The Ben Joravsky Show

Sun-Times columnist/editorial writer, Rummana Hussain talks R Kelly, Harvey Weinstein, the MAGA Supremes, Trump and other women haters. Also, a few words about why Cassidy Hutchinson's congressional testimony threw MAGA for a loop. And then something nice--Ted Lasso. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. D returns from his Alcation, which is what people call a vacation in Alton. He and Ben run through the election results from Tuesday's primary. Which means lots of talk about (not a) hog farmer Darren Bailey. And Kenny G, (no longer) the state's richest man. And Richard Irvin (not Irwin) and Jesse "I Love Cali" Sullivan and much much more. Including Dr. D's imitation of Jay Leno speaking like President Obama.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Saxophonist extraordinaire, Chico Freeman talks about the legacy of his family of great jazz musicians. And they came from Chicago. There's his father, Von, and his uncles, George and Bruz. Mike Allemana, a great jazz guitarist, who's played with Chico and George, joins the conversation about jazz in Chicago. And then Ben stuns one and with his not-so-fabulous rendition of Chico--from All in the Family, a classic album from Chico and George.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tucker Carlson blames some unnamed and probably fictitious high school counselor for the Fourth of July shootings in Highland Park. Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson & Mark Wallace, broadcaster/activist, ask the question: Has Trump given MAGA a license to kill? And a word or two from Chicago on Red Light cameras. Why do Chicago mayor's dislike democracy?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alderman Carlos Ramirez-Rosa and Alderwoman Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez describe the lunacy that is the Chicago City Council. They discuss speed cameras, Mayor Lightfoot, defer and publish, and the backlash against any elected official who dares to say we might consider different methods of fighting crime. As you will tell, they're Democratic Socialists and not afraid to admit it.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Political scientist David Faris analyzes the Texas Republican Party Platform. It's frightening, people. And it's also a blueprint for Illinois, if Republicans take over. Then a few words about President Biden going to Saudi Arabia. Finally, to relieve the madness, David talks baseball. Specifically, White Sox manager Tony La Russa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Activist/political strategist Heather Booth returns to talk about her role as a Jane. She was one of the founders of the underground network of Chicago women who called themselves Jane and ran illegal abortion clinics in the pre-Roe days of the late `60s and early `70s. With the Supremes ready to eviscerate Roe, Heather sends out the warning. It's time to fight for what you believe. Listen to Heather and then see The Janes, the documentary on HBO.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A former Marine, Toni talks about patriotism, policing & the Fourth of July.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

MAGA wants Miranda rights for themselves, even as the MAGA supremes are prepared to eliminate it for everyone else. Ben riffs. And criminal defense lawyer April Preyar returns to discuss the state of justice in America. Not so good. Also, April offers her analysis of three major trials--Smollett, Rittenhouse and Heard/Depp. April Prayer knows her stuff!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Yesterday's primary vote has been counted and it's official--Republican voters in Illinois have lost their little MAGA minds. Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson talks Cassidy Hutchinson testimony. Looks like the January 6 congressional committee found a John Dean witness. And attorney Adolfo Mondragon explores several what ifs. Such as--what if Kevin McCarthy and the other MAGA congressmen had participated in the congressional investigation instead of pretending it didn't exist?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Comedian/talk show host Scott Duff returns to deliver a state of the union. And it's a mixed bag. On the one hand, you got Trump & MAGA and all their diabolical toxins. But on the other hand, you got Everything Everywhere All At Once. Which, if not the antidote, surely helps. Shout out to Michelle Yeoh.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sun-Times editorial writer/columnist Rummana Hussain breaks down her latest column. It's about how politics in India plays in Chicago. As Chicagoans struggle to fit things they don't understand into a familiar U.S. narrative.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

William Barr testifies that Trump's election lie was bullshit. And 75 percent of Republicans say they believe it anyway. Ben riffs. Then Terry Cosgrove of Personal Pac returns to say stop wringing your hands and get to work. In particular, there are several crucial elections that the Dems must win if they are to keep reproductive rights in Illinois. Two are for the state supreme court. Take notes, folks--Terry knows his politics.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

June 10, 2022: Mayor Lightfoot announces she's running for re-election. That's just one of this week's news stories about which Ben & Dr. D riff. Also, Darren Bailey moves way ahead of Richard Irvin in the polls. Does Ben owe MAGA an apology? A few campaign commercials annotated. Plus, a word or two or three about the Illinois State Stone. And we don't mean Dr. D.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Adam Cohen, a good friend of Ben's family, died at the age of 29. Ben reflects. And then it's a Chicago Reader Special as managing editor Salem Collo-Julin and theater critic Kerry Reid talk about the latest issue. One thing leads to another as the conversation flows from Fritz to Kina to Prince to Precious to cullud watta, the sensational new play at the Victory Gardens Theater. Kerry says--run don't walk to see it!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

MAGA has fallen in love with Elon Musk, who made his fortune selling cars to liberals. Ben riffs. And Tribune reporter Gregory Pratt returns for what we hope becomes a regular feature--Greg's Twitter page! Ben & Greg run through his latest tweets, taking the deep dive on Mayor Lightfoot, Johnny "I love MAGA" Kass, the mayors texts and more. Much more...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ray Charles says Elvis is a "punk" not a king. Ben riffs. And Monroe Anderson breaks down the January 6 insurrection hearings. William Barr, Rusty Bowers, Ivanka and more. Then podcaster/environmentalist Mike Nowak joins the conversation. Talking about the state of the Republican Party, Watergate, Mark Felt, health care, a night in the emergency room and more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Podcaster Marc Sims returns to talk crime & politics. Or the politics of crime. More specifically, what politicians don't tell you about the message they're conveying.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Former Vice President Mike Pence comes to Chicago and makes a speech. Ben riffs. And Maya Dukmasova from Injustice Watch returns. Time for a deep dive on Injustice's judicial evaluation site. For Ben, it's like eating fried chicken--once he starts he cannot stop. The back story of judges is fascinating.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Radio newsman turned aggregator Charlie Meyerson returns to discuss the method to his madness, or the madness to his method, of writing the Public Square, his daily online column. Not sure he calls it a column. And a word or two about classic rock `n roll djs...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

April 22, 2022--Ben & Dr. D riff on the week's news. But first...a brutally honest message from Neil Young. Or, Chicago's Neil Young. Then it's on to the deep dive about which candidate has how much money. A riff or two about MAGA and race. And then a thought or two about Johnny C--the magiest MAGA Man in Chicago.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For the June 7, 2022 First Tuesdays Show, Ben & Maya talked politics. I mean, folks, this is a deep dive for serious students of the political game. Sorry, rookies--no hand-holding here. Lots of talk about the Republican primary for governor and the Democratic primary for secretary of state, followed by and excursions into congressional and statehouse races. Rachel is an investigative reporter for the Better Government Association. And Tina is chief political reporter for the Sun-Times. Maya Dukmasova is, of course, a senior reporter for Injustice Watch. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Voting guide time! Ben riffs. And Monroe Anderson reviews the good and bad news from yesterday's Republican primaries in South Carolina & Nevada. More MAGA madness. And journalist Maya Goldberg-Safir returns with an update on Brittney Griner, the great basketball player. For the last four months, Griner's been held in a Russian prison on bogus drug charges. Looks like Putin wants to "swap" Griner for Viktor Bout, an arms dealer imprisoned in the U.S.A.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

By chance, Ben began the day seeing an on-this-day-picture from 2015 of Troy LaRaviere on stage at the Hideout with the great Karen Lewis. That gets Ben & Troy--president of the Chicago Principals Association--talking about then v. now. Have we regressed as a civilization? Troy analyzes the Republican proposal to put armed teachers in the classroom. Then Troy gives everyone a budget lesson in school finances, as he explain the not-so-hidden agenda of the mayor and her educational allies. And, finally, a word or two about House Music.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trib's editorial board endorses a Republican candidate for governor. Ben riffs. And Dave Glowacz--the pride and joy of Inside Chicago Government--returns with city council clips. Yes, you Chicago City Council in action. Ward map, curfew, special meetings, casino and more. What a city. What a council. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

June 3, 2022: The time has come for Ben & Dr. D to riff on a week's worth of news. Even if Ben has COVID. And so riff they do, starting with...Alderman Rod Sawyer announces he's running for mayor. Mayor Lightfoot scoffs. And then throws an elbow. And then to provide commentary on all three Republican governor debates, a mystery guest appears. Yes, this mystery guest watched all three debates. What up, Frank! Give Frank a medal. Together Ben, Frank & the Dr. try to figure out the difference between Paul Schimpf and Gary Rabine. Is there a difference? Can there be a winner if all the debaters are lunatics? And more...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Movie producers Steve Cohen and Paula Froehle return to talk about Doc10, their documentary festival that starts May 19 at the Davis Theater and the Gene Siskel Theater. This year's festival opens with The Janes, about the underground network that helped women get access to safe abortions in the days before Roe. Obviously, it's more relevant than ever. Also, there's Ron Howard's documentary and...well, let Steve & Paula 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.

State Rep. Kelly Cassidy comes up with a very funny line about Mayor Lightfoot's critics. Ben riffs. And Monroe Anderson returns to talk Trump, insurrectionists, congressional investigators, the backlash and more. Including, Pryor & Carlin.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mia Henry--eduator and activist for freedom--makes her debut to talk the state of the union. Including identity, violence, the lessons of the past and what she calls, "the undeclared war this country has on its people."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben finally gets around to watching the HBO documentary about the great George Carlin. Well, the first half anyway. And now he can't stop talking about it. And Peter Cunningham--political speechwriter and great thinker--returns to talk crime & backlash. As usual, he's a voice of logic in a world driven crazy by law `n order rhetoric. Under Peter's withering cross-examination, Ben has to sort of apologize to Arne Duncan. 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.

In the aftermath of mass shootings in Buffalo and Texas, Political scientist David Faris returns to talk about the Gun Cult that has taken over the Republican Party. And why how it's kept our country from enacting sane gun laws. Then a word or two about Thomas Friedman and his milkshake with President Biden. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Indivisible Illinois hosted a virtual meeting on running for congress. And Ben was the moderator. (Thank you, Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth for the invite!) The guests--congressional candidates Kina Collins and Litesa Wallace. Kina is running against incumbent Danny K. Davis in the 7th district and Litesa is running for the open seat in the 17th congressional district. Conversation covers abortion rights, gun safety, and the challenges of running an up hill fight against incumbents backed by Nancy Pelosi. And more...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben & Dr. D riff on a week's worth of the latest local political news. Such as...Richard Irvin ditches the Republican debate. Darren Bailey tries to soften his MAGA rough edges with a commercial dedicated to his hands. Sean Casten makes a move for the suburban swing vote. And in Chicago, Bill Conway suggests he's running for mayor. As Congressman Quigley drops out of the race he never really entered. And Mayor Lightfoot says she'll probably run. What happens if no one runs?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sun-Times writer Rummana Hussain returns to ask the question--why has Kyle Rittenhouse fallen in love with Johnny Depp? What do Kim Kardashian and Chuck Taylor All Stars have in common? What's the latest goop from Gwyneth Paltrow? And more...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rod Sawyer--son of Mayor Sawyer--announce he's running for his father's old job. Ben riffs. And the Renaissance Man, Sergio Mims, returns to talk politics, Chicago & movies. Not necessarily in that order. He explains the concept of the "safe Negro". Also, potholes, casino, Black Lives Matter scandal and word or two or three about Operation Mincemeat. Finally, remember his prediction--President Biden will choose not to run for re-election.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The feds argue that corrupt ex Alderman Danny Solis is actually sort of a hero. Ben riffs. And Alderwoman Jeanette Taylor returns to tackle all the tough issues of the day. Curfew, crime, Ukraine, Buffalo, ward map, CTU, mayor's race and abortion rights. And why do we spend $54 billion on Ukraine and look the other way from Englewood? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congressional Dems go to bat for congressional incumbents. Ben riffs. And Kina Collins--candidate for congress in the 7th congressional--talks about her upbattle campaign against incumbent Danny K. Davis. And former Green Party candidate LeAlan Jones returns to talk violence and culture and Top Gun. And are we really surprised people love their weapons.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Right before today's show, Ben makes a call to Tom Brune, a great journalist and friend from the distant past. And their conversation about the old days offers insight into what's going on in Chicago right now. Ben riffs. And then Miles Kampf-Lassin, editor/writer for In These Times, returns to talk national politics. Specifically, MAGA's take over of the Republican Party and the nomination of a gubernatorial candidate in Pennsylvania who believes Trump's election lies. Is this the end of democracy? Miles tries to talk Ben off the ledge. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Democrats seem to think reproductive rights will be here forever in Illinois. Ben riffs on their delusion. And then election lawyer Ed Mullen delivers a primer on the state supreme court. MAGA is poised to take over, if Dems keep sleeping. And that's bad news for reproductive rights in the state. So, wake up, Dems!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May 6, 2022: Mayor Lori Lightfoot picks a site for Chicago's casino! That's the big news of the week. Ben and Dr. D riff away. Also, Chicago makes a pitch for the Democratic convention. Ben has a few things to say about that as well. And guess who's ahead in the Republican governor primary? The answer lets you know that MAGA can be bought. All that and more of a week's worth of news.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben got COVID. Which explains the coughing. Ben riffs, while coughing. And Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez returns to talk about his city council exchanges with Mayor Lightfoot over the casino and a zoning dispute in 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.

Great article in Sun-Times about upcoming teachers union election. Ben riffs. And attorney Jim Coogan returns to talk privacy rights. Or, what's at stake if Supreme Court really does say you have no right to private conversations with your doctor as to what it's in your best health interest. Or no right to do what you want with another consenting adult in your bedroom. Who controls MAGA? It's scary, folks.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nineteen children murdered in a school in Texas. And still Republicans block gun control. Monroe Anderson talks about the gun culture in America. And weighs in on Tim Anderson & Josh Donaldson. And Andrew Ellison--the election whiz kid, returns to analyze the results of yesterday's primaries in Georgia & Texas. Andrew is the the second coming of Steve Kornacki.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Political scientist David Faris takes a moment to reflect on the political madness of the last six years. Can the Republicans move further to the right without falling off the planet? Is there a rhyme or reason on Schumer's senate strategy? Also, an I told you so, or two, about the MAGA Supremes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the aftermath of Smith slapping Rock and fan tackling David Chapelle, standup comics have to wonder--are they safe on stage. Stand up comics and podcast partners, Rachel Joravsky & Cody Wilkins talk standup comedy in the age of the assault. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Latino and Black caucuses in the city council cut a deal on the ward map. Ben riffs. And Alderman Carlos Ramirez Rosa--who was part of deal making--explains. Then Dave Glowacz--from Inside Chicago Government--returns for another city council review. In this case, he dissects the April 27 meeting, which includes passionate debate on Mayor Lightfoot's gas card proposal and more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President Biden sort of leaked that he would be nominating Mayor Rahm to be ambassador to Japan. Ben can't help but riff. Also, more Rahm talk from Mick Dumke--ace Pro Publica reporter and Ben's former partner in crime at the Reader. From there it's a hop and skip and jump to a Ben/Mick gabfest about all the political news of the day.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Editorial writer/columnist for the Sun-Times, Rummana Hussain talks crime. In Chicago and Buffalo. We know what the problem is, but we don't do anything about it so we look to short-term solutions that aren't solutions at all. Then it's on to more frivolous topics. Heard v. Depp. And finally, the launching of the Rummana Book Club.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May 13, 2022. Just as we're about to start the show there's...Breaking News! Paris Schutz from WTTW reports that Richard Irvin, Republican candidate for governor, has called Trump an idiot and a racist. Could be trouble in MAGA paradise. That's just one news item Ben & Dennis riff on. Also, in the news...Kam Buckner announces he's running against Mayor Lightfoot. Darren Bailey could win, if Trump endorses him. But will Trump dare to upset Kenny G? Than and much more, including...a weather report.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Word breaks that the Supreme Court has already written the decision to overturn Roe and take America back to the middle ages. Ben riffs. And state rep. Kelly Cassidy explains the consequences for women. Also, once MAGA's supreme court robots get rid of privacy as a constitutional right, gay marriage, trans rights and interracial marriage are next to go. Also, Anton Seals, from Greater Grow Englewood, talks about Whole Foods leaving his community.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.