Why Do You Have to Run from Us? Local reporters are struggling to get answers from the politicians they cover.
Summary
In this live episode from Jimmy’s Corner, host Betsy Marais interviews Block Club Chicago reporter Melody Mercado about the challenges of accessing local officials. Mercado details how Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration initially restricted press access, creating bottlenecks during crises like the migrant influx. She discusses the subsequent improvements in transparency and the broader shift in how politicians engage with media versus influencers.
Topics discussed
Introduction to Block Club Chicago and hyperlocal reporting
How Block Club covers city politics differently
Chicago political landscape: Lightfoot to Johnson
Initial struggles with access under Mayor Johnson
Bottlenecks caused by unfilled PIO roles
Case study: Reporting on the migrant crisis
Using community sources to bypass city hall
The erratic behavior of former press secretary Ronnie Reese
Improvements in communication and weekly briefings
Mayor Johnson ignoring tough questions at press conferences
Johnson's political standing and re-election outlook
Why politicians should engage with the press
Reader engagement and transparency in reporting
Incident: Mayor Johnson surrounded by security at event
Influencers vs. journalists at the DNC and public access
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