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From cultural landmarks to craft beer: Chicago's winter of closures

February closings include multiple breweries, Open Books in Logan Square and Pride Cleaners in Chatham.

News

It&#x27;s been a brutal winter for business closures in Chicago. The big picture: Winter closures are part seasonal, part survival — but they offer a window into Chicago&#x27;s changing restaurant and retail landscape.<ul><li>2026 is already following <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the path of 2025" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/02/04/chicago-restaurants-businesses-closed-2025" data-vars-content-id="28001111-8e3c-4261-88a2-9c80131f0d1d" data-vars-headline="From cultural landmarks to craft beer: Chicago&#x27;s winter of closures" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/02/04/chicago-restaurants-businesses-closed-2025" target="_self">the path of 2025</a>.</li></ul>

Chicago company offers model as Illinois phases out subminimum wages

Illinois will phase out subminimum wages for workers with disabilities by 2029.

Business

Illinois is in a multi-year rollout to ensure companies pay all workers a fair wage.The big picture: Gov. JB Pritzker signed the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dignity in Pay Act " data-vars-click-url="https://icdd.illinois.gov/dignity-in-pay-act.html" data-vars-content-id="793847ab-9771-4a13-9cfc-3bcc6692693d" data-vars-headline="Chicago company offers model as Illinois phases out subminimum wages" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://icdd.illinois.gov/dignity-in-pay-act.html" target="_blank">Dignity in Pay Act </a>last year, requiring companies to pay workers with disabilities at least <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="minimum wage" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/12/18/minimum-wage-increase-states-2024" data-vars-content-id="793847ab-9771-4a13-9cfc-3bcc6692693d" data-vars-headline="Chicago company offers model as Illinois phases out subminimum wages" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/12/18/minimum-wage-increase-states-2024" target="_self">minimum wage</a> by 2029.

AIPAC, crypto and AI spend big in Illinois house races

In February, PACs spent millions in to support and attack congressional candidates.

Election

Large PACs spent more than $18 million on four Illinois congressional races last month, according to Federal Election Commission filings.Why it matters: Spending by special interest groups dwarfs that of individual donors and underscores the nationalization of congressional elections, whose focus is drifting away from local issues.

Bears free agency wishlist: 5 players to watch

The team has freed millions in cap space to bolster a roster set for another playoff run.

Sports

The Chicago Bears will look different this year as the team makes tough roster moves in the hopes of improving. Why it matters: Last year&#x27;s playoff team brought new energy and excitement to a fan base clamoring for a winner, but now expectations are higher. The big picture: It&#x27;s not Super Bowl or bust, but fans won&#x27;t accept a step back. <ul><li>Teams can begin signing new players on March 11.</li></ul>The latest: The Bears have started the painful process of freeing salary cap space by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="trading" data-vars-click-url="https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-release-tremaine-edmunds-dj-moore/" data-vars-content-id="f60f1bda-c7fd-49f4-b519-e4ffa5e18623" data-vars-headline="Bears free agency wishlist: 5 players to watch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-release-tremaine-edmunds-dj-moore/" target="_blank">trading</a> star WR DJ Moore and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="releasing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48117116/bears-release-veteran-linebacker-tremaine-edmunds" data-vars-content-id="f60f1bda-c7fd-49f4-b519-e4ffa5e18623" data-vars-headline="Bears free agency wishlist: 5 players to watch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48117116/bears-release-veteran-linebacker-tremaine-edmunds" target="_blank">releasing</a> defensive captain Tremaine Edmunds. <ul><li>They also lost 27-year-old Pro-Bowl center Drew Dalman, who <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="retired unexpectedly" data-vars-click-url="https://chicago.suntimes.com/halas-intrigue/2026/03/04/bears-drew-dalman-retirement-podcast-halas-intrigue" data-vars-content-id="f60f1bda-c7fd-49f4-b519-e4ffa5e18623" data-vars-headline="Bears free agency wishlist: 5 players to watch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/halas-intrigue/2026/03/04/bears-drew-dalman-retirement-podcast-halas-intrigue" target="_blank">retired unexpectedly</a>. </li></ul>State of play: The moves give the Bears nearly $44 million to spend in free agency to upgrade the roster and re-sign key players. Here&#x27;s who the Bears could land in free agency: <h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Maxx Crosby (Defensive End) </h2><figure><img alt="Football player #98 from the Raiders in black jersey with tattoos on arms, extending arms, wearing white gloves and helmet, with teammates blurred in background on field." height="4047" id="fac9bd4f-56da-4039-ba5c-7c03c65b31fe" src="https://images.axios.com/mgEYlNzSqftAFBrtsqYD2SujxnI=/2026/03/06/1772822965131.jpeg" width="6071"/><figcaption>Maxx Crosby celebrates after a sack against the Tennessee Titans during a game in 2025. Photo: Candice Ward/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>The superstar edge rusher wants out of Las Vegas, and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rumors are swirling" data-vars-click-url="https://www.si.com/nfl/bears/onsi/news/everything-we-know-about-a-potential-chicago-bears-trade-for-maxx-crosby" data-vars-content-id="f60f1bda-c7fd-49f4-b519-e4ffa5e18623" data-vars-headline="Bears free agency wishlist: 5 players to watch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.si.com/nfl/bears/onsi/news/everything-we-know-about-a-potential-chicago-bears-trade-for-maxx-crosby" target="_blank">rumors are swirling</a> that the Bears have interest in bringing him to Chicago. <ul><li>He&#x27;s an all-world defender who could be the missing piece to help the Bears make a Super Bowl run. </li></ul>Yes, but: He&#x27;s gonna cost a lot. Not only does he get paid $35 million a year, but the team would have to give up future first-round picks to trade for him. Who they may get instead: Khalil Mack. The former Bear is a free agent and wants to play for a contender. A homecoming would be warranted and much less costly. UPDATE: Maxx Crosby is being traded to the Baltimore Ravens. <h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Tyler Linderbaum (Center) </h2><figure><img alt="Baltimore Ravens football player #64 in purple uniform and helmet catching a football in a stadium with blurred seats and spectators in the background." height="4690" id="cc705342-fc1f-4ae5-828d-0cf1447accd2" src="https://images.axios.com/bWHdZXTass4JiKhypOkVVpCSoSo=/2026/03/06/1772823113608.jpeg" width="7035"/><figcaption>Tyler Linderbaum practices before a game versus the Houston Texans in 2025. Photo: Michael Owens/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>The former Ravens Pro-Bowl center didn&#x27;t get extended in Baltimore, making him the top offensive lineman available in free agency. <ul><li>He has anchored the Ravens&#x27; offensive line for four seasons and helped with the emergence of former league MVP Lamar Jackson. </li></ul>Yes, but: Same problem as Crosby. He&#x27;s looking to fetch over $20 million a season on the open market, which is a lot more than <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dalman was getting" data-vars-click-url="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48091684/bears-center-drew-dalman-retiring-nfl-age-27" data-vars-content-id="f60f1bda-c7fd-49f4-b519-e4ffa5e18623" data-vars-headline="Bears free agency wishlist: 5 players to watch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48091684/bears-center-drew-dalman-retiring-nfl-age-27" target="_blank">Dalman was getting</a>. Who they might get instead: Bills center Connor McGovern. He snapped the ball to Josh Allen, and his price tag is much lower. He is still just 27.UPDATE: The Bears reportedly traded a 2027 fifth-round pick for Patriots starting center Garrett Bradbury.<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Bobby Okereke (Linebacker) </h2><figure><img alt="Football player wearing blue jersey number 58 and silver helmet with red stripe, pointing with his left hand during a game, with blurred crowd in the background." height="3206" id="7df6cf9d-05ca-4c51-97fd-0f2408d728ce" src="https://images.axios.com/52h3izY5x7fGhjMZKLC-_w9X-RM=/2026/03/06/1772823385116.jpeg" width="4809"/><figcaption>Bobby Okereke lines up before a play during a game in 2024. Photo: Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>The former New York Giants defensive captain was released and is looking to find a new home. He registered 143 tackles in the 2025 season. <ul><li>Edmunds was getting $15 million a year, so the Bears could sign Okereke for much less, closer to $9 million and not see much of a dropoff with play on the field. </li></ul>Yes, but: Okereke isn&#x27;t familiar with defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. Who they may get instead: Saints linebacker Demario Davis. He turns 37 this season, but knows Allen&#x27;s defense well. He&#x27;d also be much cheaper. <h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Kyle Dugger (Safety) </h2><figure><img alt="Football player wearing black helmet and yellow pants with number 29 on white jersey running on grassy field with blurred crowd in the background." height="4971" id="a719a448-eade-4817-83a7-054c7fde4650" src="https://images.axios.com/O_4nWBH5HTxSLsSfXebaCBHHoAo=/2026/03/06/1772823787569.jpeg" width="7457"/><figcaption>Kyle Dugger defends in coverage during a game in 2025. Photo: Perry Knotts/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Both of the Bears&#x27; safeties are free agents, which means they may not be able to sign both Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker. <ul><li>If they want to prioritize spending elsewhere, it could be that the Bears find a cheaper replacement like Kyle Dugger. He just had a great season with the Patriots and the Steelers and would cost much less than Byard or Brisker. </li></ul>Who they may get instead: Re-sign Jaquan Brisker. <h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Darnell Mooney (Wide Receiver) </h2><figure><img alt="Two NFL players in action: one in white Atlanta Falcons uniform catching a football, and one in black New Orleans Saints uniform running behind him on a football field." height="5561" id="0a082789-48e9-446b-96b7-13b63c6ff782" src="https://images.axios.com/Df5ngE9c0t9-AeUQGEzNo_mNY4E=/2026/03/06/1772823999343.jpeg" width="8342"/><figcaption>Darnell Mooney, No. 1, of the Atlanta Falcons, makes a catch during a game versus the Saints in 2025. Photo: Perry Knotts/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Remember Darnell Mooney? The Bears drafted Mooney and let him sign elsewhere during the team&#x27;s lengthy rebuild. <ul><li>Now that the Bears are a playoff team, Mooney is back on the market after a lackluster run with the Falcons, where he failed to reach 1,000 yards once in his three seasons in Atlanta. He will command much less than the $18 million he was going to make in 2026. </li><li>He&#x27;d be a nice veteran wide receiver for Caleb Williams. </li></ul>Who they may get instead: A rookie in the draft. Coach Ben Johnson may want to hand-pick a successor for DJ Moore with one of his top draft picks. Editor&#x27;s note: This is a developing story. Check for updates.

Neighbors split over $9B Quantum Shore project

The rift is also putting pressure on progressive quantum supporters, including Mayor Brandon Johnson and Gov. JB Pritzker.

Climate

A group of Southsiders launched &quot;Southeast Neighbors for Quantum&quot; this week to support the nascent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$9 billion Quantum Shore campus" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2024/11/20/quantum-computing-hub-south-works-lllinois" data-vars-content-id="f7fb7e66-eb9d-437b-ac19-e5a5dd95d212" data-vars-headline="Neighbors split over $9B Quantum Shore project" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2024/11/20/quantum-computing-hub-south-works-lllinois" target="_self">$9 billion Quantum Shore campus</a> — just days before their neighbors plan to rally for binding benefits from the developers.Why it matters: The dueling camps are putting Gov. JB Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson in a delicate spot, squeezed between progressive allies demanding stronger community protections and neighbors who see the project as a long-overdue economic investment.

Chicago's early midterm primary voting jumps

Drivers include more comfort with mail-in ballots and concerns over poll safety.

Early midterm primary voting is rising exponentially among Chicagoans with each election, according to Chicago Board of Elections data.Why it matters: The numbers suggest that mail-in ballot habits that started during COVID are sticking around here. This comes at a time when <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump is threatening " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/08/save-america-act-trump-nationalize-elections" data-vars-content-id="d4791357-47e0-45da-b64a-153e69b04aa9" data-vars-headline="Chicago&#x27;s early midterm primary voting jumps" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/08/save-america-act-trump-nationalize-elections" target="_self">President Trump is threatening </a>to eliminate mail-in ballots altogether.

Illinois midterm robotexts and calls could help voter turnout

Studies show a handful of robocalls can boost votes, but too many may repel voters.

Politics

With less than two weeks until the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="midterm" data-vars-click-url="http://axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/06/2026-elections-what-to-know-about-illinois-midterm-primary-races" data-vars-content-id="49b12fb3-21a6-4128-b679-cb6eb6235666" data-vars-headline="Illinois midterm robotexts and calls could help voter turnout" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="http://axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/06/2026-elections-what-to-know-about-illinois-midterm-primary-races" target="_self">midterm</a>, your phone is probably blowing up with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="robocalls " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/02/08/fcc-ai-robocalls-illegal" data-vars-content-id="49b12fb3-21a6-4128-b679-cb6eb6235666" data-vars-headline="Illinois midterm robotexts and calls could help voter turnout" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/02/08/fcc-ai-robocalls-illegal" target="_self">robocalls </a>and texts. But those annoying pings could be good for democracy.Why it matters: Mass messaging to phones is a relatively inexpensive way for campaigns to spread the word about their candidates and to criticize their opponents, but it also serves as a good reminder to vote.

Crypto industry quietly powers negative campaign ads in Illinois

The super PAC Fairshake is spending big bucks against some Illinois candidates.

Political attack ads are taking on a different energy this primary cycle, thanks to big bucks from national super PACs <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="backing cryptocurrency" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/30/fairshake-crypto-pac-2026-midterms" data-vars-content-id="f247f0ab-22d1-4e26-a930-b31b19d07997" data-vars-headline="Crypto industry quietly powers negative campaign ads in Illinois" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/30/fairshake-crypto-pac-2026-midterms" target="_self">backing cryptocurrency</a>.Why it matters: The surge of attack ads is turning Illinois&#x27; primary increasingly negative, even when the attacks are unrelated to digital currency.

Chicago goes for DNC encore in 2028

The city is on a shortlist to host again, alongside Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia and Denver.

The Democratic National Committee announced Monday that Chicago was one of five frontrunner cities to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention.Why it matters: Hosting back-to-back <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="conventions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2024/08/23/five-takeaways-dnc-chicago" data-vars-content-id="249939b7-4226-4613-9bea-d6f2a24546e7" data-vars-headline="Chicago goes for DNC encore in 2028" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2024/08/23/five-takeaways-dnc-chicago" target="_self">conventions</a> would bring another massive economic windfall — and another week of security perimeters, protests and downtown disruption. The big picture: The city and state are pushing hard to get the DNC to return, which would be the first time a city has hosted back-to-back since New York City in 1976 and 1980.<ul><li>DNC records show that Chicago has hosted the convention a record 11 times. </li></ul>State of play: The National Democratic Committee is deciding among Denver, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Boston and Chicago. What they&#x27;re saying: &quot;With our extensive track record of safely and successfully hosting large-scale events, our vibrant and diverse culture, and our status as a world-class destination — we&#x27;re confident that Chicago is best positioned to put on a convention that matches the enthusiasm, success, and energy of the 2024 DNC,&quot; the Chicago Bid Committee said in a statement.<ul><li>&quot;The team that brought Democrats the best political convention is ready to do it again.&quot;</li></ul>By the numbers: That may not be hyperbole. The 2024 DNC was a smash success for the city, generating $371.4 million in economic impact, which is the most in convention history. <ul><li>The 2024 DNC brought in about 50,000 visitors, which is similar to other major McCormick Place conventions like the National Restaurant Association&#x27;s annual meeting. </li><li>The city reaped the benefits, using federal funds to fast-track a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Green Line CTA station" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/12/04/green-line-new-stop-damen-avenue" data-vars-content-id="249939b7-4226-4613-9bea-d6f2a24546e7" data-vars-headline="Chicago goes for DNC encore in 2028" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/12/04/green-line-new-stop-damen-avenue" target="_self">Green Line CTA station</a> at Damen near the United Center.</li><li>The Chicago 2024 Host Committee also boasted investing over $3 million back into the city, mainly by supporting non-profit organizations and philanthropic causes.</li></ul>Flashback: Last time, the Chicago host committee raised $97 million and spent only $83 million, leaving a debt-free convention. <ul><li>Gov. JB Pritzker was a big part of that financial push, even donating over $5 million himself.</li><li>It&#x27;s unclear if he would be the governor in 2028. He may be a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="presidential candidate" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/20/illinois-primary-early-pritzker-2028-democrat-president-trump" data-vars-content-id="249939b7-4226-4613-9bea-d6f2a24546e7" data-vars-headline="Chicago goes for DNC encore in 2028" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/20/illinois-primary-early-pritzker-2028-democrat-president-trump" target="_self">presidential candidate</a> vying for a DNC nomination, which means he could use his money elsewhere on the campaign trail. </li></ul>The other side: While the city&#x27;s bid committee paints a rosy picture, many Chicagoans didn&#x27;t attend the convention festivities, and some businesses forced employees to work remotely to avoid downtown.<ul><li>Also, the city boasts millions in positive economic benefits, but some restaurants and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="neighborhood businesses" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nbcchicago.com/dnc-chicago-2024/dnc-effect-boosts-some-chicago-small-businesses-overlooks-others/3528478/" data-vars-content-id="249939b7-4226-4613-9bea-d6f2a24546e7" data-vars-headline="Chicago goes for DNC encore in 2028" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nbcchicago.com/dnc-chicago-2024/dnc-effect-boosts-some-chicago-small-businesses-overlooks-others/3528478/" target="_blank">neighborhood businesses</a> reported that the DNC crowds didn&#x27;t materialize.</li><li>Protesters also criticized the DNC&#x27;s security protocols, which they say infringed on their constitutional rights.</li><li>Many Chicago commuters were caught in rolling road closures throughout the city.</li></ul>The bottom line: It&#x27;s hard to argue with the success of the last political convention, but it still raises the question of whether Chicagoans want to do it all over again.What&#x27;s next: Democratic Party leaders plan to visit the five finalists this spring to evaluate logistical and operational considerations for hosting such a large event. The Democratic convention will be held Aug. 7–10, 2028.What do you think? Take our poll on whether we should host the 2028 DNC here.<div><iframe name="opinionstage-widget" alt="Opinion Stage Embed" src="https://www.opinionstage.com/api/v2/widgets/0cabad97-c34c-4f47-998f-714b43d01c1c/iframe" data-opinionstage-iframe="0cabad97-c34c-4f47-998f-714b43d01c1c" data-vars-category="embed" data-vars-sub-category="embed-poll" data-vars-asset-id="0cabad97-c34c-4f47-998f-714b43d01c1c" data-vars-content-id="249939b7-4226-4613-9bea-d6f2a24546e7" width="100%" height="800" allow="fullscreen" webkitallowfullscreen="true" mozallowfullscreen="true" class="gtmView" referrerPolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe><div style="display:none"></div></div>

How AIPAC funding affects local Iran war support

Illinois congressional candidates offer differing views on the topic.

Democratic politicians <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="are largely condemning " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/01/democrats-2028-iran-war" data-vars-content-id="e5ecd032-521e-46c3-baa9-8d085896dd96" data-vars-headline="How AIPAC funding affects local Iran war support" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/01/democrats-2028-iran-war" target="_self">are largely condemning </a>the<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" U.S.-Israel airstrikes on Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/28/iran-attack-trump-us-israel-strikes" data-vars-content-id="e5ecd032-521e-46c3-baa9-8d085896dd96" data-vars-headline="How AIPAC funding affects local Iran war support" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/28/iran-attack-trump-us-israel-strikes" target="_self"> U.S.-Israel airstrikes on Iran</a>, including Illinois congressional hopefuls backed by funders linked to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Critics" data-vars-click-url="https://forward.com/opinion/808534/aipac-house-race-illinois-robert-peters/" data-vars-content-id="e5ecd032-521e-46c3-baa9-8d085896dd96" data-vars-headline="How AIPAC funding affects local Iran war support" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://forward.com/opinion/808534/aipac-house-race-illinois-robert-peters/" target="_blank">Critics</a> argue that AIPAC-linked fundings could make candidates —including state Sen. Laura Fine, Chicago Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin, Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller and former U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean — more sympathetic to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Israeli government interests" data-vars-click-url="https://danielbiss.substack.com/p/a-note-on-aipac" data-vars-content-id="e5ecd032-521e-46c3-baa9-8d085896dd96" data-vars-headline="How AIPAC funding affects local Iran war support" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://danielbiss.substack.com/p/a-note-on-aipac" target="_blank">Israeli government interests</a>.<ul><li>All four of those candidates have released statements denouncing the bombings.</li></ul>

Thousands attend Rev. Jesse Jackson's visitation

Visitors should expect long lines, no pictures inside and archival videos and speeches during the wait.

History

A defining chapter in Chicago&#x27;s civil rights history began closing Thursday as mourners gathered to honor the<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" Rev. Jesse Jackson" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/17/jesse-jackson-dies-civil-rights-leader" data-vars-content-id="35e80052-37a5-4a45-a33d-0c93dbdaf4bc" data-vars-headline="Thousands attend Rev. Jesse Jackson&#x27;s visitation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/17/jesse-jackson-dies-civil-rights-leader" target="_self"> Rev. Jesse Jackson</a> at Rainbow PUSH headquarters.The big picture: This week&#x27;s visitation marks the passing of one of Chicago&#x27;s most consequential political figures and a civil rights leader <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="who twice sought the Democratic presidential nomination" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/20/jesse-jackson-southern-strategy-democratic-party" data-vars-content-id="35e80052-37a5-4a45-a33d-0c93dbdaf4bc" data-vars-headline="Thousands attend Rev. Jesse Jackson&#x27;s visitation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/20/jesse-jackson-southern-strategy-democratic-party" target="_self">who twice sought the Democratic presidential nomination</a> and built a global movement from the South Side.<figure><img alt="People in suits walking down a street" height="910" id="ded2433d-2d71-400b-9cfd-13bee93101d2" src="https://images.axios.com/yUrqNuRtlTP92YSfMOUrWwKrQ_8=/2026/02/26/1772135757899.jpg" width="1206"/><figcaption>Mayor Brandon Johnson arrives at Jackson&#x27;s visitation. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios </figcaption></figure>What they&#x27;re saying: &quot;Rev. Jackson meant so much to people around the globe and to me personally as a mentor and a friend and a brother. He will be forever missed,&quot; Mayor Brandon Johnson said outside the building Thursday morning.<ul><li>&quot;I am forever grateful for his life and legacy and the transformation he has brought to the world.&quot;</li><li>&quot;[Today] gives us an opportunity to reflect on how we got here,&quot; Johnson said. &quot;As we think about the attacks coming from the federal government, all the things Rev. Jackson fought for are under attack. My hope and prayer is that people recognize what our assignment is in this season: that hope is only alive if we show up in resistance.&quot;</li><li>&quot;This is a time to lay down some of the rhetoric that deeply divides our country and reflect on a man who brought people together, &quot; Jesse Jackson Jr. said Thursday morning outside his father&#x27;s visitation.</li></ul><figure><img alt="men at a microphone" height="899" id="a0c547b2-90d3-4feb-9349-fe45b36e597c" src="https://images.axios.com/_2HzIZJjzbv3KlVizVqt13qviN4=/2026/02/26/1772137132182.jpg" width="1206"/><figcaption>Jesse Jackson Jr. and the Rev. Al Sharpton outside Jackson&#x27;s visitation. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios</figcaption></figure>Along the line: Thursday morning, a VIP entrance welcomed the Rev. Al Sharpton, aldermen and local politicians, while a public line along Drexel Boulevard was filled with older African American attendees and school groups.<ul><li>&quot;We&#x27;re here especially for the students who might not know the kind of life Rev. Jackson led and what he did for the Black community through history,&quot; Anastasia Rigoli, a Spanish teacher at South Shore&#x27;s Ebony Academy, told Axios.</li><li>&quot;Jesse did so much for all of us, for the freedoms that we have today, so I felt it was important to come and honor his life and legacy,&quot; said Sonja Martin, who drove Thursday morning to Kenwood from Highland Park.</li><li>&quot;There should be more young people here today,&quot; Jeremiah Durham told Axios, noting the predominance of older visitors. &quot;But unfortunately, it&#x27;s mostly those who&#x27;ve lived long enough to appreciate and understand the impact of Rev. Jackson in our lives.&quot;</li></ul><figure><img alt="person holding a poster in line " height="4284" id="9bb51660-609a-4f5f-99ae-5432c14bcf31" src="https://images.axios.com/IX-yIiuk9df75DrDkkrZldyE1uY=/2026/02/26/1772137388609.jpg" width="5712" srcset="https://images.axios.com/8idJ1aJBfyliJCa4vO6oQYIrReU=/1920x1440/smart/2026/02/26/1772137388609.jpg?w=1920 1920w, https://images.axios.com/s-BOeTGULUnXrZDQatB2n1YIvfA=/1600x1200/smart/2026/02/26/1772137388609.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https://images.axios.com/z7aLi56piqHKxtPXcw2gNwYBwS0=/1366x1024/smart/2026/02/26/1772137388609.jpg?w=1366 1366w, https://images.axios.com/uyWM2SH_hxFTpjyObJATqW5XjKQ=/1024x768/smart/2026/02/26/1772137388609.jpg?w=1024 1024w, https://images.axios.com/qMmGmxB-qrlCkpiK6RBFz0rM0_A=/768x576/smart/2026/02/26/1772137388609.jpg?w=768 768w, https://images.axios.com/SnfW_7jr4334Sk6EbsFS2JtmvMs=/640x480/smart/2026/02/26/1772137388609.jpg?w=640 640w, https://images.axios.com/d5r6uSnYyMb33uqrbJJG0tNhUGE=/320x240/smart/2026/02/26/1772137388609.jpg?w=320 320w"/><figcaption>Ebony Academy teacher Anastasia Rigoli holds a picture of Rev. Jesse Jackson while in line Thursday. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios</figcaption></figure>What to expect: After standing in line on Drexel, visitors pass through a security tent and then join another line to enter the auditorium, where one aisle leads to the visitation coffin and another leads back out.<ul><li>The program inside alternates between videos of Jackson speeches, musical performances and speakers.</li><li>The family may be standing near the stage to greet visitors or not depending on the time of day. They stopped greeting at one point Thursday morning to move the line more quickly.</li><li>Staffers offer visitors tissues and a commemorative bookmark.</li></ul><figure><img alt="Memorial with colorful flowers, American flags, and signs reading &quot;Jesse Jackson: Voice of Justice&quot; placed on grass outside a building with columns and a line of people." height="3618" id="66197d36-0dd4-4d70-aa2b-d2015796a776" src="https://images.axios.com/KHGE_7mAvAqnJLfF3yykc2SHXwE=/2026/02/26/1772135341254.jpeg" width="5125"/><figcaption>Visitors brought flowers, toys, pictures and more to Rainbow PUSH headquarters this week for the late Rev. Jesse Jackson. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios</figcaption></figure><h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">If you go</h2>Do: Be patient. I was 350th in line, and it took 65 minutes to get to the front once the doors opened.<ul><li>Wear warm clothes and comfortable shoes because you might have to walk blocks to the end of the line.</li><li>Talk to fellow visitors who seem eager to share Jackson stories, contributing to a sense of community and history.</li><li>Consider public transportation. Public street parking is scarce nearby, but you can park about two blocks away on Greenwood or 47th.</li></ul><figure><img alt="People standing in line. " height="4284" id="b92f92f9-d410-4953-b524-190edab71c18" src="https://images.axios.com/t4KPNvlFZiLjgbmFB8DgoCZYzvA=/2026/02/26/1772137510142.jpg" width="5712" srcset="https://images.axios.com/7v5VYSr5an7L1h1vWF2nSdGEy0c=/1920x1440/smart/2026/02/26/1772137510142.jpg?w=1920 1920w, https://images.axios.com/tcEEJvpxcOEoMHVx3-hjnBCuRx8=/1600x1200/smart/2026/02/26/1772137510142.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https://images.axios.com/4-Vz1eZ8ayz_y6cNXJLv7PWcHmk=/1366x1024/smart/2026/02/26/1772137510142.jpg?w=1366 1366w, https://images.axios.com/nIr7vyWuaNWyCqSJabomeEpTRsg=/1024x768/smart/2026/02/26/1772137510142.jpg?w=1024 1024w, https://images.axios.com/sPo_mfcX9oYqxUfJidKEP5C2YUg=/768x576/smart/2026/02/26/1772137510142.jpg?w=768 768w, https://images.axios.com/MJY0fQbEm8lVdjM7jQby7NtVvBU=/640x480/smart/2026/02/26/1772137510142.jpg?w=640 640w, https://images.axios.com/IwIT6yQL7TPaD6zJVLGC0e6CWYA=/320x240/smart/2026/02/26/1772137510142.jpg?w=320 320w"/><figcaption>Folks stand in line outside the visitation. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios</figcaption></figure>Don&#x27;t: Try to bring posters, signs, banners, food or drink. They will be confiscated at the screening tent.<ul><li>Buy your commemorative poster before you enter the building because you&#x27;ll have to leave it on the lawn while you&#x27;re inside.</li><li>Expect to take pictures inside the building because they are forbidden. Press is excluded from this prohibition.</li></ul>What&#x27;s next: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jackson services" data-vars-click-url="https://www.rainbowpush.org/reverend_jesse_louis_jackson_sr_celebration_of_life_services" data-vars-content-id="35e80052-37a5-4a45-a33d-0c93dbdaf4bc" data-vars-headline="Thousands attend Rev. Jesse Jackson&#x27;s visitation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.rainbowpush.org/reverend_jesse_louis_jackson_sr_celebration_of_life_services" target="_blank">Jackson services</a> will continue through March 7, with visitation from 10 am to 10 pm Thursday and Friday at Rainbow PUSH, 930 E. 50th St., where all are welcome.<ul><li>Services in South Carolina and Washington, D.C., March 1-4.</li><li>A People&#x27;s Celebration at the House of Hope in Chicago on March 6</li><li>A private Homegoing at Rainbow PUSH on March 7 will be live-streamed for the public.</li></ul>

Buddy Guy restarts talks on blues monument

One alder hopes a plan can get underway by this summer.

Culture

After absorbing a wave of lavish City Council tributes last week, blues legend Buddy Guy stood up to give a short, quiet speech that shouted volumes.What he&#x27;s saying: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nine-time Grammy winner" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/02/ice-out-2026-grammys-protest-pins-bad-bunny-photos" data-vars-content-id="9d92f5e2-da44-45bf-b584-b14b99eceeac" data-vars-headline="Buddy Guy restarts talks on blues monument" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/02/ice-out-2026-grammys-protest-pins-bad-bunny-photos" target="_self">nine-time Grammy winner</a> said, &quot;I get a little jealous when I go to Nashville, Texas and New Orleans,&quot; where leaders have created monuments to their musical roots.

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