Podcasts about chicago politics

Somehow MAGA Chicago took an already horrific hate murder of two Jewish people and made it worse. Ben riffs. Jeff Jenkins talks about federal budget cuts that have threatened the Midnight Circus, which he stages in parks throughout Chicago. Why would Trump cut funding for a circus that brings laughter, joy and kindness to people? It's part of his mindless cuts to The National Endowment for the Arts. Also, Jeff talks about Canines for Kindness, his dog-rescue program. He brings rescued and rehabilitated dogs--many of whom had been trained to kill or be killed--into schools to show children there are other alternatives to hate and cruelty. Finally, a tribute to Bear, the family dog who died the other day. If you want more information about Jeff's program, go to canines4kindness.orgSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump plans a big ol' parade. Ben riffs. Charles Henderson returns to talk the state of America on Memorial Day. Including...Trump's newfound "pacifism". Why Kamala Harris lost. Would Biden have done any better? Royko's Boss. The GI Bill then and now. Congressman John Rankin's not-so-pretty legacy. And Ben's Rhode Island past. Charles is an Army Desert Storm vet and 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.

Ben and Dr D tell you everything you need to know about the week's worth of news. Including...Dolton wants to buy the Pope's house. Call it eminent domain, people. Jake Tapper promotes his book. Is he a salesman or a newsman? Property taxes going up. Trump trolls Mayor Johnson and the mayor trolls Trump. Ben wants too know--why won't MAGA show love for Brandon for bringing NASCAR to Chicago? Also, senate and congressional campaign updates. Is Dan Biss really an Evanstonian just cause he's the mayor of Evanston? Finally, the Doctor tells the story of his Grandpa Joe's words of wisdom about the sudden demise of Barney the St. Bernard.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Harvard proposes to replace one kind of diversity with another—anything to talk Trump into stop taking away their federal funding. Ben riffs. Monroe explains what Trump really means by diversity. Also, a few words about Original Sin, the new book about a Joe Biden's dementia. How can you cover up something that everyone sees? And why do reporters--like the authors of this book--let sources, who have nothing of significance to lose by being quoted, hide behind anonymous quotes? .See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Fran Spielman sits down with Kristen Reynolds, the new President and CEO of Choose Chicago. They discuss Reynolds' transition from Discover Long Island to leading Chicago's convention and tourism efforts. The conversation addresses the impact of recent world events on tourism, including a tragic incident in Washington DC and former President Trump's tariffs affecting Canadian tourism. Despite these challenges, Reynolds highlights Chicago's recent record-breaking hotel occupancy and the city's strong reliance on domestic visitation. She emphasizes the need for increased investment in marketing Chicago internationally and suggests leveraging social media and tech innovations. The discussion also covers recovery strategies post-COVID, local staycation initiatives, and a controversial tourism improvement district proposal to boost Choose Chicago's budget. Reynolds outlines her vision for maintaining momentum amid economic uncertainties and enhancing Chicago's appeal through diversified, high-return events.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chicago's population went up. Ben riffs. Alden Loury clarifies and explains the demographics. He goes on to annotate and explicate his Sun-Times column about his experience as a homeowner in Auburn Gresham on the South Side. His conclusion? "The tried-and-true beliefs we hold about American capitalism just don't apply quite the same for Black Americans." Alden is a columnist for the Sun-Times and an editor for WBEZ. 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 conversation covers a range of political topics, including skepticism surrounding President Biden's cancer diagnosis, the progress and challenges of the budget reconciliation bill, the bipartisan success of the Take It Down Act, expert opinions on Biden's health, issues of racism in Chicago politics, Bernie Sanders' critique of the Democratic Party, and Yuval Noah Harari's philosophical views on purpose and ideology.

Qatar gives Donnie a $400M luxury jet. Ben riffs. Adolfo Mondragon returns! The professor is in the studio--law professor, that is. Take out your pens and notebooks and take notes as the lawyer who took constitutional law from President Obama talks habeas corpus, the emolument clause and ordo amoris. Also, a few words about JD Vance, the pope's MAGA brother and Babe Ruth. 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.

Ben and Dr. D consumed all the news so you don't have to! You're welcome. Let's start with…the new parking meter deal, same as the old parking meter deal. Ben's advice to city hall reporters—call Mick! Mayor Lightfoot returns. Scrapheap Rahm dumps on Biden. The senate race update. Robert Peters wins over Bernie. And it's Wilmette versus Evanston in the race to replace Congresswoman Jan, aka The Big Schakowski. Apologies Coen Brothers. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The city forces whoever runs Trump Towers to open its sidewalks to the public. Ben riffs. Miles Kampf-Lassin talks May Day protests and tariff madness--turns out there is no logic to MAGA's trade policy. And the great trade-off capitalism offers American workers: Lower wages for lower prices. Thanks to Trump there will be lower wages and higher prices. An ode to a four-day work week. Miles is a writer and editor 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.

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Hall of Fame right fielder Andre Dawson, discussing various topics from his illustrious career. They talk about his experiences meeting fans, the recent eligibility of Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson for the Hall of Fame, and the evolving nature of baseball. Dawson reflects on his time with the Cubs, his journey to being inducted into the Hall of Fame, and provides insights into the current Cubs team and notable players. The conversation also delves into Dawson's injuries, his post-retirement life, and his advice for young players entering Major League Baseball.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mike Miner, one of Chicago's great journalists, died this month. Ben pays tribute. Delmarie Cobb explains how the media really works in this town. It isn't always pretty. The blasphemy of Trump. Stephen A Smith asks Trump a question about Harvard. And Trump responds by talking about riots in Harlem. What? In this case, Trump knew what he was doing. Delmarie is a political strategist and media consultant.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apparently, Trump's nominee for surgeon general is not nutty enough for MAGA. Ben riffs. David Faris explains MAGA's strange double standard on vaccines. They hate Covid shots but are ok with flu shots. If MAGA hates mandates, why are they so passive about the Real ID? Is there any logic to anything MAGA does? A mea culpa about lefty illogic. Speaking of nutty illogic, Trump's recent pronouncement on tariffs. David is a political science professor at Roosevelt University and a columnist for Newsweek. His views are his ownSee 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 get biblical. Well, they talk about the new pope. Or more specifically—is he from Chicago or Dolton or Holland, Michigan? Also, since when did Chicagoans get so religious? Fran Spielman asks Mayor Johnson the tough question: Did you lose weight by dieting or taking diet pills? And the Real ID. Is it real or fake? Finally, the update on the senate race. Who's in? Who's sitting on the fence? And what activities did Dick Durbin do in high school?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Mayor Brandon Johnson as he approaches his midterm anniversary. Joined by WBEZ city government reporter Mariah Woelfel, the discussion covers a variety of topics, including the Mayor's personal growth, his approach to governance, and the challenges faced in transforming the city of Chicago. Johnson reflects on his biggest mistakes, the importance of effective communication, and the necessity of being healthy and fit in his role. He also addresses his administration's efforts in public safety, education, housing, and more, while emphasizing his commitment to building a safe and affordable Chicago.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

MAGA says Trump should be pope. Ben riffs. Rummana Hussain talks about the new hate. Out in the open. Even in Glenview. Maybe it's not so new after all. Also a guide to the north shore, including Evanston, Lincolnwood and Northbrook. Why do suburbanites feel entitled to access libraries, parks and beaches in Chicago, while keeping Chicagoans out of their towns? Rummana is a columnist for the Sun-Times. Her views are her own.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump calls Bezos to say--Jeff, old buddy old pal, don't mention the tariffs, if you know what's good for you. Ben riffs. Is a tax a tax if we don't think we're paying it? Sylvia Ewing talks strategies to follow to keep from losing your mind while saving the country. A few words about our the country's way of cutting off its nose to spite its face. A question for older Dems--how can we miss you, if you don't go away? Sylvia is Vice President of Journalism and Media Engagement at Public Narrative.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After 100 days in office, Trump puts his conflicts of interest right in our face, almost like he's proud of them. Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson asks what if the mainstreams covered Trump with as much as conviction and outrage as they cover Mayor Johnson. Then he asks why they don't. Hint—race and money have something to do with it. Also, teen curfew in Chicago. And Ben and Monroe see Sinners.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 take a trip to Hollywood and New Hampshire, following Governor Pritzker wherever he goes in his non-announced campaign for President. Along the way, they stop in Chicago to talk about Mayor Johnson's radio career. Then they go back on the JB beat. Did Pritzker's pals really say bad things about Lauren Underwood? Who fed that story to the press? And does Jimmy Kimmel really think he can out dance JB Travolta?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman interviews Chicago's Commissioner of Planning and Development, Ciere Boatright. They discuss the city's development challenges, including high interest rates, tariffs, and capital constraints. They also touch upon issues like the future of major projects like Invest Southwest, LaSalle Street conversions, and the Bally's Casino development.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The question must be asked--is there a method to Trump's madness? Ben riffs. David Faris explains the theory of escalating to de-escalate. Which is the closest thing to a strategy Trump may have. Then he riffs on, in no particular order, Bill Maher's blues, political correctness, Godwin's Law, Jerome Powell, "liberation day" tariffs and the Black Mirror episode that sums up our times. David is a political science professor at Roosevelt University and a columnist for Newsweek and Slate. 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.

Governor Gavin and Mayor Rahm advise Democrats to sign on to just about anything Trump proposes no matter how wretched, if the polls support it. Ben riffs. Denali Dasgupta explains how many of Trump's policies were previously tried here in Chicago by centrists Dems. Ben apologizes to millennials and makes a promise. Which he soon breaks. Denali is a political strategist and former aldermanic candidate. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Joe Rogan tries his hardest to take a stand against Trump. Ben riffs. Achy Obejas talks Rogan, Bill Maher and Larry David--nice to know that one of them is not scared of Trump. Then she talks about "Mami, I'm Scared," her gripping essay in Politico which asks the troubling question: How do you break the news to children that the country they love elected a tyrant who might send them to a prison in El Salvador? Also, a word or two about Marco Rubio. And a poll in The Forward reveals 72 percent of Jewish Americans disapprove of Trump's presidency. Achy is a poet, novelist, translator and journalist. 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 hop on the bus, Gus with all of the news you need to hear including…Mayor Johnson takes a swipe at Mayor Rahm. What took you so long? And Senator Durbin pulls a classic Illinois hand off. Essentially anointing Juliana Stratton as his running mate. Meaning Raja and Robyn and Robert and (lotsa R here) and Lauren and all the other ambitious electeds have to decide. Do I still dare to run? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman interviews Carlos Ramirez-Rosa, a ten-year veteran Alderman and the new general superintendent and CEO of the Chicago Park District. They discuss a range of topics, including Carlos's ambitious plans for the park district, his rapid learning on the job, and his strategies for enhancing community safety and engaging youth through various recreational programs. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Jackie Robinson Day in America, but will Trump allow us to celebrate it? Has Trump cancelled the first Black man to play in the major leagues cause his story is too DEI? Ben riffs. Alejandro Verdin dons a Dodgers hat in solidarity with Robinson. And then explains the difference between electing liberal Democratic judges and politicians. Both are tricky to do. And he should know as he's managed successful Supreme Court elections in Wisconsin and Montana. Yes, Montana. Alejandro is the founder and principal of Nineteen Sixty Campaigns, a Democratic political strategy firm.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump says the price of eggs fell 87 percent. Ben riffs. Monroe joins in. Also a few words about what just may be the most idiotic comment any MAGA man has offered as defense of Trump. Jesse Watters' Bulls hat theory. Monroe dons a Bulls hat. Will Trump deport him? Don't give him any ideas. And Monroe defends Bill Maher for sucking up to Trump. Ben is stunned. Thus begins the Maher debate. Also, Monroe makes his July 4 prediction.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a desperate attempt to justify the kidnapping of Kilmar Abrego Garcia by Trump's goons, Fox TV's Jesse Watters declares that any Salvadorian wearing a Bulls hat must be a gangster because...Because he says so. Ben riffs. Jack White connects the dots between Abrego Garcia--currently lodged in an El Salvadorian prison--and Trump's slander of the Central Park 5. Be warned, people--it's a trial run to see what they can get away with. A few words about Trump's law-firm shakedown--straight out of The Godfather. Finally, the Trump administration edits the Naval Academy's library--Mein Kampf is in and Maya Angelou is out. Jack is a legendary journalist who wrote and edited for Time magazine.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Wall Street tycoons wake up to realize that their guy Trump is a lunatic. Ben riffs. Elizabeth Todd-Breland talks about I Didn't Come Here to Lie, the new book she co-wrote with the late, great Karen Lewis, former president of the Chicago Teachers Union. Who, among many other things, galvanized the national labor movement by leading Chicago teachers on a strike against Mayor Rahm. Why did mainstream Chicago hate her so much? And why are so many of these same haters trying to re-write history about their relationship to her? And more, including...Ben compares Karen to Harry Truman, a comparison that's not nearly as nutty as it sounds. Elizabeth is a history professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One more reason why The White Lotus is the perfect show for the age of Trump—everyone's trying to hustle a buck out of it. Ben riffs. Julie Lynn offers an abortion rights update. Georgia, Missouri, Texas and more. Ben shows much love for Margo's Got Money Trouble. Which dramatizes the hypocrisy that shames pregnant unwed women to give birth then shames them when they do. Julie is a political consultant.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dems show some momentum. Ben riffs. Jim Coogan takes us A-Z on Trump's war against lawyers. It's one thing he didn't lie about. He said he'd punish his “enemies” and he's doing it. What happened to free speech, rule of law and due process? Better watch what you ask—that question can be held against you. Jim is founding 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.

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews John Block, an independent producer and filmmaker from Chicago, about his moving and inspirational film, 'I Will Build This World From Love.' The conversation explores John's upbringing in Chicago, his career highlights at major networks like NBC, and his transition to independent filmmaking.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump announces tariffs, retirement portfolios plunge and MAGA cheers. Ben riffs. Even Monroe can't believe Trump would be so cruel, callous and clueless. What a combination. Pause for irony. The party that supposedly hates taxes--that would be you, Republicans--just socked everyone with a huge tax hike. Despite it all, Monroe has hope that the beginning of the end can be seen in Wisconsin's victory, Corey Booker's stand and Saturday's protest.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump to CPS--better not talk about race or I'll take away your federal money. Ben riffs. David Faris talks tariffs, Laura Loomer, Wisconsin supreme court race, and the twisted mindset of the president--as he deliberately inflicts pain on Americans because he can. Have Americans lost their ability to update their belief system with new information? David is a professor of political science at Roosevelt University and a columnist for Slate 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.

Dems rejoice over a victory in a state senate election in Pennsylvania. Ben riffs. Laurie Glenn continues the positivity. Dyett High wins a state bball championship. Remember when Mayor Rahm tried to close it? Then Laurie riffs. Asking the big questions, like...can peace and love beat war and hate? Will geezer Dems ever give it up for a younger generation? And wake up America! Which is not a question but an answer. Laurie is a political consultant and strategist who speaks from her heart.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 that's fit to print and then some, including…Ben takes a side in Pritzker's fight with unions. Much love for the great Karen Lewis. Shoutout to CTU for their new contract. Suburban election results in Orland Park and Aurora—yes, we cover it all. And a few words about the 35th Ward's new and old aldermen. One went to Lane, the other Whitney Young. After that, they have lots in common.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Stacy Davis Gates, President of the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU), discussing the recently approved teachers' contract. The civil war between the Chicago Teachers Union and SEIU has fractured Mayor Brandon Johnson's progressive union coalition continues—so much so that it endangers Johnson's political future. It centers around CTU President Stacy Davis Gates failed attempt to have the CTU take over classroom assistant jobs held by SEIU Local 73.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Wisconsin voters tell Trump and Musk—stay out of our business. Ben riffs on Judge Crawford's big win. Delmarie Cobb congratulates Wisconsin voters for doing the right thing and breaks down why they did it. In no particular order—can't stand Musk, support abortion rights and in general think Trump's gone too far. Also, a shoutout to Senator Booker for breaking Strom Thurmond's record. And a history lesson or two about Thurmond and Jesse Jackson. Delmarie is a political strategist.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kat Abughazaleh, a 26-year-old TikTok influencer who's never held office, challenges Congresswoman Jan Shakowsky in the 9th congressional district--as a bunch of Boomers and Gen Xers lose their collective minds at her audacity. Ben riffs. Kat joins the show to talk about her candidacy, her background, what the Dems need to do to beat MAGA, her days at Media Matters, her battles with Musk, her investigation of Tucker Carlson and more. Hear Ben boomersplain The White Lotus to Kat.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 examine the week that was. Including…The Durbin revolt. Do any high profile Dems have the guts to make Senator Durbin pay for his filibuster vote? Short answer—no! Long answer—no way. Hold it! Time out for Giddey. Back to politics. Kat the zee-leniial challenges Congresswoman Schakowsky, What do the “whisperers” say? Governor Pritzker goes to Mexico. Comptroller Mendoza finds her inner White Lotus. And more…See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman speaks with Jeffrey Haydon, CEO of the Ravinia Festival, about the upcoming $75 million renovation of Ravinia's 36-acre campus in Highland Park. Haydon explains the decision to shorten the concert season to accommodate construction and shares the challenges and logistics of managing the renovation and the festival. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

MAGA has a curious way of processing their opposition to the cuts Trump is making—it's Musk's fault! Ben riffs. Alderman Gil Villegas breaks down the false narratives Trump employees to justify the unjustifiable. Like social security is a Ponzi scam. And it helps veterans to cut programs that helps veterans. Also, his encounter with X's bots. A few words on "buy the dip"--Eric Trump's pleasure at the country's misfortune. And how he'd have voted on the filibuster. Hint--differently than Schumer and Durbin. Gil is alderman of the 36th ward.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rosie O'Donnell decides to sit out the Trump years in Ireland, trashing the U.S. press corps as she runs off to safety. Ben riffs. Rummana Hussain talks about cuts at the Sun-Times. And the desperate state of journalism. A few words about Bill Maher, once Mr. Politically Incorrect, crying like a snowflake cause he thinks Saturday Night Live was mean to MAGA. Boo hoo, hoo, Billy. Also, what's with Rummana's hat? Has she gone MAGA? Look again. Rummana is an columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times. Her views are her own. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump thought it was a good idea to put a lunatic in charge of national health. Now Robert Kennedy has a big idea to deal with the avian flu. Ben riffs. Monroe covers the latest madness from Trump World. Including... the El Salvador deportations, Trump's defiance of federal judges, Trump's attempts to make Black people invisible, MAGA's war on experts and the beginning of the end. Don't worry--it's a good thing.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mahmoud Khalil learns there's an asterisk to MAGA's dedication to free speech. Ben riffs. Joanna Klonsky says if you're waiting for Trump, Musk or MAGA to be principled, you'll be waiting a long time. Then the talk turns to centrist Dems and the continuing resolution showdown. Is appeasement the best strategy for dealing with Trump? Also, does Mayor Rahm really think he'll be president? And the next big fight--Judge Susan Crawford's campaign for Wisconsin Supreme Court. Joanna is a political strategist and publicist in Chicago.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Senator Schumer, leader of the senate Dems, rolls over for Trumo on the continuing resolution. Ben riffs. David Faris takes it from there. Explaining why the Dems should have kept the filibuster going. And why their action gives even more power to Trump. And how it all shows the divisions in the Democratic Party and uncertain as to how to deal with the threat of tyranny. He also answers the Benji question. David is a professor of political science at Roosevelt University and a columnist for 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 hop on JB's presidential tour bus as it goes to Texas and Chicago and New Hampshire. Mayor Rahm has no tour bus. But he does have a puff piece in Politico heralding his potential prez campaign. And the city council debates RayLo's fur ban. Can Dennis pass the who-voted-how trivia test?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After trashing electric cars for years, Trump pimps for Tesla to help out Musk. Ben riffs. Kina Collins explains Gavin Newsom's new-found love for Charlie Kirk--"just white dude's white duding." Also, a primer on the foolishness of Democrats for not supporting Congressman Al Green. They lost a chance to shine a spotlight on MAGA's talk of cutting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. C'mon, Dems--get in the game. Kina Collins is a west side activist and former congressional candidate. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ten Democratic congressmen vote to censure Congressman Al Green for the high crime of telling the truth about Trump. Ben riffs. Ken Mejia-Beal adds his two cents.Pointing out that the DuPage area Dems--Casten and Underwood--somehow managed not to wimp out even though they represent Purplish districts. Also, "the transformation of Bill Maher into a jackass." And a few not very complimentary words about Mayor Rahm's seventh-grade bathroom joke. Ken is the former chair of the DuPage County Democrats.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Just another day in MAGA, USA--Trump threatens to lock up agitators. Guilty or not. Ben riffs. Nicole Cantello offers an update on the Trump-Musk ransacking of the EPA and other federal agencies. The bizarre orders. The weird come-back to offices directives. Followed by proposals to sell off of the buildings they're supposed to come back to. It's pretty clear Trump and Musk don't know what they're doing. Unless what they're doing is torturing good people. It's psychological warfare. And it's not clear lawsuits alone can stop them. Nicole is the president of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 704. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.