The Latest Breaking News from WBEZ

In the face of the city’s violence, Cecilia Mannion refuses to give up hope. The former gang member relentlessly pursues peace and healing.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot describes herself as a “pro-Chicago business” mayor. But on her watch, Boeing and Citadel have left town. On the plus side, Chicago remains a hub for tech start-ups. As Lightfoot seeks reelection, she and her rivals disagree how to revive the economy and restore downtown.

Police have repeatedly turned away people trying to register as required by law. Mayor Lori Lightfoot is promising a fix but has offered few details.

In an unscientific WBEZ survey of regular Chicago commuters, many said service, safety and cleanliness have gotten worse since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Objections to nominating petitions reach a 40-year low in this year’s municipal election cycle. “I think everybody was surprised at how few challenges there were,” said longtime Chicago election attorney Michael Dorf.

Police turn away people trying to register, leaving them at risk of arrest. Some crime victims say the system fails them too.

I used to swim in the lake from late April through early November. Now, I revel in doing it year-round, all winter long, embracing what was once unthinkable. It’s now hard to imagine not doing it.

The Sun-Times, WBEZ and Vocalo are sponsoring the contest. The theme: ‘Bringing Chicago’s voices together,’ to celebrate the city’s diversity. Here’s how to enter.

The People’s Project is a partnership of the Sun-Times, WBEZ and the University of Chicago Institute of Politics, to let Chicagoans pose questions to the candidates for mayor.