The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson
185 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 4 years ago - ★★★★★ - 11 ratingsThe Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Podcast from The Voice of Chicago, 720 WGN
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Episodes
Candidate for Cook County circuit clerk Michael Cabonargi: “You can use your phone to buy a car, you should be able to pay a moving violation on your phone”
September 29, 2019 15:38Rick Pearson welcomes Michael Cabonargi, current member of the Cook County Board of Review and Candidate for Cook County circuit clerk, into the studio. Michael talks about his campaign, proposed reforms, and the need for transparency when re-evaluating the fees and fines that go to the court.
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 9/29/2019
September 29, 2019 15:37On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson welcomes Michael Cabonargi, current member of the Cook County Board of Review and Candidate for Cook County circuit clerk, into the studio. Michael talks about his campaign, proposed reforms, and the need for transparency when re-evaluating the fees and fines that go to the court. Next, […]
Is impeachment the right choice?
September 29, 2019 15:37Rick is joined by Michael Golden, President of Golden Mean Strategies, to discuss the move by the House Democrats to move forward on impeachment. Michael touches on the factors of impeachment from a political stand point, as well as the historic government responsibility; the current state of Congress; and much more.
The state of higher education with private colleges/universities in IL
September 29, 2019 15:36Rick Pearson speaks with David Tretter, President of the Federation of Independent Illinois Colleges and Universities about higher education and enrollment among his member institutions. After the lengthy budget impasse took its toll on both private and public universities; David shares an update as to the current state of things and the reputational damage that […]
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 9/22/2019
September 22, 2019 15:19On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson welcomes Brad Cole, Executive Director of the Illinois Municipal League, into the studio to discuss municipal pension funding problems. Brad discusses the benefits of consolidation; issues surrounding legalized recreational marijuana; and more. Next, Rick is joined by Elliot Richardson, Co-founder and President of the Small Business Advocacy Council, […]
Democratic State Sen. Andy Manar and others are looking to put a cap on insulin costs
September 22, 2019 15:11Rick Pearson speaks with Democratic State Sen. Andy Manar, about the upcoming veto session as he and many others are looking for action to cap out of pocket costs for insulin. Andy touches on the need for a bill in order to make insulin more accessible and affordable for people living with Diabetes as insurance […]
The debate over the proposed graduated income tax
September 22, 2019 15:11“Rick Pearson is joined by Elliot Richardson, Co-founder and President of the Small Business Advocacy Council, to discuss the debate over the graduated income tax. Elliot emphasizes the crucial role small businesses play in various aspects, especially economically; the need for better representation of small businesses in Springfield; and much more.
A push for municipal pension consolidation
September 22, 2019 15:11Rick Pearson welcomes Brad Cole, Executive Director of the Illinois Municipal League, into the studio to discuss municipal pension funding problems. Brad discusses the benefits of consolidation; issues surrounding legalized recreational marijuana; and more.
A breakdown of the latest issues surrounding the Sterigenics plant
September 15, 2019 15:30Rick Pearson welcomes Illinois House Republican leader Jim Durkin to discuss the latest legal issues surrounding the Sterigenics plant in Willowbrook. Jim provides clarification as to what exactly is going on; the issues that homeowners and parents are facing regarding the plant; and much more.
A review of the debate among the Democratic Presidential contenders
September 15, 2019 15:29Rick Pearson is joined by Jason DeSanto, Senior Lecturer at Northwestern’s Pritzker School of Law to review the previous debate among the Democratic Presidential contenders. Jason touches on the strengths and weakness of each contender; who had standout performances; and more.
Debunking the misconceptions of Charter Schools
September 15, 2019 15:29Rick Pearson speaks with Constance Jones, CEO of the Noble Network of Charter Schools, about the state of education and Charter Schools in Chicago. Constance addresses the many misconceptions that exist surrounding Charter Schools; explains the many reasons why parents choose to send their children to the Noble Network as they have such high graduation […]
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 9/15/2019
September 15, 2019 15:29On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with Constance Jones, CEO of the Noble Network of Charter Schools, about the state of education and Charter Schools in Chicago. Constance addresses the many misconceptions that exist surrounding Charter Schools; explains the many reasons why parents choose to send their children to the Noble […]
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 9/8/2019
September 08, 2019 15:04On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs about state fiscal issues. As well as his recent endorsement of Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren for Democratic presidential nomination. Next, Rick is joined by David McSweeney, Illinois State Representative of Barrington Hills. David and Rick discuss how he will […]
R-Barrington Hills State Rep David McSweeney: “Focused on Finishing My Job as State Representative”
September 08, 2019 15:04Rick Pearson speaks with Republican State Rep David McSweeney on his decision not to seek reelection. McSweeny will turn a different direction as he now considers a bid for the Illinois Secretary of State or U.S. Senate in 2022. David talks about the outlook of his future. Also gives us insight on vision wants to […]
Illinois State Treasurer – Michael W. Frerichs “Politics is the art of compromise”
September 08, 2019 15:03Rick Pearson speaks with Illinois State Treasurer Michael W. Frerichs about Illinois fiscal issues also, his recent endorsement of Elizabeth Warren for Democratic presidential nomination. As the Illinois Chief Investment and Banking Officer, Michael’s office invests money on behalf of the state and local units of government. Also providing individuals with financial tools so […]
Kim Foxx launches a new program to expunge marijuana related convictions
September 01, 2019 15:28Rick welcomes Kim Foxx, Cook County state’s attorney, into the studio to discuss marijuana expungement and re-election issues. Kim shares information about her announcement to launch a program that will identify people eligible to have their records expunged for marijuana related convictions. Kim also touches on her thoughts on how she handled the Jussie Smollett […]
A recap of Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s State of the City Address
September 01, 2019 15:28Rick Pearson is joined by Brian Bernardoni, founder of Aurelius Public Affairs, to take an in-depth look at Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s State of the City speech. Brian and Rick discuss the techniques Lightfoot used in addressing various issues, crucial pieces of the speech that were missing, and much more.
Tribune Reporter Hal Dardick breaks down the Lincoln Yards race
September 01, 2019 15:28Rick Pearson speaks with Tribune reporter Hal Dardick about his recent story covering the Lincoln Yards development and how the tax increment financing deal was accomplished. Hal explains what the Lincoln Yards is, breaks down what a TIF is, and more. To read the full story, visit www.chicagotribune.com.
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 9/1/2019
September 01, 2019 15:28On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with Tribune reporter Hal Dardick about his recent story covering the Lincoln Yards development and how the tax increment financing deal was accomplished. Hal explains what the Lincoln Yards is, breaks down what a TIF is, and more. Next, Rick is joined by Brian Bernardoni, founder […]
How will Mayor Lightfoot handle the Chicago budget deficit?
August 25, 2019 14:50Rick welcomes Chicago Tribune Reporter Juan Perez Jr. into the studio to discuss Mayor Lightfoot’s budget issues. Juan and Rick dive deep into what kind of deficit the city of Chicago will be facing and they speculate about what kind and where these budget cuts will be made and how Mayor Lightfoot will handle it. […]
Chicago Politics is making history!
August 25, 2019 14:36Rick is joined by State Representative Lamont Robinson, to talk about his first legislative session and being the first LGBTQ black member of the legislature. Listen in as Rick and Representative Robinson talk about the history being made in Chicago Politics. Lamont J. Robinson Jr. is an American insurance agent, educator, and politician who is […]
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 8/25/2019
August 25, 2019 14:28On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with Dina Rollman of Green Thumb Industries about start up issues for legalized marijuana. Dina touches on how just because the bill is signed doesn’t mean everything will be ready to go come January 1st. Next, Rick is joined by State Representative Lamont Robinson, to […]
It’s crunch time for the Marijuana Industry!
August 25, 2019 14:16Rick Pearson speaks with Dina Rollman of Green Thumb Industries about start up issues for legalized marijuana. Dina talks about how just because the bill is signed doesn’t mean everything will be ready to go come January 1st. Dina oversees Government & Regulatory Affairs for Green Thumb Industries (GTI), a multi-state operator that trades on […]
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 8/18/2019
August 18, 2019 15:39On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with Mark Denzler, President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association about the U.S/Mexico/Canada Trade Agreement and what it means for the state’s manufacturing community. Mark touches on the misconception on the connection between agriculture and manufacturing; the concerns of farmers in terms of the […]
Review of the State Fair Political Days
August 18, 2019 15:35Rick Pearson welcomes Bernie Schoenburg, political reporter for the State Journal Register, into the studio to discuss what he witnessed during the political days at the State Fair. Bernie explains the various events he attended during the State Fair and what stood out to him at each one, the background of the 13th Congressional District, […]
Where Iowans stand when it comes to the Democratic field
August 18, 2019 15:15Rick Pearson is joined by Chicago Tribune political reporter Bill Ruthhart, returning from his recent trip to Iowa for the State Fair. Bill talks about how the the difference in primary priorities on a National vs a localized basis for Democratic candidates; the lack of discussion on rural issues during the 1st two debates; and more […]
Why don’t people associate agriculture with manufacturing?
August 18, 2019 15:01Rick Pearson speaks with Mark Denzler, President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association about the U.S/Mexico/Canada Trade Agreement and what it means for the state’s manufacturing community. Mark touches on the misconception on the connection between agriculture and manufacturing; the concerns of farmers in terms of the economy; the on-going yearning for stability and […]
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 8/11/2019
August 11, 2019 15:24On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson speaks with Democratic U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski about the issue of gun violence as he shares his experience while attending the Garlic Festival in Gilroy, when an active shooter began to invade the fest. Dan emphasizes the need to implement stricter gun laws in order to […]
What is causing the increase of domestic terrorism?
August 11, 2019 15:23Rick Pearson welcomes Professor Tom Mockaitis of DePaul University to take a look at the increase of domestic terrorism and the role that Donald Trump’s language has played. Tom explains the effect that social media is having and how it’s being used as an enabler; even though the economy is doing well at the moment, […]
President of the Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools: “The current state of teacher shortages is a crisis”
August 11, 2019 15:22Rick Pearson is joined by Mark Klaisner, President of the Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools to talk about the ongoing issue of teacher shortages throughout the state of IL. Mark explains what the fundamental issues are; the role that teacher salaries play; and much more.
“Gun violence is a multifaceted issue that requires a multifaceted approach”
August 11, 2019 15:22Rick Pearson speaks with Democratic U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski about the issue of gun violence as he shares his experience while attending the Garlic Festival in Gilroy, when an active shooter began to invade the fest. Dan emphasizes the need to implement stricter gun laws in order to combat mass shootings and the gun violence […]
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 8/4/2019
August 04, 2019 15:16On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson is joined by Democratic State Sen. Michael Hastings, as he shares details about a new youth mental health treatment facility that’s being planned around his community. Michael also stresses the need for more mental health assistance nationwide; discusses legislation which allows people to receive long-term mental […]
It’s time to break the stigmas that surround Mental Health
August 04, 2019 15:16Rick Pearson is joined by Democratic State Sen. Michael Hastings, as he shares details about a new youth mental health treatment facility that’s being planned around his community. Michael also stresses the need for more mental health assistance nationwide; discusses legislation which allows people to receive long-term mental health treatment in terms of collectibles; and […]
Better Government Association’s study on O’hare International Airport
August 04, 2019 15:15Rick speaks with John Chase and Alejandra Cancino of the Better Government Association about their study on O’Hare International Airport. According to John and Alejandra, with the billions of dollars that have been spent investing into the airport over the years, there isn’t much to show for it aside from many cases of corruption. They […]
A Recap of the Democratic Presidential Debates
August 04, 2019 15:15Rick Pearson welcomes Northwestern Pritzker School of Law Senior Lecturer Jason DeSanto to discuss the 2-night Democratic Presidential Debate. Jason touches on the dynamic of progressive vs moderate candidates; the lack of actual problem solving being a point of discussion especially when it comes to healthcare; and more.
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 7/28/2019
July 28, 2019 15:13On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson is joined by Pat Brady of Next Generation Strategies to get his take on the Mueller testimony. As a former Assistant U.S. Attorney and once the head of the State Republican Party, Pat touches on the tenor of the hearings of the House Intelligence Committees; Mueller’s performance […]
Brian Bernardoni reminisces over his time spent with the Illinois Association of Realtors
July 28, 2019 15:12Rick Pearson welcomes Brian Bernardoni as he discusses his departure from the Illinois Association of Realtors after serving for 17 years as their Government Affairs Strategist. Brian expresses his gratitude for the work he’s done and love for all of Chicago as he reminisces over his time spent with the association. He also expresses his concerns […]
“The issues of an aging water infrastructure across the U.S. is compounding the issue of Legionnaires’ Disease”
July 28, 2019 15:12Rick Pearson speaks with Brad Considine, Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Alliance to Prevent Legionnaires’ Disease, about new rules and regulations going into effect regarding water safety and management. Brad explains how legionnaires’ disease arises and the struggles with addressing the cases that surface, how crucial the water infrastructure is across the U.S., and much […]
A review of Mueller’s testimony
July 28, 2019 15:12Rick Pearson is joined by Pat Brady of Next Generation Strategies to get his take on the Mueller testimony. As a former Assistant U.S. Attorney and once the head of the State Republican Party, Pat touches on the tenor of the hearings of the House Intelligence Committees; Mueller’s performance and articulation throughout; and the probability of […]
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 7/21/2019
July 21, 2019 15:24On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson is joined by Rebecca Shi, Executive Director of the Illinois Business Immigration Coalition, to discuss immigration issues and what her organization is hoping to see in the near future. Rebecca explains the low possibility of a comprehensive immigration reform package being implemented ahead of 2020; discusses some […]
Raja Krishnamoorthi’s take on the Robert Mueller investigation
July 21, 2019 15:23Rick Pearson talks with U.S. Democratic Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi on the upcoming testimony of former Special Counsel Robert Mueller. A member of the House Intelligence Committee, one of the two House panels that will be questioning Mueller, Raja shares what he wants to ask Mueller and what he’s looking to learn from his testimony.
An in-depth look at the Democratic Presidential field
July 21, 2019 15:23Rick Pearson speaks with Dennis Goldford, Professor of Political Science at Drake University about the Democratic Presidential field and the frustration that Iowa Democrats, and Democrats nationwide, are facing. Dennis also touches on the generational shift in voters, what “moving forward” looks like, and more.
New administration changes are the leading factor in many of the current immigration issues
July 21, 2019 15:23Rick Pearson is joined by Rebecca Shi, Executive Director of the Illinois Business Immigration Coalition, to discuss immigration issues and what her organization is hoping to see in the near future. Rebecca explains the low possibility of a comprehensive immigration reform package being implemented ahead of 2020; discusses some of the changes in immigration policies under […]
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 7/14/2019
July 14, 2019 15:30On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson talks to Republican State Rep. David McSweeney about the state’s new taxes and his opposition against tax increases. David describes alternatives including spending the money already being spent regardless of the Capital Bill in more efficient ways; expresses his concerns for the new gas tax and the […]
RTA Chairman Kirk Dillard covers Capital Projects and improving mass transit
July 14, 2019 15:27Rick Pearson is joined by Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) Chairman Kirk Dillard to discuss the recent gas tax increase and the new capital program in terms of improving mass transit in the region. Kirk talks about the backlog of state of good repairs and his enthusiasm with the transportation component of the Capital Bill; the problems […]
Tribune Investigative Reporter Hal Dardick on the Todd Ricketts’ property tax appeal investigation
July 14, 2019 15:27Rick Pearson speaks with Tribune investigative reporter Hal Dardick about his piece covering a property tax assessment reduction that was being sought out by Todd Ricketts, a member of the owning family of the Cubs. Hal provides insight into his investigative findings, where things currently stand, and more. You can read the full report here: http://www.chicagotribune.com/investigations
David McSweeney: “What we really need on the state and local level is Pension reform”
July 14, 2019 15:26Rick Pearson talks to Republican State Rep. David McSweeney about the state’s new taxes and his opposition against tax increases. David describes alternatives including spending the money already being spent regardless of the Capital Bill in more efficient ways; expresses his concerns for the new gas tax and the effect it will have on families; his stance on prevailing wage; and much more.
The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 7/7/2019
July 07, 2019 16:16On this edition of The Sunday Spin: Rick Pearson talks to Doris Martinez of Onin Staffing about the city scheduling ordinance. Doris explains the concerns that staffing companies have with the fair work week ordinance due to the many ways it will effect their operations; the possibilities of allowing exceptions in certain cases from the ordinance; and more. Next, Rick speaks with Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza on state finances including the new “well-balanced” state budget, the overall...
Tribune investigative reporter Ray Long covers the Mike Madigan’s legislative re-election lawsuit
July 07, 2019 16:15Rick Pearson is joined by Ray Long, Tribune investigative reporter, as he shares information about a lawsuit surrounding Mike Madigan’s legislative re-election. Ray provides a detailed explanation of the entire case and his investigative findings, the alleged game plan included in the lawsuit; and where things currently stand.
Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza: “We still have a large backlog in state finances and it will take a few years to fully fix”
July 07, 2019 16:15Rick Pearson speaks with Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza on state finances including the new “well-balanced” state budget, the overall debt and backlog, and more. Susana also touches on the importance of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) and the state’s failure to file it on time; issues surrounding legislative salary; and much more.