The Ben Joravsky Show

Kennedy Bartley gets a gig with Mayor Johnson. Ben riffs. Mark Wallace talks Shot Spotter. And, yes, I’m spelling it that way. Also Red Light Cameras and Trump’s openly bragging about his deal with Putin. Mark is an activist, podcaster and business man. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Capitalism bankrupts Red Lobster. Ben riffs. Monroe talks Justce Alito and his flag, Fani Willis, what Dems should do about the Supreme Court and, the difference between MAGA and liberal columnists and more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Progressives in Springfield propose a handout for a women’s pro soccer team owned by fabulously wealthy people. Sigh. Ben riffs. Alderman Villegas explains his view of the world. What he means by being what he calls a pragmatic progressive. A Gil/Ben debate on MAGA and the left. And a few words about residency data centers, police and Mayor Johnson and more. Gil is the 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.

A north side resident wants to recall Mayor Johnson. Ben riffs. Peter Cunningham riffs on Ben’s riff and then away they go, talking…police accountability, Dexter Reed, elected school boards, Peter’s run for office, and Dickey Betts. Peter is a political strategist, writer and rock ‘n roller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rachel Hinton and Ben talk the week’s news and introduce the world to…The Rachel and Ben Book Club. Today’s book is James by Percival Everett. Which if you haven’t read, hurry up! But first, listen to Rachel and Ben talk police, housing, and theatrical politics of the absurd. Rachel is a reporter 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.

Dan Mihalopoulos goes A-Z on Oath Keepers in the Chicago Police Department. A subject he knows a lot about, having broken one story after another on the matter with Tom Schuba of the Sun-Times. Dan is a reporter for WBEZ.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Salem Collo-Julin and Ben go through the news. Including…Barry Romo makes the Times, Reader goes weekly, media evaluates the mayor, and the difference between a city that fears its mayor (Rahm, Daley) and one that doesn’t. Suddenly, everyone is so courageous. Where was that courage when we needed it? And a new feature… Reader editor after dark explains the best way to serve the dish of revenge. Hint…add mustard and catsup. Salem is the editor of the Reader.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Crain’s Crowd weighs in on Mayor Johnson. Ben riffs. Denali Gasgupta tells you everything you need to know about Chicago’s elected school board. Is Chicago ready for democracy? I guess that depends on what you mean by democracy. Denali is a political activist and a numbers-crunching analyst of politics 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 polls are in for Mayor Johnson and President Biden. Ben riffs. And then Monroe explains. Trump trial. Stormy. Cohen. The Rockettes? And a few words about a Virginia school districts attempts to show love for slave owners. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Faris explains the absurdity of moderates searching for an alternative to Biden. Hello—he is a moderate. And speaking of absurdity. Nothing matches Trump’s desperate attempt to figure out an electable position on abortion. David is a professor of political science at Roosevelt University and a columnist for Slate and Newsweek. His opinions 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.

Rummana and Ben have the news business on their minds. How folks are put in metaphorical boxes based on what they’re expected to be interested in. Breaking out is harder than it looks.?Rummana is a columnist and editorial writer 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.

With an eye for the Bears stadium propossl, Sean Dinces explains how the public helped pay for Sox Park and the United Center. Think tax breaks and handouts. And what did we get for it? Will Chicago be dumb enough to fall for this game again. Sean is a professor of history and the author of Bulls Markets.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben and Charles Henderson break it all down, starting with…a tribute to the great activist Barry Romo, who died a few days ago. Barry was a Vietnam War vet turned anti-war activist who wasn’t afraid to take on the Daley Machine. Also, a few words about the working class janitors and college protestors. And free speech. And abortion. And Ben’s beloved Bulls. Charles is an Iraqi War vet and political activist. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A modest proposal—community service for Trump. Ben riffs. Maria Hadden riffs on Ben’s riff. Then Maria talks natural gas ordinance, Bears stadium, SpotShotter, and abortion clinic silent zones. Also, how to remain cool and calm when everyone else is losing their minds. Maria is the alderwoman of the 49th ward. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The city council proposed to crack down on anti-abortion zealots who harass women at abortion clinics. Ben riffs. Monroe is moved to recite the First Amendment. Which leads to a conversation about campus protests and police arresting pro-Palestinian protestor (what about their right to free speech?). And then a few words about Stormy DanielsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dave Glowacz returns! And Ben is so happy, he riffs about it. Then they get down to business, breaking down clips from the April 1 City Council meeting dedicated to the question: Should Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez be stripped of his chairmanship of the Housing Committee? We got clips of Aldermen Lopez and Hadden and Sposato and more. Dave runs the websites inside Chicago Government.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rachel Joravsky and Cody Wilkins return to tell you all you need to know about the beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. Take notes, Boomers. Rachel and Cody are writers and stand-up comedians. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gregory Pratt takes the deep dive on The City Is Up For Grabs, his recently published book about Mayor Lightfoot’s term as mayor. Greg is a reporter for the Tribune.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mueze Bawany dissects the Bears, starting with their lakefront stadium proposal. And moving onto Caleb Williams, who could be Chicago’s next superstar. But is still not worth spending public dollars on a stadium. And then—oh, just listen. Mueze is a high school football coach, an English teacher, political activist and the city’s foremost authority on all things football.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben and Ray Hanania tackle all the news of the week, including…campus protests, Congress antisemitism vote, 1968 history lessons, Bears stadium, and more. Also, Ray’s 70-30 like for Ed Burke. Ray is a columnist, political strategist, Cicero spokesperson and comedian. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Paul Vallas pleads on Ed Burke’s behalf. Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson discusses the concept of sacred cows in Chicago, campus protestors and Bears stadium. As in no one wants to pay for the Bears stadium, including the Bears. Also, an explanation of how the Sun-Times treats allegations of infidelity involving Jesse Jackson, Jr and Mayor Rahm. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Faris talks Third Parties, specifically the oddball presidential campaign of Robert Kennedy Jr. Also Trump makes a play for the Jewish vote by…insulting Jewish voters? And a few words about voter turnout. David is a columnist for Slate and Newsweek and a political science professor at Roosevelt University. 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.

There are two Chicagos that know nothing about the other. Rummana Hussain and Ben explain. Rummana is as editorial writer and 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.

Megan Jeyifo explains how Chicago’s been impacted by anti-abortion laws in Florida, Arizona, Idaho and other states currently controlled by MAGA. Megan is the executive director of the Chicago Abortion Fund. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben and Delmarie Cobb tear into the Bears and Mayor Johnson’s proposal to build a stadium on the lakefront. It may be the worst idea since…oh, you fill in the blanks. Forget the lakefront site—build it on 87th Street or just go to Arlington Heights. Then a few words about Gaza and abortion. Delmarie is s political strategist.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lefties try to figure out where they stand. Ben riffs. Congresswoman Delia Ramirez talks about her fist year in congress. Dealing with MAGA. Who’s more obnoxious—Darren Bailey or Marjorie Taylor Green. And why she voted how she did on Ukraine, Israel, TikTok and more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mayor Johnson signs on to the Bears’ lakefront stadium. Ben riffs—more like a howl to the moon. Monroe adds his thoughts. More howling ensues. How can they throw money at the Bears when there’s no money for schools? Then it’s on to Trump and his hush-money trial. What’s more likely—Trump gets convicted or Bears build a stadium on the lake?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

NBC hires Ronna McDaniel. Ben riffs. Delmarie Cobb riffs as well. Then it’s onto the issues of the day. Voter turnout. Selective transparency. Bears and Sox maneuvers. Why the hate for Mayor Johnson. Plus, valuable lessons she learned from her mother. Delmarie Cobb 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.

Abdon Pallasch and Bob Herguth talk about their recently released 12-episode podcast—Underbelly: The Rebel Kind. It tells the story of Dave Rupert, a truck driver who winds up as an FBI mole, insinuating his way to the highest ranks of the Real IRA. Yes, the IRA, as in Irish Republican Army. Bob and Abdon—investigative reporters in Chicago—met Dave and one thing led to another and the FBI started coming after them. What happed was—oh, just listen to Abdon and Bob tell the story.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brendan Shiller talks about the life and legacy of Slim Coleman, the longtime activist and organizer who recently died at the age of 80. Stick around for the part where Brendan schools Ben on what really matters in a man’s life. Then a few words about police and their investigations of other police. Brendan is, in no particular order, a criminal defense lawyer, a political strategist, the son of former Alderwoman Helen Shiller and a professional poker player.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben’s beloved Bright One tells him that life is futile and he must give up hope, Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson then tells Ben he’s a sucker for paying to read the Sun-Times. Then they launch a conversation about why MAGA likes O.J. more than they like Biden. And why did white north siders turn on Mayor Lightfoot. And all sorts of other stuff.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The city council talks TIFs. Ben riffs. Podcaster Marc Sims talks Coleman Hughes, The View, Joe Rogan, men and doctors and whether we can truly be color blind. And much more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The mainstreams in Chicago love to maximize lefty election losses and minimize their wins. As the continuing coverage of Tuesday’s primary proves. Ben riffs. Matt Ginsberg-Jaeckle explains the obstacles facing lefties in dealing with the mainstream media. As the coverage of Bring Chicago Home proves. He also defends Chicago voters from Ben’s accusation that they are dumb. Matt is a political activist on the northwest side. He wants you to know that his precinct voted yes on BCH.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

D’Frantz Smart talks all things women basketball. Including Dawn Staley, South Carolina, and Caitlin Clark. Also, why is the men’s college game struggling. And a few words about Ben’s beloved Bulls and Bucks coach Doc Rivers. D’Frantz is a former all-star for Whitney Young High School and one of the greatest point guards to come of Chicago. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zack Kam is the ex-Marine who burned a flag at a protest against Israel’s war in Gaza. After which several aldermen tried to punish Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez. He tells his story from being a kid growing up in Southern California to a marine in Afghanistan to 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.

Rummana Hussain takes the deep dive on all things O.J. Simpson, who died just a few days ago at age 76. Rummana is an editorial writer/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.

Pat Whalen and Ben go through a week’s worth of news. Including, positive press for the Mayor, abortion, Gaza and Nick Sposato. Well, Nick was last week’s news. But Pat can’t resist. Pat is a comedian and impresario.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

O.J. dies. Ben riffs. Trial lawyer Jim Coogan talks all things law. Including…how Trump is using Johnny Cochrane’s legal strategy. Ironically, since MAGA will never get over the O.J. Simpson verdict. Also, an analysis of Trump’s hush money case. Starting next week. And a bold prediction. Also, a few words about Anatomy of a Fall. Jim is the host of the podcast Coogan Knows the Law. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The day after Trump declares abortion is up to the stars, the Arizona supreme courts outlaws abortion. Ben riffs. And Monroe Anderson takes it from there. Also Aries Spears joins the show. Sorta…See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben missed the eclipse. He riffs about it. Stacy Davis Gates talks mayors, media and basketball. Lots of basketball. Stacy is the president of the Chicago Teachers Union. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sun-Times columnist tells it like it is about the Bears and Sox teaming up for handouts to find their stadium. Ben riffs. And then attorney Adolfo Mondragon takes the deep dive on the Supreme Court’s Colorado ruling. Basically, the justices are saying—if Trump wants to defy the law and constitution, we won’t stop him. “They have one job—protect democracy. And they wouldn’t do it.” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Everything Is lined up for Republicans to take control of the senate this year, but…They keep nominating MAGA lunatics as their senate candidates. Can the Republicans snatch defeat from the jaws of victory? David Faris examines that and other issues. David is a political science professor 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.

Ray Hanania and Ben talk all the news of this week and the news from the 1980s. As in…comparing the Lopez 16 to the Vrdolyak 29. Ray is, in no particular order, a Chicagoan, Revis high grad, Milt Rakove student, Air Force vet, former Bright One reporter, political strategist, Cicero spokesman, PR guru, comedian, pundit, proud Palestinian American and closeted conservative (don’t call him a Republican!). Check out his columns at www.Rayhanania.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The mainstreams hype Mayor Johnson’s latest downtown TIF deal without showing love for the mayor. Ben riffs. Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez talks about the Lopez 16 failed attempt to strip him of his housing committee chair. Then it’s on to how they took the 78 out of his ward. They really don’t like him. Byron is the alderman if the 25th ward. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kansas City voters reject handouts for Chiefs and Royals. Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson considers—how would Chicago vote if given the chance? No wonder they don’t give you such chances, Chicago. Also, how would Ice Cube vote on bring Chicago Home? What? Yes, Ice Cube. Would any capitalist anywhere vote for anything that would increase his taxes to help poor people. Also, Monroe’s advice for white people worried about Beyonce going country. And Monroe’s doubles down on his election prediction with a startling prediction about Florida. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The city council debates free expression and flag burning. Ben riffs. Political strategist Joanna Klonsky takes the high road, as she breaks down the recent Democratic primary for State’s Attorney. When one candidate defeats another candidate by a sliver, there’s a lot to break down. For the record, Ben wasn’t as gracious. Joanna was a strategist for Clayton Harris, who was defeated by Eileen O’Neill Burke. Also, a few words about women’s basketball.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Illinois Supreme Court suddenly discovers the Ed and Anne Burke conflict of interest. Ben riffs. Stacy Davis Gates talks democracy, the press and her friend the mayor. She asks: Why does the mainstream press in Chicago treat Right Wing operatives as legitimate news outlets? Is there a statute of limitations on mentioning that the mayor used to work for CTU? Also, a word or two about Mick Dumke and Greg Pratt—two legit reporters. Stacy is the president of the Chicago Teachers Union. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

No sooner does one campaign end, then another one starts. In this case Alderwoman Rossana Rodriguez had no sooner defeated the Iris Martinez/Richard Mell Machine, then the new Machine had started a campaign against her ally Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez. Rossana talks about both campaigns. She is the alderwoman and Democratic committeewoman of the 33rd ward. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rummana Hussain and Ben talk flag burning in Chicago. Why is Alderman Sigcho-Lopez being punished for something he didn’t do? And a few words about Nickelodeon. Rummana is an editorial writer/columnist for the Sun-Times. Her views and opinions 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.

Steve Krafft explains the the bizarre devolution of Kari Lake, the TV anchor he worked with for years in Arizona. She’s gone full MAGA and is running for senate in Arizona. Desperately trying to win some moderate independents and moderate Republicans, like the McCains. Also a few words on the ethics of hiring paid consultants. Steve covered politics in Arizona for over 20 years.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.