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 great Murakami tweaks his hamstring. Ben howls in pain. Miles and Gave assess the Sox and Cubs two months into the season. Sox fans will be delighted. Cubs fans not so much. Bottom line—if the Cubs were as tough on the Brewers as they are with a woman Sox fan, they'd still be in first place. Hey, don't blame the messengers. Ben defends Jerry Reinsdorf. Gave and Miles try not to laugh. Much talk about a salary cap. Miles co-hosts Blue Line radio. And Gave co-hosts The New Twenty-Four.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
There's hardly any money to get books from one library branch to the other, but $1.5 trillion for the military. Ben riffs. Rachel Hinton fills in the blanks, explicating on her recent article on why it takes so long to get those library books you ordered. Also, political talk. Why is Governor Pritzker irritated by Mayor Johnson? The politics of being tough on teen takeovers. And more. Rachel is an investigative reporter 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.
Maria Pappas speaks the truth about handouts to the Bears. Ben riffs. Karina Villa gives us the low down on her race for comptroller, the impact of Trump cuts on Illinois, the states's misplaced budget priorities, the need to tax the rich and why she's cautiously, very cautiously, optimistic about November's midterms. Karina is the state senator from the 25th district. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
One last riff about Paul Singer and Thomas Massie. Take it away, Ben. Michael Rabbitt tells you everything you need to know about the ordeal he and his five co-defendants faced in the Orwellian legal charade known as The Broadview 6 prosecution. They did nothing wrong other than exercise their right to protest against Operation Midway Blitz. Which is not wrong at all—exercising their rights, that is. Plenty wrong with the Blitz, of course. Michael is the Democratic committeeman of the 45th Ward 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 diverts about $1.8 billion in taxpayers's money to his cronies—just call him President Slush Fund. Ben riffs. Kevin Ryan talks about the lessons he learned from his recent Senate campaign. From there he covers everything from Hegseth in Kentucky to George Washington at Valley Forge. A shout out to Robin Kelly. A call for ranked-choice voting. A plea for a separation between church and state. A recital from Henry the Fifth. And a few words about the paradox of saying Happy Memorial Day. Kevin is the state director for Veterans For All Voters. 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 have all the news you need to know. The City Council stands up for rich people—again. Darren Bailey almost sorta blames Trump for rising gas prices. SDG takes on Michael Sacks and vice versa. And the “simmering feud” between Governor Pritzker and Mayor Johnson rises a few degrees as JB accuses Brandon of having no Bears plan. And Brandon says I'm the only one with a plan. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Amidst Trump's gangster shakedown of America, a little hope from Mayor Mamdani. Ben riffs. Miles examines Trump's latest shakedowns—the $1.7 billion trust fund for January 6 insurrectionists and other kooks and crooks. And immunity for Trump and his family from IRS audits. Massie's loss in Kentucky. And lessons Dems can learn by contrasting Biden and Trump. Miles is an editor and 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.
An antigay commercial by Thomas Massie lets MAGA voters know what he thinks of them. Ben riffs. David adds his thoughts. Also, Kash Patel's payback. Basically, Trump's moved Nixon's plumbers out of the basement and into the front room, where everybody can see them. And, a few words about Trump's orgy of redistricting. 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.
PCA. Cubs center fielder PCA says something nasty to a Sox fan. Ben riffs. D'Frantz and Natalie offer their views. And then they're off on a wide ranging exchange about the WNBA. Topics include, in no particular order, Rickea Jackson's knee injury, Angel Reese, Coach Tyler Marsh, Candace Parker, Brianna Stewart & Myles Turner & Giannis. And much more. D'Frantz is an activist and one of the greatest point guards to come out of Chicago. Natalie is a journalist and filmmaker. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Graham Platner runs as a working-class hero, and The NYT says, but his daddy's a lawyer. Ben riffs. Graciela Guzman runs down the progressive state-wide agenda. Including fair taxes, data center controls, and no handouts to the rich, including the Bears. Graciela is the state senator from the 20th district on Chicago's northwest side. She's a proud progressive, and not afraid to say it.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 reveal some secrets as they race through a week's worth of news. Chicago pitches for another Democratic convention. The Board of Ed throws away fifty-something thousand. And in honor of his third year in office, Mayor Johnson sits down with CBS newsman Chris Tye. We break down the clips. Finally, Dr D tells all about how he got through college. Oh, that Dr D.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Group think is not limited to MAGA. Ben riffs. Mick talks religion. Or the Hegseth variant, a toxic blend of “faith-based” hate. As well as JD Vance cheering on Trump's attack on Pope Leo. And more. Mick is well qualified to discuss religion and politics as he may be the only political reporter in Chicago who's read the Torah, the New Testament and the Koran. Also, gerrymandering gone viral. Finally, on a lighter side—should Ben renew his Bulls season tickets? Mick is a writer and editor for Block Club. 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.
Jamelle Bouie makes it clear what's at stake in the wake of the Supremes eviscerating the Voting Rights Act—our democracy. Ben riffs. Gregory returns to talk about the Pulitzer Prize the Tribune won for its coverage of Operation Midway Blitz. Also, his exchange with Bovino. And what happened after he was chastized by one of Trump's press people. Ben teaches Greg about neo-liberals. And then they join forces to defend leaks. C'mon, Mayor Johnson your school appointees should not be making like MAGA. Finally, a word or two about high school debate. Did Gregory defeat Carlos Ramirez Rosa in a debate match way back when? Gregory is a reporter for the Chicago Tribune. Congratulations on the Pulitzer, Tribsters. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
From his hospice care, former Congressman Barney Frank offers a gloomy message for fellow Democrats. Ben riffs. Monroe dissects recent gerrymandering rulings be the Supremes. It's all about “white power” from operatives who only like “good darkies.” Also an update from the “land of aren't we special.”—aka, Lincoln Park. Which is different than the land of Hoosiers, whose leaders have sold their souls to Trump. Monroe makes a bold prediction about Kamala Harris. Finally, a new poll shows about 56 percent of Americans aren't sure the recent assassination attempt on Trump was real.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Trump sics the Feds on The View—as in Whoopi's show. Ben riffs. The Hussain sisters return! Talking The View, the Met Gala, Kash Patel, Indians as model minorities and Bruce Springsteen. Rummana is a columnist for the Sun Times. Almas is a private eye. Their views are their own.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Ben & Dr D have pastrami on their minds! Why? Cause JB Pritzker was lunching at a deli with a national reporter and talking about running for president, while nibbling at his pastrami. Meanwhile, Mayor Rahm was bike riding in New Hampshire. George Cardenas was letting everyone know he wants to be mayor. And Darren Bailey was inching further toward the middle. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Jack Thornell's photographs of the Civil Rights Movement remind us why we need the Voting Rights Act now as much as ever. Ben riffs. Denali Dasgupta compares the vast contrast in the lives and legacies of Amisha Patel and Rudy Giuliani. Also, a “real moment” for American Catholics. And a few words about taxing the rich. 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.
In the aftermath of Tuesday's primary in Indiana, Hoosier Republicans win the award for lame-voters-of-the-year. Ben riffs. Pat Whalen talks MAGA, Hoosiers, Mayor Rahm, the perils of short-form content and more. Also, he introduced his new political game show—That Being Said. You can play along at home. Pat is a comedian in Chicago. By the way, the name of the comedian Pat quoted? Bill Hicks. It's just a ride, indeed. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
MAGA welcomes Black voters as long as they vote MAGA. Alvin Tillery returns to talk Supreme Court evisceration of Voting Rights Act. The sad truth about conservatives in academia. And James Bevel, Crispus Attucks, Nick Saban and more. Stick around for his riff on what Black voters should do to really flex their political power. Alvin is a Democratic strategist and CEO of the 2040 Strategy Group.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Corporate Chicago celebrates May Day by hating on the the union they most love to hate. Ben riffs. Mueze Bawany talks local politics and local football. Hey, Bears—shoulda drafted Gabe Jacas. Who? Listen and learn. Has Mueze jumped back onto the Bulls bandwagon? Mueze is a public school teacher, proud lefty, and high school flag football coach.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 got Shel Silverstein on their minds. As in The Cover of Rolling Stone. Why? Cause it's part of a week's worth of news including…Collin Corbett. Who? Listen, you'll learn. And everyone's favorite soap opera—a Mayor and his Aldermen. And Governor Pritzker makes time for Time. Just call him Cover Boy…See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As news spread of last weekend's assassination attempt, lefty America was calling it a hoax. Ben riffs. Monroe and Jack do much riffing of their own, covering everything from the assassination attempt, the war in Iran, Comey, Kimmel, Hegseth, Michael Jackson and Thucydides. Yes, the Peloponnesian War remains relevant. Monroe and Jack are journalistic legends, having worked as editors and writers for various newspapers and magazines. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The great community activist Amisha Patel died last week of cancer. At age 50–way too young. Ben riffs. And two Amisha-like fighters for justice return to talk about Trump and Lee Zeldin's attempts to turn the Environmental Protection Agency into a destroyer of the clean water and air it's supposed to protect. Beware of gaslighting buzzwords like “energy dominance.” Also be warned—it could get worse before it gets better. As Zeldin asks Congress to cut the EPA budget by 52 percent. Loreen is an EPA scientist and Nicole is President of AFGE Local 704, the union that represents EPA employees.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
California Democrats try their best to lose a slam-dunk of a governor's election. Ben riffs. Manny Ramos weighs in…is there really such a thing as a benevolent billionaire? Then they take the deep dive on RayLo—aka, Alderman Raymond Lopez. Who's emerged as MAGA's main man in the city council. Manny is an investigative reporter for Block Club. Do yourself a favor and read his profile on Lopez. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In just what might be the most idiotic phase of Trump's presidency—and that's saying a lot—there's the saga of John Phelan's tenure as head of the Navy. Ben riffs. David Faris offers updates on the war in Iran. Also, his advice to Democratic billionaires who want to run for office. And what's going on in Virginia and California. 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.
Ben and Dr D are busting out…so much to say about so many things. For instance, what's the difference between Hoosier and Illinois MAGA? Bet you didn't know there was a difference. Well, there is one, when it comes to showering money on the Bears. Also, mayoral updates—will all the wannabes drop out if Alexi jumps into the race? And so much more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Virginia Dems pull a Trump on Trump. Ben riffs. Laurie Glenn says—about freakin' time! Ben and Laurie take an excursion into Tucker Carlson's soul. Tucker now claims he is “tormented” by his ten or so years of promoting Trump. And yet—it was not that long ago where Carlson said of Trump—“he's a wonderful person.” And he's “the funniest person I have ever met in my life.” Are Tucker's tears of the crocodile variety? Laurie is a political and communication strategist.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Kevin Warsh, Trump's choice to lead the Fed, swears up and down he won't be Donny's puppet, even though everyone knows that's why Trump chose him. Ben riffs. Robin Washington talks about his old neighborhood—Old Town. Think North & Sedgwick. Where he grew up in the 60s and 70s. As a Black and Jewish kid. He offers a primer on segregation, gentrification and activism in Chicago. And a shoutout to his parents, Atlee and Jean Washington. Robin is an award-winning writer, editor, journalist and Lane Tech High School grad, though not necessarily in that order.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Darren Bailey displays his newfound love for Chicago by eating pizza and not putting catsup on a hot dog. Ben riffs. Paul Bruton tells you everything you need to know about the last vestiges of Chicago's Democratic Machine. A subject he knows quite well as he had the audacity to run against Alderman Marty Quinn, Michael Madigan's guy in the 13th Ward. He's also a University of Chicago graduate in history, so he knows a thing or two or three about American politics.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
To honor Jackie Robinson in a way that doesn't upset MAGA, Major League Baseball pretends Cap Anson, and racists like him, never existed. Ben riffs. Steve Cohen and Paula Froehle return! To talk about their Doc 10 Film Festival that starts this month in Chicago. Learn everything you need to know about the latest and best documentaries at this year's festival, including films about Billie Jean King, Clarence Jones, Maria Danford and courageous librarians. 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 cover the country. Local, state and national politics. Mayor Rahm's latest dumb idea. Darren Bailey inches away from MAGA. And Donnie fights Chicago's pope. And much more…See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Young activists sue Trump cause his energy policies are burning down the planet and destroying life as they know it, including theirs. Judge rules, bummer, man, but oh, well. Ben riffs. Cody Wilkins returns to talk about Personality Hire, his comedy special. As well as his takes on the pope, the president, being single, working and…Freud? Yes. Freud. Cody is a standup comedian and joke writer who wrote for Jimmy Fallon and Jennifer Hudson.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Trump bashed the pope and Vance said, I'm with you, Donnie. Ben riffs. Mark Wallace weighs in. Much political and theological discussion ensues. A distinction is drawn between Trump and Trumpism. That is, a distinction between a thoroughly despicable human creature and his thoroughly despicable I-got-mine ideology. The former is an embarrassment even to those who subscribe to the latter. Mark is a businessman 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.
Ben's beloved Bulls trade for a clubhouse preacher who asks reporters if they fornicated before marriage. He also has bad knees. Ben riffs. Alden Loury talks property tax and politics—or the politics of property tax. What prompted voters to oust Assessor Fritz Kaegi? Hint—rising property taxes. Well, that's not a hint so much as the answer. Was that fair to Kaegi? Will the next assessor make a difference? Also, Maria Pappas reveals she knows how to play the property tax game. Alden is an editor for WBEZ and Sun-Times columnist.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Kam BucknerKaThe Same Energy.Trump thought fighting a war would be easy. Ben riffs. Kam Buckner talks Trump, Bears stadium, Springfield's anti-Brandon legislation, property taxes and schools, Lou Holtz and more. Including his advice to Caleb Williams about trademarking Iceman as a nickname. Kam is the state representative from the 26th 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.
Trump calls for a two-week break to his war against Iran. Ben riffs. Monroe gets out his crystal ball to predict…Trump's cabinet will invoke the 25th amendment to save the country from a President who has lost his mind. Proving that the country's voters lost their minds when they elected Trump. A great debate ensues. Also, a debate over the election results in Georgia. And Monroe fends off the challenge from Trevor Noah.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As we learned with his White House comments supposedly celebrating Easter, Trump occasionally blurts out the truth. Ben riffs. Miles Kampf-Lassin talks about the war in Iran. The painful parallels to Vietnam and Iraq wars. And Trump's comments that we can't afford Medicare and day care and the war. Sorry, geezers and children. A few words about Ska. Miles is an editor and 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.
Trump fires Bondi cause she was unable to do the impossible. Ben riffs. David Faris invokes the sour milk metaphor to explain the former AG's rise and fall. And he dissects 50 or so years of deceitful cherry-picking justifications for waging war against Iran. Finally, a word or two about Trump's fall in the polls. And the Farisian theory that Trump's base is a fairly prosperous group of zealots who are more or less exempt from the consequences of his policy. David is a professor of political science 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.
It's that time of the week. Ben and Dr D cover it all. Maria Pappas. Property Taxes. Darren Bailey goes on Fox. JB. And so much more…See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The Supremes rule a therapist in Colorado has a First Amended-protected right to offer awful medical advice to a patient. Ben riffs. Jim Coogan goes to school—law school, that is. Offering the seismic legal takeaways for the case in Colorado, the Meta verdict in California and Caleb Williams's effort to trademark the most generic of nicknames. 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.
MAGA and its media blame all immigrants for the horrific crime of one man. Ben riffs. Marc Sims weighs in with memories of over 50 years of news reporting screaming: be scared! Also, JB and Juliana. Willie Wilson and Mayor Johnson. And “we don't want nobody nobody sent.” Marc is the host of the podcast Just A Few Questions. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Caleb William, who's clearly never heard of Jerry Butler, tries to trademark the Iceman as his nickname. Ben riffs. With the season just starting. Miles Porter talks all things baseball. Cubs. Sox. Murakami. PCA. How come the Sox can't stop disrespecting Frank Thomas? And more. Miles co-hosts Blue Line Radio, a baseball podcast. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The solar, clean-energy crew plays hardball politics in Texas—finally. Ben riffs. Delmarie Cobb returns! Talking about how Donna Miller won the second congressional district primary. Listen closely, lefties, if you want to learn about politics in districts other than your own. Other topics include…Toni Preckwinkle, AIPAC, and the council opposition to Mayor Johnson. Finally, a few words about the real Iceman in Chicago. Delmarie is political strategist who worked on the Donna Miller campaign. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A busy week of quips and flips had Ben & Dr D scrambling to cover it all. Starting with—can the dark side lure four aldermen to break from the mayor and stick it to waiters and waitresses? That's what they need—four flippers—to override the mayor's veto of a bill passed by the council's corporate caucus to cut wages of servers. Also, JB cracks wise at the Grid Iron Club. Finally, words of wisdom from Gregory Royal Pratt.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Leon Black could have saved himself a whole lotta money had he'd gone to anyone other than Epstein for advice. Ben riffs. Julie Lynn urges everyone to go to Saturday's No Kings demonstration. Then she talks abortion rights. Cause no one knows more about the politics of abortion than Julie Lynn. Julie is a communications strategist in Chicago.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Long lines forming at airports cause Trump refuses to cut a deal with Dems and release the money to pay TSA employees. Ben riffs. Adolfo takes the deep dive on Cesar Chavez's legacy and why some people feel compelled to defend him, even now. He takes an even deeper dive into internet rumors that Netanyahu is dead. Adolfo 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.
In the annals of not being afraid to pick up the spare, Norm hits the big shot and wins a chicken dinner. Say what? Ben explains. Denali takes on three big issues. Cesar Chavez, the monster in the movement who was too big to be held accountable. Katie Britt and the use of a disarming persona to advance regressive policies. And her own Hannibal Buress moment regarding Raja's campaign contributions. Denali is a pro-democracy activist from the northwest side.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
State Rep Jamie Andrade, the last vestige of Mell's Machine, loses. Ben riffs. Gregory joins the conversation, explicating his election-night Blue Sky posts. Including…Toni beats Reilly. La Shawn wins big. The nutty 9th. Raja's cash-bar blues. Juliana and JB, Mayor Johnson's chances, and more. Gregory is a political reporter for the Chicago Tribune. Or as he puts it—“your Chicago Tribune.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The election results are in from Tuesday's primaries, and it's time to sweep up the debris. And so Ben and Dr D grab their brooms and get to work. Everything you need to know about everything! Senate, governor, congress. Stick around for Ben's defense of Jim Varney and his nostalgic tribute to Toni P. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
“Cesar Chavez accused of abusing girls—accounts detail years of misconduct by a civil rights icon”, reads the NYT headline. Ben riffs. Joanna and Jake take the post-election deep dive on AIPAC's role in congressional primaries. Shell PACs funded by shell donors. Also, the existential crisis many American Jews are facing regarding Israel. And more. Joanna and Jake are political and communication strategists who worked on Robert Peters and Dan Biss's congressional campaigns.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The primary campaigns comes and goes with a few surprises. Ben riffs. And then Monroe covers everything including, Juliana, Donna, La Shawn, Toni, Dan and Jan and Sidney. As in Yates. Yes, we go back. Also JB's weight loss and more. Much more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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