Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman is joined by Washington Bureau chief Lynn Sweet, chief political reporter Tina Sfondeles, and reporter Mitch Armentrout to discuss their coverage of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. The panel delves into the details of Donald Trump's lengthy and eventful acceptance speech, the audience's reaction, and the impact of the recent assassination attempt on Trump. They also explore the influence of J.D. Vance's addition to the ticket, the unity within the Republican Party, the contrasting disarray in the Democratic Party, and potential scenarios for the upcoming Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews seasoned political strategist Bill Daley, discussing the uncertainties and dynamics surrounding the Democratic National Convention, the potential of President Biden's re-election campaign, the role and challenges of the Democratic Party, and the impact of potential contenders. Daley also reflects on historical political events, such as the Florida recount and past Democratic conventions, while providing insights on Chicago's current political and social issues under Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman speaks with Julie Giese, president of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race. They discuss the race's economic impact, community engagement through various programs, and the potential challenges and benefits of hosting such a significant event in Chicago.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Pat Cleary, President of Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2. Cleary discusses the challenges the union faces, including the lack of a contract for firefighters and paramedics, the fallout of the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, and the inadequate number of ambulances in Chicago. Cleary also outlines plans for upcoming protests to urge the city to address these issues.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Mickey Bergman, a former Israeli paratrooper turned international hostage negotiator. They discuss his incredible career, emotional intelligence, specific hostage cases, and the intricate dynamics of international negotiations. Mickey shares fascinating stories from the field, the challenges he faces, and how he manages the stress of his high-stakes job.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As CEO of Gaming U.S.A. Corporation and editor of the Gaming Industry Daily Report, Alan Woinski has watched cities like Detroit and New Orleans struggle to complete their ambitious casino projects. He believes that the financial hurdles now confronting Bally’s—including an $800 million construction funding gap and a buyout offer from its largest shareholder that’s roughly half of what it was two years ago—are infinitely worse.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's been 28 years since the DNC was in Chicago, so this week, Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman welcomes Leslie Fox, former Executive Director of 1996 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, to discuss what we can expect from a convention in the city and what's changed in the nearly three decades since.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman is joined by SoundThinking, Inc. CEO Ralph Clark to discuss ShotSpotter's future in Chicago.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.