemicals against protesters. Some alderpeople push forward with an alternative budget plan and a new teen curfew. And digital literacy efforts are helping seniors in Chinatown — but lost funding is threatening the effort.

The clock is ticking as Chicago alderpeople work to pass a budget before the end-of-year deadline. And the Trump administration unveils an aid package for farmers — but is it enough?

We investigate major lapses in patient safety at Roseland Hospital. And are legal challenges ahead for a new law protecting immigrants?

Advocates on both sides of the political aisle push for immigration reform. And the impact of “Operation Midway Blitz” across the city.

Gov. JB Pritzker signs a bill to allow terminally ill adults to die on their own terms. And residents of a troubled South Shore building are being evicted.

Conflict in the Caribbean escalates as the U.S. seizes an oil tanker. And the new Cook County chief judge on his vision for the future.

The latest on the budget deadlock at City Hall. And tenants of the South Shore building raided by federal agents are being forced to move.

Is the third time a charm? Mayor Brandon Johnson unveils another budget proposal. And Geoffrey Baer shows us why Chicago is known as “the city that works.”