The Ben Joravsky Show

Hosts of the The Heartland Mamas Podcast, Murri Briel & Heidi Henry are a couple of left-of-center Democrats who have been battling Congressman Adam Kinzinger for years. Now they're watching him win praise for being one of the few Republicans to defy the MAGA cult that's taken control of the GOP. What's going on? Also, how does Mayor Lightfoot's battle with Chicago's teachers play in the Heartland?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guess who sent Ben a fundraising email? Marjorie Taylor Greene--that's who. Ben reads the email, so you don't have to. Also, Mayor Lightfoot lays down the law. Get back in that petri dish classroom right now, teachers! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chicago journalist Dave Glowacz--who writes the Inside Chicago Government website--returns with clips from the latest City Council meetings. Ben and Dave annotate the aldermanic orations the way literary scholars break down a baffling modernistic poem. What are they really saying when they talk about crime, taxes, TIFs and each other?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Legendary Chicago journalist Monroe Anderson tries not to laugh as he analyses the defense Trump's lawyers have mustered. Also, he takes a stab at defending the mayor's eagerness to send those teachers back to the classroom in the middle of a pandemic.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben analysis the creative defense concocted by President Donnie's lawyers to persuade MAGA senators to acquit him. Not that it will take much. And then there's the latest episode in the long-running city hall soap opera--a mayor and her aldermen.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chicago has made it back to phase 4 in Governor Pritzker's 5 phase strategy to safely re-open Illinois, Ben talks his new column all about the (soon to be) former Senator Heather Steans and Rahm Emanuel is still being considered for a position in Joe Biden's cabinetSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In These Times writer/editor, Miles Kamf-Lassin takes the deep dive on the need for Biden to go strong with a Bernie'-style stimulus plan. Also,he riffs on Gamestop traders. Time for a financial transaction tax, people!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben riffs on fashion. Specifically, tight-fitting yoga pants with a see-through bootie. Thank you, Karen, for the info. Also, Mayor Lightfoot goes on MSNBC with a clever political move to turn liberal north siders against the teachers union. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 2016, Courtney Copeland, was shot and killed in Chicago at the age of 22. His mother, Shapearl Wells--host of the podcast, Somebody-- has spent the last several years trying to get the truth from city officials as to what the police did in the final moments of her son's life. And how Courtney's life might have been saved if he'd been treated him differently. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Erika Weaver is a public defender and school board member from downstate Matoon, who ran for congress as a Democrat in the 15th congressional district. She lost to a Republican named Mary Miller, who's best known for saying, and I quote, "Hitler was right.". Heckuva job, voters. Weaver talks about the challenges of trying to win over Trump voters.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Washington Post writer Mark Guarino has been covering the case of Kyle Rittenhouse, the 18-year-old who killed two people this summer during riots in Kenosha. He reviews the characters in the case and explains how Rittenhouse had become a folk hero to MAGA.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sun-Times editor/columnist Rummana Hussain returns for her weekly rundown to ponder the question: What should we do about the wackos in the Republican Party? Also, what do the Woody Allens of the world mean when they rail against cancel culture. 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.

Ben breaks down the Gamestop story. Basically, gazillionaires want socialism for themselves and capitalism for everybody else. Also, Ben & Dr. D have the great Congressman Adam Kinzinger debate. Finally, is Mayor Lightfoot too tough to work for?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Podcaster/activist Sameena Mustafa may have moved to Cali. But she's got Chicago on her mind. Also, the dangers of Trumpism and the limits of centrist Dems to fight back strong.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben annotates the fundraising request of Sarah Huckabee Sanders, as she launches her campaign for governor of Arkansas. A mystery guest drops in to explain to Mayor Lightfoot why teachers don't trust CPS to make the schools safe for reopening. And Ben breaks down the latest effort by Rahm "I wanna be a columnist" Emanuel. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Konstantine Anthony is an labor activist and city council member in Burbank, California. He talks about trying to organize gig economy employees. And the counter punch of Proposition 22.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tulsi Gabbard weighs in on law and order. And Ben weighs in on Tulsi Gabbard. Also, Ben asks--why should teachers trust CPS if CPS can't clean the dead mice out of schools. And Monroe Anderson takes on MAGA.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sam Holloway is a Chicago firefighter of the leftist persuasion. He weighs in on the dangers of reopening schools without vaccinating employees and why we allow the vaccines to be controlled by profit-seeking companies. Also, his early reaction to the Biden presidency.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rupert Murdoch, of all people, whines about being cancelled. That sparks Ben to reflect on the life of Walter Bernstein, who really was cancelled. Also, if it’s so important that we reopen the schools, why won’t the mayor see to it that school employees are immediately vaccinated?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Co-founder of the Black Harvest Film Festival, Sergio Mims knows as much or more about movies than any man alive. So when he talks--you better listen! And he's says that Regina King's One Night in Miami is one of the best movies of the year. Also, he has lots of love for Sylvie's Love. So stop hating, haters.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For many years, Sue Ontiveros was a columnist/editor for the Sun-Times who specialized in standing up for the underdog. Now she's fighting to save the High Ridge YMCA from being closed. There's something wrong with a city that can't keep neighborhoods fortified with places people can swim, take classes and socialize. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gregory Pratt is the Tribunes’ City Hall reporter. He’s also the recently elected president of the paper’s Guild. He talks about how the union is facing dire cuts from Alden Capital, the hedge fund that owns it. He appeals to civic-minded Chicagoans to help save the paper. And briefly talks about his political coverage, demonstrating why daily newspapers are so crucial.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sun-Times editor/columnist Rummana Hussain covers all the week’s topics, including fashion at the inauguration. The monochrome look is in. But not as much as Bernie’s mittens. Was the whole thing an exercise in propaganda? Also,a preview of White Tiger.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In honor of Brian Urlacher pulling a fast one on President Donnie, Ben ranks MAGA's top ten favorites in the state. Dr. D does not make the list. Also, the latest on efforts by CPS officials to shut those teachers up and get `em back in a classroom.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Legendary talk show host Ken Davis returns and he's got a lot on his mind. From Biden to science to CTU v CPS to taking Trump off of Twitter. And, surprise, surprise, how moved he was by the inauguration.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben reviews the ups and down of the inauguration, complete with a poem he wrote. And Chicago Public Schools shows its compassion for teachers by bringing out the HR guy. Finally, speaker Welch shows he knows how to play the game.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two weeks ago, Monroe stopped in for his weekly visit as MAGA, instigated by too much Trump, ransacked the Capitol. Today he shows up as Joe Biden is sworn in as president. What a difference two weeks make. What lies ahead? Monroe makes more predictions.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It was about a year ago that In These Times editor/writer Miles Kampala-Lassin was knocking on doors in Iowa gif Bernie. Looking behind and ahead.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the leaders of Indivisible Chicago, Marj Halperin returns to talk about what's been done and what remains to be done for Democrats. Her message--enjoy the moment. But don't fall asleep after the inauguration--as in 2009. The midterms are closer than you realize.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One more day until Donald goes away. Also, Ald. Byron Sigcho- Lopez (25) Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson and CTU Vice President Stacy Davis-Gates from Monday's CTU Press Briefing. And breaking news from Heather Steans and Kelly "KC" Cassidy!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Defense lawyer and Reader writer Leonard Goodman talks about the impact of big money and corporate culture on the Dems. Even AOC.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In These Times writer and union activist Mindy Isser makes her Ben Joravsky Show debut. Among other things, she shames Ben for shaming Trump voters.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For years, political scientist David Faris had urged Democrats to play the game more like Republicans. By that he meant stop bring so gullible and naive. But after watching the insurrection and aftermath Faris had come to the conclusion that Party leaders have followed Trump off a cliff. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this weeks Rundown. Sun-Times editor/columnist Rummana Hussain asks whether the country has normalized racism and anti-Semitism.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben weighs in on Biden's trillion dollar stimulus plan. CPS still wants teacher and students back in the classrooms. And our new House Speaker speaks--audio from state Rep. Chris Welch.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President of the Chicago Prinicipals Association, Troy LaRaviere returns to talk about everything from reopening the schools in a pandemic to how Democrats should respond to the MAGA insurrection.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chicago Public Schools continue their plans to return to the classroom and the CTU continues their plans to not. Unfortunate recreational cannabis licensing news. Mayor Lightfoot's restaurant plan. Chris Welch is the new Speaker.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

WVON talk show host Atiba Buchanan breaks down the case for convicting Trump. And the Republican attempt to defend him. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last week, Monroe Anderson dropped by for his weekly appearance as MAGA insurrectionists, fired up by President Donnie, overtook the Capitol. This week he shows up as Democratic congressmen try to hold Trump accountable for his crimes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump impeached twice! The latest on the CTU vs the CPS. Emanuel Chris Welch is the new Speaker.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chicago Aldermen and women have asked for the resignation of Chicago Fraternal Order of Police's President. 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 has a lot on his mind. Specifically, race, politics & rock ‘n roll.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More of the same from Donald Trump and MAGA nation. A handful of students in Chicago have returned to the classroom. Is it still too soon? Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan did not get enough votes from his fellow Democrats in his re-election bid. What's next for Illinois Dems?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Twentieth ward Alderwoman Taylor is not one to hold back. And in this interview she tells it like it is about all the week's events from Washington to Georgia to right here in Chicago. Just when things are looking bleak, she and Ben sing some Stevie Wonder to make things feel a little better.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Meet Al Harrington, aka--The King of Cannabis. For 16 years, he was an NBA star for the Indiana Pacers, New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets and other teams. For the last several years, he's been the CEO of Viola Brands, a cannabis company. He and Ben and Lisa Solomon talk all things reefer, including how Al's grandmother helped him realize the healing powers of a joint. Also, the need to cut Black entrepreneurs into the expanding marijuana market.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

BONUS! The Political Know it Alls, Jacob Kaplan & Dan Pogorzelski, talk about the wider political ramifications about what went down on Wednesday, when Trump incited MAGA to storm the U.S. Capitol. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot lays out her plans for teachers, staff and students returning to the classroom.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In her weekly visit to the show, Rummana asks the question: What if the Trump-loving insurrectionists who besieged the U.S. Capitol were Black or Muslim? And then she takes it from there. Also, the great Rummana/Ben debate on Sylvie's Love.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben weighs in on MAGA lover/Senator Josh Hawley. Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot announces her pandemic school reopening plan. The Chicago Fraternal Order of Police President apologizes. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An Oakland Illinois politician quotes Hitler and our elected leaders (along with Ben Joravsky) are floored. Find out which Democrat is running to the head of the Illinois house?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.