Politics

Chicago

Illinois Legislators Want to Expand Prison Alternatives for Gun Possession

In response to punitive sentencing laws, the state created a pilot program that offers young people rehabilitation instead of jail. Now, an effort is underway to make it permanent.

Philadelphia

Following a Race Centered on Gun Violence, Cherelle Parker Wins Philadelphia Democratic Mayoral Primary

Parker, who is likely to become the city’s first woman chief executive in November, pledged to crack down on crime and declare a state of emergency.

Bulletin

Philly’s Mayoral Race Is Still Deadlocked. What Does That Mean for the City’s Gun Violence Crisis?

The Democratic primary — the election that effectively decides the next mayor — is Tuesday.

Chicago

Chicago’s Violence Prevention Committee Hasn’t Met in Nearly Two Years

Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s administration promised community involvement, but the committee meant to hold it accountable stopped convening.

Gun Policy

As More Politicians Lose Friends and Family to Gun Violence, Will It Change How They Govern?

The governor of Tennessee lost a friend to a shooting, joining the majority of Americans who have been affected by gun violence. He responded by signing an executive order.

Chicago

With Johnson Win, Chicago Chooses Social Investment Over Expanding Police Force

Public safety was the most important issue in this year’s mayoral race between Brandon Johnson and his tough-on-crime opponent, Paul Vallas.

Concealed Carry

A Majority of U.S. States Now Have Permitless Carry

Florida just became the 26th state to allow adults to carry concealed handguns without a permit or license.

Bulletin

In the Chicago Mayoral Election, Public Safety Is Center Stage

The race between Brandon Johnson and Paul Vallas reflects a larger, national argument about how to keep communities safe.

Chicago

‘No quiero ser una estadística para usted’: Las comunidades latinas de Chicago están enfocadas en la violencia armada

Los votantes latinos están divididos en cuanto a quién será su próximo alcalde. Pero coinciden en que necesitará tener un plan para reducir la violencia.

Chicago

‘I Don’t Want to Be a Statistic to You’: Chicago’s Latino Communities Are Focused on Gun Violence

Latino voters are split on who will be their next mayor. But they agree that he’ll need to have a clear plan for reducing violence.

Gun Policy

Biden’s Executive Order on Guns, Explained

The president's new directive largely aims to enforce the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and encourage more background checks.

Chicago

The Illinois Cannabis License Lottery Is Now Prioritizing Gun Violence Survivors

While many states are striving to issue licenses to individuals afflicted by the war on drugs, Illinois is the first to give preference to those directly affected by shootings.

Chicago

Illinois Has Passed a Slew of Gun Regulations. Are They Enough to Stem the Tide of Shootings?

Last month's sweeping law is garnering pushback for its assault weapons ban. But reform advocates have their own concerns about the state's long-term approach.

Chicago

Chicagoans Are Worried About Gun Violence. How Are Mayoral Candidates Responding?

Organizers want a community-driven approach to reducing shootings. But most candidates are focused on improving — and investing in — police.

Philadelphia

Philly’s Top Cop Ducks Criticism for Rising Violence

Danielle Outlaw heads a dwindling police force in a city that just logged 500 homicides, but Philadelphians from all walks of life are giving her the benefit of the doubt.