Chicago Power Poll

Our April 2026 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin is showering you with five fresh questions. Once again, Thom welcomes the Dean of Chicago political reporters Mike Flannery. Mr. Flannery will once again dazzle you with his word of the day. This month's special guest is Paul Vallas, former CEO of the Chicago Public Schools and an education superintendent famous for rebuilding the New Orleans schools in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Which leadership quality is most essential for Chicago's next mayor? What best describes your opinion of how the city is managing "teen takeovers" in the Loop and nearby neighborhoods How concerned are you that the war in Iran might lead to broader conflict and more American casualties? Do you believe now is the right time for the U.S. to resume human travel to the moon? Are term limits necessary to improve the effectiveness of Congress? Thom, Mike, and Paul will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.

Our March 2026 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin is here to stir your thinking with five fresh questions impacting the region. Once again, Thom welcomes the Dean of Chicago political reporters Mike Flannery. This month's special guest is Amy Jacobson, host of The Real Story on WIND Radio. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: What does the Bears-Indiana negotiation signal about our region's competitive landscape? How will a St. Patrick's Day primary affect voter behavior? Which rising cost has become your "affordabilty" nightmare this year? What's your biggest concern about the U.S-Iran confict? Share your biggest consideration on whether Illinois should opt into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Program Thom, Mike, and Amy will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.

Feel the love of our February 2026 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power pollers emptied their sizeable wisdom on 5 new questions. Once again, Thom welcomes the Dean of Chicago political reporters Mike Flannery. This month's special guest is the CEO & President of The Urban Center, Juan Rangel This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Should Illinois move its Presidential primary to first-in-the-nation for 2028? What was the NFL's strategic intent with Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show? Should the U.S. pursue hosting future Winter Olympics? After the DOJ's release of 3M+ pages of Epstein files, what should legislators prioritize? What are your Valentine's Day Plans? Thom, Mike, and Juan will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.s

Welcome to Season 3: the January 2026 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power pollers have downloaded their wisdom on seven revealing questions. Once again, Thom will tap into the quick wit of veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery. This month's special guest is a 30-year veteran of Crain's Chicago Business. Greg Hinz is also the former political editor at Chicago Magazine, and the Lerner Newspapers. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: What's your opinion on immigration enforcement and civil liberties? How should the U.S. respond to the protests in Iran? Was the capture of Venezuelan president Nicolàs Maduro necessary? What priorities should Chicago set for the city to truly thrive? Where should the city put its hands and heart when it comes to community service? If the Bears make it all the way to the Super Bowl, do you plan to make the trip?* Why have hundreds of Chicago restaurants closed their doors in recent years? Thom, Mike, and Greg will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode. *NOTE: This month's power poll was conducted prior to the Bears' loss to Los Angeles in the divisional round of the NFL playoffs.

Let's unwrap our December 2025 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power pollers have spoken loudly on five fresh questions, put high expectations on themselves for 2026. Once again, Thom will harness the wisdom of veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery. This month's special guest is an award-winning journalist who has graced the newsrooms of the Chicago Sun-Times, the Chicago Tribune, and WBEZ -- Monica Eng now works the Chicago beat for Axios. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you favor raising Chicago's revenue through a corporate head tax or alternative fees? Which city priority should be protected most when considering budget cuts? How safe have you felt when holiday shopping in Chicago's downtown hot spots? What should legislators do to prevent mass shooting events? Let's hear your New Year's resolution for 2026. Thom, Mike, and Monica will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.

Here's our November 2025 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power pollers have packed some gratitude and gravitas into our Thanksgiving week episode. Once again, Thom will feast on the results with veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery This month's special guest is nine-time Emmy winning journalist Anne Kavanagh. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: What was your take on the resolution that ended the recent government shutdown? How do you interpret the impact of the recent ICE enforcement actions in Chicago? What would be the business effect of Mayor Johnson's proposed employee head tax? In 2026, which business priority is most urgent for your organization? When someone close to you is struggling through the holidays, how do you offer support? Thom, Mike, and Anne will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.

Welcome to the October 2025 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power pollers have packed some big thinking into their responses six new questions. Thom will analyze the results with veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery This month's special guest is former Illinois State Senator Bill Marovitz. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Should Chicago legalize slot machines for all bars and at O'Hare and Midway airports? How seriously do you take predictions of a stock market crash or serious correction? Do you feel safer in the Chicago metro area now that city officials and the media are reporting declining crime rates? How personally invested were you in the Cubs' 2025 postseason run? Do you believe President Donald Trump deserves serious recognition for his role in advancing peace in the Middle East? Do you celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday in a special or meaningful way? Thom, Mike, and Bill will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.

Welcome to the September 2025 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power pollers have packed some big thinking into their responses to five new questions. Thom will analyze the results with veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery This month's special guest is Illinois State Comptroller Susana Mendoza. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: How would you rate Mayor Brandon Johnson's handling of Chicago's fiscal crisis? Do you support potential federal deployment of National Guard troops to aid ICE operations in Chicago? Should the Democratic Party prioritize including a downstate native on future tickets to appeal to rural voters? Do you believe Governor J.B. Pritzker's approach with the Trump administration serves Illinois' interests? What is your view on the impact of scooters and eBikes on Chicago's streets? Thom, Mike, and Susana will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.

Welcome to the August 2025 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power pollers have levied their thoughts on five new issues. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery This month's special guest is Ray Long, veteran statehouse reporter, Chicago Tribune alum, and author of the book The House That Madigan Built — Ray is also a two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Governor Pritzker has supported Texas Democrats fleeing Texas redistricting battles. What's your take on the Governor's actions? What do you think is the biggest reason people are moving out of Illinois?  Should the Illinois legislature pass the 'Mega Projects' property tax-break bill for the Bears? President Trump has deployed the National Guard to Washington D.C. and placed the D.C. police under his control. What do you think of this decision by the President?   Illinois and California Democrats, have announced they will gerrymander their congressional maps in response to Texas Republican plans to get rid of five Democrat-held seats. What do you think of this response?  Thom, Mike, and Ray will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.

Welcome to the July 2025 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power pollers have poured their wisdom into 5 new topics. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery This month's special guest is Linda MacLennan, long-time anchor of the CBS2 10pm news and an award-winning journalist. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Should the City of Chicago sign a new agreement with NASCAR for more street races? If former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Governor J.B. Pritzker both run for President in 2028 -- who has the strongest ability to succeed? How satisfied are you with the city's efforts to reduce crime? Which Illinoisan has had the greatest influence on the state's national reputation?  What's more likely to happen: The White Sox have a worse season than last year, The Cubs win the World Series, or the Bears move to Arlington Heights? Thom, Mike, and Linda will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.

Welcome to the June 2025 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power pollers have spoken their minds on 5 new topics. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery This month's special guest is Joan Esposito, a veteran television journalist for over two decades. Joan now guards the topics of the day, as the host of afternoon drive on WCPT Radio in Chicago. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you approve of President Trump's decision to call the California National Guard into federal service? How concerned are you about massive service cuts to public transit, since Illinois' new budget ingored the RTA's $771 million fiscal cliff? What do you think is the primary reason for Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's declining popularity? Should taxpayers provide financial support to the Chicago Bears for their new stadium? The U.S. Justice Department has launched an investigation into Chicago's hiring practices. What do you think about the Mayor's hiring for city positions? Do you support the State of Illinois' new taxes on sports betting, tobacco, and other items as a means to balance the budget? Thom, Mike, and Joan will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.

Welcome to the May 2025 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power pollers have spoken their minds on 5 new topics. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome special guest John Dempsey, an award-winning Chicago journalist who has graced the newsrooms of WBEZ, Fox32, WBBM NewsRadio, WMAQ, and WLS-AM. John is now the host of the podcast "What Does It Mean?" This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: What's the best way for Chicago to welcome Pope Leo XIV, the next time he visits his hometown? Should Chicago police be authorized to issue "snap curfews" for teens? How would you rate Mayor Brandon Johnson's relationship with the city's business community? What concerns do you have about the current federal funding freeze on research at universities like Northwestern? Rate the effectiveness of Mayor Johnson's efforts to secure state funds for the City of Chicago. Thom, Mike, and John will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on this month's episode.

Here are April's showers. Welcome to another edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power players answer 5 new questions, that impact work and play. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome special guest Jeanne Sparrow, seven-time Emmy winner, and former host of "U & Me in the Morning on Chicago's WCIU-TV. Jeanne is a well-known radio radio personality (WGCI & V103), and just published her first book, Fearless Authenticity. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you agree with the Trump administration's recent tariff announcements? Atlanta, Houston, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Phoenix, and St. Louis are the most popular destinations when Chicagoans leave our city. Which choice surprised you most? Do you own an EV, or would you consider buying one in 2025? Which notable Illinois politician would make the best conversation over dinner? What's your favorite outdoor spot to experience spring in Chicago? Thom, Mike, and Jeanne will share our Power Poll results and get into their analysis of the answers here on the April 2025 edition of our show.

Beware the queries of March. Welcome to another edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. Our power players answer 5 new questions, with Illinois on a collision course with our nation's capital. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome special guest Justin Kaufmann, a seasoned storyteller and story chaser, as a Chicago journalist. The veteran radio host (WGN & WBEZ) now writes daily at Axios.com. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you think Chicago's government needs a city charter? Should cell phones be banned in Chicago Public Schools? How would you rate Mayor Brandon Johnson's appearance before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform? Is Donald Trump on the right track with his recent policies and actions? Will Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker make a run for the Presidency? Thom, Mike, and Justin will share our Power Poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the March 2025 edition of our show.

Buckle up for the February 2025 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. The month brings 5 new questions, and with some breaking news on Illinois' former governor. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome special guest James "Skinny" Sheahan, a Southwest Side civic treasure. Mr. Sheahan is former Director of the Mayor's Office of Special Events, and a self-described Irish thoroughbred. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: How would you rank Chicago's most pressing civic issues? Who is most likely to run against Brandon Johnson in Chicago's next mayoral election? Fill in the blank. The Super Bowl halftime show starring Kendrick Lamar was _________. Was former Governor Rod Blagojevich deserving of a Presidential pardon? Do you support President Donald Trump's decision to stop production of the penny? Thom, Mike, and "Skinny" Sheahan will share our Power Poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the February edition of our show.

Welcome to Season 2 -- the January 2025 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. The new year brings 5 new questions, and some fascinating conversation about the poll results. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome a special guest who spent ten years in the U.S. Congress representing the citizens of Illinois' 17th District. Cheri Bustos is a Springfield native and partner at Mercury Public Affairs. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Should the United States take back the Panama Canal? Do you believe the California fires could have been prevented? Will the testimony of Mike Madigan help or hurt his defense on racketeering charges? Will the U.S. be better off after year one of Donald Trump's next Presidency? Should the Illinois legislature pass a bill allowing for a recall of mayoral elections? Thom, Mike, and Congresswoman Bustos will share our Power Poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the January edition of our show.

Here comes our December '24 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. We'll get some heavy chat with 5 new questions, and analyze the results. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome syndicated columnist Terry Savage, "The Money Lady" who also enlightens audiences weekly on WGN Radio & TV. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you think Daylight Saving Time should be eliminated? Is birthright citizenship a policy that can be abused? After 42 years on both Houses of Congress, will Senator Dick Durbin retire? Have Americans forgotten the true meaning of Christmas? Will your holidays include a warmer climate getaway, or will you brave the Chicago cold? Thom, Mike, and Terry will share our Power Poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the December edition of our show.

Time for our November '24 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. We'll get into our post-election chat with 5 new questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome ABC7's award-winning political reporter Craig Wall. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Is Donald Trump's return to the White House a positive for lllinois' economic health? What was the number one issue that drove voters to cast their ballots for Trump? Do you believe Illinois Governor JB Pritzker will pursue the Presidency in 2028? How would you resolve the City of Chicago's nearly $1 billion budget deficit? Are you planning on dining or shopping in downtown Chicago this holiday season? Thom, Mike, and Craig will share our Power Poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the November edition of our show.

Here's our October '24 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. We'll stir the pot with 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome one of the coolest heads in Chicago politics, Forrest Claypool. He's run the Chicago Park District, the Chicago Transit Authority, and also served as CEO of the Chicago Public Schools. Claypool's new book, The Daley Show, recounts his time as Mayor Richard M. Daley's chief of staff. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: How do you feel about Mayor Brandon Johnson's influence over the Board of Education? Do you believe the new school board will make significant improvements in public ed? What to you think of the shift away from remote work? What issues do you think voters care most about in the upcoming Presidential election? Following the Bears big win in London, how confident are you in their playoff chances? Thom, Mike, and Forrest will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the October edition of our show.

Here's our September '24 edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome the Emmy Award winning journalist, Anne Kavanagh , contributing reporting for Fox32 Chicago. Anne also teaches investigative journalism at DePaul University. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Do you think Chicago's Shotspotter gun shot detection technology helped save lives? Should the Chicago Public School Board vote to oust Superintendent Pedro Martinez? Would it be a good idea for the U.S. Surgeon General to place a warning on social media? Is the CTA effectively serving the people of Chicago? Do voters need another presidential debate to decide which candidate will get their vote. Thom, Mike, and Anne will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the September edition of our show.

Here's our DNC edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome host NBC5's "Chicago Today, Cortney Hall. Her show chronicles the city's vibrant neighborhoods through cultural trends. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: How do you think hosting the 2024 Democratic National Convention will impact Chicago's economy and reputation in the long term? Did Chicago's leaders effectively showcase the city's strengths to a national audience? Whose professional leadership deserves the MVP award for convention week? Which of the last four Chicago mayors would be most interesting dinner guest? The Chicago Bears were undefeated in the preseason. How will they do in the regular season? Thom, Mike, and Cortney will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on the DNC edition of our show.

Here's our July edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome NBC5's political reporter, Mary Ann Ahern. Her Emmy award-winning work has taken her across the country covering Presidential campaigns since 1988. Please note: our conversation with Mike and Mary Ann took place July 12th, nearly 30 hours before the troubling assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Did the Presidential debate during the final week of June impact your opinion of the candidates? Would you support an upper age limit to run for President? Including President Joe Biden, which Democrat would have the best chance to win the November general election? Chicago was just ranked #2 when it comes to worst U.S. traffic. Which is major expressway or tollway is your least favorite? Thom, Mike, and Mary Ann will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on our July '24 show.

Here's our June edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome Sarah Schulte, ABC7's award-winning reporter. The Highland Park native is a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan who's been on the beat in Washington D.C., Philly, Nashville, and Las Vegas. Sarah came home to Chicago in 1998 to join the news team at WLS-TV. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions: Which Chicago summer event are you most interested in experiencing the NASCAR street race, the Rolling Stones tour stop, the DNC, or Lollapalooza? What do you think of Chicago Alderman Brian Hopkins' proposed 8pm curfew for minors? Who is most likely to be named Donald Trump's running mate on the GOP ticket? Is Caitlin Clark getting fair treatment as a WNBA rookie> Thom, Mike, and Sarah will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on our June '24 show.

Here's our May edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom, once again, is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery We also welcome Amanda Vinicky, former statehouse bureau chief for NPR Illinois. Amanda is now co-host and correspondent for Chicago Tonight on WTTW-TV. This month, we asked our Power Pollers to answer these questions:  A recent report says the Democratic National Committee is "preparing for the worst" at this summer's convention in Chicago. Are you worried? At what level are you using Artificial Intelligence or "AI" in your work & life? Billions of cicadas are buzzing and mating. How do you feel about that? Plus, our Power Pollers rate Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's first year in office. Thom, Mike, and Amanda will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on our May '24 show.

Here's our April edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery and Carol Marin, Director of DePaul University's Center for Journalistic Integrity & Excellence. This month, we asked our power pollers to answer these questions: What is the most dominant issue among the voters of Illinois? How did "Caitlin Clark Fever" impact your interest in Women's NCAA tournament? Do you think the Chicago City Council project a sense of confidence to Chicago residents?   Thom, Mike, and Carol will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on our April '24 show.

Here's our March edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery and WBEZ's Mary Dixon. This month, we asked our power pollers to answer these questions: What do you think about the Chicago Bears building a publicly-owned domed stadium near Soldier Field.  What's your opinion on the U.S. House of Representatives vote to ban TikTok in the United States? Only 20% of eligible Chicagoans voted in the March primary. How do you feel about the current state of voter apathy?   Thom, Mike, and Mary will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on our March '24 show.

Here's our February edition of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. We'll dive into 5 more thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery and Chicago media personality Andrea Darlas. This month, we asked our power pollers to answer these questions: Which union do you think is the most politically powerful union in the city? The Chicago White Sox may build a new stadium in the South Loop. Do you think this is a good idea? How do you feel about the city's economic performance? Thom, Mike, and Andrea will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on our February '24 show.

Welcome to the debut of the Chicago Power Poll podcast with Thom Serafin. During this episode we explore the poll results of 5 thought-provoking questions. Joining Thom is veteran Chicago political journalist Mike Flannery and ABC 7 sports reporter Dionne Miller. Our January 2024 poll included the following questions: What's the most important action Chicago can take to address the city's growing migrant crisis? Which GOP candidate will surprise the experts in the Iowa Presidential caucus? What should the Bears to with their #1 pick in the NFL draft?   Thom, Mike, and Dionne will share the poll results and get into what's driving the answers here on this month's show.

Launched in 2020, the Serafin's Chicago Power Poll is an interactive polling platform that surveys business, civic, media, and political insiders about the attitudes and opinions that shape the moves of the Chicago's most influential leaders. It's the best way we know, to reveal the attitudes and opinions of the players who essentially run our town.  Now, host Thom Serafin takes the Chicago Power Poll results to a panel of news makers and news "shakers" to debate those insights. These conversations offer a glimpse into the future, by analyzing the opinions of the voices who will shape that future. Look for a new Chicago Power Poll episode on the 3rd Monday of every month.