The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson: Recent Episodes

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The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Podcast from The Voice of Chicago, 720 WGN

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On the final edition of The Sunday Spin, Rick Pearson holds a special round-table featuring Bob Secter of Crain’s; Brian Bernardoni, founder of Aurelius Public Affairs; Eric Elk, government relations director for HNTB; and Amanda Vinicky, WTTW Ch.-11 correspondent. The crew take time to reflect on the current state of the nation; take a look […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin, Rick Pearson speaks with Former Baltimore Police Official and current President of Strategia Consulting, Eric Kowalczyk about his tenure at the Baltimore PD, as it coincided with the Freddie Gray Riots in 2015. Eric’s also the author of “Politics of Crisis: An Insiders Perspective to Prevent Public Policy […]

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Rick Pearson talks to David Yepsen, host of “Iowa Press” and former Des Moines Register National Political Writer, about the nation’s political environment. David and Rick touch on the recent protests and the need for change that the country is looking for; the upcoming election and the strategies candidates may need to rethink; and more.

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Rick Pearson is joined by Democratic State Rep. Ann Williams to discuss a legislative response to calls for police reform and reinvestment in communities hit by looting. Ann also talks about the Clean Energy Jobs Act and what it could mean in terms of new employment opportunities in a post-COVID-19 environment.

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Rick Pearson speaks with Former Baltimore Police Official and current President of Strategia Consulting, Eric Kowalczyk about his tenure at the Baltimore PD, as it included the Freddie Gray Riots in 2015. Eric’s also the author of “Politics of Crisis: An Insiders Perspective to Prevent Public Policy Disasters,” and shares information about the book, the […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin Rick speaks with Lissa Druss, Founder and CEO of Strategia Consulting, about the Our American Voice civics education program for students. Lissa highlights the creativity teachers are using in order to get their students involved; and also touches on the positive impact the program is having on participants. […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Mark Maxwell, statehouse correspondent for WCIA-TV Ch. 3 in Champaign and Nexstar stations across the state including WGN, to discuss the frustrations/intentions of various groups surrounding the protests and trying to figure out where we go from here. Mark also touches on the recent legislative session, Covid-19, and more.

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Rick Pearson speaks with Chris Johnson, Head of the new National Association of Theatre Owners of Illinois and CEO of Classic Cinemas about the desire of movie houses to reopen. Chris explains the process of social distancing in a movie theater, the time needed to bring in new product – film wise, and much more.

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Rick Pearson is joined by Democratic State Rep. and chairman of the powerful House Executive Committee, Emanuel “Chris” Welch to discuss the past session and what’s next. Chris highlights several issues dealt with during the session including the overall need for a state budget, the casino bill, and more. Chris also takes a moment to […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza to discuss and debunk various rumors surrounding the state’s books, raises for legislative members, and more. Susana also takes a moment to discuss the recent protests and injustice that Black and Brown people throughout the country have, and continue, to face.

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Rick Pearson speaks with Lissa Druss, Founder and CEO of Strategia Consulting, about the Our American Voice civics education program for students. Lissa highlights the creativity teachers are using in order to get their students involved; and also touches on the positive impact the program is having on participants. To learn more about Our American […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin Rick speaks with Illinois Senate Republican leader Bill Brady of Bloomington about the legislature’s special pandemic session and what lawmakers did and didn’t do. Bill expresses the shared disappointment of many legislatures surrounding a lack of thorough discussion when it comes to how to kickstart the state’s economy […]

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Mike Militech, Statehouse Correspondent for Quincy Media, joins Rick for a review of the legislative session. Both men share their shock of seeing the session conclude in such a short amount of time; touch on the issue of local funding and the impact it’s having on essential workers and first responders; and more.

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Rick Pearson speaks with Michael Carbonargi, Commissioner on the Cook County Board of Review, about the county’s efforts to provide some property tax relief for homeowners. Michael touches the recently granted waiver of late fees for 60 days for the 2nd installment of the Property Tax Bill; emphasizes the importance of property taxes for the […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Michael Jacobson, President and CEO of the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association, as he fill us in on the state of hotels in our new pandemic era and how hotel operators have chipped in to help first responders. Michael explains the risks that hotels are facing during this time, the relationship […]

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Rick is joined by Democratic State Sen. Sara Feigenholtz as she shares the pride that many legislative members are feeling from accomplishing so much in such a short amount of time. Sara discusses the various precautions everyone took in order to continue safe social distancing procedures and the importance of using the tools available to […]

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Rick speaks with Illinois Senate Republican leader Bill Brady of Bloomington about the legislature’s special pandemic session. Bill expresses the shared disappointment of many legislatures surrounding a lack of thorough discussion when it comes to exploring alternative/highly effective re-opening procedures. He also touches on the state budget, concerns surrounding the CARES Act, and more.

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin Rick speaks with Sam Toia, President and CEO of The Illinois Restaurant Association about whether there’s any help from Washington and what will restaurants look like in a re-opened economy. Sam explains the restaurant recovery fund that the association is asking for; details the impact of the grants/loans […]

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Rick converses with Doug Finke, statehouse reporter for the State Journal-Register of Springfield about his take on lawmakers coming back in session. Doug touches on the various items that will be addressed this week, the precautions being taken in order for everyone to meet safely, and much more.

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Rick Pearson speaks with IL State Treasurer Mike Frerichs about state efforts to help residents and businesses during the economic crisis. He’s also from Champaign and shares his view of how people are dealing with the coronavirus downstate.

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Rick Pearson speaks with Rebecca Shi, Executive Director for The American Business Immigration Coalition, to discuss small businesses, the Payroll Protection Program, and the need for people to fill out the federal Census. Rebecca also touches on the heightened difficulties business owners of color and immigrants alike, are facing as they are continuously being shut-out […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Democratic Rep. and Chair of The Revenue and Finance Committee, Mike Zalewski, as they talk about the legislature reconvening in Springfield on Wednesday. Mike also shares what stipulations he believes will be attached to any money the state receives from Washington, and briefly touches on the issue of voting operations […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Sam Toia, President and CEO of The Illinois Restaurant Association about whether there’s any help from Washington and details the restaurant relief package the association is asking for. Sam also shares an update as to where restaurants stand in Governor J.B. Pritzker’s reopening plan and details what the future of the […]

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On this “Voices from downstate” Edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick speaks with Illinois Farm Bureau President Richard Guebert about the effects of the pandemic on farmers and the state’s important agricultural economy, including the food supply chain. Rich touches on the fragility of the agricultural delivery system, the precautions that need to be in […]

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Rick Pearson converses with Molly Parker, reporter at the Carbondale-based Southern Illinoisan newspaper, about how the pandemic is affecting deep Southern Illinois and regional resentment. Molly talks about the typical day to day, heightened concerns surrounding the economy, the common feelings of being forgotten and left behind, and more.

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Rick Pearson speaks with Democratic Sen. Andy Manar as he provides his take on the governor’s reopen plans as well as the uncertainty over putting together a state budget. Andy also emphasis the importance of the work of local officials and hopes that state officials can join together in the near future to resolve some […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with U.S. Republican Rep. Darin LaHood about issues surrounding the pandemic in Washington, including the requests for federal aid to the states and what the next relief program could consist of. In addition, Darin expresses the frustrations that he and fellow southern IL residents share when it comes to Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Republican Rep. Tom Demmer of Dixon, Deputy GOP leader in the House, to discuss the issues surrounding the pandemic in rural IL. Tom also talks about the increased intensity of regionalism as all areas of IL are impacted differently and how this effects the plans to reopen the IL economy […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Illinois Farm Bureau President Richard Guebert about the effects of the pandemic on farmers and the state’s important agricultural economy, including the food supply chain. Rich touches on the fragility of the agricultural delivery system, the precautions that need to be in place before being able to have employees get back […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin, Rick speaks with Sheila Kennedy, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Top Box Foods, a non-profit provider of affordable food to impoverished areas of Chicago and Lake County. Sheila discusses food supplies, the changes the organization has made in response to COVID-19, and what the future may look like […]

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Rick Pearson converses with NBC-5’s Mary Ann Ahern about the latest news this past week and take a look ahead. Rick and Mary Ann touch on the need for Governor Pritzker to provide more clarification and guidance as to how the state will re-open; the unknown impact this shut down is having on the state […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with UIC Economics Professor David Merriman about coronavirus’ impact on state finances. Professor Merriman co-authored a report covering the Fiscal impact COVID-19 is having on IL and shares the findings aren’t as promising as some may have hoped as the state’s budget is taking, and will continue to take, a major hit.

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Rick Pearson speaks with Michelle Mason, CEO of Association Forum (the association of associations), about the pandemic’s effects on a variety of associations that are based in Chicago. Michelle explains the mission of the Association Forum and lists some of the organizations they represent; provides clarification as to what a 501(c) organization is; stresses the […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Riverside Police Chief Tom Weitzel to learn more about the impact the pandemic has had on law enforcement thus far. Tom discusses the additional pressure that officers are facing in terms of enforcing the various executive orders as a result of the pandemic; issues with speeding as officers are attempting to […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Sheila Kennedy, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Top Box Foods, a non-profit provider of affordable food to impoverished areas of Chicago and Lake County. Sheila discusses food supplies, the changes the organization has made in response to COVID-19 in order to continue to provide for communities, and what the future may […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin, Rick speaks with Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer about the county’s efforts to deal with the pandemic. Bridget discusses the uncertainties we all face when it comes to re-opening businesses in the future; the various webinars the county is offering to offer assistance; and more. Next, Rick is […]

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Rick Pearson converses with Amanda Vinicky, correspondent, WTTW-Ch. 11 to unpack the week that was and what may lie ahead. Amanda and Rick go over how people are handling the stay-at-home order, especially with fatigue beginning to settle in,; the scrutiny Chicago is currently under as there continues to be reports of large gatherings; and […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Brad Cole, Executive Director of the Illinois Municipal League, about the impact of the coronavirus on local city and town revenues. Brad explains the disparities the virus is highlighting throughout the state; the need to see direct unrestricted funding to municipalities for several reasons; and more.

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Rick Pearson speaks with U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi joins the conversation to discuss the latest coronavirus relief effort from Congress and the improvements that have been made thus far, in addition to what may be ahead in the next legislative package. He also touches on antibody testing and the uncertainties surrounding the results.

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Rick Pearson is joined by Elliot Richardson, President and Co-founder of the Small Business Advocacy Council to learn more about federal and state efforts to assist the hard-hit small business community. Elliot touches on the optimism that is circulating as more money is being made available specifically for small business owners; the issue that still […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer about the Cook County Community Recovery Initiative. Bridget discusses the uncertainties we all face when it comes to re-opening businesses in the future; the various webinars the county is offering to offer assistance during this time; and more. She also highlights the relief/loan packages that the […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin, As we await the President’s daily White House Coronavirus Task Force briefing, Rick Pearson and Roger Badesch take a look where things stand for the city and the top news stories. Rick and Roger talk about the uncertainties that remain, the stay-at-home order, and much more.

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with Rob Karr, President and CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association to discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on retailers and restaurants. Rob highlights the difficulties that are ahead when the time comes to re-open all businesses; the additional responsibilities all consumers must take […]

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Rick Pearson talks to Mark Denzler, President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association about the primary focus of manufacturers during this time. Mark discusses the changes various manufacturing companies have made in order to increase their production rate of essential products and/or re-purposing their resources to create essential items during this time. Mark also […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Rob Karr, President and CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association to discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on retailers and restaurants. Rob highlights the difficulties that are ahead when the time comes to re-open all businesses; the additional responsibilities all consumers must take on in terms of continuing to practice […]

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Rick talks to Dan Montgomery, President of the Illinois Federation of Teachers, about the difficulties with e-learning as everyone doesn’t have equal access to wireless internet, proper technology, etc. Dan also touches on the importance of human connection and interaction when it comes to schooling and character building, what teachers are doing to keep a […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Bob Reiter, President of the Chicago Federation of Labor, about essential employees and their safety during this time. Aside from those working in the medical field, Bob emphasizes the importance of ensuring that everyone working during this time is taking extra precautions and that they’re receiving support from their employers as […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with Bob Reiter, President of the Chicago Federation of Labor, about essential employees and their safety during this time. Aside from those working in the medical field, Bob emphasizes the importance of ensuring everyone working during this time is taking extra precautions and that they’re […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson is joined by Bob Secter, editor at Crain’s Forum, and lobbyist Brian Bernardoni for a roundtable on the March 17th primary results. The men discuss the controversial question as to whether the primary should’ve been held or moved to a later date, what lies ahead for […]

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Crain’s Forum editor, Bob Secter, and consultant Brian Bernardoni, managing partner and founder of Aurelius Public Affairs, join Rick for a round table discussion on the upcoming election.

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin, host Rick Pearson talks with 3rd Congressional District Democratic nominee, Marie Newman, on her candidacy along with the challenges of connecting with voters in a time of social distancing. The Sunday Spin now airs Sundays from 5p-7p

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Rick Pearson is joined by Rush Darwish, one of the three candidates competing in the Southwest Side and Suburban 3rd Congressional District Democratic primary. Rush talks about his candidacy and his focus of complete honesty throughout everything; the primary policies and priorities that he is concerned about, including healthcare; and the need for IL to […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson takes on our weekly spin through politics and touches on Super Tuesday, a resurgent Joe Biden, and more. Then, Rick is joined by Rush Darwish, one of the three candidates competing in the Southwest Side and Suburban 3rd Congressional District Democratic primary. He talks about his […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson is joined by Rebecca Shi, Executive Director of American Business Immigration Coalition, on immigration issues. With immigration continuously at the forefront of news headlines, Rebecca gives her take on why reaching a comprehensive agreement on immigration is important to the business economy. Then, Rick speaks with Illinois […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Illinois House Republican leader Bill Brady about various issues in Springfield. Bill shares his take on J.B. Pritzker’s proposed budget and the lack of support he believes Pritzker will receive on the tax increase; and emphasizes the need to focus on job creation efforts for the state. Bill also touches on the […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Rebecca Shi, Executive Director of American Business Immigration Coalition, on immigration issues. With immigration continuously at the forefront of news headlines, Rebecca gives her take on why reaching a comprehensive agreement on immigration is important to the business economy. She touches on the coronavirus and the widespread misconceptions, issues with […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin, host Rick Pearson talks with  Illinois House Republican leader Jim Durkin discussing the new budget plan for the state of Illinois. The new graduated income tax sparks a debate in the state and a wrap up discussion of Rod Blagojevich. The Sunday Spin now airs Sundays from 5p-7p

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin, Rick Pearson takes us through his weekly spin on politics for a review of the week and a look ahead at what’s to come. We take a look at the commentary made by primary candidates in the latest debate, along side President Trump’s commentary on candidates as well. […]

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On tonight’s episode of the show, Rick Pearson has an in-depth discussion with Martha Jo Black, author and daughter of late MLB pitcher Joe Black. Ringing in is Bria Anderson, wife of White Sox star shortstop Tim Anderson. Listen to their conversation below.   https://serve.castfire.com/audio/3732764/bria__2020-02-17-043304.64kmono.mp3

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Todd Mayfield, author of ‘Traveling Soul: The Life of Curtis Mayfield’ comes in to discuss his father, Curtis Mayfield’s legacy as one of the most influential African-American musicians of the civil rights era and so on.  Mayfield was an American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and record producer. Listen to their conversation below on the legacy that continues […]

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The Sunday Spin Host Rick Pearson talks with Chicago city treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin to discuss the upcoming event ‘Dollars and Sen$e’ which is aimed to provide economic assistance and discussion between stakeholders on neighborhood lending, community banking, economic development opportunities and financial assistance and more. To learn more about the event you can search for […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson hosts the show with his annual Black History Month theme, highlighting historic black figures who have contributed and shaped our nation today. Rick is joined by Chicago city treasurer, Melissa Conyears-Ervin, to discuss the upcoming February 29 event, ‘Dollars and Sen$e,’ a  town hall on financial […]

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On this half-hour edition of The Sunday Spin, Rick Pearson takes us through his weekly spin on politics for a review of the week and a look ahead at what’s to come. Rick recaps the Iowa caucus, President Donald Trump being acquitted, and more. The Sunday Spin now airs Sundays from 5p-7p   https://serve.castfire.com/audio/3731120/sunday_spin_2020-02-10-001320.64kmono.mp3  

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin, Rick Pearson takes us through his weekly spin on politics for a review of the week and a look ahead at what’s to come. Rick covers several stories including the Democratic debate in Des Moines, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the impeachment trial, and more.   The Sunday […]

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Rick Pearson sits down with Illinois Senate President John Cullerton to discuss why he is resigning, as well as memories he has while serving the state of Illinois.  Cullerton tells Pearson the historic and memorable moments he had while serving in government. https://serve.castfire.com/audio/3712272/cullerton__2020-01-13-060812.64kmono.mp3

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On tonight’s Sunday Spin host Rick Pearson, invites Jacob Meister, democratic candidate for Cook County circuit clerk, in studio to discuss what his plans if elected.

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Rick Pearson talks to Tribune reporter Ray Long on the Mike Madigan related federal investigations. Ray breaks down some of his latest stories including ComEd, state and local politicians, and much more.  

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with Attorney Michael Dorf and Mayor of Skokie, George Van Dusen, as they’re the authors of the the late veteran Congressman Sid Yates biography, “Clear It with Sid!”.  Michael and George talk about Sid’s amazing track record, the evolution of the Country that the book […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Mae Whiteside, chairwoman of Flourish PAC, and former Democratic state Rep. and lieutenant governor candidate Litesa Wallace of Rockford, on efforts to encourage more diversity in campaigns for public office. Mae and Litesa explain what Flourish PAC is; stress the importance of recruiting women of color to run for office; […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Attorney Michael Dorf and Mayor of Skokie, George Van Dusen, as they’re the authors of the the late veteran Congressman Sid Yates biography, “Clear It with Sid!”.  Michael and George talk about Sid’s amazing track record, the evolution of the Country that the book details, and some of the most interesting […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with State Sen. Cristina Castro of Elgin and State Rep. Ann Williams of Chicago about the proposed Clean Energy Jobs Act—an effort to make Illinois more green with its energy development while also promoting job growth. Cristina and Ann provide a detailed overview of the bill, […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Jason DeSanto, Senior Lecturer at Northwestern’s Pritzker School of Law, for an hour-long discussion about the House Democratic-led impeachment inquiry hearings as well as the latest Democratic presidential debate. Jason and Rick review snippets from both the latest debate and the impeachment inquiry hearings; discuss interesting results from various public […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with State Sen. Cristina Castro of Elgin and State Rep. Ann Williams of Chicago about the proposed Clean Energy Jobs Act—an effort to make Illinois more green with its energy development while also promoting job growth. Cristina and Ann provide a detailed overview of the bill; the benefits of “going green” and the […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with Senate Republican leader Bill Brady of Bloomington about the final acts of the fall veto session in Springfield and what did, and didn’t, happen. Bill talks about IL Senate President John Cullerton’s retirement announcement; the successful move to consolidate pension funds for first responders; the […]

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Rick Pearson talks to Democratic State Rep. Sara Feigenholtz of Chicago about the accomplishments in the veto session as well as the issues that were left unresolved. Sara touches on the proposed casino bill and her optimism in getting it passed, the graduated real estate transfer tax issue, and the continuous goal to not raise […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Michael Golden, President of Golden Mean Strategies, to get his thoughts on the public impeachment inquiry. Michael discusses the strategies being engaged on each side, the difficulties of forming a strategy with/for Trump due to his impulsive actions, and the growing number of people that are for the impeachment as […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Senate Republican leader Bill Brady of Bloomington about the final acts of the fall veto session in Springfield and what did, and didn’t, happen. Bill talks about IL Senate President John Cullerton’s retirement announcement; the successful move to consolidate pension funds for first responders; the failure of having anything concrete move forward […]

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Rick Pearson talks to Tribune reporter Bill Ruthhart about some of his recent stories as he covers the 2020 Presidential Race. Bill touches on Elizabeth Warren’s campaign trail and signature policies; Pete Buttigieg‘s campaign and his place as the major alternative to Joe Biden; and he also shares who he believes is the established tier […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Democratic State Sen. Rob Martwick about the closing of the fall veto session and ethics issues in Springfield. Rob touches on the Federal investigations involving several of his colleagues and the frustrations that members of the legislature share as it erodes distrust from IL residents, as well as the process of […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Democratic State Rep. Bob Rita to discuss issues surrounding the closure of Blue Island’s MetroSouth Medical Center. Bob explains the impact that this is having on the South Side as over 1,000 jobs will be lost; stresses residents’ growing concerns of extensive travel times to neighboring ER rooms; and questions […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson is joined by Democratic State Rep. Bob Rita to discuss issues surrounding the closure of Blue Island’s MetroSouth Medical Center. Bob explains the impact that this is having on the South Side as over 1,000 jobs will be lost; stresses residents’ growing concerns of extensive travel […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson is joined by Illinois House deputy GOP leader Tom Demmer of Dixon to discuss ethics reforms that the Republicans are proposing, especially after these Federal investigations involving several state lawmakers in Springfield. Tom expresses his thoughts on the current state of Springfield in terms of the investigations […]

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Rick Pearson talks to Josh Sharp, Executive Vice President of the Illinois Petroleum Marketers Association/IL Association of Convenient Stores, about efforts in Springfield to ban flavored tobacco and vaping products. Josh explains the legislation that was introduced during the veto session that looks to ban all flavored tobacco products; the questions surrounding banning menthol; and […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Pat Brady of Next Generation Strategies about President Trump’s visit to Chicago and the launch of the formal impeachment inquiry by House Democrats. Pat and Rick take a look at various comments President Trump made during the International Association of Chiefs of Police Annual Conference and Exposition in Chicago; explore a […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Illinois House deputy GOP leader Tom Demmer of Dixon to discuss ethics reforms that the Republicans are proposing, especially after these Federal investigations involving several state lawmakers in Springfield. Tom expresses his thoughts on the current state of Springfield in terms of the investigations currently in process; the idea of having […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson is joined by Democratic State Rep. and Chairman of the House Executive Committee Emanuel “Chris” Welch, to discuss on the general assembly fall veto session and the NCAA legislation he hopes to get passed. Chris explains what the legislation entails; the importance of allowing student athletes to […]

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Rick welcomes Illinois House Republican leader Jim Durkin of Western Springs into the studio, to discuss a number of issues ahead of the fall veto session. Jim shares his thoughts on the consolidation of pension funds, vaping, and more. He also discusses where things stand with the proposed Insulin Rate Cap.  

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Rick Pearson speaks with Gov. J.B. Pritzker ahead of the start of the fall veto session and various issues that he’ll have to look over throughout it. Gov Pritzker touches on Mayor Lightfoot’s Real Estate Transfer Tax; the issue of first responder pension funds; his thoughts and optimism pertaining to Chris Welch’s proposed NCAA legislation; actions […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Democratic State Rep. and Chairman of the House Executive Committee Emanuel “Chris” Welch, to discuss on the general assembly fall veto session and the NCAA legislation he hopes to get passed. Chris explains what the legislation entails; the importance of allowing student athletes to be able to generate profits for themselves […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with Melissa Conyears-Ervin, Chicago City Treasurer, about her efforts to help drive economic improvement outside throughout the city – not just for the Downtown, Chicago area; the catalyst fund and the purposes that it’s meant to serve; and her upcoming Women’s Small Business Expo. Then, […]

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Rick is joined by Jason DeSanto, Senior lecturer at the Northwestern-Pritzker School of Law, to sort through the “highs and lows” of the Democratic debate, as well as the Democratic policies of the Presidential candidates. They also discuss the House Democrats in terms of their strategy with moving forward with their impeachment inquiry, and more. […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Melissa Conyears-Ervin, Chicago City Treasurer, about her efforts to help drive economic improvement outside throughout the city – not just for the Downtown, Chicago area; the catalyst fund and the purposes that it’s meant to serve; and her upcoming Women’s Small Business Expo. The Women’s Small Business Expo will take place […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson welcomes Kevin Fitzpatrick, incoming CEO and President of Alfred Benesch Co., into the studio. Kevin is apart of the American Council of Engineering Companies and he shares what the council is, as well as, what to expect during the year’s National Engineering Conference being held in Chicago.  […]

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Rick Pearson is joined by Author, Activist, and Democratic Presidential Candidate Marianne Williamson as she shares insight into her campaign and how she sees a path to victory in the large diverse field of contenders. Marianne also discusses the move to impeach Donald Trump; and shares her views on Syria and the decision to withdraw U.S. […]

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Rick Pearson speaks with Chicago Tribune reporter Hal Dardick on city pension investments. Hal and Juan Perez Jr. took an in-depth look into the city pension deficit and what steps were taken in an attempt to put us on a “path to solvency”. Hal explains the various taxes and fees former Mayor Rahm Emmanuel set […]

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Rick Pearson welcomes Kevin Fitzpatrick, incoming CEO and President of Alfred Benesch Co., into the studio. Kevin is apart of the American Council of Engineering Companies and he shares what the council is, as well as, what to expect during the year’s National Engineering Conference being held in Chicago.  Kevin also discusses the infrastructure bill and […]

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On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson welcomes Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico, President of DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference, into the studio to explain what the conference is and what they aim to do. Steve also shares his thoughts on legislature in Springfield; the hotel/motel tax; and other various municipal issues. Next, Rick […]

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Rick Pearson welcomes Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico, President of DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference, into the studio to explain what the conference is and what they aim to do. Steve also shares his thoughts on legislature in Springfield; the hotel/motel tax; and other various municipal issues.  

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Rick Pearson speaks with Willowbrook Mayor Frank Trilla about the village’s success to get the controversial firm, Sterigenics, to shut down it’s sterilization operation. Frank explains how everything unfolded and how the Stop Sterigenics Movement came about; the vital role of the task force; and much more.  

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Rick Pearson is joined by Dorothy Miaso, Executive Director of the Literacy Volunteers of Illinois, and board member Reggie Dumas, as they talk about the work of the organization and their goal to break stigmas surrounding literacy. They also share information about their programming and upcoming events including the Annual Scrabble For Literacy Challenge and Casino […]