567politics guide

Chicago politics

City Hall, the City Council and the policies shaping Chicago neighborhoods.

Latest reporting

Chicago

Chicago’s failed debt-rule override leaves a broader fight over borrowing oversight

The October veto fight did not enact a 30-vote debt threshold. Its arguments now frame scrutiny of the city’s next borrowing choices.

Nov 4, 2026By 567politics

Chicago

Chicago-area transit budget opens a public test of NITA’s service promises

The regional authority proposes a $5.04 billion operating plan for 2027, with a November hearing and a December comment deadline.

Nov 4, 2026By 567politics

Chicago

Biggs claims victory as Chicago’s school-board election turns toward governing

The citywide declaration is distinct from certification. A fully elected board will face questions about finances, neighborhood representation and accountability.

Nov 4, 2026By 567politics

Chicago

Chicago’s millionaire-tax vote sends a signal without enacting a new levy

Early returns favored the advisory question. The result does not itself change state law, guarantee property-tax relief or settle disputed revenue forecasts.

Nov 4, 2026By 567politics

Chicago

Chicago’s gunshot-detection pilot faces demands for evidence and a procurement timetable

A six-district test was announced in October. Council members want clearer answers on timing; the public still needs independently checkable results.

Nov 4, 2026By 567politics

Chicago

Chicago makes Smart Streets permanent as the camera program prepares to expand

A broad council vote authorizes phased expansion. Safety outcomes, fair review and street design will matter as much as ticket totals.

Nov 4, 2026By 567politics

Chicago

Chicago’s rental rewrite turns on fees, oversight and a still-unfinished compromise

Tenant advocates and real-estate groups disagree over the design of new protections. The legislative record reviewed does not establish final passage.

Nov 4, 2026By 567politics

Chicago

Chicago’s settlement borrowing plan puts compensation and future debt costs in focus

The proposed budget would finance roughly $480 million in police-related settlements. Council review must separate payment obligations from the cost of borrowing.

Nov 4, 2026By 567politics

Chicago

Chicago directs $75 million parking-meter payment to extra pension funding

The council’s 44–6 vote adds to pension contributions while reopening a budget choice over services, taxes and replacement funding.

Nov 4, 2026By 567politics

Chicago

Chicago’s proposed employer tax returns to a divided budget debate

Johnson wants large employers to help fund services. Council and business opponents say a worker-based charge would harm hiring. The proposal is not yet law.

Nov 4, 2026By 567politics

Chicago’s proposed employer tax returns to a divided budget debate

Issues to follow

City budgets, taxes and pensions
Housing and neighborhood development
Public schools and school governance
Public safety and police oversight
Transit and city services

Go to the public record

Read official records, follow public meetings and find election information directly from the city.