La Shawn K. Ford on Crime, Cannabis, and the Healthcare Squeeze

In this episode of Chicago State of Mind on the CNW Network, host Cheryl Mainor sits down with Illinois State Representative La Shawn K. Ford, candidate for Congress in the 7th District, to talk about what it really means to fight for overlooked communities. Ford traces his journey from CPS teacher and union member on Chicago’s West Side to nearly 20 years in Springfield, explaining how school inequities, the crack era, and the 1994 crime bill pushed him into public service. He breaks down his signature work on criminal record sealing, HIV testing reform, and cannabis social equity licensing—and why he believes those laws can help end “permanent punishment” and build generational wealth in Black and Brown neighborhoods. The conversation then turns to today’s healthcare crisis, from Medicare Advantage and Medicaid redeterminations to skyrocketing premiums and deductibles, and why Ford says the current system leaves seniors, small business owners, and working families exposed. If you care about justice, health, and economic dignity on Chicago’s West Side and beyond, this episode is essential listening.