This week, Bill is joined by the outgoing Cook County State's Attorney Kim Foxx. She talks about her 8 years in office. Is the legal system fairer now than it was when she took over as Cook County State's Attorney? She also took aim at the new Trump Administration for his pick of Matt Gaetz as Attorney General. The reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Dave Stewart and Ray Long talked about the Chicago City Council unanimously rejecting Brandon Johnson's $300 million property tax hike. They ponder what Trump is doing with all his controversial nominees for cabinet positions. And we get an update on the Mike Madigan trial. Did the prosecution's star witness take a hit. And Bill says goodbye to Take 1.

This week, Bill is joined by the former Inspector General for the City of Chicago, Joe Ferguson. He's currently the President of the Civic Federation. Ferguson reacts to Donald Trump being elected as President again and how that will effect Chicago and Illinois. He also talks City of Chicago politics, like the Mayor Johnson introducing a massive property tax increase. Is that even necessary? And what impact will the new elected school board have on CPS? The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Greg Hinz and Ray Long react to Donald Trump becoming the President-Elect. How did that happen and what did the Harris Campaign do wrong? They also talk about how Trump will effect the City of Chicago. The Chicago City Council had a cold reaction to Brandon Johnson's property tax increase proposal. And Ray Long, who literally wrote the book on Michael Madigan, gives an update on Madigan's trial. Finally, hear from longtime Chicago Lawyer Michael Shakman about why the patronage system is not a good thing. This with the Madigan trial going on and Donald Trump about to be back in office.

This week, Bill is joined by Chicago Tribune investigative reporter Joe Mahr. You've heard of voter suppression but Joe wrote all about candidate suppression. What is candidate suppression? And find out how it's harder to get on the ballot in Illinois than it is in other states. The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Greg Hinz and Ray Long discussed Brandon Johnson's staff which saw another change this week. The Michael Madigan trial began this week. The man wrote literally wrote the book on Madigan, Ray Long, and the rest of the roundtable talk about what the defense and the prosecution are saying so far. And the Chicago City Council is considering dropping the speed limit in Chicago to 25 miles per hour. Is this about safety or is it just a cash grab? Finally, it was 10 years ago this week that Laquan McDonald was shot and killed by Chicago Police Officer Jason Van Dyke. Hear what then-Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel said about the CPD about a year after the murder.

Take 1 with Bill Cameron (09-09-2023) - An update on the big business that is the college sports industry.  University of Illinois Professor, Michael LeRoy talks with Bill Cameron about the good and the bad inside the college football industry.  The round-table with Ray Long, Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone and Dave Stewart discuss the possibility of a White Sox team sale and move.  Plus, the latest on the Mike Madigan trial.

This week, Bill is joined by the President and CEO of the Better Government Association (BGA), David Greising. There's been a lot of drama at City Hall and Greising says Mayor Brandon Johnson is not handling it well at all. Also, what are the chances Mike Madigan is found innocent? The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Greg Hinz and Ray Long discusses all that drama at City Hall. The mayor lashed out at the media over asking him questions about his newly-appointed school board and about him going to London. The Bears continue to insist they want to stay downtown along the lakefront, but are there signs they're considering Arlington Heights again? And un update on the Mike Madigan trial from the man who wrote the book on Madigan, Ray Long. Finally, hear from Mayor Johnson in his own words

This week, Bill is joined the Democratic candidate for Cook County State's Attorney Eileen O'Neill Burke. She's favored to beat the Republican candidate Bob Fioretti. He joined Bill a couple of weeks ago (https://omny.fm/shows/take-1-with-bill-cameron/take-1-with-bill-cameron-09-15-2024-bob-fioretti-r). O'Neill Burke talks about how she would be different from the outgoing Kim Foxx.  The reporter roundtable with Ray Long (the man who wrote the book on Mike Madigan), Greg Hinz, Dave Stewart and Heather Cherone talk about the Mike Madigan trial which starts next week. Is this a slam-dunk for the prosecution? The gang continue to discuss Mayor Brandon Johnson's struggles with the CPS budget and CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. And former First Lady Melania Trump's publisher wanted CNN to pay $250,000 for an interview on her new book. And finally, Alex Calderone, the co-founder and CEO of Dándole Tech joins Bill in the final segment. His non-profit organization in Chicago helps provide computers and technology to students who need them. The website is here: https://www.dandoletech.org/

This week, Bill is joined by Alisa Kaplan. She is the Executive Director of Reform for Illinois. How can Illinois solve their well-known corruption problem and what reforms need to be put in place to make that happen? The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Greg Hinz and Ray Long discuss Chicago's budget which will be put forth in October. And it's a bad-news budget for Mayor Brandon Johnson. Why does the mayor want the CEO of CPS, Pedro Martinez, to resign? Johnson and City Council are in a fight over ShotSpotter. And what are the similarities between New York City Mayor Eric Adams being indicted and what goes on in Chicago?

With Ed Burke scheduled to head to prison on Monday, Bill went back into the archives to remember many of the Illinois politicians that have been busted for corruption since Bill's been covering politics in the state. From Otto Kerner to Rod Blagojevich, hear your favorite corrupt politicians from the last 50 years. The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Greg Hinz, Ray Long discussed Ed Burke going to prison, does this have significant meaning for politics in Illinois and Chicago? A mistrial was declared for a former AT&T executive who was accused of trying to bribe Mike Madigan, the gang discusses if this is good news for the former House Speaker with his trial. And current Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch says the Bears and White Sox won't be getting public money for a new stadium anytime soon. And finally, hear from former Illinois Attorney General Ty Fahner, who passed away this week at the age of 81.

This week, Bill is joined by Bob Fioretti, who is running as a Republican for Cook County State's Attorney against Democrat Eileen O'Neill Burke. Fioretti tells Bill why he should replace Kim Foxx, and what changes he would make to the office including prosecuting retail theft and carjackings. The reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart and Ray Long talked about the Presidential Debate on Tuesday. What roles do racism and misogyny play in the election? Brandon Johnson is having some issues with his staff and choices for committees. And Jesse Jackson Jr is lobbying for a pardon from President Biden. And finally, hear from Chicago's very own President Barack Obama about democracy from the DNC in Chicago 

This week, Bill is joined by former CEO of Chicago Public Schools and former Chicago Mayoral Candidate Paul Vallas. They discuss the city's budget shortfalls including the budget for CPS and why the Chicago Teachers' Union is to blame for much Chicago's money issues. Vallas praised Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling for his handling at the Democratic National Convention. The reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Dave Stewart and Ray Long talked about whether the Chicago Bears might sell off a piece of the team to raise more money for a new stadium. What are they looking forward to the Presidential Debate which happens Tuesday night? And Donald Trump's sentencing in his hush money case has been delayed. Does that help or hurt Trump's chances of getting elected? And with two mass shootings this week, one on the CTA Blue Line and one at a high school outside of Atlanta, Bill goes back into the archives and plays an answer from a previous Take 1 episode of Dr. Lori Ann Post. She explains what makes someone become a mass shooter. To hear the full episode, click this link here: https://omny.fm/shows/take-1-with-bill-cameron/take-1-with-bill-cameron-07-31-2022-dr-lori-ann-po

Forrest Claypool joins Bill Cameron to discuss his new book, The Daley Show: Inside the Transformative Reign of Chicago's Richard M. Daley.  They discuss several notable events that occurred during the mayoral era of Richard M. Daley.  The Reporter Round Table with Greg Hinz, Ray Long, Dave Stewart and Heather Cherone discussing the news of the week in politics, including Chicago Mayor Johnsons comments about the city's budget deficit.  Can the mayor keep his promise that he won't raise taxes?  Ray updates us on events in the Mike Madigan pre-trial proceedings.  The panelists have some solutions to fight political corruption in Illinois.

This week, Bill recaps the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. WLS reporters Scott Childers and Jonathan Bregman covered the DNC and gave their thoughts on the 4 days. From breakfast with the Illinois delegates to the speeches made at the United Center to the protests outside the UC.  The reporter roundtable with Dave Stewart, Ray Long and Heather Cherone broke down more of the DNC. Was this a good week for Governor Pritzker and Mayor Johnson? Did the police do a good job at handling protestors? What are the chances that Kamala Harris beats Donald Trump in the election now? And finally hear J.B. Prtizker go after a fellow "billionaire" in Donald Trump when he was on stage at the United Center

Senator Dick Durbin joins Bill Cameron just before the 2024 Democratic National Convention begins in Chicago.  Safety and violence are discussed along with the future possibility of full democratic control of Congress and the White House.  The Round Table with Ray Long, Heather Cherone and David Stewart pickup on the convention conversation reflecting on the two previous events held in the city of Chicago and what happened there.  Bill closes his convention preview with words from Chicago's Police Superintendent, Larry Snelling who addressed the City Club of Chicago this week on how police will handle DNC protesters.

Sunday, August 11th is the 14th anniversary of the death of former Chicago Congressman Dan Rostenkowski.  Bill Cameron recalls his time covering Danny with his archive audio from this era in "Chicago Machine" politics. The second half of this episode has the full Reporter Round Table with Greg Hinz, Ray Long, Dave Stewart and Heather Cherone discussing the news of the week in politics.

This week, Bill Cameron is joined by another Bill with a famous Chicago last name, Bill Daley. He's the son of Richard J. Daley and the brother of Richard M. Daley. Bill Daley himself worked in the Clinton and Obama Administrations. They talk about the crazy political times in America and the 2024 Presidential Election. Was picking Kamala Harris as the candidate the right choice? What are the chances that she picks J.B. Pritzker as her running mate? Daley remembers the 2000 Presidential Election, where he Al Gore's campaign manager. He also finished third for Chicago Mayor in 2019, how is Brandon Johnson doing so far? The reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart and Ray Long talk about Kamala Harris officially becoming the Democratic nominee. Should the DNC been an open convention? Donald Trump was in Chicago this week at the NABJ Convention and questioned whether Kamala Harris is black. And Brandon Johnson is having trouble with the CPS School Board that he appointed.

This week, Bill is joined by Don Rose, a longtime political activist in Chicago who helped organize protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention and helped Jane Byrne get elected as Chicago's mayor in 1979. Rose talks about his reaction to Joe Biden stepping aside as POTUS candidate. They discuss the upcoming DNC in Chicago and what to expect from protestors; is there a chance what happened in 1968, happens in 2024? He talks about Brandon Johnson's first term as mayor and how he's doing. Rose also says he's surprised by how good of a governor J.B. Pritzker has been. The reporter roundtable with Ray Long, Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone and Dave Stewart talked about what Kamala Harris needs to do to win the presidency and what Donald Trump needs to do to prevent that from happening. They discuss the new quantum computing facility that is now supposed to come to the southeast side of the city. What can that do for Chicago? And in the Michael Madigan trial, one of his top aides and codefendants, Michael McClain, wants a separate trial because he's afraid Madigan will throw him under the bus. And finally, hear from Senator Dick Durbin about why he did not attend Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech to Congress.

This week, Bill is joined by Pat Brady, a moderate Republican who used to be the Chairman of the Illinois GOP. They preview the Republican National Convention which begins Monday. Brady discusses why Trump is so popular right now, and why Joe Biden is the opposite. Is it time Biden steps out of the race? Brady also correctly predicted that Kathy Salvi would become the new chair of the Illinois Republican Party. The vote on that happened on Friday. Also, why aren't Illinois Republicans talking about property taxes? The reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Dave Stewart and Heather Cherone talked about three Illinois Democrat politicians calling on Joe Biden to step aside as the presidential candidate. They talk Donald Trump's popularity in the Republican Party. Is the media doing a bad job of focusing on Biden's mental acuity and not Trump's? They are almost the same age. If Biden, steps down, what are the chances J.B. Pritzker becomes the nominee? Ed Burke will not appeal his corruption conviction and Mike Madigan won't ask for a delay in his corruption trial. And finally, Governor Pritzker gets emotional talking about changing healthcare laws in Illinois

This week, Bill is joined by Arne Duncan who is the former CEO of Chicago Public Schools and the United States Secretary of Education in the Obama Administration. Duncan is also the founder and leader of the anti-violence organization, Chicago CRED. He and Bill talk about the problems of violence on the south and west sides and why it keeps continuing even though, with the help of Chicago CRED, is getting better. They also got into politics and Joe Biden's performance at the debate with Donald Trump. Does Duncan think Biden is the best candidate for the Democrats? The reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart and Ray Long talked about Joe Biden's poor showing at the presidential debate. Can he recover? Ed Burke was sentenced to 2 years in prison and a $2 million fine and the roundtable thought he got off lightly. And the Supreme Court made a ruling that will seemingly make it easier for politicians to be corrupt. Finally, hear from Alderman Brendan Reilly Chicago's "zero based budgeting".

This week, Bill wonders again why Chicago and Illinois politicians are so corrupt as Ed Burke will be sentenced on Monday. Hear Bill play some of the best explanations as to why politicians are always stealing. The reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart and Ray Long talked about how long they expect Ed Burke to be in prison. What does this mean for Mike Madigan's trial? And the leader of the Illinois Republican Party will be stepping down. Finally, hear Missouri Senator Josh Hawley going after the CEO of Boeing Dave Calhoun about all of Boeing's issues with plane safety and the accusations that Boeing retaliates against whistleblowers.

This week, Bill talks with author and journalist Steven Brill whose new book, "The Death of Truth: How Social Media and the Internet Gave Snake Oil Salesmen and Demagogues the Weapons They Needed to Destroy Trust and Polarize the World--And What We Can Do" was just released. They discuss how hard it is to find the truth in news stories and what we can do to fight disinformation.  The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Ray Long and Greg Hinz talk about the argument between a couple of Chicago aldermen over ShotSpotter. Also, Mayor Johnson made some comments that makes it seem like Bally's Casino deal may be in jeopardy.  And finally, hear from Chicago Bears President Kevin Warren. How is he feeling about the Illinois Statehouse not taking up a vote on public funding for a new domed stadium on the lakefront before their summer break?

This week, Bill is joined by 2nd Ward Alderman Brian Hopkins. He talks about Chicago preparing for the Democratic National Convention and if the city is ready for a safe and secure convention. Hopkins does not agree with the mayor's decision to get rid of ShotSpotter. Can the city afford to shovel all the sidewalks when there is significant snowfall? They discuss the Bears and White Sox wanting public funding for new stadiums. And what needs to be done about public transportation? The reporter roundtable was back full with Heather Cherone, Ray Long, Greg Hinz and Dave Stewart. How much is Brandon Johnson spending to keep up his looks and hair? It's been found out that lobbyists illegally donated money to the Brandon Johnson campaign. Could a new Bears stadium or White Sox stadium help revive the downtown area? And Ed Burke wants a new trial. Finally, hear from former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel in his role as the Ambassador to Japan talking about China's role in the world.

This week, Bill talks with the President and CEO of the Civic Federation, Joe Ferguson. He was also the inspector general for the City of Chicago from 2009 to 2021. They discuss Donald Trump being convicted of all 34 counts in New York. Also, what does Joe like and dislike about the Illinois budget that was passed this week? He also gives his thoughts on Brandon Johnson's first year and change as Chicago's mayor. The reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Dave Stewart and Ray Long talk about the conviction of Donald Trump. Was the jury correct in convicting him and what are the political ramifications? They also talk the Illinois budget where lawmakers raised taxes and gave themselves a raise.

This week Bill dug into the ShotSpotter debate in the Chicago City Council. Brandon Johnson has said it's going away after the Democratic National Convention in August but the City Council voted this week to keep it by a 34-14 vote. And Northwestern President Michael Schill got grilled by MAGA Republicans on Capitol Hill over anti-Semitism on college campuses. The roundtable with Greg Hinz, Ray Long and Dave Stewart talked about the ShotSpotter debate as well as how Northwestern handled the encampment on their campus. Also, Democrats in Springfield are taking it down to the wire with the state budget. And hear from Brandon Johnson on the potential Memorial Day weekend violence in Chicago.

This week Bill is joined by Democratic Congresswoman Robin Kelly. She represents Illinois's 2nd District which includes part of the south side of Chicago, much of the southern suburbs and into Central Illinois along the Indiana border. They discuss gun control, Joe Biden's chances of winning reelection this year and what she is trying to get done for the farmers in her district. The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Greg Hinz, Dave Stewart and Ray Long talked about Brandon Johnson's low approval rating. A judge ruled in favor of keeping so-called "no-knock warrants." Some reporters at the Chicago Tribune are suing saying the company doesn't pay them fairly compared to their white male counterparts. And the roundtable get into a debate about whether pro-Palestinian protestors should talk more to the press. And finally, hear former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley talk about the importance of trees.

This week, Bill talks with Chaz Ebert, the CEO of Ebert Digital which runs RogerEbert.com. Chaz is the wife of the great late movie critic Roger Ebert. She has a new book out now call "It's Time to Give a FECK: Elevating Humanity Through Forgiveness, Empathy, Compassion and Kindness." They discuss how the world can be better by following FECK principles and how she relates FECK to Donald Trump. Also, what is the state of the movie industry? The reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart and Ray Long talk about Brandon Johnson's first year as Chicago Mayor. He officially took office May 15th of last year. What grade would the roundtable give the former teacher turned mayor. He also just went down to Springfield asking for about $1 billion for Chicago Schools, public transportation and the Chicago Bears new stadium. How much will Chicago actually get from the state? And an Illinois judge ruled there was rampant racial discrimination in the water department and the city owes about a dozen former employees a multi-million dollar settlement. Finally, Hillary Clinton gives some much-needed history lesson on the Middle East and as it relates to Pro-Palestinian protestors on college campuses.

This week, Bill played testimony from a current US Supreme Court case involving the former mayor of Portage, Indiana, James Snyder. He was convicted of corruption. The Supreme Court could rule in favor of Snyder and that could affect the trial of Mike Madigan, and could affect the convictions of the ComEd 4 and Ed Burke. This week on the reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart and Ray Long, they discuss Governor Pritzker calling the Chicago Bears' stadium proposal as a "non-starter." Is the new stadium dead? Speaking of the governor, he was not invited to the funeral of slain Chicago Police Officer Luis Huesca. Mayor Brandon Johnson was also not invited. Does this show the strain between the CPD and the political leaders in Illinois? And hear Joe Biden make a speech about all the protests going on, on college campuses including at Northwestern and University of Chicago.

This week, Bill is joined by Stacy Davis Gates, the President of the Chicago Teachers Union. The CTU contract expires on June 30th, what are she and the teachers asking for in negotiations? The reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart and Ray Long discussed the Bears proposal for a new domed stadium on the lakefront. Does this have any chance of happening soon? Pro-Palestinian Northwestern students are protesting on campus and the administration is blocking journalists from covering it. And Greg Hinz wrote about potenially abolishing the CTA. Finally, we'll hear arguments from the US Supreme Court about whether Donald Trump should have immunity from prosecution because he was President. 

Former Mayor of Chicago Richard M. Daley turns 82 on Wednesday, April 24th. Bill plays audio highlights of Daley's funniest and most memorable moments in office. The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Ray Long and Greg Hinz discussed the police officers that shot and killed Dexter Reed, did they follow correct protocol? There's a SCOTUS case that may be helping out Mike Madigan. Governor Pritzker called out the leadership at the CTA, is President Dorval Carter's job on the line? Protestors stopped traffic to O'Hare this week, are these protests making a difference or just annoying people? And Walter "Slim" Coleman died this week. He was a longtime community organizer in Chicago who helped Harold Washington get elected to the mayor's office twice. Bill played a part of a speech from a few years ago when he helped asylum seekers to not get deported by then-President Donald Trump.

This week Bill is joined by Chicago Tribune reporter Gregory Royal Pratt, whose new book, "The City Is Up for Grabs: How Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot Led and Lost a City in Crisis", is out now. They discuss Lightfoot's rocky relationship with the media during her one term as Chicago Mayor. Pratt also talks about some of the reasons Lori Lightfoot didn't even make the runoff in the mayoral election in 2023. The reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Dave Stewart, Ray Long and Heather Cherone talked about the release of the police-involved shooting that killed Dexter Reed. Heather talked about her relationship covering former Mayor Lightfoot. Are the Bears going to get any public subsidies for their new stadium? O.J. Simpson died this week, has the media learned anything in the 30 years since the double-murder and trial? And Brandon Johnson wants more money from the city council for the migrant issue. Finally, hear from the first Mayor Daley, Richard J. Daley, about when the Bears were considering moving out to the suburbs back in the 1970s.

Illinois' senior Senator Dick Durbin is Bill's guest this week on Take 1. Durbin talks about Donald Trump, what Israel has to change in their war with Hamas and why updating O'Hare Airport is essential. He also discusses the Bears and White Sox potential new stadiums and whether they should be taxpayer-funded, and whether or not he will run for re-election in 2026. The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Ray Long, Dave Stewart and Greg Hinz. They talked about some surprising civility in Chicago politics this past week with Clayton Harris III conceding the race for Cook County State's Attorney to Eileen O'Neill Burke without a recount and Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez not getting censured. Did Mike Madigan catch a break in his corruption trial? Is Bally's Chicago casino in jeopardy of not happening. And former Cook County President Dick Phelan died this past week.

This week, Bill talks with sports reporter Cheryl Raye-Stout about Chicago's sports teams and why they are so bad right now. Cheryl is a little more optimistic about the Bears, Blackhawks and Cubs. Also, are the taxpayers willing to pay up to help the Bears and White Sox build new stadiums? The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Ray Long and Greg Hinz discussed some of the losses Chicago progressives have faced recently with Clayton Harris III looking like he will lose to Eileen O'Neill Burke and the Bring Chicago Home referendum failing. An overhaul of O'Hare was agreed to all the way back when Rahm Emanuel was mayor, but is that deal in jeopardy? They also discuss whether inflation will be the reason Joe Biden doesn't win reelection against Donald Trump 

Bill Cameron talks to Mike Quigley, the U.S. representative for Illinois's 5th congressional district.  Congressman Quigley updates us on world issues including the wars in Ukraine, and Gaza.  While election results from the primaries are not complete, the important contests are reviewed including the failure by Chicago Mayor, Brandon Johnson to tax property transfers over $1 million to generate funding for homeless assistance. The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Ray Long and Greg Hinz also cover the Illinois election.  While totals are not complete, the panel discuss the outcomes in the “Bring Chicago Home” referendum as well the eventual winner of the democratic race for the Cook County State's Attorney slot.

Last week Bill talked with Clayton Harris III, this week he interviews Harris's opponent for the Democratic nomination for Cook County State's Attorney in the Illinois Primary, Eileen O'Neill Burke. She talks about why she is the best candidate for the position and swats away all of Harris's attacks on her. Eileen O'Neill Burke says she is a change away from Kim Foxx while Harris will be more of the same. The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Ray Long and Greg Hinz (Welcome back!) discuss why Ed Burke is still allowed to keep his law license even after being convicted of corruption. Should taxpayers foot the bill for police misconduct cases? Chicagoans are going to help pay someone tens of millions of dollars. The Bears want to stay on the lakefront in the city, what are the chances they can actually build a new domed stadium there? And Stateville Prison will be closing.

This week Bill was joined by Clayton Harris III who is a Democrat running for Cook County State's Attorney in the Illinois Primary Election on March 19th. He is taking on Eileen O'Neill Burke, who will be Bill's next week on Take 1. Harris talked why he should be the one to replace Kim Foxx and accused O'Neill Burke of taking money from far right-wing groups. In the reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart and Ray Long, they discuss the President's State of the Union address. Why is Joe Biden so unpopular? Brandon Johnson has made a new hire to help him with media relations. They also discuss the close race for Cook County State's Attorney. And finally, hear from Chicago Teachers' Union President Stacy Davis Gates, who talks about what the CTU is all about.

This week Bill Cameron talks with former Chicago Mayoral candidate, Chicago Public Schools CEO, and Mayor Daley's Budget Director.  Vallas currently serves as an advisor to the Illinois Policy Institute.  It's been almost a year since Brandon Johnson defeated sitting Mayor, Lori Lightfoot and run-off candidate Vallas to take the 5th floor Mayor's office... Vallas comments on how he feels Johnson is doing in the position. The reporter round-table with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, and Ray Long discuss the reluctancy of Illinois Governor, JB Pritzker to use public financing for building new professional sports stadiums.  If Donald Trump is allowed on the Illinois primary ballot, will there be a strong sign of support from democratic voters for Trump's competitor, Nikki Haley?   A state judge has pushed the city's appeal of a ruling blocking the "Bring Chicago Home" referendum to a higher court.  The referendum that would change the "real estate transfer tax" on home sales more than a million dollars was deemed vague and unconstitutional a week ago by a Cook County judge and would have created a tiered transfer tax on real estate/property sales in Chicago.

This week Bill Cameron talks with Patrick Wohl, author of the new book Down Ballot: How a Local Campaign Became a National Referendum on Abortion.  In the book, Patrick details a 1990, suburban Chicago race for the Republican Party nomination for state representative between Penny Pullen and Rosemary Mulligan which unexpectedly became a national proxy battle over abortion in the United States.  www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p087585 The reporter round-table with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Greg Hinz and Ray Long discuss the future of the Chicago Bears and the White Sox as they continue their plans to build new stadiums for their teams to play in.  Both teams are looking to the state for funding support to help with the costs of building their new homes.  Earlier in the week Governor JB Pritzker announced a new budget proposal with a big amount of new taxes in it... can it pass?  The plan includes raising income taxes on Illinois residents.  Bill closes the show by playing a portion of the Governor's new proposal to crackdown on predatory health insurance practices, which was included in his State of the State/Budget Address on Wednesday (02/21/24). 

It was February 18th, 2018, that former President Donald Trump commuted the sentence of convicted former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. So Bill decided to go into his audio archives and play the best quotes from Blago's time as Illinois Governor. The reporter roundtable with Ray Long, Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone and Dave Stewart talked about the sentencing of Mike Madigan's longtime Chief of Staff Tim Mapes. Who knew a politician could go to prison for lying? They also discuss Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and how he is handling the migrant crisis and getting rid of Shotspotter. And will Ford follow through on their promise of investing more money in Ford's Illinois factories?

You always hear what Illinois Democrats are up to since they run Springfield, so this week on Take 1, you get a chance to listen to the top Republican in the Illinois Senate. Bill Cameron spoke with John Curran, the minority leader in the State Senate. Curran talks the migrant crisis, whether Donald Trump belongs on the ballot in Illinois and what the problems are with the Illinois DCFS and much more. The reporter roundtable was full this week with Ray Long back. It also included Greg Hinz, Dave Stewart and Heather Cherone. They discussed Joe Biden's memory issues. Public transportation and the RTA are facing a fiscal cliff coming up along with a story from Greg Hinz and someone flashing a knife at him on a CTA platform. And this week was a debate between to the two Democratic candidates for Cook County State's Attorney, Clayton Harris III and Eileen O'Neill Burke, who does the roundtable think won the debate?

This week, Bill is joined by Emma Tai from the Bring Chicago Home Campaign. They are aiming to put a referendum on the March Primary Ballot that would increase the real estate transfer tax for properties worth more than $1 million. That money would then go towards helping the homeless in Chicago. It has been called the "mansion tax." Emma talks about the details of the plan and why it is needed in the city. The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Greg Hinz and Dave Stewart talked about the Chicago City Council passing a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. It was a tie vote amongst the alderpeople and Mayor Brandon Johnson voted yes to break the tie. The roundtable was recorded on Thursday while employees of the Chicago Tribune were on strike which was why roundtable regular, Ray Long, was not a part of the roundtable this week. The rest of the reporters commented on the strike and state of journalism in Chicago and the rest of the country. And Donald Trump was kept on the primary ballot in Illinois.

Saturday, January 27 is Holocaust Remembrance Day and this week Bill plays some archival audio from the late Fritzie Fritzshall, a Holocaust survivor from Skokie, Illinois. Also hear from the US Holocaust Museum Director and another story of a Holocaust survivor. In the reporter roundtable with Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone, Ray Long and Dave Stewart, they discuss the Chicago City Council arguing about whether or not to demand a ceasefire in Gaza even though they have no power to actually force one. Chicago's temporary casino is not making nearly the money, Bally's or the city thought the casino would make. The US Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellin was in Chicago this week talking about lowering inflation, is the economy helping or hurting President Biden's chance at reelection? And why does Chicago fire the most corrupt police officers?

This week, Bill is joined by the Better Government Association President and CEO David Greising. Now that Ed Burke and the "ComEd 4" have been convicted of corruption, will politicians stop stealing? Well, probably not according to David Greising. The White Sox are reportedly considering building a new stadium in the South Loop and may want government subsidies to fund it. Is public funding for sports stadiums good government? And what does David think of the job that Mayor Brandon Johnson is doing? The reporter roundtable with Heather Cherone, Greg Hinz, Dave Stewart and Ray Long talked about the chances of the White Sox building a new stadium. In a sports-themed roundtable, is it possible the Bears could build a domed stadium right next to Soldier Field? Bulls fans booed Jerry Krause and made his widow cry. And the roundtable discusses the real estate transfer tax.

This week Bill is joined by McHenry County State's Attorney Patrick Kenneally. He is also the new president of the Illinois States Attorney’s Association. Kenneally talked about how the SAFE-T Act has negatively effected McHenry County. Also, is legal marijuana a good idea? He talks a bit about the presidential election and other issues in Illinois. The reporter round-table with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Greg Hinz and Ray Long talks about the Iowa Caucuses as we'll finally actually start seeing some election results next week. They discussed the Cook County State's Attorney's race where it's Clayton Harris III versus Eileen O'Neill Burke in the Democratic Primary. Will Chicago's "mansion tax" actually make it to the ballot? And should taxpayers pay for the Republican and Democratic National Conventions? The Democratic National Convention is in Chicago this summer.

This week, Bill Cameron talks with Beth Brown, Pastor of Lincoln Park Presbyterian Church and interim commissioner of the City of Chicago Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability.  They discuss the current immigrant crisis which the pastor describes as an "immigrant opportunity" and how the city of Chicago is handling the situation.  Brown also feels that the city should be directing resources towards social service needs and should be cancelling the 2024 Democratic National Convention and the July NASCAR Street Race because the Chicago Police Department will not be able to support those events and still keep citizens safe.  In the round-table, Ray Long, Greg Hinz, and Dave Stewart kick off the new year discussing the year-ending verdict in the corruption trial of former alderman Ed Burke.

The first Mayor Daley, Richard J. Daley, died 47 years ago on December 20th. Bill Cameron went into his archives to find the best audio of one of the most powerful political figures in the 20th century from Bill's time covering Daley. Hear his funniest, angriest and most memorable lines and rants. Ed Burke was an alderman when Daley was mayor and his corruption trial wrapped up this week. The round-table with Ray Long, Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone and Dave Stewart discussed the trial. Was it a good move for the defense to call government mole, Danny Solis? What are the chances of a hung jury?

This week, welcome back John Dempsey who this week interviews author Dennis Foley, a guy who writes books about Chicago. His new book "Feloniously Yours: A Memoir" is out now. It is the fifth book written by Foley, who grew up on the south side of Chicago. Hear about his life growing up on the south side and how he almost died getting stabbed when he was 15 and his many other near-death experiences. Foley also shares how he became a felon. Bill Cameron is back with the round-table as he's joined by Heather Cherone, Greg Hinz and Dave Stewart. Mayor Brandon Johnson and Governor Pritzker are in a spat over who's to blame for the failed site in Brighton Park where construction had already started on a migrant base camp. The mayor also has issues with the new contract agreement with the FOP. We know the Bears are looking for a new stadium but are the White Sox serious about maybe moving out of Chicago? White Sox Owner Jerry Reinsdorf met with the Mayor of Nashville this week.

This week Bill talks with Eileen O'Neill Burke, former prosecutor, defense attorney and appellate court justice... Burke is now a candidate in the race for Cook County State's Attorney.  She outlines her platform which includes some changes to the way the office is currently being run by Kim Foxx, who is not seeking re-election.  The round-table with Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone, Ray Long and Dave Stewart discussed the breaking news from Crain's Chicago about the Bally's casino deal and how federal investigators and the city's inspector general are examining the way the casino's license was awarded.  More details have come out in the case against Ed Burke as he is on trial for 14 counts of racketeering, bribery and extortion.  An Illinois appeals court has upheld Jussie Smollett's conviction of disorderly conduct in a ruling announced Friday.  The number of those seeking asylum in Chicago who were living in tents and police station lobbies have dropped significantly enough that Chicago Mayor, Brandon Johnson announced that plans to house migrants in a park district fieldhouse were being dropped.  Several church groups have stepped up to take in migrants during the winter months.  The city is still working on the construction of a "winterized base camp" at a location in the Brighton Park neighborhood.

This week, Bill remembers Chicago's first African American Mayor, Harold Washington. He died the day before Thanksgiving in 1987. Listen to some of Harold Washington's best and funniest soundbites from his time as Chicago Mayor. On the reporter round-table with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Ray Long and Greg Hinz, they discuss Brandon Johnson's budget which relies more on fines from Chicago citizens than originally thought. Ray Long has been at the courthouse covering the Ed Burke trial and we get an update from him. And James "Pate" Phillip, former Illinois Senate President, passed away this past week.

This week, Bill is joined by Brad Dietz, Vice President, Government Relations and Strategy for the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce. What is it like to be a business in the City of Chicago with some of the recent ordinances have passed that many view as anti-business? That includes the recent guaranteed time off ordinance and the referendum on the March Primary ballot that would raise the so-called "mansion tax." This week's round-table with Greg Hinz, Dave Stewart and Ray Long talked about the Ed Burke trial which just got started. Ray Long called in from the courthouse to update what's been happening so far. Brandon Johnson announced a new plan for migrants; are Governor Pritzker and Mayor Johnson on the same page when it comes to the asylum-seekers? And the CTA has had a bad week with a Yellow Line train crashing into a piece of equipment near the Howard L stop. The CTA is facing a fiscal cliff soon. And hear the amazing, almost unbelievable story, of an AI scam. 

This week we hear from Chicago's only president, Barack Obama. He is tackling the issue of income inequality in a recent speech he gave for the Obama Foundation. In the round-table with Heather Cherone, Dave Stewart, Greg Hinz and Ray Long, they discuss turmoil in the Chicago City Council. One alderman tried to block another alderwoman from entering the chambers. Why are things so heated? Also, is there a chance Chicagoans decide to not be a sanctuary city? Chicago workers get a big win but Chicago businesses are still recovering from the pandemic. Lawmakers in Springfield are now on break, what did they pass or not pass before they left this past week?

This week, Bill Cameron talks with one of the candidates for Cook County State's Attorney, Democrat Clayton Harris III. Kim Foxx is stepping down after this term and Harris explains his case to take over for her. Cameron and Clayton discuss crime in Cook County including retail theft, gangs, and he feels about the SAFE-T Act. The round-table with Ray Long, Greg Hinz, Heather Cherone and Dave Stewart talked about Ed Burke's upcoming trial. There's been fireworks in the Chicago City Council over migrants and where to put them. And the gang discusses a reporter getting fined for asking too many questions. And finally, hear from Chicago's Deputy Mayor for Immigrant, Migrant and Refugees Beatriz Ponce De Leon.