The Mincing Rascals https://wgnradio.com en-US WGN Plus, All Rights Reserved John Williams and journalists from WGN Radio other Chicago media outlets discuss news of the week on The Mincing Rascals podcast from WGN Plus Wed, 01 Apr 2026 22:24:22 +0000 hourly 1 WGN Plus no The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago John Williams and journalists from WGN Radio other Chicago media outlets discuss news of the week on The Mincing Rascals podcast from WGN Plus John Williams and journalists from WGN Radio other Chicago media outlets discuss news of the week on The Mincing Rascals podcast from WGN Plus dmarzullo@wgnradio.comWGN Plus The Mincing Rascals 4.1.26: Birthright citizenship, Sheridan Gorman, ABS The Mincing Rascals 4.1.26: Birthright citizenship, Sheridan Gorman, ABS The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the Supreme Court hearing oral arguments on President Trump’s effort to end birthright citizenship. Why is this issue so important to President Trump? And what do the Rascals think of President Trump sitting in on the arguments? Speaking of President Trump, his effort to put his name on things continues. What do the Rascals think of naming things for politicians who are still alive? The Rascals also debate if President Trump will try to cancel or delegitimize the midterm elections. And will the Democrats rally behind a singular message? Next, the Rascals discuss the murder of Loyola student Sheridan Gorman. Is it fair to say that Gorman would still be alive if Trump was in office rather than Joe Biden? Sports is also on the mind this week as MLB has incorporated ABS (automated ball-strike system) into games. Are the Rascals on board with the new technology? Also, Eric suggests 7 things that would improve the game basketball.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2830409 Wed, 01 Apr 2026 22:24:22 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the Supreme Court hearing oral arguments on President Trump’s effort to end birthright […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the Supreme Court hearing oral arguments on President Trump’s effort to end birthright […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 3.25.26: Sheridan Gorman murder, No Kings rally, City Hall firings The Mincing Rascals 3.25.26: Sheridan Gorman murder, No Kings rally, City Hall firings The Mincing Rascals this week are Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week’s John Williams-less podcast begins with the gang discussing the murder of Loyola University student Sheridan Gorman. Next, the Rascals talk about Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke pushing back on the effort to name a special prosecutor to investigate the federal agents behind Operation Midway Blitz. This weekend there will be ‘No Kings’ rallies in cities across the country. Do the Rascals believe that one-day protests accomplish anything? Speaking of protesting, the CTU wants students to have a day off on May 1st to engage in civil engagement. Are the Rascals on board with the idea? There have been some firings at Chicago City Hall recently. Is the administration in disarray? And we are less than a year away from the next mayoral election in Chicago. The Rascals share some of their early thoughts. And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2830407 Wed, 25 Mar 2026 23:42:24 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week’s John Williams-less podcast begins with the gang discussing the […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week’s John Williams-less podcast begins with the gang discussing the […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 3.18.26: Election recap, Iran war, Markwayne Mullin testimony The Mincing Rascals 3.18.26: Election recap, Iran war, Markwayne Mullin testimony The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin. The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the results of yesterday’s Illinois primary. What were the major takeaways from the results? The Chicago Teachers Union wants students to take a day off of school on May 1st for civil engagement. Mayor Johnson supports this idea. Do the Rascals? Next, the Rascals discuss the ongoing war in Iran. The Rascals wonder what the results will be when the war ends. What does victory look like? President Trump DHS nominee Markwayne Mullin testified before a Senate committee today. Do the Rascals think Mullin will be nominated? John also reads an email from a Mincing Rascals listener about last week’s discussion on AI and journalism. Also this week, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr threatened to revoke broadcasters’ licenses over the Iran War coverage. Do the Rascals believe the media has covered this war fairly? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3w-7EBTQPc?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507]

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2830405 Wed, 18 Mar 2026 22:44:40 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin. The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the results of yesterday’s Illinois primary. What were the major takeaways from the results? The Chicago Teachers Union wants students […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin. The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the results of yesterday’s Illinois primary. What were the major takeaways from the results? The Chicago Teachers Union wants students […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 3.11.26: Iran war, Uber ride options, AI and local news The Mincing Rascals 3.11.26: Iran war, Uber ride options, AI and local news The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the war in Iran. How and when does this war end? Last week, HHS Secretary RFK Jr. called out Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks for serving high-sugar drinks. Should the government be regulating these types of drinks? This week, Uber launched their women-only ride option. Do the Rascals have any issues with this option? Also this week, The Wall Street Journal has a piece on how AI could save local news. How are the Rascals feeling about this? And speaking of AI, former congressman Bobby Rush used AI in a campaign ad to voice his support for Jesse Jackson Jr. Do the Rascals believe this is a good use of AI? And finally, the Rascals make some election day / Oscar predictions.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2812538 Wed, 11 Mar 2026 23:02:00 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the war in Iran. How and when does this war end? Last week, HHS […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the war in Iran. How and when does this war end? Last week, HHS […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 3.4.26: Iran attack, Texas primary results, honoring Jesse Jackson, Amazon drones The Mincing Rascals 3.4.26: Iran attack, Texas primary results, honoring Jesse Jackson, Amazon drones The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, political pundit Marj Halperin, and Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the U.S. attack on Iran. Do the Rascals think the attack was warranted? Next, the Rascals talk about DHS Secretary Kristi Noem appearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee and saying that she was unaware of Marimar Martinez, the Chicago woman who was shot by a federal agent. What do the Rascals make of Secretary Noem’s testimony. Switching over to national politics, the Rascals break down the U.S. Senate primary election in Texas. What were the Rascals biggest takeaways for the results? Former Presidents Clinton, Obama, and Biden will attend the Chicago memorial for Jesse Jackson. How should the city of Chicago honor the late civil rights icon? Should they rename Jackson Park? Midway Airport? Also this week, it was announced that Amazon drones will start delivering packages in a couple of the south suburbs. The Rascal debate the merits of the Amazon drones and the delivery robots that have been seen on Chicago streets. And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2797978 Wed, 04 Mar 2026 23:38:57 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, political pundit Marj Halperin, and Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the U.S. attack on Iran. Do the Rascals think the attack was warranted? Next, […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, political pundit Marj Halperin, and Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the U.S. attack on Iran. Do the Rascals think the attack was warranted? Next, […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 2.25.26: SOTU recap, Stratton ad, ranked choice voting, Bears stadium The Mincing Rascals 2.25.26: SOTU recap, Stratton ad, ranked choice voting, Bears stadium The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start things off by breaking down President Trump’s State of the Union. What were the big takeaways from the speech? Next, the Rascals discuss the new ad by U.S. Senate candidate Juliana Stratton that shows supporters (including Senator Tammy Duckworth) saying, ‘F Trump.’ Do the Rascals believe this ad will be effective? Speaking of local elections, Marj wrote an Op-ed in the Tribune today about why she favors Ranked Choice Voting. Are the other Rascals on board with RCV? Also this week, there has been some more news about the possibility of the Bears building a new stadium in Hammond, Indiana. The Rascals discuss the tax implications for Indiana residents if the Bears were to build a new stadium in the Hoosier state. Sticking to local elections, the Rascals talk about the Chicago Tribune’s non-endorsement endorsements. Or, as Eric calls it, ‘nondorsements.’ And finally, let’s not forget red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2797976 Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:27:47 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start things off by breaking down President Trump’s State of the Union. What were the big takeaways from the speech? Next, the Rascals discuss […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start things off by breaking down President Trump’s State of the Union. What were the big takeaways from the speech? Next, the Rascals discuss […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 2.18.26: Jesse Jackson, powerful Chicagoans, Colbert-FCC feud, Nancy Guthrie coverage The Mincing Rascals 2.18.26: Jesse Jackson, powerful Chicagoans, Colbert-FCC feud, Nancy Guthrie coverage The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, and political pundit Marj Halperin! Today, the Rascals start the podcast talking about the death of civil rights activist and Chicago icon Jesse Jackson. The Rascals reflect on the complicated legacy of the long-time activist. Next, the Rascals debate Chicago Magazine’s 50 Most Powerful Chicagoans. Also this week, Stephen Colbert said bosses at CBS told him that he couldn’t interview James Talarico, who is running for the senate in Texas citing the ‘equal-time’ rule. What do the Rascals make of the Colbert-FCC-CBS drama? Nancy Guthrie is still missing and Eric believes the media coverage is way overblown. What do the other Rascals think? Getting back to local news, the Rascals discuss the debate between Cook County board president Toni Preckwinkle and Ald. Brendan Reilly. Does Reilly stand a chance in this race for board president? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2797974 Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:08:51 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, and political pundit Marj Halperin! Today, the Rascals start the podcast talking about the death of civil rights activist and Chicago icon Jesse Jackson. The Rascals reflect on the complicated legacy of the long-time […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, and political pundit Marj Halperin! Today, the Rascals start the podcast talking about the death of civil rights activist and Chicago icon Jesse Jackson. The Rascals reflect on the complicated legacy of the long-time […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 2.11.26: SAVE Act, ICE reforms, Epstein files, Super Bowl halftime show The Mincing Rascals 2.11.26: SAVE Act, ICE reforms, Epstein files, Super Bowl halftime show The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about Chicago babysitting rates. Babysitters get paid how much?! Next, the Rascals discuss the SAVE America Act and the GOP push for voter ID. Should Democrats throw a bone to the GOP on this issue for ICE reforms? The Rascals also discuss the latest on the Epstein Files. Do the Rascals believe that President Trump committed any crimes? Switching gears to attraction / distraction. What to make of the latest news regarding the Super Bowl halftime show, the Olympics, and the racist video that President Trump shared last week. Locally, what about a Chicago City Council committee approving a revised ordinance that would authorize Chicagoans to use their cellphones to provide recorded evidence of bus, bike lane and crosswalk parking violations. Do the Rascals think this is a good idea? And before we leave, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KF7rP6JGD8?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507]

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2797970 Wed, 11 Feb 2026 23:35:56 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about Chicago […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, host of the ‘Steve Bertrand on Books‘ podcast. This week the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about Chicago […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 2.4.26: Senate race, government shutdown, Waymo, snowplow names The Mincing Rascals 2.4.26: Senate race, government shutdown, Waymo, snowplow names The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about JB Pritzker donating $5 million to Juliana Stratton’s senate campaign? Is this anything? Or nothing? And how are the Rascals feeling about the race to replace Sen. Durbin? Also, what’s going on with the government shutdown? What do the Democrats want? What do the Republicans want? The Rascals break it down. Next, the Rascals discuss Tom Homan announcing that 700 federal agents will be leaving Minnesota. What’s next for the Trump administration’s immigration efforts? Locally, Mayor Brandon Johnson wants Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke to prosecute federal agents for crimes they committed while working in Chicago. ‘Abolish Ice’ is a finalist in Chicago’s annual Name a Snowplow contest. Curiously, none of the anti-Brandon Johnson names made the cut. John thinks Johnson missed an opportunity to have some fun with the contest. Also, this week, State Rep. Kam Buckner has introduced a bill to bring autonomous cars to Illinois. Are the Rascals on-board with self-driving vehicles? And finally, the Illini Republicans posted a controversial image on social media depicting the recent federal agent shooting and killing of Alex Pretti. But, why?

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPsnpvfWBXk?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507]

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2778828 Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:11:12 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about JB Pritzker donating $5 million to Juliana Stratton’s senate campaign? Is this anything? […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about JB Pritzker donating $5 million to Juliana Stratton’s senate campaign? Is this anything? […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 1.28.26: Alex Pretti death, paywall-free news, millionaire tax The Mincing Rascals 1.28.26: Alex Pretti death, paywall-free news, millionaire tax The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents in Minnesota over the weekend. What were the biggest takeaways from the news this week? A Chicago teacher was placed on administrative leave after making a Facebook post supporting ICE. Do the Rascals think the teacher should have been put on leave? Also this week, the actor John Cusack wrote an op-ed in the Sun-Times about the need for paywall-free news coverage. Do the Rascals think newspapers should offer free content for major news stories? Next, the United Center will start selling THC drinks at concessions in early February. Where are the Rascals on offering THC beverages at the UC? Mayor Brandon Johnson is once again pushing for a progressive income tax. Do the Rascals believe this revenue proposal is a good idea? This leads into the race to replace Dick Durbin in the U.S. Senate. What candidate is likely to replace Senator Durbin? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79OXwiSAuBI?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507]

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2778826 Wed, 28 Jan 2026 23:44:56 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents in Minnesota over the weekend. […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents in Minnesota over the weekend. […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 1.21.26: Bears loss, NIL, parking meter deal, Greenland, CTA safety The Mincing Rascals 1.21.26: Bears loss, NIL, parking meter deal, Greenland, CTA safety The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel,  multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room., and recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand. The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the Bears losing to the Rams in the playoffs and the controversy over the Sun-Times headline, “Good, Better, Bust,” the day after the loss. What do the Rascals think of the headline? Sticking to sports, what do the Rascals make of the transfer portal / NIL era in college sports? Next, the Rascals discuss Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson saying that he is not going to buy back its parking meters. The Rascals also break down the news coming out of the World Economic Forum in Davos. So, what’s going on with Greenland? And finally, the Rascals talk about the recent Op-ed from Paul Vallas about safety on the CTA. Oh, and Steve Bertrand gives a special shoutout for the Blackhawks honoring Jonathan Toews, and PCA and Caleb Williams making the rounds at a couple of recent sporting events.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-RwhNzfbfQ?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507]

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2778824 Thu, 22 Jan 2026 00:00:11 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel,  multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room., and recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand. The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the Bears losing to the Rams in the playoffs and the controversy over the Sun-Times headline, “Good, Better, […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel,  multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room., and recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand. The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the Bears losing to the Rams in the playoffs and the controversy over the Sun-Times headline, “Good, Better, […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 1.14.26: Bears victory, Ted Dabrowski ad, Greenland The Mincing Rascals 1.14.26: Bears victory, Ted Dabrowski ad, Greenland The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about the Chicago Bears beating the Green Bay Packers in the first round of the playoffs and head coach Ben Johnson’s celebration after the victory. Do the Rascals think Johnson acted appropriately? Next, the Rascals discuss Republican gubernatorial candidate Ted Dabrowski releasing an ad featuring Joe Abraham, the father of Katie Abraham, who was killed in a drunken-driving accident by an undocumented immigrant. What do the Rascals make of the ad? Will this ad move the needle in the Republican primary? This leads into a discussion about President Trump threatening to cut off funds to sanctuary cities and their states starting next month. The Rascals then break down the latest news about the killing of Renee Good and other ICE activities in Minneapolis. Should it be legal to take a video of a federal law enforcement official who is trying to do the job? Also, what’s going on with Greenland (and hot dog carts)? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVvEAywMi2w?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507]

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2778820 Wed, 14 Jan 2026 23:48:40 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about the Chicago Bears beating the Green Bay […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about the Chicago Bears beating the Green Bay […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 1.7.26: ICE shooting, Maduro capture, Chicago mayoral race The Mincing Rascals 1.7.26: ICE shooting, Maduro capture, Chicago mayoral race The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast this week talking about the ICE shooting in Minneapolis that left a woman dead. The Rascals talk about the shooting, the response by DHS, and what they thought after watching the video of the incident. Continuing on the national front, the Rascals talk about the U.S. capturing President Nicolás Maduro and the latest on the situation in Venezuela. What’s next? The Rascals break it all down. Also, what’s going on with the desire by the Trump administration to acquire Greenland? Next, Austin tells us, why you can’t start a Chicago-style hot dog cart in Chicago. And finally, Rep. Mike Quigley announced that he will be running for Chicago mayor. Do the Rascals see him as a viable candidate?

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxXy9ARYqIY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507]

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2734525 Wed, 07 Jan 2026 23:57:13 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast this week talking about the ICE shooting in Minneapolis that left […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward on Substack, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast this week talking about the ICE shooting in Minneapolis that left […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 12.30.25: U.S. and Chicago politics, Bears stadium progress in 2026 The Mincing Rascals 12.30.25: U.S. and Chicago politics, Bears stadium progress in 2026 The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The group kicks things off with a wide-ranging discussion on American politics, President Trump’s recent actions, public perception of the economy, and why many voters feel disconnected discussions on the economy. John then answers a letter from a listener who is on the fence about continuing to listen to the program. 

The conversation turns to the power and limits of the presidency, with sharp analysis of executive authority, Supreme Court decisions, and the long-term implications of challenges to birthright citizenship. The panel also examines the political optics surrounding foreign policy, including Ukraine, Russia, and global power dynamics.

Closer to home, the group weighs in on Chicago politics, the future of the Bears, and whether a new stadium could finally take shape with shovels in the ground in 2026. The end of the episode features Red Light, Yellow Light, and Green Light recommendations from the panel. As always, the Rascals don’t shy away from tough conversations bringing humor, insight, and sharp perspective to another packed episode.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2774548 Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:59:48 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The group kicks things off with a wide-ranging discussion on American politics, President Trump’s recent actions, public perception of the economy, and why many voters feel disconnected discussions on […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The group kicks things off with a wide-ranging discussion on American politics, President Trump’s recent actions, public perception of the economy, and why many voters feel disconnected discussions on […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 12.23.25: The Trump Administration, 60 Minutes and Chicago Bears’ threat to relocate The Mincing Rascals 12.23.25: The Trump Administration, 60 Minutes and Chicago Bears’ threat to relocate The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, and multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room. The Rascals open the podcast with Steve Bertrand’s return to the panel and have a candid discussion about what it’s like leaving the anchor desk and the growing difficulty of maintaining objectivity in covering the Trump Administration. From there, the group revisits the controversy over whether major networks should air presidential addresses without advance transcripts. Should broadcasters continue to carry speeches they can’t fact-check in real time? The conversation deepens with an intense breakdown of CBS News pulling a 60 Minutes segment on the U.S. sending Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador’s notorious CECOT prison, raising alarms about journalistic independence. Shifting to local headlines, the Rascals examine the Chicago Bears’ threat to relocate to Northwest Indiana, debating stadium financing, public subsidies, and whether Bears fans would ultimately follow the team across state lines to Hammond. Would Chicago really stomach losing the Bears to Indiana? The Rascals also weigh in on Chicago Cubs third baseman Matt Shaw’s appearance at a Turning Point USA event and the risks athletes face when engaging in polarizing politics. Closing the episode is a discussion on Mayor Brandon Johnson’s newly passed city budget, including higher bag taxes, expanded gambling, ambulance debt collection, and whether Chicago is relying too heavily on nickel-and-dime revenue fixes instead of long-term solutions. Tune in to find out where the Rascals land on all these issues and more. 

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2771600 Tue, 23 Dec 2025 23:51:06 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, and multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room. The Rascals open the podcast with Steve Bertrand’s return to the panel and have a candid discussion about what it’s like leaving the anchor desk […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, recently retired newsman Steve Bertrand, and multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room. The Rascals open the podcast with Steve Bertrand’s return to the panel and have a candid discussion about what it’s like leaving the anchor desk […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 12.17.25: Bovino returns, budget battle, Rob Reiner The Mincing Rascals 12.17.25: Bovino returns, budget battle, Rob Reiner The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and the The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals begin the podcast talking about Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino returning to the Chicago area. The Rascals unpack the latest immigration enforcement efforts. Next, the Rascals discuss President Trump’s ‘disgusting’ response to the death of Rob Reiner. Do the Rascals think some of Trump’s supporters will deflect because of the reaction to Reiner’s death? Also, the Trump administration unveiled new plaques that attack Joe Biden and Barack Obama and other political foes. President Trump will address the nation tonight to tout his achievements and his plan for 2026. Eric believes the major television networks shouldn’t run the speech tonight. Switching back to local news, the Rascals break down the latest on the budget battle between Mayor Johnson and the Chicago City Council. Last week Governor Pritzker signed the ‘Medical Aid in Dying Bill’ into law. Where were the Rascals on this bill? Vanity Fair did an extensive interview with President Trump’s Chief of Staff Susie Wiles where she was critical of members of the administration. Will anything come from this eye-opening interview? Finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2734523 Wed, 17 Dec 2025 23:33:16 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and the The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals begin the podcast talking about Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino returning to the Chicago area. The Rascals unpack the latest immigration enforcement […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and the The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals begin the podcast talking about Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino returning to the Chicago area. The Rascals unpack the latest immigration enforcement […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 12.11.25: Budget drama, robot delivery, Madigan seeks pardon The Mincing Rascals 12.11.25: Budget drama, robot delivery, Madigan seeks pardon The Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward, and multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room. The ‘kids table’ Rascals begin the podcast by breaking down the last drama surrounding the Chicago budget. Will there be an agreement on the budget or are we heading towards a shutdown? There is a battle brewing on Chicago city streets! Humans v. robots. Have you seen delivery robots cruising down the sidewalks in the city? The Rascals debate the robot delivery program. Next, the Rascals try to unpack the bizarre story of fired Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore. Also on the football field, Notre Dame is skipping playing in a bowl game this year after being denied a spot in the College Football Playoff. Sour grapes? Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan is asking President Donald Trump to pardon him. Do the Rascals believe that President Trump will pardon Madigan? Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi ran into a couple of issues this week regarding donations from MAGA-aligned donors and a false endorsement incident. Will these types of news stories make a dent in his Senate campaign? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2734518 Thu, 11 Dec 2025 21:45:21 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward, and multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room. The ‘kids table’ Rascals begin the podcast by breaking down the last drama surrounding the Chicago budget. Will there […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward, and multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room. The ‘kids table’ Rascals begin the podcast by breaking down the last drama surrounding the Chicago budget. Will there […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago Mincing Rascals update from John Williams Mincing Rascals update from John Williams John is on vacation, but provides an update on this week’s podcast recording.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2758245 Wed, 10 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)John is on vacation, but provides an update on this week’s podcast recording.WGN PlusJohn is on vacation, but provides an update on this week’s podcast recording.The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 12.3.25: Northwestern deal, deadly boat strikes, Christkindlmarket capacity The Mincing Rascals 12.3.25: Northwestern deal, deadly boat strikes, Christkindlmarket capacity The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing Northwestern University paying $75 million to the federal government over the next three years to to get federal funding reinstated. Do the Rascals believe Northwestern capitulated to Trump? Next, the Rascals break down the latest news about the military striking an alleged drug-trafficking boat in the Caribbean on September 2nd. Do the Rascals believe a war crime was committed? Also, how about that Cabinet meeting yesterday? Turning to some local news, what’s going on with new capacity limits at the beloved Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza? And where are we on the Chicago budget? What will the city do to raise revenue? And as we motor towards the end of the year, it’s time to start thinking who is the Person of the Year for Chicago!

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2734516 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:10:54 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing Northwestern University paying $75 million to the federal government over the next three years to to get federal funding […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing Northwestern University paying $75 million to the federal government over the next three years to to get federal funding […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 11.24.25: Marjorie Taylor Greene resigns, sedition accusation, CTU audit, favorite Thanksgiving food The Mincing Rascals 11.24.25: Marjorie Taylor Greene resigns, sedition accusation, CTU audit, favorite Thanksgiving food The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward, and Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago. This week, the Rascals kick off the podcast with ‘News or Noise.’ What are the news stories that are worth paying attention to? And what are the stories that are just a distraction? Eric says we should be paying attention to Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene announcing that she’s resigning from Congress. Jon wants to talk about the meeting between President Trump and New York mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. Austin reminds us that President Trump likes winners and that’s what contributed to the ‘love fest.’ John thinks the U.S. striking alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean is a story we should be watching. Over the weekend, President Trump doubled down on his sedition accusation over a video released by some Democratic lawmakers. Is that a serious threat or just some more noise? And where are we on the Epstein files? Closer to home, it was 10 years ago today the Laquan McDonald tape was released. Looking back, what are the main takeaways from the release of the video? Austin catches us up on two Chicago Public School stories: CPS employees spent $23.6 million in tax dollars on lavish vacations at 5-star hotels and overseas trips, and the U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce sent a formal demand letter to Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates wanting the last five years of CTU audits. A new, independent poll for the Democratic primary in the 9th Congressional District race has Daniel Biss and Kat Abughazaleh tied for first place. Do the Rascals give Abughazaleh a chance? And finally, it’s time for a Thanksgiving version of red light, yellow light, green light.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2703198 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 23:43:57 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward, and Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago. This week, the Rascals kick off the podcast with ‘News or Noise.’ What are the news stories that are […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author of the The Last Ward, and Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago. This week, the Rascals kick off the podcast with ‘News or Noise.’ What are the news stories that are […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 11.19.25: Head tax defeat, Epstein files, Mobile ID, Word of the Year The Mincing Rascals 11.19.25: Head tax defeat, Epstein files, Mobile ID, Word of the Year The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about Illinois launching Mobile ID for iPhones. Are the Rascals on board with the new technology feature? Next, Mayor Johnson’s budget proposal failed to advance through the City Council’s Finance Committee with a key holdup being Johnson’s plan for a corporate head tax. Where are the Rascals on the head tax plan? Also, former Gov. Pat Quinn is pushing for a state constitutional amendment requiring Illinois millionaires to pay a 3% surcharge on their income tax returns. The Rascals debate the merits of the idea. Another local story making news this week: Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas teasing a mayoral run. Do the Rascals think she’s a legitimate candidate? Next, the Rascals turn their attention to the latest news on the Epstein files. What are the major takeaways from the imminent release of the Epstein files? And will this be a turning point for the GOP? Also this week, President Trump scolded a reporter by telling her, ‘Quiet, piggy,’ and admonished a reporter for asking Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman about the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. And finally, the Rascals submit their choices for 2025’s Word of the Year.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2703196 Wed, 19 Nov 2025 23:48:09 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about Illinois launching Mobile ID for iPhones. Are the Rascals on board with the new technology feature? Next, Mayor […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about Illinois launching Mobile ID for iPhones. Are the Rascals on board with the new technology feature? Next, Mayor […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 11.12.25: Bovino leaving, Epstein emails, government shutdown The Mincing Rascals 11.12.25: Bovino leaving, Epstein emails, government shutdown The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author the The Last Ward, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. The Rascals begin the podcast talking about ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ leaving Chicago. The Rascals discuss the government’s immigration effort and how the last 6 weeks have played out. Now, what’s next? Earlier this week, President Trump posted about crime and vacancies on Chicago’s ‘Miracle Mile’ and called for more troops to be sent in. Do the Rascals believe the president was completely out of line? Both Democrats and Republicans have released thousands of emails from the Jeffrey Epstein estate that include multiple references to Donald Trump. What are the big takeaways from the release of these documents? Dick Durbin and 7 other senators sided with the GOP to end the government shutdown. Eric explains why caving was the wrong move. Austin believes this shutdown proves that the FAA should be privatized. And finally, we are officially not doing red light, yellow light, green light, but somehow there are recommendations!

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2703187 Thu, 13 Nov 2025 00:00:22 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author the The Last Ward, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. The Rascals begin the podcast talking about ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ leaving Chicago. The Rascals discuss the government’s immigration […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author the The Last Ward, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. The Rascals begin the podcast talking about ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ leaving Chicago. The Rascals discuss the government’s immigration […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 11.5.25: Mamdani wins, Garcia exits, immigration enforcement The Mincing Rascals 11.5.25: Mamdani wins, Garcia exits, immigration enforcement The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author the The Last Ward, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. The Rascals begin the podcast breaking down the top stories from yesterday’s elections across the country. Are we seeing a blue wave? Next, the Rascals discuss the latest on Operation Midway Blitz and today’s hearing about the tactics used by law enforcement to detain alleged criminals. Last week Governor Pritzker used an F-bomb when talking about the Trump administration. Where are the Rascals on the use of heated language? U.S. Rep. Chuy Garcia announced this week that he wouldn’t seek another term and is drawing criticism for leaving the seat to his chief of staff. Does this political move pass the smell test? Austin gets us up to speed on some of Mayor Johnson’s personnel decisions after it was learned that the former DCASE commissioner resigned after an HR investigation regarding harassment allegations. Finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2703185 Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:46 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author the The Last Ward, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. The Rascals begin the podcast breaking down the top stories from yesterday’s elections across the country. Are we […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and author the The Last Ward, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. The Rascals begin the podcast breaking down the top stories from yesterday’s elections across the country. Are we […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 10.29.25: Immigration raids, Illinois redistricting, Sean Grayson guilty The Mincing Rascals 10.29.25: Immigration raids, Illinois redistricting, Sean Grayson guilty The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start this week’s show talking about Border Patrol and ICE conducting immigration raids throughout the Chicago area and a judge ordering Border Patrol chief Greg Bovino to give daily reports to her about immigration enforcement actions. Do the Rascals believe Bovino will abide by the court order? U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries was in Illinois this week to push a redistricting effort that would give Democrats a 15-2 congressional advantage. Do the Rascals believe the effort in Illinois has any legs? Next, the Rascals talk about Sean Grayson, a former Illinois sheriff’s deputy, being convicted of second-degree murder in the 2024 death of Sonya Massey, who had called 911 about a possible prowler. Do the Rascals believe this was a fair verdict? The Rascals also mince about the term ‘illegal alien,’ the Trump administration bombing alleged drug boats, and a possible third term for President Trump. And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2676597 Wed, 29 Oct 2025 22:45:19 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start this week’s show talking about Border Patrol and ICE conducting immigration raids throughout the Chicago area and a judge ordering Border Patrol chief Greg Bovino […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start this week’s show talking about Border Patrol and ICE conducting immigration raids throughout the Chicago area and a judge ordering Border Patrol chief Greg Bovino […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago Mincing Rascals 10.17.25: Live from Tangled Roots Brewing Company in Ottawa! Mincing Rascals 10.17.25: Live from Tangled Roots Brewing Company in Ottawa! The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and The Last Ward, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, and political pundit Marj Halperin! Today, the podcast comes to you from the Tangled Roots Brewing Company in beautiful Ottawa, Illinois! The Rascals break down the latest on the various ICE raids throughout the Chicago area, the ‘No Kings’ rallies scheduled to take place around the country, and JB Pritzker coming up big at the blackjack table in Las Vegas.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2714465 Mon, 20 Oct 2025 19:59:59 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and The Last Ward, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, and political pundit Marj Halperin! Today, the podcast comes to you from the Tangled Roots Brewing Company in […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and The Last Ward, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, and political pundit Marj Halperin! Today, the podcast comes to you from the Tangled Roots Brewing Company in […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 10.15.25: ICE in Chicago, ‘No Kings’ protests, Mayor Johnson’s budget battle The Mincing Rascals 10.15.25: ICE in Chicago, ‘No Kings’ protests, Mayor Johnson’s budget battle The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and the The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals kick off the podcast breaking down the ICE activities throughout the Chicago area over the last week. What do the Rascals think are the biggest things we need to be paying attention to? Austin says if you can find a tamale vendor who had been convicted of a homicide, he will give you $1000. At the request of the Trump administration, Facebook suspended a popular Chicago ICE-sighting group. Marj calls this action, ‘sinister.’ Should social media companies be able to silence civil disobedience. The ‘No Kings’ protests are planned across the U.S. on Saturday. John thinks these protests are going to be the biggest we’ve seen. Mayor Johnson will outline his 2026 budget. The Rascals break down Johnson’s plan to close a $1.15 billion budget shortfall including a head tax proposal. And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2676595 Wed, 15 Oct 2025 22:55:07 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and the The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals kick off the podcast breaking down the ICE activities throughout the Chicago area over the last week. What do the Rascals think are […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and the The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals kick off the podcast breaking down the ICE activities throughout the Chicago area over the last week. What do the Rascals think are […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 10.8.25: Texas National Guard arrives, Jesse Jackson Jr. running for Congress, shoulder driving clampdown The Mincing Rascals 10.8.25: Texas National Guard arrives, Jesse Jackson Jr. running for Congress, shoulder driving clampdown The Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and the The Last Ward, and multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room. The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the Cook County Sheriff’s Office stepping up enforcement for illegally riding on expressway shoulders. The Rascals offer their suggestions on what the punishment should be for illegally driving on the shoulder. The Texas National Guard arrived in the Chicago area this week. What is the most concerning aspect of this move by the Trump administration? And where do we go from here? Jesse Jackson Jr. is launching bid to return to Congress after serving 30 months in prison for campaign finance fraud. Do the Rascals think he has a chance to win the race? Today, Rolling Stone released their ‘Best Songs of the 21st century’ list. The Rascals debate the choices. And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2676591 Wed, 08 Oct 2025 22:20:39 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and the The Last Ward, and multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room. The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the Cook County Sheriff’s Office stepping up enforcement for illegally […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and the The Last Ward, and multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room. The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the Cook County Sheriff’s Office stepping up enforcement for illegally […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 10.1.25: Troops in Chicago, ICE raids, government shutdown The Mincing Rascals 10.1.25: Troops in Chicago, ICE raids, government shutdown The Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start the show this week talking about federal agents marching through downtown Chicago. Is there a long-term goal that the Trump administration is hoping to achieve by bringing these federal agents to the city? President Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth spoke in front of military officials yesterday. What were the Rascals major takeaways from the rally? Next, the government shutdown after Congress failed to reach a funding deal. Who is to blame? Does anybody really care? Also, the Rascals talk about the future of the Democratic party. Who will lead the party through these next few years and into 2028? And finally, it’s time for the red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2676589 Wed, 01 Oct 2025 21:41:29 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen, Eric Zorn, Austin Berg, and Marj Halperin!WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen, Eric Zorn, Austin Berg, and Marj Halperin!The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 9.24.25: Kimmel returns, autism debate, fatal ICE shootings, dogs in restaurants The Mincing Rascals 9.24.25: Kimmel returns, autism debate, fatal ICE shootings, dogs in restaurants The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about Jimmy Kimmel’s return to late night after a brief suspension. What did the Rascals take away from Kimmel’s monologue? Next, the Rascals discuss the Trump administration linking autism to the use of Tylenol during pregnancy. Today, there was a fatal shooting at an ICE facility in Dallas. And new information is coming out about the fatal shooting by an ICE agent in Franklin Park. The Rascals react to the incidents. Alderman Timmy Knudsen is proposing an ordinance that would allow restaurants to decide if they want to allow dogs. Where are the Rascals on this? Are they in favor of this ordinance? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week!

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2653145 Wed, 24 Sep 2025 23:16:06 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about Jimmy Kimmel’s return to late night after a brief suspension. What did the Rascals take away from Kimmel’s monologue? Next, the […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about Jimmy Kimmel’s return to late night after a brief suspension. What did the Rascals take away from Kimmel’s monologue? Next, the […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 9.17.25: Mayor Johnson’s job, Charlie Kirk death, inflammatory speech The Mincing Rascals 9.17.25: Mayor Johnson’s job, Charlie Kirk death, inflammatory speech The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the show this week talking about Mayor Brandon Johnson’s appearance with Bob Sirott this morning. The Rascals break down Mayor Johnson’s job performance so far. Next, the Rascals talk about Governor JB Pritzker denying that he ever called Republicans, ‘Nazis.’ People have been losing their jobs over comments made in the wake of Charlie Kirk’s death. The Rascals discuss the administration’s effort to crack down on ‘hate speech.’ And what have we learned about Tyler Robinson, the alleged killer of Kirk? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week? BONUS: In case you missed it, Bob Sirott’s interview with Mayor Johnson follows the podcast.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2653143 Wed, 17 Sep 2025 23:11:05 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the show this week talking about Mayor Brandon Johnson’s appearance with Bob Sirott this morning. The Rascals break down Mayor Johnson’s job performance so […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, author of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the show this week talking about Mayor Brandon Johnson’s appearance with Bob Sirott this morning. The Rascals break down Mayor Johnson’s job performance so […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 9.10.25: Charlie Kirk shot dead, ICE raids, Darren Bailey running The Mincing Rascals 9.10.25: Charlie Kirk shot dead, ICE raids, Darren Bailey running The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and The Last Ward, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week the Rascals address the breaking news that conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot at an event in Utah Valley University in Utah. The Rascals share their initial thoughts. Next, the Rascals discuss ‘Operation Midway Blitz,’ the Trump administration’s effort to ramp up federal immigration raids. The Rascals break down the latest immigration enforcement operations. This week, Chicago city crews cleared a homeless encampment in Legion Park. The Rascals discuss what should be done with these encampments and the unhoused people living in these conditions. Late last Friday, Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the new alderman of the 27th Ward would be Walter “Red” Burnett, the son of former 27th Ward Ald. Walter Burnett. Austin says Chicago is the only major city where the mayor directly appoints members of the City Council. Austin explains why this is anti-democratic. In other local news, downtown Alderman Brendan Reilly announced he would challenge Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. Do the Rascals think Reilly has a chance to oust Preckwinkle? It looks like Darren Bailey will take on Gov. JB Pritzker again in the 2026 Illinois governor race. How are the Rascals feeling about Bailey’s attempt to unseat Pritzker? Okay, attraction / distraction: Epstein birthday book. And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2653138 Wed, 10 Sep 2025 23:13:17 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and The Last Ward, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week the Rascals address the breaking news that conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot at an […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg, Executive Director of the Chicago Policy Center and The Last Ward, and long-time Chicago journalist Cate Plys, publisher of Roseland, Chicago: 1972. This week the Rascals address the breaking news that conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot at an […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 9.3.25: Chicago crime, National Guard, political messaging The Mincing Rascals 9.3.25: Chicago crime, National Guard, political messaging The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, Publisher of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the the level of crime in Chicago and if the problem merits the deployment of the National Guard. Where are the Rascals on Chicago violence, the National Guard, the messaging by Democrats, and how Chicago crime is perceived by those outside of Chicago? JB Pritzker has recently lost some weight (some might say in preparation for a run for president) and declined to answer when he was asked if he’s using weight loss drugs. Do the Rascals find anything wrong with his answer? Last week, there was a mass shooting at a Minneapolis Catholic school. Was the gender identity of the shooting suspect needed to tell the story? President Trump said that he’ll give Rudy Giuliani the Presidential Medal of Freedom. What are the Rascals thoughts on this? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2653133 Wed, 03 Sep 2025 23:33:37 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, Publisher of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the the level of crime in Chicago and if the problem merits the deployment of […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, multi-media journalist Brandon Pope, Publisher of Brandon Pope’s Screening Room, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the the level of crime in Chicago and if the problem merits the deployment of […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 8.27.25: National Guard, Chicago finances, Trump distractions The Mincing Rascals 8.27.25: National Guard, Chicago finances, Trump distractions The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute and The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about President Trump possibly sending the National Guard to Chicago to combat crime. Do the Rascals think deploying the National Guard to the streets of Chicago is a good way to deter violence? Austin wrote a piece for City Journal that suggests state leaders should change the law to allow municipalities to enter Chapter 9 bankruptcy to clean up the city’s finances. Do the rest of the Rascals think bankruptcy is a viable option? Marj recently wrote an opinion piece in Crain’s about a new Chicago Fire stadium at the 78, and explains why she still has some reservations about the project. There were a lot of distractions this week from the Trump administration including the ban on flag burning, Fed governor removal, the Cracker Barrel logo controversy, etc. The Rascals break them all down. And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2634039 Wed, 27 Aug 2025 22:36:38 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute and The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about President Trump possibly sending the National Guard to Chicago to combat crime. Do the Rascals think deploying the National Guard to […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute and The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about President Trump possibly sending the National Guard to Chicago to combat crime. Do the Rascals think deploying the National Guard to […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 8.20.25: Speed cameras, CPS shakedown, Ukraine-Russia peace talks The Mincing Rascals 8.20.25: Speed cameras, CPS shakedown, Ukraine-Russia peace talks The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute and The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals begin the podcast with a fascinating discussion about the future of journalism and Substack. The Rascals then mince about Chicago Tribune film critic Michael Phillips announcing he’s taking a buyout from the paper. Do the Rascals think the city needs a local movie critic? There was a Tribune editorial about the dangers of driving on DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Should we put speed cameras (or even AI) on DLSD to catch speeders? Austin gets us up to speed on a critical budget vote scheduled for Chicago Public Schools later this month. Last Friday, President Trump met with Vladimir Putin to discuss a peace deal with Ukraine. And then earlier this week President Trump met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders to discuss how the war Russia-Ukraine war might be resolved. What were the major takeaways? Also this week, President Trump said the Smithsonian focuses too much on ‘how bad slavery was.’ Is this all just a distraction? California Governor Gavin Newsom has been trolling President Trump on social media. Do the Rascals think this mockery is effective and what does it mean for Newsom’s political future?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2634037 Wed, 20 Aug 2025 22:58:31 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute and The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals begin the podcast with a fascinating discussion about the future of journalism and Substack. The Rascals then mince about Chicago Tribune film critic Michael […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute and The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals begin the podcast with a fascinating discussion about the future of journalism and Substack. The Rascals then mince about Chicago Tribune film critic Michael […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 8.13.25: Dexter Reed decision, redistricting debate, Smithsonian review The Mincing Rascals 8.13.25: Dexter Reed decision, redistricting debate, Smithsonian review The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office declining to file charges against the Chicago police officers who fired dozens of shots at Dexter Reed. Do the Rascals agree with the decision by State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke’s office. The Rascals also catch us up on the latest movements of the Texas legislators who came to Illinois to avoid voting on a GOP-favored map. And what about the responses to the redistricting debate from Governor JB Pritzker and California Governor Gavin Newsom? This week, Mayor Brandon Johnson said that if the Bears move to the suburbs, they should be called the Arlington Heights Bears. What do the Rascals make of those comments? Mayor Brandon Johnson’s chief financial officer, says Illinois’ regressive tax structure is ‘crime of the century’ that needs to be solved. The Rascals break it down. New York City is proposing a 15mph speed limit on e-bikes. Do the Rascals think Chicago should propose the same limit? The Trump administration will begin a review of current and planned exhibitions at the Smithsonian so that they align with President Trump’s vision. The Rascals have thoughts. Also this week, President Donald Trump said he was nominating economist E.J. Antoni as the new Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner. The Rascals explain why the find this nomination very troubling. And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2634035 Wed, 13 Aug 2025 23:12:26 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office declining to file charges against the Chicago police officers who fired dozens of shots at Dexter Reed. Do the […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office declining to file charges against the Chicago police officers who fired dozens of shots at Dexter Reed. Do the […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 8.6.25: Texas redistricting, Chicago pension boost, DuSable Lake Shore Drive future The Mincing Rascals 8.6.25: Texas redistricting, Chicago pension boost, DuSable Lake Shore Drive future The Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. Our small, but mighty podcast crew start the episode talking about Texas lawmakers coming to Illinois to avoid voting on a new legislative map that would favor the GOP. Governor Pritzker even went on with Stephen Colbert to talk about the issue! What are the Rascals takeaways? Next, the Rascals talk about Governor Pritzker signing a new bill that will boost the pensions of some Chicago police officers and firefighters. And finally, The Chicago Park District wants to move a portion of DuSable Lake Shore Drive underground. Do the Rascals like this proposal? If money were no object, how would the Rascals see the future of DLSD?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2607052 Wed, 06 Aug 2025 23:31:10 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. Our small, but mighty podcast crew start the episode talking about Texas lawmakers coming to Illinois to avoid voting on a new legislative map that would favor the GOP. Governor Pritzker even went […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. Our small, but mighty podcast crew start the episode talking about Texas lawmakers coming to Illinois to avoid voting on a new legislative map that would favor the GOP. Governor Pritzker even went […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 7.30.25: Jesse Jackson Jr. political future, taxing the rich, legislative redistricting The Mincing Rascals 7.30.25: Jesse Jackson Jr. political future, taxing the rich, legislative redistricting The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the possibility of Jesse Jackson Jr. running for congress. Should a convicted felon be allowed to run for federal office? Mayor Brandon Johnson is considering several strategies that would tax the wealthy residents of Chicago. What do the Rascals make of these ideas? Former congressman and U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood is leading an effort to end the partisan influence on drawing state legislative boundaries. Do the Rascals think this is something that needs to be done to end gerrymandering? It’s time for attraction / distraction. President Trump this week went after Beyoncé, former president Barack Obama, the press who continue to dig into the Jeffrey Epstein story, etc. Were all of these distractions? And will the Epstein story eventually impact the midterm elections? And finally, it’s time for red light / yellow light / green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2607059 Wed, 30 Jul 2025 23:16:40 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the possibility of Jesse Jackson Jr. running for congress. Should a convicted felon be allowed to run for federal office? Mayor Brandon Johnson is considering several […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the possibility of Jesse Jackson Jr. running for congress. Should a convicted felon be allowed to run for federal office? Mayor Brandon Johnson is considering several […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 7.23.25: Colbert canceled, Epstein files, Coldplay kiss cam The Mincing Rascals 7.23.25: Colbert canceled, Epstein files, Coldplay kiss cam The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute and The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start the podcast talking about CBS canceling ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.’ Where are the Rascals on the cancellation? Was this just a financial decision by CBS or is there something more sinister happening? This week, Donald Trump pushed for Coca-Cola to be made with American cane sugar, and for the Washington Commanders to change their name back to Redskins. Do the Rascals think these are all distractions to take away the Jeffrey Epstein story? And do the Rascals think there is any type of smoking gun in the Epstein files? A tech CEO was caught with the company’s HR head on a kiss cam at a Coldplay concert last week. Do the Rascals have any sympathy for the couple? A police board ruled that a Chicago police officer who tested positive for marijuana can keep his job. Do the Rascals think this was the fair decision? Mayor Brandon Johnson is cracking down on people who continue to smoke on CTA trains and buses. Are Mayor Johnson’s efforts (placing social workers at CTA stops, starting an anti-smoking campaign, etc.) enough? And finally, Mayor Johnson’s team is floating another plan to raise property taxes. Austin gets everyone up to speed on the proposal for the 2026 budget. The Rascals end the podcast with red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2607057 Wed, 23 Jul 2025 22:53:59 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute and The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start the podcast talking about CBS canceling ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.’ Where are the Rascals on the cancellation? Was this just a financial […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute and The Last Ward, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start the podcast talking about CBS canceling ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.’ Where are the Rascals on the cancellation? Was this just a financial […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 7.16.25: Flooding in the US, Epstein, MLB All-Star Game & Emmys The Mincing Rascals 7.16.25: Flooding in the US, Epstein, MLB All-Star Game & Emmys We have a packed panel on this week’s edition of The Mincing Rascals. This week your Rascals are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, Emmy-winning journalist Brandon Pope, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. The Rascals start the podcast by talking about the unpredictable flooding that continues to affect many areas in the U.S. and share their thoughts on whether or not the government should do away with FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency). Then, the Rascals pivot and discuss the Jeffrey Epstein case. They also touch on the MLB All-Star Game, Emmy nominations and more.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2628738 Wed, 16 Jul 2025 23:42:22 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)We have a packed panel on this week’s edition of The Mincing Rascals. This week your Rascals are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, Emmy-winning journalist Brandon Pope, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. The Rascals start the podcast by talking about the unpredictable flooding […]WGN PlusWe have a packed panel on this week’s edition of The Mincing Rascals. This week your Rascals are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, Emmy-winning journalist Brandon Pope, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. The Rascals start the podcast by talking about the unpredictable flooding […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 7.9.25: Texas floods, NASCAR in Chicago, Ed Burke released from prison The Mincing Rascals 7.9.25: Texas floods, NASCAR in Chicago, Ed Burke released from prison The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast talk about the devastating flooding in Texas. There has been a lot of finger pointing, but is it too early to place blame for the catastrophe? 4th of July has come and gone, but John heard from many listeners this week who either didn’t fly a flag or displayed a flag upside down in protest of the current administration. Do the Rascals think this is an effective way to protest? Are people still proud to be American? And have people ceded the American flag to President Trump? The NASCAR event took place in Chicago over the holiday weekend. It’s not known yet if the race will be back in Chicago next year. Do the Rascals want NASCAR to return? Former Alderman Ed Burke was released early from federal prison. What do the Rascals think of the decision to release Burke early? Eric believes history will be unkind to Burke. And speaking of crime and politicians, the Rascals break down the political futures of former congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. and disgraced former governor Rod Blagojevich. And should convicted felons be allowed to run for federal office?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2579068 Wed, 09 Jul 2025 23:21:19 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast talk about the devastating flooding in Texas. There has been a lot of finger pointing, but is it too early to place blame for the catastrophe? 4th of July […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast talk about the devastating flooding in Texas. There has been a lot of finger pointing, but is it too early to place blame for the catastrophe? 4th of July […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 7.2.25: Trump tax bill, Paramount settlement, birthright citizenship, One Fair Wage The Mincing Rascals 7.2.25: Trump tax bill, Paramount settlement, birthright citizenship, One Fair Wage The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals star the show talking about President Trump’s tax and policy bill. The Rascals break down the latest. Do the Rascals believe this bill will pass? And do the Rascals think this bill will backfire on Republicans who are voting yes? Next, the Rascals talk about Paramount agreeing to pay $16 million to settle a lawsuit brought by President Donald Trump that had alleged an interview that aired on “60 Minutes” with Kamala Harris, was edited to favor Harris. Eric says he will now refuse to watch CBS. Last week, the Supreme Court sided with President Trump in a birthright citizenship case. Austin explains why this is a really bad ruling. The city of Chicago is increasing the minimum wage for tipped workers. Do the Rascals like the One Fair Wage ordinance in general? And will this impact how you tip your server? Block Club is reporting that a few local politicians would like ICE agents to not be allowed to wear masks. Do the Rascals like this idea? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2579066 Wed, 02 Jul 2025 23:16:33 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals star the show talking about President Trump’s tax and policy bill. The Rascals break down the latest. Do […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals star the show talking about President Trump’s tax and policy bill. The Rascals break down the latest. Do […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 6.25.25: Mamdani wins, Pritzker running again, U.S strikes on Iran The Mincing Rascals 6.25.25: Mamdani wins, Pritzker running again, U.S strikes on Iran The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals head to New York to start the podcast and break down Zohran Mamdani winning the Democratic mayoral primary. What do the Rascals think the win means for the Democratic party? Governor JB Pritzker will officially announce he’s running for a third term tomorrow. Will he still eventually decide to run for president in 2028? The Rascals break down JB’s political future. The United States bombed Iranian nuclear sites over the weekend and the debate continues on just how much damage was done. What do the Rascals think of the initial military action and the debate on the effectiveness of the airstrikes? The Rascals also chat about some songs that were created entirely by AI. What did the Rascals think of the quality of AI songs and how do they think AI and emerging technology will impact the music industry? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2579063 Wed, 25 Jun 2025 23:14:27 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals head to New York to start the podcast and break down Zohran Mamdani winning the Democratic mayoral primary. What do the Rascals think the win means […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals head to New York to start the podcast and break down Zohran Mamdani winning the Democratic mayoral primary. What do the Rascals think the win means […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 6.18.25: ICE raids, ‘No Kings’ protests, Terry Moran, Israel-Iran conflict, ‘snap curfew’ passes The Mincing Rascals 6.18.25: ICE raids, ‘No Kings’ protests, Terry Moran, Israel-Iran conflict, ‘snap curfew’ passes The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals kick off today’s podcast talking about some Illinois politicians being denied entry to ICE facilities this week. What are these types of actions designed to accomplish? The ‘No Kings’ protests across the country took place on Saturday. What were the big takeaways from the protests? And what did the Rascals make of the military parade in Washington DC? Former ABC news correspondent Terry Moran defended his tweet that criticized Stephen Miller and President Trump saying, ‘“You don’t sacrifice your citizenship in journalism and your job is not to be objective.’ Do the Rascals agree? The Israel-Iran conflict continues on. Are the Rascals concerned about the role the U.S. is playing? The ‘snap curfew’ ordinance in Chicago passed the City Council 27-22. Do the Rascals believe Mayor Johnson will veto it? Former Illinois Speaker of the House Mike Madigan was sentenced to 90 months in prison. Do the Rascals think the sentence was fair? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2579060 Wed, 18 Jun 2025 23:32:10 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals kick off today’s podcast talking about some Illinois politicians being denied entry to ICE facilities this week. What are these types of actions designed to accomplish? The ‘No Kings’ protests across […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals kick off today’s podcast talking about some Illinois politicians being denied entry to ICE facilities this week. What are these types of actions designed to accomplish? The ‘No Kings’ protests across […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 6.11.25: Immigration protests, Terry Moran let go, Mike Madigan sentencing The Mincing Rascals 6.11.25: Immigration protests, Terry Moran let go, Mike Madigan sentencing The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start off the podcast talking about the protests in Los Angeles against the Trump administration’s immigration policies. What are the major takeaways from the protests? ABC News didn’t renew the contract of correspondent Terry Moran this week after he criticized President Trump and Stephen Miller in a now deleted post on X. Did ABC make the right decision in letting Moran go? Former Illinois Speaker of the House Mike Madigan will be sentenced Friday on federal corruption charges. Do the Rascals believe Madigan will serve prison time? And if so, how much time? President Trump wants to give a $1,000 investment account to newborns born in the U.S.A. What do the Rascals think of this proposal? And of course, the Rascals end the podcast with red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2579058 Wed, 11 Jun 2025 22:50:20 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start off the podcast talking about the protests in Los Angeles against the Trump administration’s immigration policies. What are the major takeaways from the protests? ABC News didn’t renew the contract […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start off the podcast talking about the protests in Los Angeles against the Trump administration’s immigration policies. What are the major takeaways from the protests? ABC News didn’t renew the contract […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 6.4.25: Mail-in voting law, medical aid in dying, gender identity debate The Mincing Rascals 6.4.25: Mail-in voting law, medical aid in dying, gender identity debate The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! It’s a small, but mighty crew! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about the Supreme Court saying it would hear whether Republicans can challenge Illinois’ law that allows mail-in election ballots to be counted 14 days after Election Day. What do the Rascals expect to happen here? The Illinois General Assembly ended the spring session in Springfield without approving a bill that would let terminally ill people end their own lives. Where are the Rascals on the medical aid in dying bill? Brandon Johnson’s photographer was fired over allegations that he carried a gun in a city car. Eric believes the gun is not the issue as much as the fact that the mayor employs a photographer when the city is experiencing major budget woes. The Trump administration is targeting the state of California because a trans athlete won a track event over the weekend. The Rascals discuss the controversy. Finally, the Rascals close with red light, yellow light, green light! What are Eric, John, and Cate recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2579051 Wed, 04 Jun 2025 22:43:57 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! It’s a small, but mighty crew! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about the Supreme Court saying it would hear whether Republicans can challenge Illinois’ law that allows mail-in election ballots to be […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! It’s a small, but mighty crew! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about the Supreme Court saying it would hear whether Republicans can challenge Illinois’ law that allows mail-in election ballots to be […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 5.28.25: Chicago crime down, POTUS pardons, Harvard vs. Trump The Mincing Rascals 5.28.25: Chicago crime down, POTUS pardons, Harvard vs. Trump The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast this week talking about violence being down over Memorial Day weekend and crime in general being down in Chicago. Are Mayor Johnson’s policies working? The Rascals break down the statistics. Unfortunately, Jussie Smollett is back in the news for donating $50,000 to an arts center to settle Chicago’s lawsuit. Eric hopes this is the last time we’ll have to talk about Jussie Smollett. Next, the Rascals talk about the latest rounds of pardons by President Trump. Should there be a constitutional amendment to change the power of the pardon? President Trump has escalated his war on Harvard. The Rascals wonder why Harvard? A couple of airlines made news this week with Southwest beginning to charge for checked bags and Turkish aviation officials want to fine passengers that stand up after landing. What one change would the Rascals make to make air travel more comfortable? Also on the travel front, Cate gets everyone up to speed on the Red Line extension project. Why has the projected cost of the project gotten out of hand? Finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2527140 Wed, 28 May 2025 23:06:31 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast this week talking about violence being down over Memorial Day weekend and crime in general being down in Chicago. Are Mayor Johnson’s policies working? The […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast this week talking about violence being down over Memorial Day weekend and crime in general being down in Chicago. Are Mayor Johnson’s policies working? The […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 5.21.25: DOJ investigation, ‘snap curfews,’ Biden cancer The Mincing Rascals 5.21.25: DOJ investigation, ‘snap curfews,’ Biden cancer The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start off the podcast talking about the Department of Justice looking into the hiring practices of Mayor Brandon Johnson. What do the Rascals make of the DOJ probe? The Chicago City Council did not take a vote today on ‘snap curfews.’ Do the Rascals think that ‘snap curfews’ could be effective? Pivoting to the WNBA, the Rascals chat about the game between the Chicago Sky and the Indiana Fever last weekend. What are the Rascals thoughts on the budding rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese? It was revealed over the weekend that former President Biden was diagnosed with an advanced stage of prostate cancer. The Rascals talk about the diagnosis, and the controversy surrounding the book by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson on Biden’s mental decline. And speaking of controversy, the Sun-Times is being criticized for using AI to create a summer reading guide containing books that don’t exist. The Rascals break it all down. And finally, it’s time for Red Light, Yellow Light, Green Light. What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2527135 Wed, 21 May 2025 23:16:41 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start off the podcast talking about the Department of Justice looking into the hiring practices of Mayor Brandon Johnson. What do the Rascals make of the DOJ probe? The Chicago City […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start off the podcast talking about the Department of Justice looking into the hiring practices of Mayor Brandon Johnson. What do the Rascals make of the DOJ probe? The Chicago City […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 5.14.25: Pope Leo XIV, Qatari jet, Biden’s decline The Mincing Rascals 5.14.25: Pope Leo XIV, Qatari jet, Biden’s decline The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about their favorite story, meme, etc. about Pope Leo XIV. Are we pope’d out yet? As usual, plenty of news about the Trump administration this week. The gift of the plane from Qatar, the attempt to assert control of the Library of Congress, Trump meme coin. What’s an attraction and what’s a distraction? Former Chicago resident Ken Griffin said he will loan his copies of the Constitution and Bill of Rights to the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. John wonders if the current Constitution as written is still a relevant document. CNN’s Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson from Axios are making news this week as excerpts from their book about President Biden’s decline are starting to come out. What do the Rascals make of these stories about Biden’s competency and behavior? And will we eventually hear similar stories about Donald Trump when his term is over? In a couple of interviews this week, Mayor Brandon Johnson is still denying he fired Dr. Allison Arwady despite evidence to the contrary. Why is Johnson still saying Dr. Arwady quit? And now that Johnson is two years in, what are the major takeaways from his term so far. And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2527132 Wed, 14 May 2025 23:48:28 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about their favorite story, meme, etc. about Pope Leo XIV. Are we pope’d out yet? As usual, plenty of news about the Trump administration this […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about their favorite story, meme, etc. about Pope Leo XIV. Are we pope’d out yet? As usual, plenty of news about the Trump administration this […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 5.7.25: Senate race, George Ryan legacy, Alcatraz, movie tariffs The Mincing Rascals 5.7.25: Senate race, George Ryan legacy, Alcatraz, movie tariffs The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast discussing U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL 8) announcing that he’ll be running for the senate seat being vacated by Dick Durbin. The Rascals break down the early stages of the race. The Rascals also talk about U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky making the decision to not seek reelection. What do the Rascals think of Kat Abughazaleh, the progressive social media star who already announced her intentions to replace Rep. Schakowsky. Former Illinois Governor George Ryan passed away last week. What should we remember about Ryan’s legacy? The Christopher Columbus statue in won’t be returning to Arrigo Park and will now be displayed in a new Chicago Museum of Italian Immigration on Taylor Street. Where are the Rascals on the latest Columbus controversy? President Trump continues to make news this week. There was the AI image of Trump as the Pope, the idea to reopen Alcatraz, tariffs on films made outside of the U.S, 2 dolls vs. 30 dolls, $1000 to self-deport, Canada at the 51st state, etc. Are these attractions or distractions?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2527129 Wed, 07 May 2025 23:29:39 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast discussing U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL 8) announcing that he’ll be running for the senate seat being vacated by Dick Durbin. The Rascals break down the […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast discussing U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL 8) announcing that he’ll be running for the senate seat being vacated by Dick Durbin. The Rascals break down the […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 4.30.25: Durbin’s successor, Trump 100 days, Amazon tariffs, plastic ban The Mincing Rascals 4.30.25: Durbin’s successor, Trump 100 days, Amazon tariffs, plastic ban The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast discussing the odds that Governor Pritzker becomes president, former governor Rod Blagojevich makes a run for Illinois senator, or Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton takes Senator Durbin’s seat. Eric explains why he is upset that Governor Pritzker and Senator Duckworth already put their fingers on the scale in favor of Stratton in the race to replace Senator Durbin. But what about Pritzkers’ fiery speech in New Hampshire over the weekend? A news story broke earlier this week that suggested Amazon was going to display tariff costs on items. A few hours later, Amazon said that was never the plan. Will Jeff Bezos ultimately decide to display tariff costs? President Trump did an interview with ABC news where he discussed tourism, tariffs, and the detainment of Abrego Garcia. What were the big takeaways from the interview? The Chicago Teachers Union is encouraging students and staff to miss school for a political rally. Austin gets us up to speed on the controversy. Legislation is pending in Illinois that would ban large retailers from using single-use plastic or styrofoam. What do the Rascals think of the proposed legislation? And finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light! What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2518251 Wed, 30 Apr 2025 23:49:39 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast discussing the odds that Governor Pritzker becomes president, former governor Rod Blagojevich makes a run for Illinois senator, […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast discussing the odds that Governor Pritzker becomes president, former governor Rod Blagojevich makes a run for Illinois senator, […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 4.23.25: Durbin retiring, Pritzker’s political future, economic turmoil The Mincing Rascals 4.23.25: Durbin retiring, Pritzker’s political future, economic turmoil The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start today’s podcast discussing Senator Dick Durbin announcing that he won’t seek another term. Who do the Rascals believe is likely to make a run for his seat? And what will Durbin’s legacy be? The Rascals also discuss Governor JB Pritzker’s political future. Is Pritzker ready to make a run for president? The markets are having another seesaw week so the Rascals talk about how the new administration has been handling the economy. And what about the day-to-day chaos? What is sticking out the most to the Rascals right now? Finally, it’s time for red light, yellow light, green light. What are the Rascals recommending or not recommending this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2518246 Wed, 23 Apr 2025 23:32:08 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start today’s podcast discussing Senator Dick Durbin announcing that he won’t seek another term. Who do the Rascals believe is […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start today’s podcast discussing Senator Dick Durbin announcing that he won’t seek another term. Who do the Rascals believe is […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 4.16.25: Teen takeovers, homeschool bill, Kilmar Ábrego García The Mincing Rascals 4.16.25: Teen takeovers, homeschool bill, Kilmar Ábrego García The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast talking about the City of Chicago not approving a $1.25 million settlement to the family of Dexter Reed, who was fatally shot by police during a traffic stop. Do the Rascals think the city made the right decision? Teen takeovers are continuing to make news and the Chicago City Council seemingly have reached a compromise over a stricter curfew in the Loop. What do the Rascals think of these takeovers and the impact that lowering the curfew has on crime? Illinois lawmakers are debating a bill that would tighten homeschooling regulations in Illinois. Do the Rascals think the bill is reasonable? And finally, the Rascals talk about Maryland resident Kilmar Abrego Garcia being wrongly deported to El Salvador. Is this an attraction or a distraction?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2496912 Wed, 16 Apr 2025 23:05:16 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast talking about the City of Chicago not approving a $1.25 million settlement to the family of Dexter Reed, who was fatally shot by police during a traffic stop. […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast talking about the City of Chicago not approving a $1.25 million settlement to the family of Dexter Reed, who was fatally shot by police during a traffic stop. […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 4.9.25: Tariff reversal, ‘Hands Off’ protest, driving exam age The Mincing Rascals 4.9.25: Tariff reversal, ‘Hands Off’ protest, driving exam age The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The small but mighty group of Rascals start off the podcast talking about the markets and economy as the tariff wars run amok this week. Do the Rascals believe President Trump caved on his trade policy? Eric wonders why more Republicans haven’t stood up to the administration. Next, the Rascals discuss the big #HandsOff rallies that took place last weekend. Do the Rascals believe these demonstrations will move the needle? The Illinois House voted 114-0 to approve a bill that would raise the age of annual mandatory road tests from 75 to 87. Do the Rascals support this legislation? And finally, with people still talking about The White Lotus finale, the Rascals debate how long you have to wait before talking about spoilers.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2496905 Wed, 09 Apr 2025 23:07:10 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The small but mighty group of Rascals start off the podcast talking about the markets and economy as the tariff wars run amok this week. Do the Rascals believe President Trump caved on his trade policy? […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The small but mighty group of Rascals start off the podcast talking about the markets and economy as the tariff wars run amok this week. Do the Rascals believe President Trump caved on his trade policy? […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 4.2.25: Election recap, CTU-CPS deal, tariff announcement The Mincing Rascals 4.2.25: Election recap, CTU-CPS deal, tariff announcement The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start off the podcast discussing yesterday’s election results. What were the big takeaways from the results in Wisconsin and Florida? President Trump earlier this week said he is open to serving a third term. Is this just another distraction? The White House Correspondents’ Association cancelled plans to feature comedian Amber Ruffin at its annual dinner. Was this a capitulation to the Trump administration? The CTU and CPS have reached a tentative deal on a new contract. Is this a big win for CTU? Mayor Johnson announced he’s picking Anthony Joel Quezada to fill the 35th Ward aldermanic vacancy. Why does Austin have an issue with the mayor handpicking a member of the City Council. President Trump announced new tariffs this afternoon. Do the Rascals believe this will help or hurt the economy? The Rascals close the podcast today with “The Big Beef!” What has been bothering the Rascals recently?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2496903 Wed, 02 Apr 2025 23:08:28 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start off the podcast discussing yesterday’s election results. What were the big takeaways from the results in Wisconsin and Florida? […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start off the podcast discussing yesterday’s election results. What were the big takeaways from the results in Wisconsin and Florida? […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 3.26.25: Signal chat leak, Chicago charter, voting rights The Mincing Rascals 3.26.25: Signal chat leak, Chicago charter, voting rights The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals start the podcast discussing The Atlantic publishing the contents of a Signal group chat of Trump administration officials messaging about military operations. What was the biggest takeaway from the story? And do the Rascals believe the story has legs? This week, the Sun-Times announced they will discontinue running editorials. Do editorials matter anymore? And how will the buyouts at the Sun-Times impact local news. This week, a symposium was held on the push for a Chicago charter. Austin explains why a city charter is needed. President Trump signed an executive order that would require prospective voters to show proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote. Is this just a distraction or does it merit concern?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2476445 Wed, 26 Mar 2025 22:37:28 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals start the podcast discussing The Atlantic publishing the contents of a Signal group chat of Trump […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals start the podcast discussing The Atlantic publishing the contents of a Signal group chat of Trump […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 3.19.25: Tesla protests, funding vote, Sun-Times buyouts The Mincing Rascals 3.19.25: Tesla protests, funding vote, Sun-Times buyouts The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast by congratulating new dad Jon Hansen! Next, the Rascals discuss the first few months of the Trump administration. What are the biggest takeaways? And what do the Rascals make of the Democratic response to how the GOP is running the country. Attacks on Tesla cars and dealerships are rising as people protest Elon Musk and DOGE. Do the Rascals believe this is a good way to protest Musk’s involvement in government. Also this week, Chief Justice Roberts rebuked President Trump’s attack on a judge and Steve Bannon suggested on NewsNation that Trump would run again in 2028. Are these stories that need to be taken seriously? Many Democrats are mad at Sen. Chuck Schumer over his leadership and support of the GOP-led funding bill. Do the Rascals think Schumer made the correct call? Many fine journalists at the Sun-Times have accepted buyouts including Richard Roeper, Mark Potash, Rick Morrissey, and Rick Telander. The Rascals wonder if the paper will survive. And finally, it’s time for Red Light. Yellow Light. Green Light! What are the Rascals recommending or not recommending?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2476443 Wed, 19 Mar 2025 23:02:46 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast by congratulating new dad Jon Hansen! Next, the Rascals discuss the first few months of the Trump administration. What are the biggest […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast by congratulating new dad Jon Hansen! Next, the Rascals discuss the first few months of the Trump administration. What are the biggest […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 3.12.25: COVID anniversary, curfew debate, fur ban rejected The Mincing Rascals 3.12.25: COVID anniversary, curfew debate, fur ban rejected The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start this week’s podcast by sharing what they remember about the start of the COVID pandemic back in March of 2020. Woah, and all of sudden we are debating vaccine efficacy. A recent shooting in Streeterville has revived the debate over the curfew in Chicago. Do the Rascals believe the curfew downtown should be 8pm? And should people feel safe when they come downtown? The Chicago City Council voted 19-26 on to reject a push to ban the sale of newly created furs within city limits. How would the Rascals have voted on this issue? What’s the latest on Canada becoming the 51st state, and the ongoing tariff drama? And are the Democrats doing enough to push back on the current administration? Marj says no, they aren’t. And finally, it’s time for ‘Red Light, Yellow Light, Green Light.” What are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2469746 Wed, 12 Mar 2025 23:00:47 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start this week’s podcast by sharing what they remember about the start of the COVID pandemic back in March of 2020. Woah, and all of sudden we are debating vaccine efficacy. […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals start this week’s podcast by sharing what they remember about the start of the COVID pandemic back in March of 2020. Woah, and all of sudden we are debating vaccine efficacy. […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 3.5.25: Sanctuary cities hearing, trade war, Rahm Emanuel’s political future The Mincing Rascals 3.5.25: Sanctuary cities hearing, trade war, Rahm Emanuel’s political future The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals being this week’s show talking about the House hearing with the mayors of New York, Boston, Denver, and Chicago about their ‘sanctuary city’ status. What did the Rascals takeaway from the hearing? It’s been a rough week for the markets because of uncertainty over tariffs. Is this just going to be a bump in the road or are we in for a rough economic ride? And do the Rascals believe President Trump is aiming for a third term? President Trump addressed the nation last night. What did the Rascals make of the address? Do the Rascals think the Democrats acted appropriately during the address? Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is making the rounds again. What is his next move politically? Will he run for mayor again? Governor? Or will he go for Senator Durbin’s senate seat? The Rascals break it down. And finally, what are the Rascals recommending (or not recommending, Brandon!) this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2469742 Wed, 05 Mar 2025 23:58:26 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals being this week’s show talking about the House hearing with the mayors of New York, Boston, Denver, and Chicago about their […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute (sign up for his new Substack!), Brandon Pope, of WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals being this week’s show talking about the House hearing with the mayors of New York, Boston, Denver, and Chicago about their […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 2.26.25: Mayor Johnson’s approval rating, $830 million borrowing plan passes, school cell phone ban The Mincing Rascals 2.26.25: Mayor Johnson’s approval rating, $830 million borrowing plan passes, school cell phone ban The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the results of the election in Dolton where controversial Mayor Tiffany Henyard lost her reelection bid. Speaking of unpopular, the Rascals discuss Mayor Brandon Johnson’s dismal approval numbers. Eric even wonders if Johnson will run again. Today, a plan to borrow $830 million to finance infrastructure improvements was approved by the Chicago City Council. Austin gets us up to speed on what we need to know. State Senator Linda Holmes wants Illinois to allow medical aid in dying for terminally ill patients. Where are the Rascals on this issue? Governor JB Pritzker made the case in his budget address for banning cell phones in Illinois public schools. Do the Rascals support this idea? Jeff Bezos, the owner of the Washington Post, announced a change to the opinion section. Was this a mistake by Bezos?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2446179 Thu, 27 Feb 2025 00:36:06 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the results of the election in Dolton where controversial Mayor Tiffany Henyard lost her reelection bid. Speaking of unpopular, the […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the results of the election in Dolton where controversial Mayor Tiffany Henyard lost her reelection bid. Speaking of unpopular, the […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 2.19.25: Federal government cuts, Illinois DOGE, Brandon Johnson borrowing plan The Mincing Rascals 2.19.25: Federal government cuts, Illinois DOGE, Brandon Johnson borrowing plan The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about President Trump blaming Ukraine for the war with Russia. What do the Rascals make of Trump’s statements? Today, Governor Pritzker delivered his 2025 State of the State and budget address while also slamming the Trump administration’s similarities to Nazi Germany. What were the biggest takeaways from JB’s speech? A state representative wants to create a Illinois Department of Government Efficiency. Do the Rascals believe Illinois needs a DOGE? Also, I may have been dreaming, but I think I heard Brandon say Stephen A. Smith would be a great presidential candidate. Let’s get to some local stories. Mayor Johnson’s $830M borrowing plan for infrastructure projects was delayed today at the City Council. What are the Rascals thoughts on Johnson’s plan? And finally, it’s time for some Red Light. Yellow Light. Green Light. What are the Rascals recommending, sort of recommending, or not recommending this week?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2446174 Wed, 19 Feb 2025 23:32:14 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about President Trump blaming Ukraine for the war with Russia. What do the Rascals make of Trump’s statements? Today, Governor Pritzker delivered his 2025 […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about President Trump blaming Ukraine for the war with Russia. What do the Rascals make of Trump’s statements? Today, Governor Pritzker delivered his 2025 […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 2.12.25: Madigan verdict, Blagojevich pardon, Dexter Reed settlement The Mincing Rascals 2.12.25: Madigan verdict, Blagojevich pardon, Dexter Reed settlement The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys. Woah, a lot of news already this week! The Rascals kick things off discussing the most important story of the week: The controversy surrounding the Super Bowl halftime show! Next, the Rascals break down the Mike Madigan verdict. What were the major takeaways from the trial and today’s verdict. Also this week, President Trump pardoned disgraced former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. What do the Rascals think of the pardon? The Chicago City Council delayed voting on the $1.25 million settlement that was to be given to Dexter Reed’s family, who was shot by police in March of 2024. Also this week, the DuPage County Board voted to remove former US Rep. Henry Hyde’s name from a courthouse. Do the Rascals believe Hyde’s name should have been removed? Speaking of name changes, a reporter from the AP was banned from the White House because AP has not adopted Gulf of America. And what did the Rascals make of the video that JB Pritzker released last week announcing Lake Illinois.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2446172 Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:31:22 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys. Woah, a lot of news already this week! The Rascals kick things off discussing the most important story of the week: The controversy surrounding the Super Bowl halftime show! […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys. Woah, a lot of news already this week! The Rascals kick things off discussing the most important story of the week: The controversy surrounding the Super Bowl halftime show! […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 2.5.25: DEI debate, public art controversy, Mayor Johnson’s favorability The Mincing Rascals 2.5.25: DEI debate, public art controversy, Mayor Johnson’s favorability The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, political pundit Marj Halperin, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the biggest national political stories of the week including President Trump blaming DEI for the D.C. plane crash, Elon Muck’s DOGE taking control of the federal payment database, and having access to the Treasury, the Department of Justice looking into FBI agents who worked on Jan. 6 cases. The Rascals unpack all the stories and take a deep dive into the DEI debate. This week, things got heated at a city council meeting over a controversial public art display at the Chicago Cultural Center. What to do the Rascals make of what happened at city council yesterday between Alder Conway and Alder Sigcho-Lopez? A new poll done by the Illinois Policy Institute and M3 Strategies shows Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s approval rating down to 14%. Austin breaks down the numbers. And what is the latest on the Bring Chicago Home initiative and Mayor Johnson’s plan for a Bears stadium downtown. And the possible trade war has even spread to sports as some fans have been booing the national anthem in response to tariffs on Canada. What will happen when Edmonton comes to Chicago to play the Hawks? Will the fans boo the Canadian anthem?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2429549 Thu, 06 Feb 2025 00:30:59 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, political pundit Marj Halperin, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the biggest national political stories of the week including President Trump blaming DEI for the D.C. plane crash, Elon Muck’s DOGE taking […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, political pundit Marj Halperin, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. The Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the biggest national political stories of the week including President Trump blaming DEI for the D.C. plane crash, Elon Muck’s DOGE taking […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 1.29.25: Funding freeze chaos, ICE raids, Madigan trial The Mincing Rascals 1.29.25: Funding freeze chaos, ICE raids, Madigan trial The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the confusion over the Trump administration’s federal funding freeze. What were the big takeaways from the chaos that ensued this week? ICE agents came to Chicago over the weekend to search for immigrants with criminal histories. Austin explains the collateral damage that comes with such raids. Where are the rest of the Rascals on what happened? Also, why was Dr. Phil hanging around? The Rascals also comment on the news that the White House will expand access to press briefings. Is expanding access to new media a good idea? The jury has begun deliberations in former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan’s corruption trial. Do the Rascals believe Madigan will be found guilty of the charges? And what are the Rascals recommending this week? Cate and Brandon want you to watch some new TV, while John and Austin highlight a couple of books they have been enjoying.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2429547 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 23:33:55 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the confusion over the Trump administration’s federal funding freeze. What were the big takeaways from the chaos that ensued this week? ICE agents came to […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the confusion over the Trump administration’s federal funding freeze. What were the big takeaways from the chaos that ensued this week? ICE agents came to […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 1.22.25: Birthright citizenship, J6 pardons, controversial puppet display The Mincing Rascals 1.22.25: Birthright citizenship, J6 pardons, controversial puppet display The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals kick off the podcast discussing the first days of the Trump presidency. The news is coming fast and furious, but what stood out most to the Rascals? Members of the Chicago City Council are demanding the removal of a puppet display at the Cultural Center saying it is antisemitic. What do the Rascals make of this new controversy? The Rascals end the podcast with their recommendations. What should you be watching (after listening to this podcast, of course) right now?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2429545 Wed, 22 Jan 2025 23:32:19 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals kick off the podcast discussing the first days of the Trump presidency. The news is coming fast and furious, but what stood out most to the Rascals? Members […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals kick off the podcast discussing the first days of the Trump presidency. The news is coming fast and furious, but what stood out most to the Rascals? Members […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 1.15.25: Driving test age, Trump inauguration, L.A. wildfires The Mincing Rascals 1.15.25: Driving test age, Trump inauguration, L.A. wildfires The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals debate the proposed legislation that aims to increase the age for seniors to retake driver’s test from 79 to 87. Where are the Rascals on this controversial topic? The inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump is on Monday. Michelle Obama won’t be attending. And Speaker Mike Johnson announced that American flags at the Capitol would be temporarily raised defying a presidential order put in place last month to mourn the death of former President Jimmy Carter. What do the Rascals make of these developments? Senate confirmation hearings continue in Washington D.C. this week. What did the Rascals take away from the hearings? Wildfires devastated the Los Angeles area and a controversy erupted over the use of private firefighters. What do the Rascals think of the use of private firefighters? And shouldn’t there be places in the U.S. where people shouldn’t be allowed to live? The Indiana General Assembly is considering legislation that would adjust the state’s borders to include Illinois counties that have voted to secede. Should Illinois counties be able to secede and join Indiana? And finally, what are the Rascals *not* recommending this week. Cate didn’t like ‘Wicked,’ Brandon trashes ‘Emilia Perez,’ Marj disliked ‘Nickel Boys,’ Eric didn’t enjoy the book, “Long Island Compromise,’ and John says take a pass on ‘Squid Game.’

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2412183 Thu, 16 Jan 2025 00:08:25 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals debate the proposed legislation that aims to increase the age for seniors to retake driver’s test from 79 to 87. Where are the Rascals on this controversial […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Brandon Pope, of WCIU, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals debate the proposed legislation that aims to increase the age for seniors to retake driver’s test from 79 to 87. Where are the Rascals on this controversial […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 1.8.25: Madigan testimony, Greenland, Meta fact-checking The Mincing Rascals 1.8.25: Madigan testimony, Greenland, Meta fact-checking The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals start the podcast talking about the seamless certification of the 2024 election. Wasn’t it nice to not have an insurrection this time around? On to the Mike Madigan corruption trial. This week, Madigan to took the stand in his own defense. What do the Rascals think of Madigan taking the stand? President-elect Donald Trump said this week that he wouldn’t rule out using force to acquire Greenland. Do the Rascals think that this is just Trump being Trump? Or is this something we need to be paying attention to? A Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist for The Washington Post resigned after the newspaper’s opinions section rejected a cartoon depicting The Post’s owner, Jeff Bezos, genuflecting toward a statue of President-elect Donald J. Trump. Do the Rascals believe this is censorship? Cate thinks the cartoon was lousy and should have been rejected on merit alone. Also, Meta announced that they will phase out their fact-checking program. Do the Rascals believe this is a good idea? And finally, it’s time for Rascals Recommendations! What are the Rascals watching and reading?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2412181 Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:18:37 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals start the podcast talking about the seamless certification of the 2024 election. Wasn’t it nice to not have an insurrection this time around? On […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals start the podcast talking about the seamless certification of the 2024 election. Wasn’t it nice to not have an insurrection this time around? On […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 12.18.24: Drones, Chicago budget, Trump lawsuit The Mincing Rascals 12.18.24: Drones, Chicago budget, Trump lawsuit The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals kick off the show starting about the drones that have been flying over multiple states. What do the Rascals make of the story and the hysteria that it has created? This week, the Chicago City Council passed Mayor Johnson’s 2025 budget. What are the Rascals chief takeaways from Johnson’s budget and the council shenanigans leading up to its passage? Donald Trump filed a lawsuit against Iowa pollster Ann Selzer and the Des Moines Register for a pre-election poll that showed him trailing Vice President Kamala Harris. Eric finds this very ominous. And what about the chances RFK Jr. will be confirmed to lead HHS? And that’s a wrap for the 2024 Rascals! We’ll have “Best of” shows through the holidays and be back for your podcast listening pleasure in January! Thanks to each and every one of you!

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2371997 Wed, 18 Dec 2024 23:01:16 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals kick off the show starting about the drones that have been flying over multiple states. What do the Rascals make of the story and the hysteria that it has created? […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals kick off the show starting about the drones that have been flying over multiple states. What do the Rascals make of the story and the hysteria that it has created? […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 12.11.24: Immigration, birthright citizenship, U.S. healthcare The Mincing Rascals 12.11.24: Immigration, birthright citizenship, U.S. healthcare The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, This week, the Rascals start the show breaking down the Chicago visit from Tom Homan, President-elect Trump’s ‘border czar.’ Do the Rascals believe the new administration’s plan for mass deportation will happen? And what of birthright citizenship? Do the Rascals think the 14th Amendment survives? Mayor Brandon Johnson’s senior advisor Jason Lee is causing controversy for voting in Texas during the last election. What do the Rascals make of the latest Johnson administration slip up? New information continues to come out about Luigi Mangione, the person who shot UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Will this tragic incident spur any change with the U.S. healthcare system? And finally, it’s recommendation time for the Rascals! What are John, Jon, and Brandon watching? Oh, and as an added bonus, we get a brief appearance from Rascal Cate Plys at the end!

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2371995 Thu, 12 Dec 2024 00:13:04 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, This week, the Rascals start the show breaking down the Chicago visit from Tom Homan, President-elect Trump’s ‘border czar.’ Do the Rascals believe the new administration’s plan for mass deportation […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, and Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, This week, the Rascals start the show breaking down the Chicago visit from Tom Homan, President-elect Trump’s ‘border czar.’ Do the Rascals believe the new administration’s plan for mass deportation […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 12.4.24: Madigan trial, Hunter Biden pardon, Pete Hegseth nomination The Mincing Rascals 12.4.24: Madigan trial, Hunter Biden pardon, Pete Hegseth nomination The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the Mike Madigan trial. Why should people still be interested in the trial? Controversy continues to follow Pete Hegseth, president-elect Trump’s pick for defense secretary. Do the Rascals believe Hegseth will continue to be the nominee? Next, the Rascals talk about President Biden pardoning his son Hunter. What do the Rascals think of the pardon? Do the Rascals believe Hunter would have been pardoned if Kamala Harris won the election? And do the Rascals believe Trump will pardon the January 6th rioters? New Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke will implement new policies that she hopes will reduce violence. Were the Rascals encouraged by her plans? And finally, it’s recommendation* time! What are the Rascals eating, drinking, watching, reading, or listening to?

*The Mincing Rascals recommendations this week are:

  • John: “Yacht Rock,” a documentary on “the rise of the smooth West Coast sound pioneered by artists like Steely Dan, Toto, and Michael McDonald.” Streaming on Max
  • Brandon: The latest season of “Hard Knocks” behind the scenes NFL documentaries, this one featuring teams in the AFC North. Streaming on Max.
  • Marj: “Cross,” a police procedural based on James Patterson novels. Streaming on Amazon Prime; Hard Sell, a cocktail made with Malört, gin, lemon juice and St. Germaine.
  • Austin: “Playtime,” a 1967 movie directed and starring French film star Jacques Tati. Streaming on Amazon Prime; and the 2019 book “Music, a Subversive History “ by Ted Gioia
  • Eric: “A Man on the Inside,” the new Netflix series starring Ted Danson about a retiree who goes undercover at a retirement home in order to solve a crime; the macaroni and cheese recipe Cate Plys gave me last week that I made for our Thanksgiving dinner.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2371993 Wed, 04 Dec 2024 23:59:01 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the Mike Madigan trial. Why should people still be interested in the trial? Controversy continues to […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the Mike Madigan trial. Why should people still be interested in the trial? Controversy continues to […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 11.26.24: Trump charges dropped, Johnson office drama, Shopping Cart Theory The Mincing Rascals 11.26.24: Trump charges dropped, Johnson office drama, Shopping Cart Theory The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin this special Tuesday holiday week episode of the podcast discussing The Shopping Cart Theory. Can you judge a person’s character if they properly return their shopping cart? Next, there is more drama in Mayor Johnson’s office as Johnson’s former communications director was the subject of multiple complaints alleging workplace misconduct. What do the Rascals make of the latest problem in the Johnson administration? Fresh from withdrawing his name to be the next attorney general, former Florida congressman Matt Gaetz joined Cameo. Special counsel Jack Smith is dropping the federal election subversion and classified documents cases against President-elect Trump. Do the Rascals believe the cases should be dropped? And finally, as we head towards the Thanksgiving holiday, what are the Rascals most thankful for this year.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2356194 Tue, 26 Nov 2024 23:34:31 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin this special Tuesday holiday week episode of the podcast discussing The Shopping Cart Theory. Can you judge a person’s character if they […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin this special Tuesday holiday week episode of the podcast discussing The Shopping Cart Theory. Can you judge a person’s character if they […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 11.20.24: Trump Cabinet, Chicago budget, Mayor Johnson’s successor The Mincing Rascals 11.20.24: Trump Cabinet, Chicago budget, Mayor Johnson’s successor The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU! This week the Rascals kick off the podcast breaking down the nominees for President-elect Trump’s Cabinet. Do the Rascals believe these nominees will get confirmed? Next, the Rascals discuss Chicago’s ongoing budget issues and Mayor Brandon Johnson ultimately deciding not to attend Chicago Police Officer Enrique Martinez’s funeral after the family asked him not to come. Speculation is starting to gain steam on who will likely run against Mayor Johnson in 2027. What do the Rascals think of the names being talked about? And is Mayor Johnson definitely a one-term mayor? What’s the latest on CPS-CTU contract negotiations? And what does the future hold for CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. Austin gets you up to speed. And finally, the Bears. How optimistic are the Rascals about the rest of the season?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2356192 Wed, 20 Nov 2024 23:42:00 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU! This week the Rascals kick off the podcast breaking down the nominees for President-elect Trump’s Cabinet. Do the Rascals believe these nominees will get confirmed? Next, the Rascals discuss […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU! This week the Rascals kick off the podcast breaking down the nominees for President-elect Trump’s Cabinet. Do the Rascals believe these nominees will get confirmed? Next, the Rascals discuss […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 11.13.24: Trump Cabinet picks, property tax hike proposal, Bears stadium plans The Mincing Rascals 11.13.24: Trump Cabinet picks, property tax hike proposal, Bears stadium plans The Mincing Rascals this week are Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, our small but mighty Rascals start the podcast discussing last week’s election results and the flurry of nominees to fill President-elect Trump’s Cabinet. What do the Rascals make of these controversial choices? The Rascals now have had a week to dissect the election results. Why did Harris lose? And do the results give Trump a mandate? Switching to local politics, what is the latest on Mayor Johnson’s property tax proposal? And what does the future hold for CPS CEO Pedro Martinez? And finally, what do the Rascals make of the Bears reconsidering the site of the old Michael Reese Hospital for a new stadium?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2356190 Thu, 14 Nov 2024 01:16:11 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, our small but mighty Rascals start the podcast discussing last week’s election results and the flurry of nominees to fill President-elect Trump’s Cabinet. What do the Rascals make of these controversial choices? […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, our small but mighty Rascals start the podcast discussing last week’s election results and the flurry of nominees to fill President-elect Trump’s Cabinet. What do the Rascals make of these controversial choices? […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 11.6.24: Takeaways from the 2024 election The Mincing Rascals 11.6.24: Takeaways from the 2024 election The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals start the podcast breaking down the results of the presidential election. What were the surprises and the big takeaways? Locally, the Rascals discuss Chicago’s first school board elections. Do the Rascals believe the school board results were a referendum on the policies of Mayor Brandon Johnson?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2356184 Wed, 06 Nov 2024 23:48:01 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals start the podcast breaking down the results of the presidential election. What were the surprises and the big takeaways? Locally, the Rascals discuss Chicago’s […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals start the podcast breaking down the results of the presidential election. What were the surprises and the big takeaways? Locally, the Rascals discuss Chicago’s […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 10.30.24: School board elections, property tax proposal, presidential endorsements The Mincing Rascals 10.30.24: School board elections, property tax proposal, presidential endorsements The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the Chicago School Board elections. How are the Rascals handling their vote for the school board? Eric bemoans how much money is being spent on these elections. Today, Mayor Brandon Johnson proposed a property tax hike to close the budget gap. The Rascals explain what they think of the proposal. There has been a lot of talk about newspaper endorsements this week. Marj was one of the 250,000 people to cancel their Washington Post subscription. What do the rest of the Rascals make of the Washington Post and L.A. Times not endorsing a presidential candidate this year? President Trump held an inflammatory rally at Madison Square Garden that featured speakers making many racist comments. Do the Rascals think the event will hurt Trump politically? And finally, who do the Rascals think will win the presidential election?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2304293 Wed, 30 Oct 2024 23:15:33 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the Chicago School Board elections. How are the Rascals handling their vote for the school board? Eric bemoans […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! The Rascals begin the podcast talking about the Chicago School Board elections. How are the Rascals handling their vote for the school board? Eric bemoans […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 10.23.24: Rudy Giuliani forfeit assets, lower speed limit, Chicago school board The Mincing Rascals 10.23.24: Rudy Giuliani forfeit assets, lower speed limit, Chicago school board The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast this week talking about former president Donald Trump and the multiple stories that detail why he is a threat to democracy. Will any of these stories have an impact on the election? A judge ruled that former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani must turn over his New York City apartment, sports memorabilia and other prized possessions to two Georgia election workers who won a $148 million defamation judgment against him. Do the Rascals think that the judge’s decision was too severe? Turning to local news, a Chicago City Council committee approved a plan to lower Chicago’s default speed limit to 25 mph. Do the Rascals like the idea? Will this plan pass the full City Council? And finally, Austin has been away for a couple of weeks, so he catches everyone up on the latest news about the Chicago school board.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2304303 Wed, 23 Oct 2024 23:37:36 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast this week talking about former president Donald Trump and the multiple stories that detail why he is a threat to […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! The Rascals start the podcast this week talking about former president Donald Trump and the multiple stories that detail why he is a threat to […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 10.16.24: Trump tariffs, I-PASS sticker, Chicago school board The Mincing Rascals 10.16.24: Trump tariffs, I-PASS sticker, Chicago school board The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals kick things off by breaking down former president Donald Trump’s interview with Bloomberg News at the Economic Club of Chicago. John and Eric were disappointed in the crowd’s reaction to Trump’s lies. What do the Rascals think of Trump’s appearance? And what are the Rascals thoughts on Trump’s understanding of economic issues? The Rascals also talk about Trump’s town hall earlier this week that ended up with the former president just playing his favorite songs in favor of answering questions. Eric wonders why the media is not more focused on Trump’s mental unfitness for office. Next, Cate is fed up with I-PASS sticker BS! Finally, Marj wrote a piece in Crain’s about the Chicago school board election. Where are the Rascals on the upcoming school board elections?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2304297 Wed, 16 Oct 2024 23:01:59 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals kick things off by breaking down former president Donald Trump’s interview with Bloomberg News at the Economic Club of Chicago. John and Eric were disappointed in the crowd’s […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals kick things off by breaking down former president Donald Trump’s interview with Bloomberg News at the Economic Club of Chicago. John and Eric were disappointed in the crowd’s […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 10.9.24: Mayor Johnson school board, Hurricane Milton, controversial license plates The Mincing Rascals 10.9.24: Mayor Johnson school board, Hurricane Milton, controversial license plates The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals kick things off breaking down Mayor Brandon Johnson’s ‘flabbergasting’ and ‘maddening’ news conference on Monday where he announced new members of Chicago’s Board of Education. Another destructive hurricane is heading towards Florida. The Rascals talk about Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signing legislation earlier this year that erased most references to climate change from state law. Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias revoked the personalized license plates of some drivers who ordered variations of the date “October 7.” Do the Rascals believe the controversial plates should have been revoked? Also, Cate recommends you check out the show by SEB this Friday at Cobra Lounge! SEB is Cate’s daughter’s long-time partner and he’s a tremendous musician. Check out his music here.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2304295 Wed, 09 Oct 2024 23:10:28 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals kick things off breaking down Mayor Brandon Johnson’s ‘flabbergasting’ and ‘maddening’ news conference on Monday where he announced new members of Chicago’s Board of Education. Another destructive hurricane is […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals kick things off breaking down Mayor Brandon Johnson’s ‘flabbergasting’ and ‘maddening’ news conference on Monday where he announced new members of Chicago’s Board of Education. Another destructive hurricane is […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 10.02.24: Vance-Walz debate recap The Mincing Rascals 10.02.24: Vance-Walz debate recap The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals break down the debate between JD Vance and Tim Waltz. What do the Rascals think were the major takeaways? Plus, what are the most annoying intersections in Chicago?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2335525 Thu, 03 Oct 2024 02:18:04 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals break down the debate between JD Vance and Tim Waltz. What do the Rascals think were the major takeaways? Plus, what are the most […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals break down the debate between JD Vance and Tim Waltz. What do the Rascals think were the major takeaways? Plus, what are the most […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 9.25.24: CPS-CTU rift, airport rankings, White Sox record The Mincing Rascals 9.25.24: CPS-CTU rift, airport rankings, White Sox record The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the ongoing rift between CPS and the CTU. Why does Mayor Johnson want CPS CEO Pedro Martinez to resign? Why is Martinez refusing to resign? Is Martinez doing a good job? The Rascals break it all down. Both O’Hare and Midway airports rank near the bottom in a new survey of travelers. What do the Rascals think of our airports? Austin says don’t sleep on the Rick Bayless restaurant at O’Hare while Cate highlights the charms of Midway. The White Sox continue their march to becoming the worst team in MLB history. And Eric has been at the forefront of following the journey towards record breaking futility. And what’s the latest on the possibility of a new stadium for the Sox? And finally, Marj wrote an Op-ed in the Sun-Times about the lies Donald Trump and JD Vance continue to spread about Haitian immigrants. Eric cannot understand why anyone could support the current GOP ticket.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2304291 Wed, 25 Sep 2024 23:05:19 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the ongoing rift between CPS and the CTU. Why does Mayor Johnson want CPS CEO Pedro Martinez to resign? Why is […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, political pundit Marj Halperin and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the ongoing rift between CPS and the CTU. Why does Mayor Johnson want CPS CEO Pedro Martinez to resign? Why is […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 9.18.24: ShotSpotter’s future, Jesse Jackson Jr. seeks pardon, Jussie Smollett The Mincing Rascals 9.18.24: ShotSpotter’s future, Jesse Jackson Jr. seeks pardon, Jussie Smollett The Mincing Rascals this week are Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the John-less Rascals mince about the ongoing misadventures that have surrounded Mayor Brandon Johnson’s tenure. ShotSpotter, budget issues, staff changes, CTU v. CPS, etc. How do the Rascals think the Mayor has performed a year and a half into his job? Speaking of ShotSpotter, the debate over the gunshot detection technology continues in City Hall today. What do the Rascals think of how the administration has handled the ShotSpotter issue? Convicted former Democratic U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. is seeking a presidential pardon. Do the Rascals believe President Biden should pardon the former congressman? The Illinois Supreme Court on Tuesday heard arguments from Jussie Smollett’s attorneys seeking to overturn his convictions of staging a fake hate crime. Do the Smollett attorneys have a point here? Switching to some national news, the Rascals discuss what is happening in Springfield, Ohio and the hateful rhetoric and lies being spread by J.D. Vance and Donald Trump.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2289420 Wed, 18 Sep 2024 23:48:34 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the John-less Rascals mince about the ongoing misadventures that have surrounded Mayor Brandon Johnson’s tenure. ShotSpotter, budget issues, staff changes, CTU v. CPS, etc. How do the […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, political pundit Marj Halperin, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week, the John-less Rascals mince about the ongoing misadventures that have surrounded Mayor Brandon Johnson’s tenure. ShotSpotter, budget issues, staff changes, CTU v. CPS, etc. How do the […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 9.11.24: Harris-Trump debate recap The Mincing Rascals 9.11.24: Harris-Trump debate recap The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals break down the first (and only?) debate between former president Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. What do the Rascals think were the major takeaways? Do the Rascals think there should be another debate before the election? We only have time for one local story this week and it’s a doozy! According to a Fox 32 report, a top mayoral aide used a derogatory term for police and talked openly about defunding and even abolition of police in a 2021 podcast. Austin and the crew get you up to speed on what this means for the Johnson administration.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2274450 Wed, 11 Sep 2024 23:21:47 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals break down the first (and only?) debate between former president Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. What do […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys! This week the Rascals break down the first (and only?) debate between former president Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. What do […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 9.4.24: Concealed carry decision, CTU contract, presidential polls The Mincing Rascals 9.4.24: Concealed carry decision, CTU contract, presidential polls The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals talk about a federal judge in Rockford ruling that Illinois’ concealed carry law can’t prohibit holders from having guns on public transportation. What do the Rascals think of this decision? CPS and CTU are continuing negotiations over a new contract. Austin gets us up to speed on the latest news. Meanwhile, the city of Chicago is facing nearly a billion dollar deficit in 2025. Where is all the money going to come from? CTU president Stacy Davis Gates recently accused Austin of stalking and the Rascals come to Austin’s defense. A WBEZ analysis found more than 30 websites of Local Government Information Services exposed the home addresses for more than 6 million Illinois voters including dozens of state and federal judges. Does the public have a right to know where voters live? And finally, we are less than a week away from the first debate between VP Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump. The Rascals break down the latest polls.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2274448 Wed, 04 Sep 2024 23:22:08 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals talk about a federal judge in Rockford ruling that Illinois’ concealed carry law can’t prohibit holders from having guns on public transportation. What do the Rascals think […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals talk about a federal judge in Rockford ruling that Illinois’ concealed carry law can’t prohibit holders from having guns on public transportation. What do the Rascals think […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 8.28.24: DNC recap, Gus Walz controversy, debate rules The Mincing Rascals 8.28.24: DNC recap, Gus Walz controversy, debate rules The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about Cate’s magnificent tie! And also, the DNC. How do the Rascals feel the city of Chicago handled the convention? What were the highlights? The missteps? The Rascals break it all down. During the convention, Tim Walz’s son Gus became emotional seeing his father on stage and the hosts of a local right-wing radio station are coming under fire for mocking him. Now, one of the hosts has resigned her position as the coach of the boys and girls volleyball teams at a local high school. Do the Rascals believe the hosts should be fired from their radio jobs? The first Harris-Trump debate is set to take place on Sept. 10th, but there is still uncertainty about the debate rules concerning microphones, notes, and a live audience. What rules do the Rascals believe should carry over from the first debate? And finally, the White Sox are still really bad.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2274440 Wed, 28 Aug 2024 22:41:24 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about Cate’s magnificent tie! And also, the DNC. How do the Rascals feel the city of Chicago handled the convention? What were the highlights? The […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about Cate’s magnificent tie! And also, the DNC. How do the Rascals feel the city of Chicago handled the convention? What were the highlights? The […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 8.21.24: 2024 DNC special The Mincing Rascals 8.21.24: 2024 DNC special The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals break down all things Democratic National Convention. What were the highlights, lowlights, and big political takeaways? The Rascals have you covered! Was there and economic benefit to hosting the DNC? Some businesses have reported being slower than usual and the minimal crowds mean that it would be a great time to come visit downtown. Also, how has the city and CPD handled the protesters? What about the speeches? Who were the Rascals impressed with? Who was the biggest disappointment? And what about the city of Chicago in general? How has the city handled the huge event? Will this DNC be considered a success come Friday morning? And finally, will the DNC move the political needle to the left?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2265237 Wed, 21 Aug 2024 23:19:05 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals break down all things Democratic National Convention. What were the highlights, lowlights, and big political takeaways? The Rascals have you covered! Was there […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, longtime Chicago journalist Cate Plys, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals break down all things Democratic National Convention. What were the highlights, lowlights, and big political takeaways? The Rascals have you covered! Was there […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 8.14.24: DNC in Chicago, CPS-CTU contract negotiations, Jordan Chiles bronze medal controversy The Mincing Rascals 8.14.24: DNC in Chicago, CPS-CTU contract negotiations, Jordan Chiles bronze medal controversy The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals start the podcast discussing the upcoming DNC in Chicago. Are the Rascals optimistic about the DNC? Is there concern about the protesters? The Rascals break down all the storylines. Vice President Harris hasn’t had held a press conference or any one-on-one interviews since she jumped to the top of the Democratic ticket. Austin thinks she should stay away from the media, while Marj says that she should sit down reporters, but there is no urgency right now. Brandon says Harris could do non-traditional media and take advantage of the current excitement. And speaking of interviews, did the Rascals catch any of the conversation between Elon Musk and former president Trump? The Sun-Times is reporting that Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is working to oust CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. The Rascals get us up to speed on the latest contract negotiations between CPS. And finally, the Olympics ended on Sunday, but controversy lingers on! US gymnast Jordan Chiles was stripped of her bronze medal because an appeal by Chiles’ coach came 4 seconds beyond the 1-minute time limit for scoring inquiries. So what now? Does Chiles keep the medal? Do both athletes get the bronze? Is Chiles out of luck? Where are the Rascals on this?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2265235 Wed, 14 Aug 2024 23:50:36 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals start the podcast discussing the upcoming DNC in Chicago. Are the Rascals optimistic about the DNC? Is there concern about the […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals start the podcast discussing the upcoming DNC in Chicago. Are the Rascals optimistic about the DNC? Is there concern about the […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 8.7.24: VP choice, police accountability, Olympic boxing controversy The Mincing Rascals 8.7.24: VP choice, police accountability, Olympic boxing controversy The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals mince about Kamala Harris choosing Minnesota governor Tim Walz to be her running mate. What do the Rascals think about the choice? Last week, former president Trump came to town for an interview at the National Association of Black Journalists convention. Brandon was there and recaps the visit. Today, JB Pritzker called for Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell to resign for his handling of the Sonya Massey case. Do the Rascals believe that Campbell should resign? New body camera footage obtained by the Sun-Times shows that police officers conducted dozens of traffic stops in the days leading up to a deadly shootout with Dexter Reed. What do the Rascals make of this new footage? Brandon hopes this will lead to police reform. And finally, the Olympics are wrapping up this week and the Rascals address the controversy surrounding Olympic boxer Imane Khelif.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2265228 Wed, 07 Aug 2024 23:00:30 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals mince about Kamala Harris choosing Minnesota governor Tim Walz to be her running mate. […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals mince about Kamala Harris choosing Minnesota governor Tim Walz to be her running mate. […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 7.31.24: Trump at NABJ, VP decision, Olympic opening ceremony controversy The Mincing Rascals 7.31.24: Trump at NABJ, VP decision, Olympic opening ceremony controversy The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast recapping former president Donald Trump’s appearance at the National Association of Black Journalists conference. Should the NABJ have invited Trump to sit for an interview? What did the Rascals make of the performance? The Paris Olympics kicked off with an opening ceremony that is causing some controversy. Were the Rascals offended by any of the imagery? Various news outlets are reporting Vice President Harris will make her VP decision early next week. Who do the Rascals believe should be the choice? Switching to local news, lawyers for the city now say that Dexter Reed was pulled over for having illegally tinted windows before he was killed by Chicago police, contradicting the initial claim given to oversight officials. What do the Rascals make of this change? And Mayor Brandon Johnson’s political campaign paid a firm for fundraising help while it lobbied City Hall. Austin explains why the Johnson administration is showing no interest in ethics reform. Finally, the Chicago Teachers Union is looking to reduce the property tax bill for their headquarters in the West Loop. Is this a cause for concern?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2259663 Wed, 31 Jul 2024 23:14:22 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast recapping former president Donald Trump’s appearance at the National Association of Black Journalists […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast recapping former president Donald Trump’s appearance at the National Association of Black Journalists […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 7.24.24: Biden steps aside, VP candidates, Sonya Massey shooting The Mincing Rascals 7.24.24: Biden steps aside, VP candidates, Sonya Massey shooting The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about President Biden announcing on Sunday that he would not run for another term. Where were the Rascals when they heard the news? Is Vice President Harris the right person to run against Donald Trump? And who do the Rascals believe Harris will pick to be her running mate? And speaking of running mates, the Rascals discuss the choice of JD Vance to be Trump’s running mate. Do the Rascals believe Vance was the right choice to join the ticket? Next, the Rascals discuss the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey by Sangamon County Sheriff’s Deputy Sean Grayson inside her Springfield, Illinois home. Austin believes this officer was clearly unfit to be a police officer. What do the other Rascals think of how the officer involved in the shooting acted?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2257274 Wed, 24 Jul 2024 22:56:11 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about President Biden announcing on Sunday that he would not […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast talking about President Biden announcing on Sunday that he would not […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 7.17.24: RNC, presidential polls, political rhetoric The Mincing Rascals 7.17.24: RNC, presidential polls, political rhetoric The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the gang kick things of chatting with Rascal Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, who is covering the RNC (and pasta) in Milwaukee. What is Brandon seeing and hearing up in Milwaukee as he covers the GOP convention? New polling from 538 about the presidential election shows that the race is extremely close. What do the Rascals make of the current polls? Eric believes the Democrats are in disarray and in real trouble, while Marj thinks President Biden does have a path to victory. More and more members of Congress are asking President Biden to step down. Do the Rascals think Biden is going to stay in the race? And what do the Rascals think of Trump picking Senator JD Vance to be his running mate? Switching to some local news, the Rascals mince about Mayor Johnson tabling a plan to fine ‘teen trend’ party organizers, Mayor Johnson’s appointment of Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez as Zoning chair being delayed, Mayor Johnson wanting CPS to take out the equivalent of a payday loan to address its budget challenges, and the Johnson administration nixing a plan to remove a George Washington statue from city hall. And finally, back to national politics. The Rascals have a discussion on political rhetoric in light of the assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2250248 Wed, 17 Jul 2024 23:07:09 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the gang kick things of chatting with Rascal Brandon Pope, host of […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the gang kick things of chatting with Rascal Brandon Pope, host of […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 7.10.24: Biden’s candidacy, fixing the Magnificent Mile, CPD Oath Keepers The Mincing Rascals 7.10.24: Biden’s candidacy, fixing the Magnificent Mile, CPD Oath Keepers The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. This week, the Rascals begin by discussing whether or not Joe Biden will step down from candidacy. Can anyone besides Biden actually run? Then they switch gears by talking about a potential redesign of the Magnificent Mile. To close things off, the group discusses the ramifications of finding out that a number of current and former Chicago police officers may be involved with the ‘Oath Keepers,’ who are notorious for their participation in the January 6th storming of the Capitol. Is there any validity to these claims?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2242840 Wed, 10 Jul 2024 23:10:05 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. This week, the Rascals begin by discussing […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute. This week, the Rascals begin by discussing […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 7.3.24: Biden campaign, SCOTUS immunity opinion, NASCAR in Chicago The Mincing Rascals 7.3.24: Biden campaign, SCOTUS immunity opinion, NASCAR in Chicago The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals break down President Biden’s poor debate performance and what that means for the future of his re-election campaign. Where do the Rascals believe the Democrats go from here? If President Biden decides to step aside, who replaces him? The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Donald Trump cannot be prosecuted for actions that were within his constitutional powers as president. What does this immunity decision mean? Three Chicago public schools are being renamed in an effort to get rid of racist or otherwise problematic namesakes. Is it a good idea that these schools are changing their names? A lot of other Chicago things in the news this week…”The Bear,” NASCAR coming to town, etc. Marj explains why she isn’t too excited about NASCAR returning. And what do the Rascals think of the new season of TV’s “The Bear?”

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2235504 Wed, 03 Jul 2024 22:23:58 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals break down President Biden’s poor debate performance and what that means for the future of […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals break down President Biden’s poor debate performance and what that means for the future of […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 6.26.24: Presidential debate, Burke sentence, SCOTUS corruption ruling The Mincing Rascals 6.26.24: Presidential debate, Burke sentence, SCOTUS corruption ruling The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the upcoming debate between President Biden and Donald Trump. Are the Rascals looking forward to watching? What are the Rascals most interested in seeing from the candidates? This week former Alderman Ed Burke was sentenced to two years in prison plus a $2M fine. Do the Rascals believe justice was served? A Supreme Court ruling today will narrow the scope of corruption laws targeting public officials. What do the Rascals make of this SCOTUS decision? And finally, Chicago Alderman William Hall asked aldermen to log their yes/no support for 16 different tax hike proposals in a “Revenue Survey” distributed to city council members. The survey briefly had an open link that anyone could access. Where do the Rascals stand on the various tax hike proposals?

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2226243 Wed, 26 Jun 2024 22:53:30 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the upcoming debate between President Biden and Donald Trump. […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals kick off the podcast talking about the upcoming debate between President Biden and Donald Trump. […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago The Mincing Rascals 6.19.24: Reparations, CTU-CPS bargaining, SCOTUS bump stock ruling The Mincing Rascals 6.19.24: Reparations, CTU-CPS bargaining, SCOTUS bump stock ruling The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals start the podcast by discussing Mayor Johnson launching a task force looking into a reparations program. Where are the Rascals on reparations? The Chicago Teachers Union and Chicago Public Schools held their first-ever public bargaining session last week. Austin watched the session and gives us the major takeaways. The Rascals also get into it about corporate profits and ‘greedflation.’ Controversy continues to follow the Chicago Sky after their game last weekend against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever. John thinks the Sky are playing like the old Detroit Pistons ‘Bad Boys.’ The Supreme Court struck down a Trump-era ban on rapid-fire rifle bump stocks. What do the Rascals make of the ruling? And finally, the Rascals discuss the impact of President Biden issuing a new policy granting legal protections to undocumented spouses and children of American citizens.

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]]> https://wgnradio.com/?p=2216166 Wed, 19 Jun 2024 23:09:31 +0000 false dmarzullo@wgnradio.com (WGN Plus)The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals start the podcast by discussing Mayor Johnson launching a […]WGN PlusThe Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, Cate Plys, former staff writer at the Chicago Reader, and political op-ed columnist at the Sun-Times and Tribune, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week the Rascals start the podcast by discussing Mayor Johnson launching a […]The,Mincing,Rascals,John,Williams,Eric,Zorn,Austin,Berg,Cate,Plys,Marj,Halperin,Brandon,Pope,Jon,Hansen,WGN,Plus,Radio,Chicago