The Race for the Senate

In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andy Zopp leads a timely discussion on Chicago’s shifting political landscape and the rising threats to intellectual freedom. With Senator Dick Durbin’s seat up for grabs and the 2026 city budget taking shape, roundtable guests Sufyan Sohel, Francia Garcia Hernandez, and Adrian Segura weigh in on the political stakes. Chicago Public Library Commissioner Chris Brown and ALA’s Deborah Caldwell-Stone address growing federal attacks on libraries and museums, while Injustice Watch’s Kelly Garcia and children’s authors Veronica Appleton, James Morris Jr., and Kaylin Searles highlight the urgent need for inclusive storytelling and equal access to information.

In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, guest host Darrious Hilmon sits down with Sufyan Sohel and Swathi Staley to discuss how nonprofits are preparing for increased scrutiny under the Trump administration. Notable leaders Christa Hamilton, Kelwin Harris, and Monica Woodson share how they are steering their organizations with intentionality through turbulent times. Plus, Darrious speaks one-on-one with Borderless Magazine’s Hillary Flores about the fight to bring U.S. citizen Abrego Garcia home and dives into organizational effectiveness with Christine Leung and Stephen McClain from reCentered Partners.

In this episode of of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, guest host Darrious Hilmon leads a powerful conversation with local advocates Joli Robinson, Darius Caffey, Channyn Lynn Parker, Ella J. Jasso, and Dr. Travis Gayles. The panel addresses the surge in legislation targeting LGBTQ+ communities across the country, examining its impact and highlighting the urgent need for advocacy, solidarity, and community-led resistance.

In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andy Zopp is joined by roundtable regulars Sufyan Sohel, Juatise Gathings, Adrian Segura, and Francia Garcia Hernandez to unpack the growing rift between Mayor Brandon Johnson and City Council’s Progressive Caucus. The panel also addresses renewed concerns surrounding teen gatherings in downtown Chicago. Plus, Andy sits down with Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi to discuss property reform and with Family Focus President & CEO Dara Munson on strengthening family-centered community support.

In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andrea Zopp is joined by Sufyan Sohel, Juatise Gathings, and Adrian Segura for a roundtable discussion on the ongoing turmoil within Chicago Public Schools. The conversation explores leadership challenges, policy tensions, and the broader impact on students and families. Andrea also sits down one-on-one with executive coach Guy Summers and Thresholds’ Sterling Haukom-Anderson to discuss effective leadership during times of change and the importance of stress management.

In this special live edition of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andrea Zopp and guests analyze Mayor Brandon Johnson’s high-stakes trip to Washington, where he joins mayors from Boston, Denver, and New York City to testify before the U.S. House Oversight Committee. With GOP leaders intensifying their scrutiny of sanctuary cities, the discussion explores the fight for federal funding, the future of immigrant protections, and the broader national impact of this political showdown.

In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andrea Zopp breaks down the Madigan verdict and the latest drama unfolding at City Hall. Joined by Block Club reporter Francia Garcia Hernandez, Cook County Commission on Human Rights Chair Sufyan Sohel, and Just Act Partners Co-Founder Matt Johanson, the panel provides expert analysis on the political and legal implications shaping Chicago’s landscape.

In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andrea Zopp takes a deep dive into efforts to protect the public trust with Chicago Inspector General Deborah Witzburg. She also breaks down the week’s biggest news stories with journalist Brandon Pope and Juatise Gathings, Co-Founder of Just Act Partners. This insightful discussion examines the state of accountability in Chicago and the challenges in ensuring transparency and good governance.

In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andy Zopp leads a discussion on corporate DEI rollbacks, the ongoing CTU-CPS contract negotiations, and Mayor Brandon Johnson’s upcoming trip to Washington, D.C. Roundtable guests Morgan Malone, Francia Garcia Hernandez, and Juatise Gathings provide insights into these critical issues shaping Chicago’s future. Additionally, Andy sits down with 36th Ward Alderman Gilbert Villegas and Metro Edge CEO Craig Huffman to discuss the city’s new Data Residency Ordinance and its potential impact on businesses and residents.

In this episode of Chicago Newsroom 2.0, host Andy Zopp leads a critical discussion on Chicago’s downgraded bond rating and the upcoming closure of several Walgreens locations in the city’s most underserved neighborhoods. Roundtable guests Adrienne Samuels Gibbs, Sufyan Sohel, Morgan Malone, and Hugo Balta provide in-depth analysis on the financial and social implications of these developments. Additionally, Andy sits down for a one-on-one conversation with Stephanie Piccirilli, CEO & President of Ignite, to explore the organization’s efforts in supporting youth experiencing homelessness and creating pathways to stability.