The Fran Spielman Show
Join veteran City Hall reporter Fran Spielman as she interviews Chicago’s biggest movers and shakers. Each week, Fran sits down with a local leader, politician or policymaker to get the inside scoop on the latest news in Chicago.
Show episodes
Balancing Chicago's Budget: A City Council Perspective with Ald. Matt O’Shea (19th) & Ald. Andre Vasquez (40th)
In this episode, Fran Spielman talks with Southwest Side Alderman Matt O'Shea and North Side Alderman Andre Vazquez about the ongoing conflict with Mayor Brandon Johnson over the 2025 budget for Chicago. The discussion covers challenges such as the proposed property tax increase, budget cuts, and finding new revenue so
Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman interviews Kennedy Bartley, Mayor Brandon Johnson's Chief of External Affairs, about Chicago's progressive revenue needs, the upcoming city council vote on a $300 million property tax, and the broader budget process. Bartley discusses the mayor's commitment to transparency, co
Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman is joined by political experts Lynn Sweet, Tina Sfondeles, and Mitch Armentrout to dissect the surprising reelection of Donald Trump. The discussion delves into Trump's performance among various voter demographics, Kamala Harris' campaign challenges, and the broader ideologica
In this episode, Fran Spielman is joined by Ald. Anthony Beale (9th) to discuss Chicago's looming budget crisis. With Mayor Brandon Johnson proposing a $17.3 billion budget and a contentious $300 million property tax increase, Beal critiques the Mayor's policies and governance style. The episode delves into the politic
In this episode, Fran Spielman interviews Alderman Marty Quinn from Chicago's 13th Ward. They delve into the strained relationships within the city council, challenges posed by Mayor Brandon Johnson's budget plans, and the need for a new police district. Additionally, they examine the legacy and trial of political figu
Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman is joined by WBEZ education reporter Sarah Karp and Sun-Times education reporter Nader Issa to discuss the recent mass resignation of the Chicago school board amidst a budget crisis and ongoing negotiations with the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU). See Privacy Policy at https://a