Spotlight Politics: Feds Raid Another Longtime Alderman’s Office
Assessing the political fallout from the federal raid of another longtime alderman’s office. Our politics team tackles that and more in our weekly roundtable.
FBI Raids 34th Ward Office of Ald. Carrie Austin
Federal agents have executed a search warrant at the South Side ward office of Chicago Ald. Carrie Austin. A source close to the matter says Austin has been under federal investigation for several years.
Pritzker Announces Help for Flood-Hit Farmers, Aims for Emergency Declaration
Much of Illinois’ farmland is too wet to seed. Assessing the fallout from excessive rain – and what Gov. J.B. Pritzker plans to do about it.
Question of Balance: Analysts Talk State Budget, Pension Reform
Does Illinois really have a balanced budget? Local analysts weigh in.
Meet the Artist Behind ‘The Obama Paintings’ As They Debut in Chicago
Artist Rob Pruitt created a painting for each of the 2,922 days of Barack Obama’s presidency. His project is now on display in Chicago.
Cancer Diagnosis Leads to Donation of 400 Rare, Valuable Books
In recent years, Bob Connors found a new passion and expertise. Now, he’s offering it to the world.
State Leader Defends Personal Stake in Illinois’ Gambling Industry
A recent investigation revealed that Illinois Senate Minority Leader Bill Brady has a “business interest” in Midwest Electronics Gaming, a prominent video gaming company. On Tuesday, Brady commented on the business.
Illinois’ Gaming Expansion Could Be a Losing Bet for Problem Gamblers
As Illinois prepares to expand gambling to every corner of the state – including slot machines at O’Hare and Midway airports – supporters tout the generation of much-needed revenue to help plug a massive budget deficit. But at what cost?
‘16 Shots’ Documentary Examines Fatal Shooting of Laquan McDonald
The murder of Laquan McDonald and ensuing public outrage in Chicago are the focus of a new documentary on Showtime. We speak with “16 Shots” writer and director Rick Rowley.
Lightfoot: Independent Commission Should Redraw City’s 50 Wards
The decennial redrawing of Chicago’s 50 ward boundaries is messy and anything but transparent. Mayor Lori Lightfoot calls the current map an obvious case of gerrymandering, and says it’s bad for Chicago residents.
Closing Arguments Expected This Week in Death-Penalty Trial of Brendt Christensen
Federal prosecutors and Brendt Christensen’s defense team are each expected to call their final witnesses before Friday. Among those slated to testify: Christensen’s former girlfriend, who wore a wire for the FBI, and his ex-wife.
State Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke Angers Some with Judicial Pick
Illinois Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke received blowback from faith and community leaders on Chicago’s West Side for appointing a white woman to fill a vacancy formerly held by a black woman.