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NBC Chicago's new studio marks end of daytime TV era

The nearly 70,000-square-foot space on the first floor of the NBC Tower is where Springer used to do his syndicated show.

Business

NBC 5&#x27;s new studio at NBC Tower marks the end of Chicago&#x27;s daytime TV production era, but bets big on the future of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="local news" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/09/media-future-streaming-fox-nbc-wgn-reader-wbez-2026" data-vars-content-id="6016cc2a-e01c-455e-a923-d90534b3b4d0" data-vars-headline="NBC Chicago&#x27;s new studio marks end of daytime TV era" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/09/media-future-streaming-fox-nbc-wgn-reader-wbez-2026" target="_self">local news</a>.Why it matters: The investment boosts local news — but underscores how far Chicago has drifted from its once-dominant role in daytime TV.

Berlin nightclub to reopen as Belmont and Decibel

The sister venues will be called The Belmont and Decibel and open on April 25.

Things to Do

After closing its doors in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="late 2023" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/11/21/berlin-nightclub-closed-drag" data-vars-content-id="a615ada9-ef22-42f3-9027-464119deb73e" data-vars-headline="Berlin nightclub to reopen as Belmont and Decibel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/11/21/berlin-nightclub-closed-drag" target="_self">late 2023</a>, Lakeview&#x27;s Berlin nightclub space will reopen this month as The Belmont, a craft cocktail bar, and Decibel, a dance bar.Why it matters: For 40 years, Berlin hosted a unique mix of LGBTQ and straight clubbers for late-night dance parties in an inclusive environment.<ul><li>Managers tell Axios they want to recreate that special scene.</li></ul>What they&#x27;re saying: &quot;The goal is for everyone to feel comfortable here, as long as they&#x27;re comfortable with everyone else,&quot; says Marcus Devin, one of the new club&#x27;s managers, who previously worked at Berlin.<figure><img alt="Two men stand together in a dim venue with purple lighting. Left: glasses, blond hair, black T‑shirt with a circular cat logo. Right: mustache, blue mountain graphic T‑shirt; both wear jeans." height="2539" id="a3f98868-5c9e-427f-948e-bd483868cfa0" src="https://images.axios.com/JGyy2nBr29RJGlOFXwv5gSxvVNk=/2026/04/08/1775688782247.jpeg" width="3941"/><figcaption>Programming manager Austin Neff and manager Marcus Devin in front of the new DJ booth at Decibel, formerly Berlin. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios </figcaption></figure>Driving the news: The Belmont/Decibel (954 W. Belmont Ave.) will open to the public on April 25, pending final city approval.How it works: The club will operate as The Belmont cocktail bar in the early evenings, but pull back a curtain and morph into Decibel after 10pm on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.Backstory: Berlin owners Jim Schuman and Jo Webster closed the legendary club in 2023 amid union demands that they said they lacked the funds to accommodate. <ul><li>The new owner is HV Entertainment, which owns local LGBTQ clubs including Fantasy, Bobby Loves, The Closet and the Chicago Eagle.</li></ul>What&#x27;s new: Fresh lighting, a new sound system, clean remodeled bathrooms and two twinkling bars.What&#x27;s old: The &quot;retro vibe&quot; that manager and former Berlin staffer Austin Neff says he hopes to recreate with &quot;techno, house, &#x27;80s, &#x27;90s and early 2000s music&quot; spun by Berlin DJ Greg Haus.<ul><li>Berlin&#x27;s elevated dance stages that could host drag performers again in the fall.</li></ul>The drinks: Expect fancy craft cocktails at The Belmont until 10pm, but simpler drinks at Decibel.If you go: The Belmont will be open Tuesday-Saturday and charge a $5-10 cover for Decibel after 10pm.

The Hand & The Eye opens in Chicago

The Hand & The Eye joins a wave of recent openings on or near Michigan Avenue that draw crowds.

News

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Hand &amp; The Eye" data-vars-click-url="https://www.handandeye.com/" data-vars-content-id="9f04c5aa-9004-4c61-a42c-419b9c8d9ec7" data-vars-headline="The Hand &amp; The Eye opens in Chicago" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.handandeye.com/" target="_blank">The Hand &amp; The Eye</a> — touted as the largest magic venue in the world — opens in Chicago on April 18. Why it matters: Tickets are on sale for the 36,000-square-foot venue that transformed the old McCormick Mansion at 100 E. Ontario St.

Lawmakers weigh human composting in Illinois

The process turns human remains into soil and is legal in 14 states.

Climate

Illinois could soon legalize human composting — a greener death option that&#x27;s currently illegal in state.

Fired staffers claim retaliation by mayor's team

Three fired city leaders say they faced retaliation after complaints and disagreements.

Politics

Three recently fired city leaders are painting a picture of a hostile or retaliatory environment in the office of Mayor Brandon Johnson and his top appointees.Why it matters: Their accusations, taken together, suggest a pattern that Johnson&#x27;s office has yet to fully address.

New CTA crime data paints troubling picture

New data shows falling attacks on CTA workers but riders still facing crime.

Public Safety

Recent Chicago Transit Authority crime data shows a troubling rise in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="violence for riders" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/12/15/chicago-cta-safety-plan-blue-line-assault" data-vars-content-id="145cfaac-bfeb-4851-b21f-1795bc2f0e93" data-vars-headline="New CTA crime data paints troubling picture" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/12/15/chicago-cta-safety-plan-blue-line-assault" target="_self">violence for riders</a>.Why it matters: The data comes as the CTA tries to win back passengers and protect federal funding <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="under threat" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/03/17/chicago-cta-safety-federal-inspection-idot-pritzker-oversight-failure" data-vars-content-id="145cfaac-bfeb-4851-b21f-1795bc2f0e93" data-vars-headline="New CTA crime data paints troubling picture" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/03/17/chicago-cta-safety-federal-inspection-idot-pritzker-oversight-failure" target="_self">under threat</a> over safety concerns.

What to do in dangerous CTA platform situations

Contact CTA help, never intentionally jump in and avoid the third rail.

As a frequent CTA rider, I&#x27;ll admit it: Recent reports about violence on the system have freaked me out.<ul><li>They also got me wondering what to do in rare but worrying scenarios.</li></ul>State of play: Last year, I shared <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="advice for handling problems on trains" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/01/07/how-to-report-issues-get-help-cta" data-vars-content-id="996b60c0-d9ef-4001-99d2-d4eb6ef4397e" data-vars-headline="What to do in dangerous CTA platform situations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/01/07/how-to-report-issues-get-help-cta" target="_self">advice for handling problems on trains</a>. But what about on the platform? Like, what do you do if you drop your phone on the tracks?<ul><li>And what if you&#x27;re shoved?</li></ul><figure><img alt="Four-panel CTA poster in teal: subway platform scene with a man, a blue-haired figure saying, &quot;I can get down there. It&#x27;ll just take a second...&quot;; a moving train and a man near a grave; bottom caption urges to alert CTA staff." height="866" id="85cce7d0-e4ad-494f-81d2-9b4cce6b07e7" src="https://images.axios.com/X3ZV1B1gsHlqnegM5Tj-G76xQks=/2026/03/24/1774378462937.png" width="1724"/><figcaption>Courtesy of the CTA</figcaption></figure>Phone scenario: CTA officials shared this 2023 comic showing what not to do if you drop valuables on the tracks.The right answer: Contact a CTA employee to help you safely retrieve it.Case in point: Carrie once dropped her phone on the tracks, watched the train whoosh by and discovered her phone was still OK. <ul><li>She sought out CTA help and a staffer grabbed it for her. </li></ul><figure><img alt="A subway platform with a blue edge and exposed tracks; a blue-red train sits on the opposite track. An orange &#x27;Third Rails&#x27; label spans the rails as a few people stand on the far platform near a digital display." height="1576" id="5261941a-8b1d-42fc-ac20-52e4fe458f97" src="https://images.axios.com/40-nvcipOCUoMVQb-KnGmOpzX6I=/2026/03/24/1774378498779.jpeg" width="2100"/><figcaption>The third rails — highlighted in red — are located farthest from the platform at the Belmont El stop. Photo illustration: Monica Eng/Axios</figcaption></figure>Shoved into the tracks: If a train isn&#x27;t immediately approaching, your main goal is to avoid the third rail — typically the farthest rail from the platform. <ul><li>It carries 600 volts and can be deadly. </li></ul>Tip two: Ask someone to alert a CTA employee, who can signal coming trains, cut power and call for help.Tip three: If you&#x27;re able, assess your injuries and try to climb out with help from others nearby.<ul><li>Emergency ladders are typically located at the ends of platforms.</li></ul>Between the lines: CTA officials weren&#x27;t thrilled with the shoving question and stressed that these incidents are extremely rare.<ul><li>The roughly <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="60 riders who&#x27;ve been shoved" data-vars-click-url="https://chicago.suntimes.com/the-watchdogs/2026/03/16/chicago-transit-authority-shoving-incidents-train-platforms-trump-administration-targeting-crime" data-vars-content-id="996b60c0-d9ef-4001-99d2-d4eb6ef4397e" data-vars-headline="What to do in dangerous CTA platform situations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/the-watchdogs/2026/03/16/chicago-transit-authority-shoving-incidents-train-platforms-trump-administration-targeting-crime" target="_blank">60 riders who&#x27;ve been shoved</a> onto the tracks over the past five years represent a tiny fraction of those who rode the system during that period. And none of those incidents proved fatal. </li><li>Officials remind that it&#x27;s illegal and very dangerous to intentionally enter this restricted area.</li></ul>

Man gets $30,000 from Dolton after car seizure

A Cincinnati law professor alleged that his car was taken by a Dolton cop as part of a pattern.

Neighborhoods

Last month, law professor Ken Katkin bought a round of drinks at a Cincinnati bar with part of a $30,000 settlement he reached with the village of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dolton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/05/08/pope-leo-xiv-american-elected" data-vars-content-id="ec008be5-68e7-48db-abc7-e91f4de230e3" data-vars-headline="Man gets $30,000 from Dolton after car seizure" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/05/08/pope-leo-xiv-american-elected" target="_self">Dolton</a> following a three-year legal battle.Why it matters: Dolton officials paid the money to settle a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="federal lawsuit " data-vars-click-url="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/27369732-katkin-filed-civil-complaint-in-dolton-case-1/" data-vars-content-id="ec008be5-68e7-48db-abc7-e91f4de230e3" data-vars-headline="Man gets $30,000 from Dolton after car seizure" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/27369732-katkin-filed-civil-complaint-in-dolton-case-1/" target="_blank">federal lawsuit </a>filed by Katkin, alleging that Dolton police Detective Major Coleman unlawfully seized his car in 2023, delayed its return for weeks and demanded an illegal payment.

Council punts on ICE-CPD accountability vote

The ordinance could get another vote next month.

Some progressive alders were shocked Wednesday when a measure to let the Civilian Office of Police Accountability investigate claims of illegal cooperation between police and immigration agents got blocked by an alder who had voted for it in committee.Why it matters: The ordinance&#x27;s most vocal supporters — Alds. Jessie Fuentes, Andre Vasquez and Anthony Quezada — say it would help provide a layer of accountability around future ICE surges in Chicago that could come as early as next month.

Downtown Chicago rarely sees curfew enforcement

CPD data shows far fewer curfew apprehensions downtown than in many neighborhoods.

Over the last year, the Chicago City Council has spent hours debating the need for tighter <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="curfew laws" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/07/curfew-law-advances-but-social-media-crackdown-stalls" data-vars-content-id="034b3298-0d8c-4d53-a9c3-e3814d0cc0e9" data-vars-headline="Downtown Chicago rarely sees curfew enforcement" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/07/curfew-law-advances-but-social-media-crackdown-stalls" target="_self">curfew laws</a> to address teen &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="takeovers,&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://abc7chicago.com/post/chicago-shooting-teen-charged-downtown-wounded-7-tree-lighting-ceremony-police-say/18547694/" data-vars-content-id="034b3298-0d8c-4d53-a9c3-e3814d0cc0e9" data-vars-headline="Downtown Chicago rarely sees curfew enforcement" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://abc7chicago.com/post/chicago-shooting-teen-charged-downtown-wounded-7-tree-lighting-ceremony-police-say/18547694/" target="_blank">takeovers,&quot;</a> largely in the Loop and downtown.Why it matters: Opponents have warned that earlier curfews would just boost, what they assumed were, already frequent apprehensions by downtown police.<ul><li>But downtown curfew apprehensions remain rare. </li></ul>

Why DHS agents face less accountability than cops

Federal agent shootings are investigated internally, making discipline and charges far less likely.

Immigration

Investigations into the killings of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Renee Nicole Good" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/07/ice-shooting-victim-identified-renee-nicole-good-minneapolis" data-vars-content-id="2701df8b-3723-4474-ab50-7f23f2228d2e" data-vars-headline="Why DHS agents face less accountability than cops" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/07/ice-shooting-victim-identified-renee-nicole-good-minneapolis" target="_self">Renee Nicole Good</a> or <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Alex Pretti " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/25/minnesota-rare-legal-steps-investigation-alex-pretti-shooting" data-vars-content-id="2701df8b-3723-4474-ab50-7f23f2228d2e" data-vars-headline="Why DHS agents face less accountability than cops" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/25/minnesota-rare-legal-steps-investigation-alex-pretti-shooting" target="_self">Alex Pretti </a>would likely proceed differently if a local police officer, instead of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="DHS agents" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/29/axios-explains-inside-ice-superpowers" data-vars-content-id="2701df8b-3723-4474-ab50-7f23f2228d2e" data-vars-headline="Why DHS agents face less accountability than cops" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/29/axios-explains-inside-ice-superpowers" target="_self">DHS agents</a>, had pulled the trigger.Why it matters: A local police shooting usually initiates a multi-agency investigation and the threat of prosecution. DHS agent shootings, however, are handled almost entirely inside the federal government — where accountability is far harder to reach.

Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics

The Illinois congressman says DHS agents must follow constitutional standards or lose funding.

Mayoral candidate and Illinois U.S Rep. Mike Quigley will reject new ICE and CBP funding unless agents change their practices on tear gas, masks, warrantless entry, body cameras and more.Why it matters: Federal immigration agents are facing growing accusations of unconstitutional conduct — from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shootings " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/14/illinois-transparent-probe-ice-shooting-franklin-park" data-vars-content-id="0b5e2a7e-7eaf-405a-a4f5-91e4089a817a" data-vars-headline="Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/14/illinois-transparent-probe-ice-shooting-franklin-park" target="_self">shootings </a>and warrantless arrests to the use of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="chemical irritants on journalists " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/12/illinois-chicago-sue-dhs-ice-cbp-tactics" data-vars-content-id="0b5e2a7e-7eaf-405a-a4f5-91e4089a817a" data-vars-headline="Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/12/illinois-chicago-sue-dhs-ice-cbp-tactics" target="_self">chemical irritants on journalists </a>and protesters — without a single known federal investigation into those actions.Zoom in: Quigley plans to introduce an amendment to the FY26 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would restrict using the funds on immigration enforcement unless DHS:<ul><li>Ends raids at &quot;sensitive locations&quot; like schools, hospitals, and courthouses</li><li>Bans agents from wearing face coverings and using chemical irritants like pepper spray on bystanders</li><li>Requires ICE and CBP to wear body cameras</li><li>Prohibits warrantless arrests</li><li>Stops Border Patrol operations in non-border states without state permission.</li></ul>Between the lines: Quigley&#x27;s attempt to withhold federal funding could succeed where local efforts to rein in DHS agents <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="have struggled " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/10/16/dhs-agents-court-ban-tear-gas" data-vars-content-id="0b5e2a7e-7eaf-405a-a4f5-91e4089a817a" data-vars-headline="Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/10/16/dhs-agents-court-ban-tear-gas" target="_self">have struggled </a>due to a supremacy clause that grants broad immunity to federal agents in the line of duty.<ul><li>Recently, though, officials including former <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mayor Lori Lightfoot " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/12/lightfoot-ice-accountability-investigations" data-vars-content-id="0b5e2a7e-7eaf-405a-a4f5-91e4089a817a" data-vars-headline="Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/12/lightfoot-ice-accountability-investigations" target="_self">Mayor Lori Lightfoot </a>and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Philadelphia&#x27;s district attorney" data-vars-click-url="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/philadelphias-threat-prosecute-ice-could-trigger-landmark-court-fight-over-authority-experts-warn" data-vars-content-id="0b5e2a7e-7eaf-405a-a4f5-91e4089a817a" data-vars-headline="Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/philadelphias-threat-prosecute-ice-could-trigger-landmark-court-fight-over-authority-experts-warn" target="_blank">Philadelphia&#x27;s district attorney</a> have challenged the scope of that immunity and insisted that DHS agents can face local investigations, in turn prompting <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pushback." data-vars-click-url="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/philadelphias-threat-prosecute-ice-could-trigger-landmark-court-fight-over-authority-experts-warn" data-vars-content-id="0b5e2a7e-7eaf-405a-a4f5-91e4089a817a" data-vars-headline="Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/philadelphias-threat-prosecute-ice-could-trigger-landmark-court-fight-over-authority-experts-warn" target="_blank">pushback.</a></li></ul>What they&#x27;re saying: Quigley says constituents are urging him &quot;to do something,&quot; but he thinks recent calls by Illinois officials to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="defund ICE" data-vars-click-url="https://chicago.suntimes.com/immigration/2026/01/17/abolish-ice-movement-illinois-democrats-delia-ramirez-juliana-stratton-patty-garcia" data-vars-content-id="0b5e2a7e-7eaf-405a-a4f5-91e4089a817a" data-vars-headline="Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/immigration/2026/01/17/abolish-ice-movement-illinois-democrats-delia-ramirez-juliana-stratton-patty-garcia" target="_blank">defund ICE</a> —including one Rep. Delia Ramirez is expected to announce Wednesday — have &quot;zero chance with the majority of the public.&quot;<ul><li>&quot;What we&#x27;re offering here is a reasonable alternative, something that might actually work ... We need Homeland Security at the border and airports, but we just don&#x27;t need ICE violating the Constitution and the laws of the land,&quot; he tells Axios.</li></ul>Reality check: In a GOP-dominated Congress, Quigley&#x27;s amendment would need some Republican support.<ul><li>While aisle-crossing is rare, he notes it has grown on issues including the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Epstein files " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/18/house-votes-to-release-jeffrey-epstein-files" data-vars-content-id="0b5e2a7e-7eaf-405a-a4f5-91e4089a817a" data-vars-headline="Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/18/house-votes-to-release-jeffrey-epstein-files" target="_self">Epstein files </a>and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ACA subsidy extensions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/08/house-health-care-bill-republicans-aca-subsidies-vote" data-vars-content-id="0b5e2a7e-7eaf-405a-a4f5-91e4089a817a" data-vars-headline="Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/08/house-health-care-bill-republicans-aca-subsidies-vote" target="_self">ACA subsidy extensions</a>, &quot;which shows the tide is turning.&quot;</li><li>Plus, recent polls show plummeting support for the administration&#x27;s immigration tactics, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="prompting questions inside the White House" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/16/trump-polling-immigration-approval-rating-ice-noem" data-vars-content-id="0b5e2a7e-7eaf-405a-a4f5-91e4089a817a" data-vars-headline="Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/16/trump-polling-immigration-approval-rating-ice-noem" target="_self">prompting questions inside the White House</a> on how to proceed, Axios reports.</li></ul>Zoom out: Quigley&#x27;s move happens at a time when communities across the nation, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="including Minneapolis after Renee Good&#x27;s killing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/14/ice-trump-minneapolis-investigation-justice-department" data-vars-content-id="0b5e2a7e-7eaf-405a-a4f5-91e4089a817a" data-vars-headline="Quigley threatens DHS funding over agent tactics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/14/ice-trump-minneapolis-investigation-justice-department" target="_self">including Minneapolis after Renee Good&#x27;s killing</a>, are scrambling for paths to accountability.Timeline: The North Side congressman plans to debut the amendment this week once the appropriations bill is introduced. The bottom line: Quigley admits the amendment faces challenges.<ul><li>But &quot;I think we&#x27;ve got a shot at the very least,&quot; he said. &quot;It&#x27;s also messaging the public that there is a middle ground here.&quot;</li></ul>Meanwhile: On Tuesday, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul marked &quot;365 days of chaos&quot; under an administration that has targeted the state, prompting &quot;51 lawsuits and more than 100 amicus briefs that have successfully addressed a range of issues that impact Illinois residents.&quot;<ul><li>As the new year goes on, an emotional Raoul said, &quot;We are not demoralized, and we&#x27;re certainly not exhausted. We are standing our ground to defend the rights of the people of Illinois and the rule of law, and we&#x27;re winning in the courts.&quot;</li></ul>

Snow shoveling scofflaws face icy city fines

Chicago law requires sidewalks to be cleared by 10pm or 10am depending on when snow falls.

If you didn&#x27;t get your snowy sidewalk shoveled by 10pm Wednesday, you could be liable for a fine of $50-$500 per day.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Snowy, icy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/12/04/bike-lanes-unplowed-snowfall-chicago" data-vars-content-id="2badbab8-0c73-4d19-9fb3-f81448a9d279" data-vars-headline="Snow shoveling scofflaws face icy city fines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/12/04/bike-lanes-unplowed-snowfall-chicago" target="_self">Snowy, icy</a> sidewalks endanger everyone, but especially the elderly and people with disabilities. Plus, no one likes fines.<ul><li>Still, many remain foggy on city rules.</li></ul>

Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations

The new ICE Accountability Project aims to collect evidence for possible legal action.

Former <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mayor Lori Lightfoot" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/05/09/lori-lightfoot-donald-trump-harvard-worst-mayor" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/05/09/lori-lightfoot-donald-trump-harvard-worst-mayor" target="_self">Mayor Lori Lightfoot</a> says local officials have the right to investigate possible unlawful acts by federal agents, despite the supremacy clause protections afforded to federal agents while conducting official duties.Why it matters: No federal immigration officers have faced charges in Chicago despite numerous high-profile complaints of unlawful <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shootings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/14/illinois-transparent-probe-ice-shooting-franklin-park" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/14/illinois-transparent-probe-ice-shooting-franklin-park" target="_self">shootings</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tear-gassing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/19/daniel-biss-protesters-tear-gas-ice-broadview-agents" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/09/19/daniel-biss-protesters-tear-gas-ice-broadview-agents" target="_self">tear-gassing</a>, detentions and forced entry into homes.<ul><li>Officials are wrangling over the issue <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="in Minneapolis," data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/08/law-enforcement-federal-local-investigation-minnesota-fbi" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/08/law-enforcement-federal-local-investigation-minnesota-fbi" target="_self">in Minneapolis,</a> where state authorities are fighting to participate in the investigation of the fatal shooting of Renee Good by a federal agent.</li></ul>What they&#x27;re saying: &quot;Federal immigration officers do not have blanket immunity,&quot; Lightfoot told Axios. <ul><li>&quot;While federal authorities may take control of an investigation, that does not prevent state or local officials from conducting their own investigations, gathering evidence, or holding accountable those agents who have allegedly engaged in criminal conduct or used excessive force.&quot;</li></ul>Driving the news: Lightfoot says her new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ICE Accountability Project" data-vars-click-url="https://reporticenow.com/" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://reporticenow.com/" target="_blank">ICE Accountability Project</a>, launched last week, &quot;exists to make sure those facts are documented and visible so accountability can occur at every level of government.&quot;Context: The project <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="joins other state" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/10/23/illinois-accountability-commission-federal-force-ice" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/10/23/illinois-accountability-commission-federal-force-ice" target="_self">joins other state</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="city efforts" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/11/14/report-immigration-abuse-illinois" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/11/14/report-immigration-abuse-illinois" target="_self">city efforts</a> to gather data, this time through an independent non-government body using non-U.S. computer servers to protect it from federal interference.What&#x27;s next: The site has already published several accounts with photos and video vetted by Lightfoot&#x27;s team of lawyers and former federal agents for journalists, nonprofits and citizens to use.<ul><li>But she says her ultimate goal is to hand over these packages of evidence to &quot;somebody with a grand jury subpoena.&quot;</li></ul><h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Media lawsuit continues</h2>Last week, Judge Sara Ellis <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="declined to dismiss a lawsuit" data-vars-click-url="https://chicago.suntimes.com/immigration/2026/01/08/judge-cites-minneapolis-ice-shooting-as-she-pauses-dismissal-of-chicago-area-use-of-force-lawsuit" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/immigration/2026/01/08/judge-cites-minneapolis-ice-shooting-as-she-pauses-dismissal-of-chicago-area-use-of-force-lawsuit" target="_blank">declined to dismiss a lawsuit</a> filed by media outlets that accuse DHS of using excessive force against journalists and the public.<ul><li>Lawyers for the media companies say the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="departure of most immigration agents" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/11/12/tips-and-hot-links-bovino-could-be-leaving" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/11/12/tips-and-hot-links-bovino-could-be-leaving" target="_self">departure of most immigration agents</a> from the city makes the suit unnecessary.</li></ul>Yes, but dropping the case would <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nullify the temporary use-of-force" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/11/06/judge-ellis-dhs-use-of-force-order" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/11/06/judge-ellis-dhs-use-of-force-order" target="_self">nullify the temporary use-of-force</a> rules Ellis issued as part of the case, and she says Good&#x27;s death suggests they are still needed.<ul><li>DHS officials say they haven&#x27;t left Chicago and will ramp up operations later this year.</li></ul>What&#x27;s next: Ellis says she will study the matter further and has asked lawyers to return to her courtroom on Jan. 22.The latest: On Monday, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="State of Illinois and Chicago sued" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/12/illinois-chicago-sue-dhs-ice-cbp-tactics" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/01/12/illinois-chicago-sue-dhs-ice-cbp-tactics" target="_self">State of Illinois and Chicago sued</a> the Trump administration, accusing it of an &quot;organized bombardment&quot; in the state disguised as immigration enforcement. <ul><li>The suit charges immigration agents with multiple unlawful activities including altering and swapping license plates on their vehicles.</li><li>State lawyers have requested that the case be assigned to Ellis because of her familiarity with the issues. </li></ul><h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">CPD and ICE</h2><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="A Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/07/14/chicago-police-superintendent-finalists" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/07/14/chicago-police-superintendent-finalists" target="_self">A Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability</a> (CCPSA) meeting at Thalia Hall grew tense Thursday as attendees demanded clarity on who is monitoring compliance with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Chicago&#x27;s Welcoming City ordinance" data-vars-click-url="https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/texas-new-arrivals/home.html" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/texas-new-arrivals/home.html" target="_blank">Chicago&#x27;s Welcoming City ordinance</a>, which prohibits police from assisting federal agents with immigration enforcement.<ul><li>Immigration committee chair Ald. Andre Vasquez noted that it&#x27;s been more than 200 days since ICE&#x27;s surprise arrest of people who&#x27;d shown up for routine immigration check-ins, assisted, some charge, by CPD.</li></ul>What they&#x27;re saying: Vasquez says his committee has viewed 12 hours of bodycam footage from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the June incident in the South Loop" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/06/05/protests-immigration-ice-agents-detainments-south-loop-police" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/06/05/protests-immigration-ice-agents-detainments-south-loop-police" target="_self">the June incident in the South Loop</a>, where officers appear to be advising &quot;agents on how to more easily transport detainees, offering to block traffic with CPD vehicles … and more. If this is not assisting ICE, it&#x27;s hard to imagine what would count as assistance.&quot;The other side: CPD said in a statement that supervisors respond to federal agent requests, and &quot;if the request is to assist in the enforcement of civil immigration law, the supervisor will decline the request.<ul><li>If the request is unrelated to civil immigration law, appropriate police action will be taken.&quot;</li></ul>What&#x27;s next: CCPSA members are requesting a hearing on the matter with CPD superintendent Larry Snelling and district commanders, and they hope to address the issue in their February meeting.Meanwhile, the Illinois Attorney General&#x27;s office <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="just released a report " data-vars-click-url="https://news.wttw.com/2026/01/08/four-illinois-sheriff-s-offices-ignored-sanctuary-laws-transferring-people-federal" data-vars-content-id="78142583-528d-4d1b-985e-7c07bba84bf8" data-vars-headline="Lightfoot says feds not immune from local investigations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://news.wttw.com/2026/01/08/four-illinois-sheriff-s-offices-ignored-sanctuary-laws-transferring-people-federal" target="_blank">just released a report </a>saying that at least four Illinois sheriff&#x27;s offices have violated the Illinois Trust Act by turning over detainees to federal immigration agents without a federal judicial warrant.