ENTERTAINMENT

Chicago's Week in a Nutshell: From Music to Politics and Everything In Between

Chicago, USASat Aug 02 2025

Music and Politics Collide

Lollapalooza brought the city to life this week, with Olivia Rodrigo and Tyler, the Creator headlining the event. But the city wasn't just about music; politics was heating up too.

  • Governor Pritzker signed important bills, including one to boost pensions for certain Chicago police officers and firefighters.
  • Mayor Brandon Johnson considered new taxes to balance the city's budget.

Political Shifts

  • U.S. Rep. Danny Davis decided not to run for another term, endorsing state Rep. La Shawn Ford to take his place.
  • In the Senate race, Rep. Robin Kelly received a major endorsement from a prominent gun control group.

Education and Global News

  • Northwestern University cut about 425 jobs, and Moody Bible Institute laid off 9% of its staff.
  • Former President Joe Biden visited Chicago to discuss the importance of upholding the Constitution.

  • Wildfires in Canada sent smoke drifting over the Midwest, affecting air quality.
  • The UK and Canada announced they will recognize a Palestinian state come September.
  • Some countries missed the deadline to finalize trade deals with the U.S., leading to new rates soon.

Sports Highs and Lows

  • The Chicago Cubs lost a legend, Ryne Sandberg, who passed away after a battle with cancer.
  • The Cubs made some trades and found out that the 2027 MLB All-Star Game will be at Wrigley Field.

Fun Challenge

  • Check out the Tribune's latest Quotes of the Week challenge to test your knowledge of the week's events.

questions

    What would happen if the Chicago Cubs and the Milwaukee Brewers played a game where the players were replaced by their historical legends, including Ryne Sandberg?
    Is there any evidence to suggest that the layoffs at Northwestern University and Moody Bible Institute are part of a coordinated effort to consolidate power in the education sector?
    How might the recognition of a Palestinian state by the UK, Canada, and France impact international relations and trade agreements?

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