

Democracy Now! 2025-08-15 Friday
Aug 15, 2025
Brandon Johnson, the progressive Mayor of Chicago, shares insights on community investment as a key to reducing crime. Political scientist John Mearsheimer discusses the complexities of the Trump-Putin summit, emphasizing the historical tensions surrounding Ukraine. Matt Duss highlights local and global struggles, including the fight against plastic pollution and advocacy for workers' rights. The conversation also touches on shifting Ukrainian perspectives, showcasing a growing desire for peace amidst ongoing conflict.
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People Investments Reduce Urban Violence
- Brandon Johnson contrasts Trump's militarized approach with Chicago's people-centered investments that reduce violence.
- Johnson reports major drops in homicides, shootings and robberies tied to mental health and worker policies.
Prioritize Workers Over Jails
- Do shift resources from jails to workers and services instead of criminalizing poverty through cash bail.
- Expand worker protections like paid time off and end sub-minimum wages to improve public safety.
Sanctuary Policy Protects Community Trust
- Sanctuary policies preserve trust between immigrants and local police, improving constitutional policing.
- Johnson vows Chicago will not let local law enforcement act as federal ICE agents under Trump.