Jacobin Radio Dig: Chicago’s Left Experiment
Aug 5, 2025
In this lively discussion, guests Alex Hahn, Asha Ransby-Sporn, and Alderwoman Jeanette Taylor dive into Chicago's left political scene. Hahn sheds light on Mayor Johnson's tumultuous journey and the fierce labor movements behind his election. Ransby-Sporn critiques the challenges faced by grassroots organizers, while Taylor emphasizes the need for community unity against powerful opposition. They also explore educational reform, housing struggles, and the complexities of political identity in a city grappling with systemic issues. Together, they unravel the ongoing quest for genuine change.
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Early Phase of Chicago's Left Project
- Chicago's left project is in its early phase of a long transformation journey.
- Holding some power in multiple political institutions is key to further advances.
Asha's Journey to Electoral Left
- Asha shifted from outsider protester to electoral leftist to push systemic change.
- Aligning labor and movements was crucial to seeking governing power.
Support and Persist in Governance
- Supporting left officials with unity and coordination is essential.
- Old city hall structures resist change; persistence is needed to uproot them.
