Betting on a Losing Horse Named Bailey

March 31, 2026 by Sarah Steimer

The Republican nominee for governor won’t win, but Downstate will have a champion in its war against Chicago’s political influence over Illinois.

“That Ends in Tears”

March 31, 2026March 30, 2026 by Sarah Steimer

Austan Goolsbee on the dangers of the Fed losing its independence.

“A Voice Has to Be Raised”

March 31, 2026March 9, 2026 by Lynette Smith

Cardinal Blase Cupich on why it’s important to speak out on ICE tactics and other injustices

Too Big a Bite

March 10, 2026March 2, 2026 by Sarah Steimer

illustration of a cowboy walking past Portillo's and holding his nose

Local favorite Portillo’s had ambitious plans to go national. But the restaurant chain’s rapid expansion has left it choking.

Fighting the Losing Population Battle

February 23, 2026 by Sarah Steimer

students moving their belongings into University of Illinois at Chicago campus housing

Young people are heading out of state for college and career. To reverse the trend, we need to make Illinois schools more affordable and attract more employers.

What’s Behind the Cook County Board President Attack Ads

February 18, 2026February 16, 2026 by Sarah Steimer

a photo of Toni Preckwinkle and a photo of Brendan Reilly

In the battle between Preckwinkle and Reilly, a reflection of the Chicago Democratic party’s two factions plays out.

Prime Time for the Primaries

February 23, 2026February 11, 2026 by Lynette Smith

A photo illustration of the current crop of congressional race candidates

Election Day in Illinois is March 17. Yup, St. Patrick’s Day. So for the love of God, Chicago: Vote early. Here’s what to know about the congressional races.