Podcasts about chicago politics

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Best podcasts about chicago politics

Latest podcast episodes about chicago politics

The Ben Joravsky Show
Heidi Henry—Weeding The Garden

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2026 43:21


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Oh, What a Week—Packers-Fan Mike Runs For Mayor

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2026 63:42


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Kevin Ryan--Radically Authentic

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 72:02


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
George and Alejandro Verdin—Live From East L.A.

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 62:17


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 Ben Joravsky Show
David Faris—Gangster State

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 61:38


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.

At Issue on WBBM Newsradio
A Look into 2026 Chicago Politics

At Issue on WBBM Newsradio

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2026 28:34


WBBM Noon Business Hour host Rob Hart sits down with Political Editor Geoff Buchholz to provide an outlook on how the political scene will look at a city & state level, the city budget and much more.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Denali Dasgupta--Might Makes Right

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 65:24


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Sam Fuqua--The Real World

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 45:19


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Adolfo Mondragon—Oil ‘n Ego

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 65:19


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 Ben Joravsky Show
Sen. Graciela Guzman—Forget The Frail Stuff

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 59:48


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Monroe Anderson--This Year Will Be Different

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2026 62:52


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Peter Orner--The Gossip Columnist's Daughter

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 61:21


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.

The Mincing Rascals
The Mincing Rascals 12.30.25: U.S. and Chicago politics, Bears stadium progress in 2026

The Mincing Rascals

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025


The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The group kicks things off with a wide-ranging discussion on American politics, President Trump's recent actions, public perception of the economy, and why many voters feel disconnected discussions on […]

The Ben Joravsky Show
Jim Coogan—Tina Peters In, MTG Out

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 68:46


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.

John Williams
The Mincing Rascals 12.30.25: U.S. and Chicago politics, Bears stadium progress in 2026

John Williams

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025


The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The group kicks things off with a wide-ranging discussion on American politics, President Trump's recent actions, public perception of the economy, and why many voters feel disconnected discussions on […]

WGN - The John Williams Full Show Podcast
The Mincing Rascals 12.30.25: U.S. and Chicago politics, Bears stadium progress in 2026

WGN - The John Williams Full Show Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025


The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The group kicks things off with a wide-ranging discussion on American politics, President Trump's recent actions, public perception of the economy, and why many voters feel disconnected discussions on […]

WGN - The John Williams Uncut Podcast
The Mincing Rascals 12.30.25: U.S. and Chicago politics, Bears stadium progress in 2026

WGN - The John Williams Uncut Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025


The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The group kicks things off with a wide-ranging discussion on American politics, President Trump's recent actions, public perception of the economy, and why many voters feel disconnected discussions on […]

The Ben Joravsky Show
Dan Tully—Hegseth's Wars

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 59:18


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Ishan Daya--City Council Taxes The Poor

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2025 57:15


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Almas and Rummana Hussain—Merry Christmas, Everybody!

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 25, 2025 66:52


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Ashonta Rice—The Name Game

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 39:49


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Oh, What A Week It Was—The Indiana Bears

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2025 71:21


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Jack White--The Conning Of America

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2025 62:25


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Pedro Lira—Converting Texas

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2025 65:23


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Kam Buckner—DGAF, If You Know What I Mean

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2025 55:25


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.

The Options Insider Radio Network
The Option Block 1430: Greedy Pigs of VIX Puts & The Sultans of Options Trading

The Options Insider Radio Network

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2025 55:53


Mark Longo, Uncle Mike Tosaw (St. Charles Wealth Management), and Andrew 'The Rock Lobster' Giovinazzi (The Option Pit) break down the final full trading week of 2025. This high-stakes episode covers the shocking conclusion to the '80s Trivia Challenge, explosive VIX and index flow, and a crucial year-end Tax Strategy discussion. The '80s Trivia Challenge: A Consequential Loss The dramatic conclusion of the year-long contest: Uncle Mike vs. The Rock Lobster. The hosts sweat it out in a high-pressure round of Sports & Leisure trivia. Find out who claims the point and if the "Chicago Politics" conspiracy theories hold up! The Trading Block: End-of-Year Market Breakdown The VIX Cash index is rallying off recent lows. Is this December different from years past? The Rock Lobster confesses his VIX Puts strategy was his "worst product" of the year due to being a "Greedy Pig" and not monetizing the downside swings. The panel also looks at key single-name movers like Apple (AAPL), Broadcom (AVGO), and a roaring Tesla (TSLA). Hot Options Report: VIX Puts & SPY Zero Day Flow Detailed analysis of today's hottest option: The dirt-cheap Dec 15th VIX Puts for $0.04. Plus, a look at the massive flow in SPY (SPY) and SPX (SPX) index options, confirming the zero-day trend, alongside surprising upside action in the QQQ (QQQ) Calls. Strategy Block: Crucial Year-End Tax Planning Uncle Mike provides essential guidance on year-end tax strategies. He details how to use Tax Loss Harvesting to offset gains and reminds traders about the Wash Sale rules. A must-listen segment covers the Mark-to-Market rule for 1256 Contracts (like SPX options) before the December 31st deadline. Around the Block: Silver (SLV) Poll & All-Time Highs The team forecasts whether Silver (SLV) can continue its historic run into 2026. Plus, predictions on if the SPX can hit new All-Time Highs before the new year.

The Option Block
The Option Block 1430: Greedy Pigs of VIX Puts & The Sultans of Options Trading

The Option Block

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2025 55:53


Mark Longo, Uncle Mike Tosaw (St. Charles Wealth Management), and Andrew 'The Rock Lobster' Giovinazzi (The Option Pit) break down the final full trading week of 2025. This high-stakes episode covers the shocking conclusion to the '80s Trivia Challenge, explosive VIX and index flow, and a crucial year-end Tax Strategy discussion. The '80s Trivia Challenge: A Consequential Loss The dramatic conclusion of the year-long contest: Uncle Mike vs. The Rock Lobster. The hosts sweat it out in a high-pressure round of Sports & Leisure trivia. Find out who claims the point and if the "Chicago Politics" conspiracy theories hold up! The Trading Block: End-of-Year Market Breakdown The VIX Cash index is rallying off recent lows. Is this December different from years past? The Rock Lobster confesses his VIX Puts strategy was his "worst product" of the year due to being a "Greedy Pig" and not monetizing the downside swings. The panel also looks at key single-name movers like Apple (AAPL), Broadcom (AVGO), and a roaring Tesla (TSLA). Hot Options Report: VIX Puts & SPY Zero Day Flow Detailed analysis of today's hottest option: The dirt-cheap Dec 15th VIX Puts for $0.04. Plus, a look at the massive flow in SPY (SPY) and SPX (SPX) index options, confirming the zero-day trend, alongside surprising upside action in the QQQ (QQQ) Calls. Strategy Block: Crucial Year-End Tax Planning Uncle Mike provides essential guidance on year-end tax strategies. He details how to use Tax Loss Harvesting to offset gains and reminds traders about the Wash Sale rules. A must-listen segment covers the Mark-to-Market rule for 1256 Contracts (like SPX options) before the December 31st deadline. Around the Block: Silver (SLV) Poll & All-Time Highs The team forecasts whether Silver (SLV) can continue its historic run into 2026. Plus, predictions on if the SPX can hit new All-Time Highs before the new year.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Maya Dukmasova--The Evans Legacy

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2025 45:41


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Monroe Anderson--Madigan Makes His Move

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2025 60:49


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Matt Ginsberg-Jaeckle—Our Man In Honduras

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2025 52:25


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Sarah Bingaman--You Can Win

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2025 64:49


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
David Faris—The 42 Percent

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2025 55:01


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Oh, What a Week: Blame it on Byron

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2025 29:06


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Laurie Glenn

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 62:25


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 Ben Joravsky Show
Mueze Bawany--Selective Watchdogs

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2025 60:56


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Paul Nolley—Winning The 16th

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2025 49:54


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Joshua Smyser-De Leon—Unapologetically Puerto Rican

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2025 73:08


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 Ben Joravsky Show
Pat Whalen—It's Not Really Thanksgiving

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2025 55:59


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Michael "Skeet" Horton—Thank You, Chicago

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 63:48


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 Ben Joravsky Show
Denali Dasgupta--The Group W Bench

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2025 68:41


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Oh, What a Week—JB Meets The Pope

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2025 36:22


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Monroe Anderson--Eatin' Ain't Cheating

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2025 64:29


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 Ben Joravsky Show
Miguel Alvelo-Rivera

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 64:07


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Steve Krafft—Bubbagate

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2025 54:28


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Mick Dumke—Rambo Stalks Chicago

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2025 67:57


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Mayor Daniel Biss--The Dog Barks

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2025 58:49


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Kalman Resnick--Snowflake ICEmen

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 52:27


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
Charles Henderson--Revenge Of The Dems

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2025 66:32


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.

The Ben Joravsky Show
David Faris—The Message Sinks In

The Ben Joravsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 46:10


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.