Chicago City Wire

Chicago Contrarian has published a critical analysis of recent coverage by WBEZ and the Chicago Sun-Times, focusing on their portrayal of city government actions and policies. The article challenges what it describes as a consistent narrative from these media outlets that aligns with the perspectives of Mayor Brandon Johnson and Governor JB Pritzker.

The piece begins by questioning reports that Mayor Johnson’s 2026 budget includes nearly $400 million for Chicago Public Schools (CPS), which WBEZ attributes to efforts to offset federal funding cuts "caused by President Trump’s administration." According to the Contrarian, this move is less about generosity and more about reallocating taxpayer funds originally intended for neighborhood redevelopment. The publication states, "When a politician 'finds' money, it’s usually yours. TIF funds were created to spur neighborhood redevelopment — not to patch holes in bloated school budgets or hide the red ink in City Hall’s ledger."

The article also highlights the influence of Stacy Davis Gates, president of the Chicago Teachers Union, suggesting she holds significant sway over City Hall decisions. It claims, "She demands, Johnson obeys, and taxpayers foot the bill. The mayor is simply the CTU’s messenger boy with a title and a driver."

Another point of contention is City Hall's decision not to broadcast a Department of Homeland Security video featuring Secretary Kristi Noem at O’Hare and Midway airports due to its partisan content. The Contrarian argues this action amounts to censorship: "City Hall’s official explanation is that it wants to 'keep politics out of airports,' but everything Johnson does is political."

On immigration enforcement at Naval Station Great Lakes, the Contrarian disputes descriptions from progressive media about aggressive tactics by federal agents. It maintains such actions are standard procedure and necessary given local sanctuary policies: "If ICE is operating out of Great Lakes, that’s a sign of professionalism, not provocation."

The article concludes with criticism of local journalism standards in Chicago. It asserts that WBEZ and the Sun-Times have become public-relations arms for city officials rather than holding them accountable: "Their reporters quote officials like altar boys reading scripture, never questioning the theology of progressivism that underpins every policy disaster." According to commercial real estate brokers cited by the Contrarian, business interest in Chicago properties has declined due to rising property taxes and ongoing governance issues.

Throughout its commentary, Chicago Contrarian positions itself as an alternative voice aiming to present what it considers an unvarnished account of city affairs: "At Contrarian, we’ll stick with reality — gritty, uncomfortable, and unapproved by City Hall."