Ward Room | Chicago's Political News and Analysis Blog

Covering Chicago's nine political influencers

Gay Marriage

Pension Reform

The Birth of the HDO

Pension reform

Tuesday, Sep 18, 2012 at 11:59 AM

Mark Kirk Calls For Pension Reform Mark Kirk Calls For Pension Reform

Senator demands legislators find bipartisan solution to state's fiscal crisis. Read »

Senator Mark Kirk

Wednesday, Jun 27, 2012 at 4:10 PM

Report: Sen. Kirk Co-Sponsored Bills for Girlfriend's Clients

U.S. Senator Mark Kirk used his status as a lawmaker to pass legislation that benefited a woman to whom he has been romantically linked, according to reports. Read »

Senator Mark Kirk

Thursday, May 31, 2012 at 3:16 PM

Senator Kirk Gets A Wellness Check From President Obama

Senator Mark Kirk tweeted his appreciation for a call he received from President Obama. Read »

About Ward Room

NBC Chicago's award winning politics blog takes a critical look at Illinois' top influence-peddlers, using a mix of news and commentary designed to keep this state's notoriously corruptible politicians honest and accountable.

Who We're Covering

Barack Obama

He's in the fight for his political life. Should he lose the 2012 election for the presidency, he'll likely move back to Chicago's Kenwood Neighborhood and instantly become Chicago's biggest celebrity.

Rahm Emanuel

Foul mouthed, iron-fisted and arrogant. Say hello to Mayor Emanuel.

Jesse Jackson Jr.

After spending much of the past year and a half out of the public eye Triple J is making a comeback!

Rod Blagojevich

Rascally alchemist transmutes disgrace into fame. Celeb Apprentice buffoon, jail time looms.

Joe Walsh

Tea Party conservative who likes to say no, will have to talk more about his personal life if he wants a second term.

Pat Quinn

Accidental gov no longer.

See more Who We're Covering

Videos

Authors

Phil Rogers Emmy Award-winning reporter with trenchant insight into Chicago's political machinations.

Mary Ann Ahern WMAQ's Political Reporter since 2006, not afraid of a challenge. Read full bio .

Edward McClelland Author whose work has appeared in the New York Times, Salon and Slate. Reach him on Twitter using @tedmcclelland.