The Last Ward
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What happened to Chicago’s Irish machine?
The cartoonishly corrupt dominance of local government by Irish politicians has ended. But key parts of that system endure.
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Chicago votes: What do you have to lose?
Election Day is March 17. And powerful interests are watching.
Mar 8
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Austin Berg
99
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Chicago hit with 2 credit downgrades as Johnson secretly floats new borrowing plan
Chicago’s “pay later” political culture was on full display last week.
Mar 1
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Austin Berg
97
5
Brandon Johnson on Chicago’s mayor dominating City Council: ‘That's working for me.’
The mayor's remarks speak to a major flaw in Chicago’s governance structure.
Feb 22
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Austin Berg
73
The Chicago Teachers Union is toxic among Democrats
The results of the union’s transformation into a political machine speak for themselves.
Feb 15
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Austin Berg
35
4
How Democrats can unlock $100M+ for Chicago education without tax hikes
Democratic Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said he “would be crazy” to reject a new federal tax credit program. But Illinois leaders haven't committed.
Feb 8
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Austin Berg
24
4
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5 steps Chicago’s next mayor can take to fix city finances
Here’s how to tell if a candidate is serious about putting the city on more stable ground.
Feb 1
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Austin Berg
91
1
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One year later: What the gift room scandal reveals about Chicago
The city's governance structure actively works against accountability.
Jan 25
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Austin Berg
88
1
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Exclusive: Chicago Teachers Union audits show potential criminal conduct
New audit records reveal inconsistencies in union reporting that may have led to misstatements to members and the federal government.
Jan 19
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Austin Berg
57
3
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