Presented by the Chicago Reader, hear senior writer Ben Joravsky discuss the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty. Tune in to LIVE episodes streaming Tuesdays through Fridays from 1-3 p.m. at chicagoreader.com/joravsky or on the Reader's YouTube channel—or catch up with episodes anytime. Podcast-only episodes are also released throughout the week. Reader podcasts are recorded on Shure microphones. Learn more at Shure.com.
The Ben Joravsky Show podcast is a must-listen for anyone who enjoys a mix of politics, humor, and local news. Hosted by seasoned Chicago print journalist Ben Joravsky and the entertaining Dr. D., this show brings laughter and energy to the listeners while also keeping them informed about important political issues. The chemistry between Ben and Dennis is exceptional, creating an enjoyable and engaging listening experience that makes it a highlight of the day.
One of the best aspects of The Ben Joravsky Show is the on-air chemistry between Ben and Dennis. Their banter and camaraderie bring a sense of fun to the show, making it highly entertaining to listen to. It's clear that they have a genuine friendship, which translates well on air and creates an inviting atmosphere for listeners. Additionally, Ben's interviews are top-notch, often featuring insightful guests who provide valuable perspectives on various topics. Whether discussing local politics or national news, these interviews offer in-depth discussions that keep listeners engaged.
Another standout aspect of this podcast is Ben Joravsky's extensive knowledge of Chicago politics. As a seasoned journalist, he has a deep understanding of the workings of the city's political landscape and isn't afraid to ask tough questions or challenge politicians' statements. This dedication to holding elected officials accountable adds depth and credibility to the show. Furthermore, Ben's expertise in topics such as TIFs (Tax Increment Financing) allows him to shed light on important economic issues that affect the community.
While The Ben Joravsky Show has many strengths, one potential downside is its localized focus on Chicago politics. Although this aspect may not be appealing to listeners outside of Chicago or those with little interest in local politics, it does provide valuable information for those within the area or those wanting to stay informed about city-specific issues.
In conclusion, The Ben Joravsky Show podcast stands out as an excellent source of informative political discussions, infused with humor and hosted by knowledgeable individuals. Ben Joravsky's skills as a journalist transfer seamlessly to radio, and his partnership with Dr. D. creates an entertaining dynamic that keeps listeners engaged. The show's emphasis on Chicago politics may limit its appeal to a broader audience but delivers valuable insights for those interested in local news. Overall, this podcast is a gem for anyone looking to stay informed while being entertained.
The picture of an unarmed Minneapolis woman, standing in her doorway as ICE goons approach, brandishing their weapons tells you all you need to know. Ben riffs. Miles Kampf-Lassin covers the state of the country. Including…wimpy Senate Dems. Also, who's in charge to the White House—Trump Or Miller? And the power of ideology—“it's a helluva drug.” Finally, a bball break from the horror. Who's Chicago's greatest—MJ or D Rose? Miles is an editor writer for In These Times.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The feds sorta tell the truth iabout the execution of Alex Pretti. Ben riffs. Nick Uniejewski returns to talk about his campaign in the Democratic primary against longtime incumbent state Senator Sara Feigenholtz. It's the first time that district's incumbent has had a primary challenge since—hold on—1972. Among other things, Nick talks about what the state can do to protect its residents from ICE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Worried about upsetting Boss Donnie, the NRA waters down its response to the public execution of Alex Pretti by agents of ICE. Ben riffs. And as Mayor Rahm tries to bamboozle Democratic voters into nominating him as their presidential candidate, Nora Flanagan and Jarrett Dapier revisit Persepolisgate—when Mayor Rahm's flunkies ordered teachers to remove Persepolis from the classroom. A blast from his past that Mayor Rahm will not be talking about on the campaign trail. Nora is a former CPS English teacher and Jarrett is a librarian and co-author of Wake Now In The Fire, a recently published graphic novel about the Persepolis book banning. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Seven House Dems vote with Trump to fund ICE. Ben riffs. Joey Ruzevich explains why he's challenging 6th district Congressman Sean Casten in the Democratic primary. He talks Gaza, health care, the limits of government approved protest and the choice voters face between “fighters versus folders.” Aside from being a candidate, Joey is a software engineer and former college bssketball player. Yes, there's basketball talk. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Posters for the Melania “documentary” show up in Hispanic neighborhoods hit hard by ICE. Ben riffs. Monroe talks Amazon deal with Melania, Trump's senility in Davos and Indiana's peculiar proposal to the Bears. And more…See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Trying to stay sane in an age of madness, Ben turns to sports as an escape—it almost works. Ben riffs. Charles Henderson tackles the tough topics. Including…the devil's deal military recruiters offer Hispanics. Sign up and we won't deport your parents—maybe. Also Charles turns the table on Ben, asking him the “regret” question. Charles is an Army vet and peace activist. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
MAGA ranchers in Colorado forgive Trump even after he kills their much-needed water project out of spite. Ben riffs. Cook County Commissioner Jessica Vasquez explains why Chicago is a model for the Democrats to emulate—at least in her part of town on the northwest side. Also, the difference between the city council and the board of commissioners. And why she doesn't support funding for a new Bears stadium, as much as she loves the team. Jessica represents the 8th district and is running for re-election.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the news of the weird, clueless ICE agents round up Native Americans on the grounds that they are illegal aliens who have to be deported to the country they came from. Ben riffs. Heidi Henry gives an update on politics in the Heartland. Data center passes for development. A toxic radium site still not cleaned up. A clueless Democratic Party. And on the positive side—Kevin Ryan got it right. Heidi is one of the founders of Illinois Valley Indivisible, a horse trainer and a proud leftie. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
So much news to discuss, and so little time to discuss it. So Ben and Dr Dive get right down to it. Bears beat Packers. Indiana makes its move for the Bears. Packers fan Mike Quigley dips his toe into the mayoral waters. For mayor of Fond du Lac? No, Chicago. Yes, he loves Matt LaFleur but he wants to be mayor of Ben Johnson City. Will he take the plunge? As long as Mayors Daley or Rahm aren't running, he just might. JB meets the media. And more… See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
MAGA Senator Lindsey Graham momentarily told the truth about Trump's election lie—and he was under oath. Ben riffs. Kevin Ryan returns! Talks campaign spending reform, reining in Trump's military powers, why some voters “hate” Democrats, why ICE should be abolished. Also, his thoughts on religion and politics. A Marine Coros veteran and school teacher, Kevin is running in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
On the eve of the NFL playoffs, Mike Quigley announces he plans to run for mayor of Chicago while rooting for Green Bay to beat the Bears. Ben riffs. George and Alejandro Verdin—uncle and nephew—welcome Ben to Boyle Heights in East Los Angeles. Where they sit at a back table in the El Tepeyac Cafe and talk all things politics. Including the rise of L.A.'s Chicano movement, the ICE invasion, and who is the godfather of Hispanic politics in Los Angeles. Hint, it's not George, despite what Ben insists. Alejandro is a political consultant and founder of the Nineteen Sixty Campaigns. George is an immigration lawyer.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The new year was supposed to be better, so let's hope it's just a case of things always being darkest before the dawn. Ben riffs. David Faris on the murder by ICE of Renee Nicole Good, Venezuela lunacy, and the upcoming midterms. The sad statement of Trump's regime—“people are eager to be told what to do by a strong man.” David is a political science professor at Roosevelt University and a columnist for The Nation. His views are his own.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A few days after Stephen Miller says Trump can do what he wants cause “the real world” is “governed by force,” ICE shoots and kills Renee Nicole Good and then lies about what happened. Ben riffs. Denali Dasgupta returns to talk about Venezuela, Minnesota, the performance of power (as opposed to the exercise of power), and why Ben should stop watching state-run TV. Also, a few words about Zootopia 2 and corporate America. Denali is an activist in Chicago.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Stephen Miller—Trump's Rasputin—says if Boss Donnie wants to take Greenland, he will take it and no one can stop him cause might is right and that's how the real world works. Ben riffs. Sam Fuqua gives the state of the state—Colorado, that is. Meet Tina Peters, Jared Polis, and Lauren Boebert (well, you already know her). Hear about Trump's might-is-right retaliation, pulling federal money for a water project, unless Colorado releases Peters from jail. Sam is a longtime newsman in Colorado.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
After Trump kidnaps Maduro, the NYT takes a stand against swallowing government handouts. Ben riffs. Adolfo Mondragon runs through all of the alleged reasons Trump's operatives concocted to justify the invasion and kidnapping. Drugs? Please. The Monroe Doctrine? Stop. Restoring democracy? Ha, ha, ha. Will MAGA fall in line even though they're supposed to be against regime change wars? And what would George Carlin say? Let's listen. Adolfo is a lawyer in Chicago and an expert on gangster moves—which this definitely is.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The Sun-Times decides it's a good idea to illustrate a front-page story about Chicago's declining murder rate with a picture of police investigating a murder. Ben riffs. Graciela Guzman breaks down the significance of Mayor Mamdani's inauguration. Including…Mandy Patinkin singing Somewhere Over The Rainbow. The Jadakiss shoutout. The pledge to govern as a Democratic Socialist. The Bernie Sanders torch pass. And why We Gonna Make It is her favorite song by Jadakiss. That's the one that starts—Forget That Frail Stuff. More or less. Graciela is the state senator from the 20th district in Chicago. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Seymour Hersh documentary shows how much has changed and how much has stayed the same over the last 60 years. Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson explains how some rules of journalism are not written down. But reporters follow them just the same. Also, Tina Peters is MAGA's Joan of Arc. What Jesse Jackson meant when he told Monroe—I want you to be my friend. And will the Bears move to Gary? Hint…no way. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A new year's arrived, but Ben would rather talk about an old one—1963. So onto the show comes Peter Orner to discuss The Gossip Columnist's Daughter, his latest novel. It tells the story of the death of Cookie Kupcinet, daughter of Kup, a legendary Sun-Times gossip columnist and TV host. Was it suicide or murder? What role, if any, did Sidney Korshak play? But it's also a tale about the complicity of “honorable” men in the corruption of Chicago. Great book. Listen to the show and run out to read it.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Marjorie Taylor Greene repents—sorta. Ben riffs. Jim Coogan talks law. The Tina Peters case in Colorado. Does Trump have the legal authority to pardon a convict convicted in state court? And the Judge Hannah Dugan case in Wisconsin. Should she be punished for an act of civil disobedience against a grotesque violation of human rights? Finally, a few words about Jim's beloved “hook ‘n ladder” Bears. Jim is managing partner of Coogan Gallagher. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The senate approves Trump's $900 billion military budget—that's billion with a B. Ben riffs. Dan Tully takes his stand against the Trump-Hegseth military agenda. The illegal war against Venezuela. And the politicization of the military, trying to turn our troops into soldiers for MAGA. Dan is a major in the Army Reserve and a candidate for Congress in the 8th congressional district.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Bari Weiss bows to Boss Donnie and takes 60 Minutes down with her. Ben riffs. Ishan Daya gives you the scoop on this year's budget. The Head Tax the council shoulda passed versus the dumbass Debt Sale they did pass. The budge is as bad as a Tribune editorial, making the council the Tribune Caucus. Ishan is co-executive director for the Institute for the Public Good.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What better way to celebrate Christmas then with Muslims and Jews. Ben riffs. Almas and Rummana discuss Christmas from a non-practitioner's perspective, Sean Combs, Epstein, Trump, Bubba, Bill Maher, MTG and her incredibly lame boyfriend and Mamdani. Rummana is, of course, a Sun-Times columnist and Almas is a private eye and “the forgotten Hussain sister.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Sorry, Bears fans, but there's only one Iceman in Chicago. Ben riffs. Ashonta Rice tells the tale of the bizarre election law that forced her to keep her divorced husband's name when she ran for offfce. Thus, a law that insults voters and demeans women. Heckuva job, Illinois lawmakers. Ashonta Rice is running for circuit court judge in Cook County. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Ben and Dr D tell it like it is on a week's worth of news, including…Madigan and MAGA, Mayor Johnson and the alders, Garcia and Garcia, and the Bears and Indiana. As the Bears threaten to move out of state in search of the biggest public handout for their new stadium. Also, a letter from a listener compels Ben to make a no-dumb pledge. And the on-going debate over the Mount Rushmore of f-bombs and comedians. Hint, everybody loves Rodney! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Americans love a con man. Ben riffs. Jack White agrees, sorta. More like America loves to be entertained. And with that, Jack runs down the “cornucopia of bullshit” dished out by Trump and his lackeys on a daily basis. Is it possible that Trump will have a Scrooge like conversion on Christmas Eve? If so, will Roy Cohn be his Marley? Jack is a former columnist and editor at Time. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A deranged Trump blames Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner for getting murdered. Ben riffs. Pedro Lira reports from Texas. Will Republicans pick up 5 congressional seats through gerrymandering? Or will their machinations work against them? What does it take to get rural Texans to vote Democratic? The dangers of pipe dreams. And a quick look at Crockett v Talarico in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. Pedro is state director for the Texas Working Families Party. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As we prepare to record, word breaks of senseless slaughter at a Chanukah festival in Australia. Ben riffs. State Representative Kam Buckner joins him. Ensuing topics include Hoosier redistricting, head tax v property tax, transit bill and Bears beat Browns to set up next week's game against Packers. Kam loves the Bears DGAF attitude. A few words about park district bologna sandwiches. Kam is a state representative from the 26th district and a former defensive lineman for the Fighting Illini and the Morgan Park High School Mustangs.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A federal grand jury says sorry, Donnie when it comes to prosecuting Letitia James. Ben riffs. And Maya returns! To talk about her epic profile of Cook County Judge Timothy Evans, one of the most important local politicians in recent history. He went from Machine alderman to Mayor Washington's floor leader to one of the reasons Richard M Daley got elected mayor to Chief Judge and the unlikely criminal justice “reformer,” if such a word can ever be used in relation to Cook County. Maya is a writer for Injustice Watch. For years, she and Ben were colleagues at the Reader and co-hosts of First Tuesdays.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Michael Madigan goes Blago—pleading with Trump for mercy. Ben riffs. Monroe considers the case of Mamdani. When should Dems defer to Trump? Should Mayor Johnson be more like Mamdani? And what to make about Trump's hate of Somalia? A few words about Brian Glenn, MTG's boyfriend, who's torn between two lovers, feeling like a fool. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Trump ends the War on Drugs for those who kiss his ass. Ben riffs. Matt Ginsberg-Jaeckle takes us from A to Z on recent US policy toward Honduras. Starting with the coup of 2009 and continuing to Trump's commutation of Juan Orlando Hernandez's sentence for drug trafficking. It's a sickening spectacle. Matt is an interpreter and human rights activist. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
MAGA weighs in on bombing boats and killing people in the Caribbean. Ben riffs. Sarah Bingaman—Western Illinois's voice of the people—returns to describe the challenge of building a Democratic base in rural Illinois. You have to listen to people. Don't be needlessly argumentative. You'd be surprised by what you have in common. And for goodness sakes, don't assume you will lose—you can win! Sarah is a political activist in Lee County.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A NYT headline about Obamacare is a joke even for NYT. Ben riffs. David Faris defends the voters, sorta. As he covers Trump's gas guzzling energy policy, Trump's get rid of healthcare policy. Also, a few words about Hegseth, Fox News and what's it gonna take to win an election. David is a political science professor at Roosevelt University and a columnist for The Nation. His views are his own.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Oh, What a Week: Blame it on ByronSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Want Boss Donnie to do whatever you want him to do? It's easy. Just call him—Your excellency. Ben riffs. Laurie Glenn does not hold back—extended riffs on this age of hate and madness and the need to stand strong. Hear that, Dems? On a personal note—her 30-year fight against cancer. There is no courage without fear. And all power to Jewish girls with long, curly hair. Laurie is a political activist and strategist and CEO of Thinkinc.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The “reformers” tag team with the Bright One to keep TIF money out of our schools. Ben riffs. Mueze Bawany delivers his takes on Mayors Mamdani and Johnson. Why Trump likes one but not the other. Hint…it's cause one is a “model minority” and the other is not. Trump's anti-Blackness. A close-out riff on the Bears, including a bold prediction for Sunday's Packers game. Mueze is an activist, high school teacher, football coach and proud union man. As in the CTU.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
It's one battle after another in the fight against fascism. Ben riffs. Paul Nolley talks about running for Congress against MAGA man Darrin LaHood. The issues are jobs, health care and SNAP. Just like in Chicago. It's time Dems stop conceding rural voters to MAGA. Paul is the Democratic candidate for Congress in the 16th district. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Bubba and Donnie share Epstein's love. Ben riffs. Joshua Smyser-De Leon talks everything Bad Bunny. Who he is. Why he's great. His role in Puerto Rican politics. Where he fits on the Mt Rushmore of Puerto Rican musicians. And why his selection as the Super Bowl halftime performer blows MAGA's collective little brain. Joshua hosts The Paseo Podcast. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The Trump administration tries to figure out its stance on whether swastikas are bad. Ben riffs. Pat Whalen explains how everything in contemporary politics is like a scene from One Battle After Another. Oh, yes—Happy Thanksgiving, everybody! And thank you Paul Thomas Anderson for directing and writing such a great movie. Ben and Pat geek out over their favorite scenes. Finally, what to do if your Uncle MAGA shows up at your turkey day table, spouting nonsense like Stephen A Smith. Pat is a comedian and podcaster in Chicago. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A Thanksgiving day thanks, Chicago for standing strong. Ben riffs Michael Horton returns to talk about growing up around Cabrini and playing and coaching basketball and confronting and overcoming demons. No pun intended. Skeet's is a CPS high school guidance counselor and basketball coach and author of Hoop ‘til It Hurts, his newly published book. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The country that elected Trump also elected Obama—how is that possible? Ben riffs. Denali Dasgupta adds her thoughts to that conundrum. “We don't live there anymore.” The there in that sentence being America in the age of Obama. Denali tells you what you need to know about Trump's $2,000 health care scam. Ben tells the story of how Studs Terkel got kicked out of a Chicago public library. And a Thanksgiving shoutout to everyone on the Group W Bench—love you, Arlo!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What's the news across the nation? Ben and Dr D offer this…Congress rebukes Chuy, Brad Schneider weighs in, El Dragon breaks the Bubbagate story and Governor Pritzker has a busy week, dropping $25M on his re-election campaign, throwing Mayor Johnson's head tax under a bus and hanging with the pope. Not even the pope can save the Sox.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
If you can overlook the pain and cruelty Trump's inflicting on the people he hates, life in MAGA America is absurdly, darkly and perversely funny. Ben riffs. And Monroe Anderson—America's foremost authority on white people—helps Ben make sense of the Epsteingate. Good luck with that.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The city council makes its big stand defending rich people. Sigh. Ben riffs. Miguel Alvelo-Rivera explains why he's running for state representative, why we need progressive taxation and why he still has faith in the people. And Ben explains why he, Ben, is not cynical even though so many people say he is. Stick around for Miguel's exposition on Boricua en la Luna by Juan Antonio Corretjer—song by Ray Brown. Miguel is running for state rep in the 40th district on Chicago's northwest side. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Mark Epstein clarifies—the bubba Trump blew was not Bill Clinton. Well, that's good to know. Ben riffs. Steve Krafft returns with an update from swing state land, aka, Arizona. Hear the latest on Democrats chances to oust MAGA. Right now Steve says it's about 50-50 that our fragile democracy survives. Steve is a longtime political reporter and a member of the Nichols Jr High Quiz Bowl Hall of Fame. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
MTG talks big, then capitulates to Trump. Ben riffs. Mick Dumke offers up some Bible lessons and then takes off on Trump's propaganda blitz. Bovino's Rambo shtick. Pritzker's mixed message to resisters. And a few words of love in memory of Tony Adler. Mick is an editor and writer for Block Club. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Epstein's emails confirm what we already knew about Trump. Ben riffs. Evanston's Mayor Daniel Biss covers almost every topic. Including…why he's running for Congress, as opposed to staying on as mayor. What he thinks about AIPAC, Israel, Mamdani, the Democratic filibuster busters, and the role local law enforcement plays in dealing with ICE. Hint—time to indict the ICE lawbreakers. Daniel is running in the Democratic primary for Congress in the 9th district. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
One little snowfall and ICE is suddenly leaving Chicago for warmer climes. Ben riffs. Kalman Resnick explains the legal fight he's waging on behalf of Chicagoans swept off the street by ICE's masked and armed goon squad. Most notably, his case on behalf of Ruben Torres Maldonado, whose daughter is undergoing cancer treatment. And Diana Santillana Galeano, the teacher snatched from a north side daycare center. These fights are in the courts but the larger struggle is at the ballot box. Kalman is a lawyer in Chicago.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Dems cave to Trump—or did they? Ben riffs. Charles Henderson talks about the struggle to convince people to vote Democrat, knowing that push come to shove the Dems part of the Democratic Party will let them down. Also…Trump's VA cuts. Are boomers worthless? Mamdani and the Black vote. And Charles turns the tables and asks Ben a tricky Mayor Rahm question. Charles is an Army vet and peace activist in Chicago.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Trump appeals a judge's SNAP ruling. Ben riffs. David Faris gives the good and bad news from Tuesday's elections. The good news—America hate Trump. The bad news—he's still in charge. Also, envy as a political force. Americans are philosophical conservatives and policy liberals. What if SNAP were like Social Security—open to all? Would Donnie and Musk take it? You know they would. David is a political science professor at Roosevelt University and a columnist for The Nation and Newsweek. His views are his own.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Ben and Dr D pull themselves away from watching the Bulls long enough to talk about a week's worth of news, including…Chuygate! Congressman Jesus Garcia pulls a move so outrageous it has Ben and the Tribune seeing eye to eye. Also, the gift room returns. And should JB apologize for cussing out Boss Donnie? Ben says—fuck no! Oh my goodness—we're so sorry for that outburst of profanity! And more…See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In one stupendous night, Dems crush Donnie and Bulls win—Ben's cup runneth over. Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson joins the celebration. Talking about Mamdani, Sherrill, Spanberger and Prop 50. Also, some love for JB, Kwame and Brandon. Monroe weighs in on Chuygate—“it's not playing fair, it's playing to win.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
© 2020-2026 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
