Part 1/11:

Chicago's Budget Dilemma: The Complexities of Progressive Revenue and Economic Flight

Mayor Brandon Johnson's Budget Strategy

Chicago faces a daunting fiscal challenge: a billion-dollar-plus operating budget deficit. In response, Mayor Brandon Johnson has publicly committed to not raising property taxes—a primary source of city revenue—thus ruling out one of the most straightforward means of bridging the financial gap. Instead, he emphasizes "progressive revenue" as the solution, aiming to tap into the wealthiest individuals and corporations in the city to fund essential services and initiatives.