Chicago Power Poll
These are conversations about the most pressing civic issues in Chicago, hosted by Thom Serafin. We’ll get into what’s trending and why with a panel of newsmakers and news shakers. The Serafin Power Poll is an interactive polling platform that surveys business, civic, media, and political insiders about the attitudes and opinions that shape the moves of the Chicago’s most influential leaders.
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Pope Leo XIV comes home, political labels, and social hierarchy
08/17/2026
Pope Leo XIV comes home, political labels, and social hierarchy
The August 2026 edition of the podcast with brings a downpour of opinions. Once again, Thom welcomes the Dean of Chicago political reporters . Our special guest this month is an Emmy Award-winning Chicago radio & television personality, author, actress, and multi-platform journalist. We're pleased to welcome Jenniffer Weigel to our show. Jen is now the managing director of . This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: If Pope Leo XIV were to visit Chicago for a special public event or mass in 2027, would you attend? A new Washington Post–Ipsos poll found that “only 39% percent” of all American voters would consider voting for a presidential candidate who identifies as a Democratic Socialist. How would you have answered that question? How would you rate the current process in the Illinois House for receiving, reviewing, and acting on complaints of sexual misconduct? Would you support or oppose Illinois suspending the gas tax that helps fund public transportation? What are the three things you believe are most important to your quality of life? Thom, Mike, and Jen will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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Chicago baseball fever, tollway bait & switch, and candidate multiplication
07/20/2026
Chicago baseball fever, tollway bait & switch, and candidate multiplication
Our July 2026 edition of the podcast with carries a hot breeze off the lake. Once again, Thom welcomes the Dean of Chicago political reporters . Our special guest this month is one of the most respected voices over three decades on Chicago radio. You've heard Steve Cochran on legendary stations like WLUP, WLS, and WGN. Now you can follow his show on the podcast . Steve wit and wisdom can also be read on . This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: What is your overall opinion of the proposed 45-cent increase for passenger tolls and 30% hike in commercial tolls. Does the practice of filing for two different political offices affect your view of a candidate's sincerity, focus, and commitment to taxpayers? Which summer activity best reflects how you enjoy Chicago this time of year? How much does the success of both the White Sox and the Cubs add to your enjoyment of summer in Chicago? Thinking about stress levels with the people closest to you, how would you describe their overall sense of well‑being and enjoyment of daily life these days? Thom, Mike, and Steve will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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Obama Center impact, life on other planets, and a Bears bluff?
06/15/2026
Obama Center impact, life on other planets, and a Bears bluff?
Our June 2026 edition of the podcast with is taps into new levels of visionary leadership. Once again, Thom welcomes the Dean of Chicago political reporters . This month's special guest is the counselor's counselor, and advisor to Fortune 500 companies globally, . This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: The Bears say they're moving to Hammond, Indiana. How do you feel about the move? Who do you believe is most resposible, if the Bears move to Indiana? When you walk the streets of Chicago, what does your gut/instinct tell you about our city life? After the release of federal UFO videos, has your belief in life on other planets changed? What do you expect the Obama Presidential Center's impact to be on the city over the next few years? Thom, Mike, and Jack will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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Reviving downtown, mayoral front runners, and dinner with a cabinet member
05/18/2026
Reviving downtown, mayoral front runners, and dinner with a cabinet member
Our May 2026 edition of the podcast with is stirring the pot with six new questions. Once again, Thom welcomes the Dean of Chicago political reporters . This month's special guest is another veteran journalist, Axios Chicago's . This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: How would you rate your confidence in Chicago’s overall business climate? Which factor most influences your confidence level in Chicago's 2027 business climate? Who among the potential candidates for Mayor of Chicago are most likely to emerge as the top three contenders? With the recent Hantavirus outbreak, how confident are you in the federal government’s ability to handle emerging global health threats? Has the outbreak influenced your upcoming travel, event-hosting, or public-facing decisions? Given the opportunity, who would you most like to have dinner with from the President Trump's cabinet? Thom, Mike, and Justin will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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Term limits, mayoral smarts, and to the Moon or Mars?
04/13/2026
Term limits, mayoral smarts, and to the Moon or Mars?
Our April 2026 edition of the podcast with is showering you with five fresh questions. Once again, Thom welcomes the Dean of Chicago political reporters . Mr. Flannery will once again dazzle you with his word of the day. This month's special guest is , former CEO of the Chicago Public Schools and an education superintendent famous for rebuilding the New Orleans schools in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Which leadership quality is most essential for Chicago's next mayor? What best describes your opinion of how the city is managing "teen takeovers" in the Loop and nearby neighborhoods How concerned are you that the war in Iran might lead to broader conflict and more American casualties? Do you believe now is the right time for the U.S. to resume human travel to the moon? Are term limits necessary to improve the effectiveness of Congress? Thom, Mike, and Paul will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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The Hammond Bears, Affordability Scores, and Iranian Implications
03/16/2026
The Hammond Bears, Affordability Scores, and Iranian Implications
Our March 2026 edition of the podcast with is here to stir your thinking with five fresh questions impacting the region. Once again, Thom welcomes the Dean of Chicago political reporters . This month's special guest is , host of The Real Story on WIND Radio. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: What does the Bears-Indiana negotiation signal about our region's competitive landscape? How will a St. Patrick's Day primary affect voter behavior? Which rising cost has become your "affordabilty" nightmare this year? What's your biggest concern about the U.S-Iran confict? Share your biggest consideration on whether Illinois should opt into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Program Thom, Mike, and Amy will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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The NFL's Date with Bad Bunny, Gaming Illinois' Presidential Primary, and Chasing the Winter Olympics
02/16/2026
The NFL's Date with Bad Bunny, Gaming Illinois' Presidential Primary, and Chasing the Winter Olympics
Feel the love of our February 2026 edition of the podcast with . Our power pollers emptied their sizeable wisdom on 5 new questions. Once again, Thom welcomes the Dean of Chicago political reporters . This month's special guest is the CEO & President of The Urban Center, This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Should Illinois move its Presidential primary to first-in-the-nation for 2028? What was the NFL's strategic intent with Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show? Should the U.S. pursue hosting future Winter Olympics? After the DOJ's release of 3M+ pages of Epstein files, what should legislators prioritize? What are your Valentine's Day Plans? Thom, Mike, and Juan will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.s
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Chicago Pride Check, the Maduro move, and ICE accountability
01/19/2026
Chicago Pride Check, the Maduro move, and ICE accountability
Welcome to Season 3: the January 2026 edition of the podcast with . Our power pollers have downloaded their wisdom on seven revealing questions. Once again, Thom will tap into the quick wit of veteran Chicago political journalist . This month's special guest is a 30-year veteran of Crain's Chicago Business. is also the former political editor at Chicago Magazine, and the Lerner Newspapers. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: What's your opinion on immigration enforcement and civil liberties? How should the U.S. respond to the protests in Iran? Was the capture of Venezuelan president Nicolàs Maduro necessary? What priorities should Chicago set for the city to truly thrive? Where should the city put its hands and heart when it comes to community service? If the Bears make it all the way to the Super Bowl, do you plan to make the trip?* Why have hundreds of Chicago restaurants closed their doors in recent years? Thom, Mike, and Greg will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode. *NOTE: This month's power poll was conducted prior to the Bears' loss to Los Angeles in the divisional round of the NFL playoffs.
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Chicago's budget wakeup call, our public safety score, and a parade of resolutions
12/22/2025
Chicago's budget wakeup call, our public safety score, and a parade of resolutions
Let's unwrap our December 2025 edition of the podcast with . Our power pollers have spoken loudly on five fresh questions, put high expectations on themselves for 2026. Once again, Thom will harness the wisdom of veteran Chicago political journalist . This month's special guest is an award-winning journalist who has graced the newsrooms of the Chicago Sun-Times, the Chicago Tribune, and WBEZ -- now works the Chicago beat for Axios. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you favor raising Chicago's revenue through a corporate head tax or alternative fees? Which city priority should be protected most when considering budget cuts? How safe have you felt when holiday shopping in Chicago's downtown hot spots? What should legislators do to prevent mass shooting events? Let's hear your New Year's resolution for 2026. Thom, Mike, and Monica will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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Head taxes, ICE aftermath, and the holidays rollercoaster
11/24/2025
Head taxes, ICE aftermath, and the holidays rollercoaster
Here's our November 2025 edition of the podcast with . Our power pollers have packed some gratitude and gravitas into our Thanksgiving week episode. Once again, Thom will feast on the results with veteran Chicago political journalist This month's special guest is nine-time Emmy winning journalist . This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: What was your take on the resolution that ended the recent government shutdown? How do you interpret the impact of the recent ICE enforcement actions in Chicago? What would be the business effect of Mayor Johnson's proposed employee head tax? In 2026, which business priority is most urgent for your organization? When someone close to you is struggling through the holidays, how do you offer support? Thom, Mike, and Anne will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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The Slots, The Stocks, and a Fragile Middle East Peace
10/20/2025
The Slots, The Stocks, and a Fragile Middle East Peace
Welcome to the October 2025 edition of the podcast with . Our power pollers have packed some big thinking into their responses six new questions. Thom will analyze the results with veteran Chicago political journalist This month's special guest is former Illinois State Senator . This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Should Chicago legalize slot machines for all bars and at O'Hare and Midway airports? How seriously do you take predictions of a stock market crash or serious correction? Do you feel safer in the Chicago metro area now that city officials and the media are reporting declining crime rates? How personally invested were you in the Cubs' 2025 postseason run? Do you believe President Donald Trump deserves serious recognition for his role in advancing peace in the Middle East? Do you celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday in a special or meaningful way? Thom, Mike, and Bill will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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Chicago's dollars & sense, ICE invasion, and the scooter dilemma
09/15/2025
Chicago's dollars & sense, ICE invasion, and the scooter dilemma
Welcome to the September 2025 edition of the podcast with . Our power pollers have packed some big thinking into their responses to five new questions. Thom will analyze the results with veteran Chicago political journalist This month's special guest is Illinois State Comptroller . This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: How would you rate Mayor Brandon Johnson's handling of Chicago's fiscal crisis? Do you support potential federal deployment of National Guard troops to aid ICE operations in Chicago? Should the Democratic Party prioritize including a downstate native on future tickets to appeal to rural voters? Do you believe Governor J.B. Pritzker's approach with the Trump administration serves Illinois' interests? What is your view on the impact of scooters and eBikes on Chicago’s streets? Thom, Mike, and Susana will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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The gerrymandering game, a Bears mega-tax break, and D.C. guard duty
08/17/2025
The gerrymandering game, a Bears mega-tax break, and D.C. guard duty
Welcome to the August 2025 edition of the podcast with . Our power pollers have levied their thoughts on five new issues. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist This month's special guest is , veteran statehouse reporter, Chicago Tribune alum, and author of the book — Ray is also a two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Governor Pritzker has supported Texas Democrats fleeing Texas redistricting battles. What’s your take on the Governor’s actions? What do you think is the biggest reason people are moving out of Illinois? Should the Illinois legislature pass the 'Mega Projects' property tax-break bill for the Bears? President Trump has deployed the National Guard to Washington D.C. and placed the D.C. police under his control. What do you think of this decision by the President? Illinois and California Democrats, have announced they will gerrymander their congressional maps in response to Texas Republican plans to get rid of five Democrat-held seats. What do you think of this response? Thom, Mike, and Ray will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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NASCAR's Chicago future, the most influential Illinoisans, and the vibe on crime
07/21/2025
NASCAR's Chicago future, the most influential Illinoisans, and the vibe on crime
Welcome to the July 2025 edition of the podcast with . Our power pollers have poured their wisdom into 5 new topics. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist This month's special guest is , long-time anchor of the CBS2 10pm news and an award-winning journalist. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Should the City of Chicago sign a new agreement with NASCAR for more street races? If former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Governor J.B. Pritzker both run for President in 2028 -- who has the strongest ability to succeed? How satisfied are you with the city's efforts to reduce crime? Which Illinoisan has had the greatest influence on the state's national reputation? What's more likely to happen: The White Sox have a worse season than last year, The Cubs win the World Series, or the Bears move to Arlington Heights? Thom, Mike, and Linda will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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The National Guard Debate, Sin Taxes, and Transit's Fiscal Cliff
06/16/2025
The National Guard Debate, Sin Taxes, and Transit's Fiscal Cliff
Welcome to the June 2025 edition of the podcast with . Our power pollers have spoken their minds on 5 new topics. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist This month's special guest is , a veteran television journalist for over two decades. Joan now guards the topics of the day, as the host of afternoon drive on WCPT Radio in Chicago. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you approve of President Trump's decision to call the California National Guard into federal service? How concerned are you about massive service cuts to public transit, since Illinois' new budget ingored the RTA's $771 million fiscal cliff? What do you think is the primary reason for Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's declining popularity? Should taxpayers provide financial support to the Chicago Bears for their new stadium? The U.S. Justice Department has launched an investigation into Chicago's hiring practices. What do you think about the Mayor's hiring for city positions? Do you support the State of Illinois' new taxes on sports betting, tobacco, and other items as a means to balance the budget? Thom, Mike, and Joan will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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Pope Leo XIV's hometown, snap curfews, and funding freezes
05/19/2025
Pope Leo XIV's hometown, snap curfews, and funding freezes
Welcome to the May 2025 edition of the podcast with . Our power pollers have spoken their minds on 5 new topics. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome special guest John Dempsey, an award-winning Chicago journalist who has graced the newsrooms of WBEZ, Fox32, WBBM NewsRadio, WMAQ, and WLS-AM. John is now the host of the podcast This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: What's the best way for Chicago to welcome Pope Leo XIV, the next time he visits his hometown? Should Chicago police be authorized to issue "snap curfews" for teens? How would you rate Mayor Brandon Johnson's relationship with the city's business community? What concerns do you have about the current federal funding freeze on research at universities like Northwestern? Rate the effectiveness of Mayor Johnson's efforts to secure state funds for the City of Chicago. Thom, Mike, and John will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.
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The tangle of tariffs, Chicago exits, and the EV averse
04/21/2025
The tangle of tariffs, Chicago exits, and the EV averse
Here are April's showers. Welcome to another edition of the podcast with . Our power players answer 5 new questions, that impact work and play. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome special guest , seven-time Emmy winner, and former host of "U & Me in the Morning on Chicago's WCIU-TV. Jeanne is a well-known radio radio personality (WGCI & V103), and just published her first book, . This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you agree with the Trump administration's recent tariff announcements? Atlanta, Houston, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Phoenix, and St. Louis are the most popular destinations when Chicagoans leave our city. Which choice surprised you most? Do you own an EV, or would you consider buying one in 2025? Which notable Illinois politician would make the best conversation over dinner? What's your favorite outdoor spot to experience spring in Chicago? Thom, Mike, and Jeanne will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on the April 2025 edition of our show.
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The Mayor goes to Washington, Trump's report card, and "so long" cell phones
03/17/2025
The Mayor goes to Washington, Trump's report card, and "so long" cell phones
Beware the queries of March. Welcome to another edition of the podcast with . Our power players answer 5 new questions, with Illinois on a collision course with our nation's capital. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome special guest , a seasoned storyteller and story chaser, as a Chicago journalist. The veteran radio host (WGN & WBEZ) now writes daily at Axios.com. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you think Chicago's government needs a city charter? Should cell phones be banned in Chicago Public Schools? How would you rate Mayor Brandon Johnson's appearance before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform? Is Donald Trump on the right track with his recent policies and actions? Will Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker make a run for the Presidency? Thom, Mike, and Justin will share our Power Poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the March 2025 edition of our show.
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Blago's pardon, the penny's demise, and Kendrick Lamar's halftime score
02/17/2025
Blago's pardon, the penny's demise, and Kendrick Lamar's halftime score
Buckle up for the February 2025 edition of the podcast with . The month brings 5 new questions, and with some breaking news on Illinois' former governor. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome special guest , a Southwest Side civic treasure. Mr. Sheahan is former Director of the Mayor's Office of Special Events, and a self-described Irish thoroughbred. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: How would you rank Chicago's most pressing civic issues? Who is most likely to run against Brandon Johnson in Chicago's next mayoral election? Fill in the blank. The Super Bowl halftime show starring Kendrick Lamar was _________. Was former Governor Rod Blagojevich deserving of a Presidential pardon? Do you support President Donald Trump's decision to stop production of the penny? Thom, Mike, and "Skinny" Sheahan will share our Power Poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the February edition of our show.
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Madigan's big bet, the burning in California, and Panama's canal?
01/20/2025
Madigan's big bet, the burning in California, and Panama's canal?
Welcome to Season 2 -- the January 2025 edition of the podcast with . The new year brings 5 new questions, and some fascinating conversation about the poll results. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome a special guest who spent ten years in the U.S. Congress representing the citizens of Illinois' 17th District. is a Springfield native and partner at Mercury Public Affairs. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Should the United States take back the Panama Canal? Do you believe the California fires could have been prevented? Will the testimony of Mike Madigan help or hurt his defense on racketeering charges? Will the U.S. be better off after year one of Donald Trump's next Presidency? Should the Illinois legislature pass a bill allowing for a recall of mayoral elections? Thom, Mike, and Congresswoman Bustos will share our Power Poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the January edition of our show.
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DOGE daylight, birthright citizens, and Durbin for Senate?
12/16/2024
DOGE daylight, birthright citizens, and Durbin for Senate?
Here comes our December '24 edition of the podcast with . We'll get some heavy chat with 5 new questions, and analyze the results. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome syndicated columnist , "The Money Lady" who also enlightens audiences weekly on WGN Radio & TV. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you think Daylight Saving Time should be eliminated? Is birthright citizenship a policy that can be abused? After 42 years on both Houses of Congress, will Senator Dick Durbin retire? Have Americans forgotten the true meaning of Christmas? Will your holidays include a warmer climate getaway, or will you brave the Chicago cold? Thom, Mike, and Terry will share our Power Poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the December edition of our show.
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Pritzker's next move, Chicago's budget game, and Illinois' Trump-effect
11/18/2024
Pritzker's next move, Chicago's budget game, and Illinois' Trump-effect
Time for our November '24 edition of the podcast with . We'll get into our post-election chat with 5 new questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome ABC7's award-winning political reporter . This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Is Donald Trump's return to the White House a positive for lllinois' economic health? What was the number one issue that drove voters to cast their ballots for Trump? Do you believe Illinois Governor JB Pritzker will pursue the Presidency in 2028? How would you resolve the City of Chicago's nearly $1 billion budget deficit? Are you planning on dining or shopping in downtown Chicago this holiday season? Thom, Mike, and Craig will share our Power Poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the November edition of our show.
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The CTU Power Grab, Hybrid Work Hype, and the Bears in the Playoffs?
10/21/2024
The CTU Power Grab, Hybrid Work Hype, and the Bears in the Playoffs?
Here's our October '24 edition of the podcast with . We'll stir the pot with 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome one of the coolest heads in Chicago politics, . He's run the Chicago Park District, the Chicago Transit Authority, and also served as CEO of the Chicago Public Schools. Claypool's new book, , recounts his time as Mayor Richard M. Daley's chief of staff. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: How do you feel about Mayor Brandon Johnson's influence over the Board of Education? Do you believe the new school board will make significant improvements in public ed? What to you think of the shift away from remote work? What issues do you think voters care most about in the upcoming Presidential election? Following the Bears big win in London, how confident are you in their playoff chances? Thom, Mike, and Forrest will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the October edition of our show.
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Shotspotter, CPS turmoil, and CTA ghost trains
09/30/2024
Shotspotter, CPS turmoil, and CTA ghost trains
Here's our September '24 edition of the podcast with . We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome the Emmy Award winning journalist, , contributing reporting for Fox32 Chicago. Anne also teaches investigative journalism at DePaul University. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you think Chicago's Shotspotter gun shot detection technology helped save lives? Should the Chicago Public School Board vote to oust Superintendent Pedro Martinez? Would it be a good idea for the U.S. Surgeon General to place a warning on social media? Is the CTA effectively serving the people of Chicago? Do voters need another presidential debate to decide which candidate will get their vote. Thom, Mike, and Anne will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the September edition of our show.
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Chicago's DNC grade, its MVP, and Bears in the playoffs?
09/03/2024
Chicago's DNC grade, its MVP, and Bears in the playoffs?
Here's our DNC edition of the podcast with . We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome host NBC5's "Chicago Today, . Her show chronicles the city's vibrant neighborhoods through cultural trends. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: How do you think hosting the 2024 Democratic National Convention will impact Chicago's economy and reputation in the long term? Did Chicago’s leaders effectively showcase the city's strengths to a national audience? Whose professional leadership deserves the MVP award for convention week? Which of the last four Chicago mayors would be most interesting dinner guest? The Chicago Bears were undefeated in the preseason. How will they do in the regular season? Thom, Mike, and Cortney will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the DNC edition of our show.
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A Presidential Age Cap, Chicago's Worst Expressway, and Remembering Ann Lurie
07/15/2024
A Presidential Age Cap, Chicago's Worst Expressway, and Remembering Ann Lurie
Here's our July edition of the podcast with . We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome NBC5's political reporter, . Her Emmy award-winning work has taken her across the country covering Presidential campaigns since 1988. Please note: our conversation with Mike and Mary Ann took place July 12th, nearly 30 hours before the troubling assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Did the Presidential debate during the final week of June impact your opinion of the candidates? Would you support an upper age limit to run for President? Including President Joe Biden, which Democrat would have the best chance to win the November general election? Chicago was just ranked #2 when it comes to worst U.S. traffic. Which is major expressway or tollway is your least favorite? Thom, Mike, and Mary Ann will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on our July '24 show.
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Chicago curfew, the GOP V-P, and a very "crowded" summer
06/15/2024
Chicago curfew, the GOP V-P, and a very "crowded" summer
Here's our June edition of the podcast with . We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome , ABC7's award-winning reporter. The Highland Park native is a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan who's been on the beat in Washington D.C., Philly, Nashville, and Las Vegas. Sarah came home to Chicago in 1998 to join the news team at WLS-TV. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Which Chicago summer event are you most interested in experiencing the NASCAR street race, the Rolling Stones tour stop, the DNC, or Lollapalooza? What do you think of Chicago Alderman Brian Hopkins' proposed 8pm curfew for minors? Who is most likely to be named Donald Trump's running mate on the GOP ticket? Is Caitlin Clark getting fair treatment as a WNBA rookie> Thom, Mike, and Sarah will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on our June '24 show.
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The DNC, cicadas & "AI", oh my!
05/20/2024
The DNC, cicadas & "AI", oh my!
Here's our May edition of the podcast with . We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist We also welcome , former statehouse bureau chief for NPR Illinois. Amanda is now co-host and correspondent for Chicago Tonight on WTTW-TV. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: A recent report says the Democratic National Committee is “preparing for the worst” at this summer’s convention in Chicago. Are you worried? At what level are you using Artificial Intelligence or "AI" in your work & life? Billions of cicadas are buzzing and mating. How do you feel about that? Plus, our Power Pollers rate Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's first year in office. Thom, Mike, and Amanda will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on our May '24 show.
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Caitlin Clark Fever, grading Chicago leadership, and the dominant issue for voters
04/22/2024
Caitlin Clark Fever, grading Chicago leadership, and the dominant issue for voters
Here's our April edition of the podcast with . We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom is veteran Chicago political journalist and , Director of DePaul University's Center for Journalistic Integrity & Excellence. This month, we asked our power pollers to answer these questions: What is the most dominant issue among the voters of Illinois? How did "Caitlin Clark Fever" impact your interest in Women's NCAA tournament? Do you think the Chicago City Council project a sense of confidence to Chicago residents? Thom, Mike, and Carol will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on our April '24 show.
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The Bears dome on the lake, banning TikTok, and voter apathy
03/26/2024
The Bears dome on the lake, banning TikTok, and voter apathy
Here's our March edition of the podcast with . We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom is veteran Chicago political journalist and WBEZ's . This month, we asked our power pollers to answer these questions: What do you think about the Chicago Bears building a publicly-owned domed stadium near Soldier Field. What's your opinion on the U.S. House of Representatives vote to ban TikTok in the United States? Only 20% of eligible Chicagoans voted in the March primary. How do you feel about the current state of voter apathy? Thom, Mike, and Mary will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on our March '24 show.
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