Why Aldermen Don’t Become Mayor By Edward McClelland They're already paid well, their bases are small, and they have a reputation of being shady. Read more
To Catch a Carjacker Interview by Mike Thomas Former radio host Roe Conn now tracks the city’s auto theft epidemic as part of a police task force. Read more
Mayoral Power Rankings 2023 By Edward McClelland What are each of the potential candidates' chances at winning the next mayoral election? Read more
Bring Back the Big House By Edward McClelland The Illinois General Assembly once used a system called cumulative voting — and it's worth reviving. Read more
Obama for Mayor By Edward McClelland The former president can still fulfill his dreams of becoming mayor of Chicago. Read more
In Praise of Jesse White’s Lack of Ambition By Edward McClelland The Secretary of State’s office has traditionally been a stepping stone to something bigger, but White focused his energies on making the place less of a hassle. Read more
Oh, How the Mighty Three Eddies Have Fallen By Edward McClelland The tales of Vrdolyak, Burke, and Kelly are a lesson in what happens to politicians who outlive their power. Read more
Changing of the 34th Ward By Edward McClelland The 34th Ward is moving — and its new home looks entirely different. It's a reflection of a changing Chicago. Read more
Billionaire Politicians May Be the Future By Edward McClelland If Illinois is any indication, it's becoming more and more expensive to become an elected official. Read more
Will Lori Lightfoot Be One and Done? By Edward McClelland Can the mayor overcome rising crime and her own political inexperience to win a second term? Read more