In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Alderman Marty Quinn from Chicago's 13th Ward. They delve into the strained relationships within the city council, challenges posed by Mayor Brandon Johnson's budget plans, and the need for a new police district. Additionally, they examine the legacy and trial of political figure Mike Madigan, the impact of losing political experience in Springfield, and strategic advice for city officials.

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Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman is joined by WBEZ education reporter Sarah Karp and Sun-Times education reporter Nader Issa to discuss the recent mass resignation of the Chicago school board amidst a budget crisis and ongoing negotiations with the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU).

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In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Jordan Abudayyeh, the outgoing Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications and Strategic Media for Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. They discuss Abadaya's experiences over seven years working with the governor, the challenges and stress of high-pressure political roles, and her future plans. They also delve into Governor Pritzker's leadership style, his ambitions, and the dynamics between state and city leadership.

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Portraying himself as a "peacemaker" between an embattled mayor and an emboldened City Council, newly-confirmed Zoning Committee Chair Walter Burnett (27th) said there is nothing to be gained by further "antagonizing and fighting" Johnson. Not after "every vote has been tight" during Johnson's first 17 months in office.

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Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman speaks with Anthony Driver Jr., President of the Community Commission on Public Safety and Police Accountability (CCPSA) and Executive Director of SEIU State Council. He reflects on the challenges facing the Chicago Police Department under Superintendent Larry Snelling, emphasizing the need for improvements in response times, workforce allocation, and handling traffic stops. The conversation also touches on internal investigations at the Civilian Office of Police Accountability, the impact of public criticism on police personnel, and the evolving relationship between Chicago's city council and Mayor Brandon Johnson.

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Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman is joined by Ald. Brendan Reilly of Chicago's 42nd Ward to discuss the city's critical financial issues and political landscape.

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Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman interviews Chicago's budget director, Annette Guzman, about the city's significant financial challenges. Guzman explains the factors contributing to these shortfalls, including lagging revenues, escalating costs, and pension obligations.

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In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Stacy Davis Gates, the president of the Chicago Teachers Union, about the challenges facing Chicago Public Schools at the start of the new school year. Gates shares her views on the leadership of CEO Pedro Martinez, emphasizing the need for a strategic vision to address funding deficits and urging resources for schools to ensure equity and opportunities for all students.

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