The Fran Spielman Show

In this episode, Fran Spielman hosts David Greising, CEO of the Better Government Association, to discuss the intense budget conflict in Chicago between Mayor Brandon Johnson and a renegade group of conservative and moderate aldermen. The debate centers around Johnson's push for a corporate head tax and the alternative budget that seeks efficiencies and cost cuts. The discussion covers the implications for Chicago's bond rating, the potential financial and political fallout, and Johnson's strategy leading up to his re-election campaign.

In the final weeks of 2025, Fran Spielman hosts a year-end discussion on Chicago and Illinois politics with Sun-Times national political reporter Tina Sfondeles and reporter Mitchell Armentrout as they share insights on major events, including the surprise election of Chicago's Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo, Trump's impact on local politics, and ongoing challenges in the city and state. 

Sun-Times City Hall reporter Fran Spielman is joined by Civic Federation President Joe Ferguson to discuss the alternative budget proposal developed by a group of alderpersons. They discuss the city's current financial challenges and the rejection of Mayor Brandon Johnson's $600 million revenue package. Ferguson outlines the importance of balancing the budget to avoid a downgrade to junk bond status and discusses the need for collaboration between the City Council, the Mayor’s office, labor unions, and the business community. 

Fran Spielman interviews Eleanor Gorski, President and CEO of the Chicago Architecture Center, discussing the complex history and future plans for Chicago’s stadiums. The dialogue covers the renovation of Wrigley Field, challenges faced by various sports teams looking for new stadiums, and Gorski's comprehensive report on creating a win-win situation for both the city and its teams. They explore the potential for development around existing and proposed stadium sites, the importance of coordinated government efforts, and the necessity for infrastructure improvements to benefit both the community and the sports franchises.

Fran Spielman is joined by Bob Reiter, President of the Chicago Federation of Labor, focusing on the significant budget stalemate in Chicago. They discuss Mayor Brandon Johnson's rejected $600 million spending plan and the various revenue options and tax strategies on the table to address the city's financial challenges.