America's Most Corrupt City - Chicago 🇺🇸

[@PeterSantenello]

Chicago is a pro when it comes to corruption. But corruption isn't just a Chicago issue, corruption exists everywhere, just on different levels. When I lived in Ukraine corruption was clear as day and in your face. In the United States, it's usually not as obvious, as in a police officer can't just pull you over and demand a bribe. But as I canvas the country making this content, I'm realizing corruption is much more of an issue than I was aware of just years ago. It makes me wonder what's going on behind the scenes in my town. Sources to support Benjamin's claims: 1. Chicago public school’s awful performance: chicago.chalkbeat.org/2023/8/3/23817681/chicago-public-schools-illinois-assessment-readiness or see Illinois Policy Institute’s analysis: www.illinoispolicy.org/reports/trapped-in-chicagos-worst-schools-education-outcomes-in-chicagos-lowest-performing-public-schools/#:~:text=More%20than%2021%2C000%20students%20in,in%20reading%2C%20science%20and%20math. 2. Professor Simpson ranking Chicago as the most corrupt city in the nation based on the number of public corruption convictions: pols.uic.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/273/2022/05/Corruption-Rpt-14-on-5-7-22-final.pdf 3. The City of Chicago, Office of Inspector General’s parking meter lease financial analysis: igchicago.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Parking-Meter-Report.pdf . In the Public Interest’s short article about the same and how bad the deal was: inthepublicinterest.org/the-worst-privatization-deal-in-u-s-history-just-got-even-worse/ . 4. General Aviation News, covering the fines the City of Chicago had to pay for its illegal destruction of Meigs Field: generalaviationnews.com/2006/10/06/chicago-to-pay-over-1-million-for-destruction-of-meigs-field/ . True enough, Mayor Daley cited safety reasons as the need to exercise dictatorial powers to destroy the field. Most folks exercising an abuse of power will cite public safety as their need to exercise such power 5. Information on ownership of the Chicago Skyway shared between Canadian and Australian investors: financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/australian-firm-defies-top-investor-buys-chicago-skyway-stake-from-canada-pensions . Some corrections from Benjamin: 1. In my first discussion about cashless bail, I accidentally state “convicted” instead of “arrested.” I state that correctly later in the recording. Simple mix-up. 2. Similarly, I sometimes say “Spot Shotter” instead of “Shot Spotter” as a simple conversational mistake. 3. Apparently, I was slightly off on property taxes, as Illinois (2.05 percent) is the second worst in the nation just under New Jersey (2.21 percent). 4. Several commenters were “shocked” or “surprised” I didn’t mention x person or y story. There’s only so much time and space to discuss many examples of corruption. 5. Several old school Chicagoans complained I pronounced Pulaski incorrectly. I employ ordinary English pronounced in an ordinary accent when speaking.

[@meloneyparker]

Come to the People's Republic of Massachusetts where the state police just arrested a journalist who was investigating the same police for corruption. (See MA v. Karen Read and MA v. Aidan Kearney (aka Turtle Boy).

[@volcanobro8443]

Look into public employee unions and their funding to the machine. It’s disgusting and their product is awful.

[@DAJANEM99]

Corruption, that’s Joe Biden’s middle name and his family’s wealth is built on it. Nancy Pelosi, how is she worth 200 million again? It’s all a con job, the average every day hard working citizen gets fked!

[@UncleSqueegee]

In the beginning of the video as you were walking down Clark st, you actually walked right past the alderman. It would have been cool to see you interview that guy. I talk to him often at the bar.

[@DonnieDarko727]

Chicago politics is the way politics are everywhere. Authority. The Most Dangerous Superstition Check out the book Peter

[@WarpedYT]

I used to own a Construction Company in Chicago, Ive had to deal with inspectors and alderman often and I can tell u this video is very accurate... Beyond aggravating, as residents here we are fed up with the arrogance, hope the city pulls themselves together soon.

[@ReadIcculus93]

I do think we are seeing some changes, like with many aldermen going to prison. I went to high school with a vyrdolyak and I know Ed was not the most liked person around Chicago's East side in neighborhoods like Hegewisch. But its not changing abruptly and decisively. For every 1 former alderman prosecuted, there are 3 more voted in who are no different.

[@garycombs5721]

Every single election the city of Chicago votes overwhelmingly Republican, but the democrats win anyway.

[@michaelanthony4750]

My aunt was an inspector but she was one of the good ones. She left because she was worried for her life.

[@christopher9727]

Love of money and power is sin come to Jesus Christ today Don't follow the worldly trends follow Jesus Christ today There is no security or hope with out Jesus Christ in this world come and repent of all sins today Today is the day of salvation come to the loving savior Today repent and do not go to hell Come to Jesus Christ today Jesus Christ is only way to heaven Repent and follow him today seek his heart Jesus Christ can fill the emptiness he can fill the void Heaven and hell is real cone to the loving savior today Today is the day of salvation tomorrow might be to late come to the loving savior today John 3:16-21 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. Mark 1.15 15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. Hebrews 11:6 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Jesus

[@littlesquirtthefireengine5478]

I think a good start would be fixing the chronic 10-15% election turnout. Oh, and perhaps an alternative to the Democratic party

[@davidheadley98]

Peter: You are the undisputed king of citizen journalism. An ordinary guy with a wide-open mind broadcasting and sharing the worldview of ordinary folks. This is the media everyone needs access to. Well done.

[@NinaEnglishCZ]

Right? I completely agree. I found Peter a few months ago and I am addicted, I have neglected Netflix for a long time as I want to watch everything he has done. I am so touched by his videos and I couldnt say it better - THE king of citizen journalism, with the purest heart. I am so thankful for this channel too!

[@tylerdowd]

Him and @Tommy G

[@juliamoon6562]

Fully agree. I was shocked this man was in Chicago lol. But he’s not exactly.

[@happygilmore1844]

I agree he needs to win an award and recognition for what hes doing

[@markobernal8945]

I agree but this guy is tak8ng advantage on the fact that Peter isn't the most knowledgeable when it comes to politics I love this channel dont get Mr wrong but these democrats rolling now are evil

[@K.B.Williams]

How does one single man provide more information about the world so effortlessly with a single camera in his hand than all of media combined? Man went from Alaska to Saudi Arabia to Watts California and everywhere in between this is by far my favorite KZbin travel channel. Glad he finally came to Chicago and met someone to explain the corruption of the upper echelons of Chicago.

[@JesseGordon-sz3xj]

Good old fashioned journalism. Many younger generation don’t understand it because they never seen it.

[@K.B.Williams]

​@@JesseGordon-sz3xjI see it as good NEW fashioned journalism 😅 I'm now wondering how he's able to get in touch with the right personalities in every single city in every single country to explain every single thing in detail while walking the streets. I'm guessing people are finding him! Amazingly superb content.

[@chrisstromberg6527]

It’s out there, you are just not going to get it on FOX or CNN.

[@MikeHernandez-gk3zv]

He's very cool docu

[@sunny74763]

His only agenda is to learn and show others

[@danielpohl29]

I was just in Chicago this weekend. The architecture is astonishing.

[@Gunter_Custom]

I've lived here for over 50 years The architecture here is old and it's crap.... compared to some other countries. Dubai and China kick our azz hard on architecture.. 😂

[@Chipotle14]

​@@Gunter_Customdisagree. Soulless glass monstrosities.

[@Gunter_Custom]

@@Chipotle14 well they are glass to.let the light in and practical because other outer wall coverings are not needed in steel frame construction.. But there are many more unique designs in those countries vs our boxes here .. and every new big building being built in Chicago down town is all glass too ..🤣🤦

[@CesarNostradamus-wj9uq]

You do realize if you study architecture you have to study in Chicago? Nobody will take you seriously if you study outside Chicago

[@patriciaweber9832]

who cares ...ask ppl if they are happy ? they are not!

[@aboomer420]

I love how real your journalism feels. I don't feel like I'm watching a production meant to distract or mislead me, just a guy hitting the streets. Keep up the good work dude.

[@LALakersReport]

Right this guy's so much better than CNN. They would never show you the corruption in Chicago by the left.

[@bobpadilla4703]

As a 3rd generation Chicagoan we have known this forever but its extremely difficult to articulate to outsiders. Thank you for using your platform to portray this city in a fair and realistic light.

[@mehrshadvr4]

Why people don’t push for a reform and put it on ballot? I’m sure it can be done if enough signatures are gathered.

[@burnaboa]

@@mehrshadvr4bc if it’s a POC in power you’re labeled a racist if you try to get them out of office. If there’s a POC running & their politics r awful people will still vote for them over a traditionalist

[@justinekingmaker493]

@@mehrshadvr4 ROFLMBO - How to say: "I've never lived in Chicago" without saying: "I've never lived in Chicago"

[@TheRealPynkPanther]

​@@mehrshadvr4😂😂😂it is not that simple and never works. the corruption is much too deep.

[@mehrshadvr4]

@@justinekingmaker493 why is it not simple? Are you saying that people cannot vote on ballots measure to change the law in the city?

[@russellholliday2034]

It’s hard to imagine that you could have found a better person as your guide for this episode. That man is articulate, reasoned, knowledgeable and equitable. I would have to imagine that he is a very gifted attorney. Absolutely great episode!

[@franklawrence1975]

You're obviously not very bright

[@judyhouy5578]

@@franklawrence1975horrible teams, lousy weather, corruption cubed. Yet those citizens love it. The strange charm of Chi-Town!!??

[@franklawrence1975]

@@judyhouy5578 I don't know any city that has perennial winning teams , with the exception of a handful of winter days, the weather is tolerable and corruption not only effects every city in America , the corruption in Chicago is well overstated. Chicago has a lot going for it, some of the best cultural institutions in the country, great restaurants, great parks, great nightlife, great architecture, great shopping and the list goes on and on.

[@jakemad2721]

idk as a chicagoan this guy is too annoying east coaster to me.

[@franklawrence1975]

@@jakemad2721 He is from Florida

[@roysmith9149]

The parking meter deal was the dumbest deal ever done

[@premchettri7170]

I know and the bigger part of that is, city is collecting huge amount from that !! I mean if it is not going to city, they should stop enforcing it whats the point? but no there is another string attached most ppl wont see.. and that is tow truckers. There are huge rackets of toll truckers run on the back of corrupt officials, they will take your car in no time.. For folks who visits Chicago and are unaware of it, make sure you dont park in driveway of local shopping stores. Its full of em, they are constantly watching and in 5 mins tops, they will tow your car !!

[@mookiepookie444]

It sure was! I still can’t get over it.

[@stormzilla66]

So, so stupid. When I found out the details, I was flabbergasted. Mayor Daley with an all-time fuck-up right there.

[@TheForeignersNetwork]

Okay, so why did we need to sell the parking meters in the first place? Oh yeah, it's because George W. Bush caused a global financial crisis by not regulating banks well enough. Republicans aren't exempt from responsibility on that front--If there had been better management of the banks and regulations preventing them from selling sub-prime mortgages, the 2008 financial crisis would have never happened.

[@davidsalgado9821]

The sold the Chicago skyway highway also

[@WombleUK]

What he is describing with the parking meter money is what the UK Government has done to the whole UK, all public utilities are now foreign owned gas, electric, water etc & public transport buses, trains, pension funds are held in offshore tax havens & the list goes on. The UK has basically been asset stripped by successive UK Governments for short term quick cash & after the decades UK Citizens are now starting to pay the price of this.

[@ggergger8584]

In Russia that is the same.

[@DMWBN3]

I am a Brightonian, Sussex. Very much agree with the comment you made. So many places are now permit holders only. You pay road tax & parking on top, on public roads. My friend paid £31 for 4 hours parking otherday.

[@agapitacordova3850]

Wow. How horrific. I’m American. I am from Colorado. We have toll roads leased by Australia. Crazy. So much corruption

[@timeforchange3786]

Most politicians are involved with the World Economic Forum, World Health Organization and United Nations. They are preparing for a One World Order/Government.

[@shhshs9139]

And there’s a massive foreign population in the uk now too

[@JA-vy1gp]

Thank you Benjamin Barr for educating people on this corruption that’s falling on the shoulders of the Chicago citizens

[@kyleleah4830]

Correction: Illinois citizens

[@joeysanor831]

Comment on the lawyer - this guy is great! Good to know there are people out there like him, especially in Chicago, fighting the good fight on 1A issues and beyond. Intelligent, reasonable and good ideals is a rare batch of character traits these days

[@tjsnell]

Mr. Barr did an excellent job of demonstrating how corruption harms everyone, regardless of where your personal political beliefs may fall on the spectrum. He also highlighted the importance of the First Amendment, something fading as a priority in our society today. With one of its most critical roles allowing journalists to afflict the comforted, and comfort the afflicted, regardless of party, in order to ensure we can hold those perpetrating that corruption to account. An excellent video providing insight to what lies beneath the facade of a seemingly functional city.

[@jttech44]

He seems like a lovely human to be honest. I listened to him speak for the better part of an hour and at no point could I tell how he'd vote. Blissfully refreshing.

[@dherman0001]

@@jttech44 I was thinking the same.

[@user-et6se3hl1v]

I’d say he falls somewhere right of extreme left, I think he sees thinks for what they are but wants the best outcome for Chicago and it’s residents. Great Interview, thank you.

[@briancardio6567]

​@@user-et6se3hl1vextreme left due explain

[@logee527]

Love Chicago blame the mob. What a racist pos you all are. Oh and freedom - cause you’re fucking white. Try driving while black. Gtfo.

[@timallan8535]

This has been one of the best conversations I've listened to in a while. An intelligent well spoken person with a high sense of community and high expectations of a job well done. I enjoyed that.

[@SSNESS]

MGTOW

[@wevedonethisbefore8729]

Too bad when I googled him he turned out to be a slimeball. He has previously worked with Project Veritas (group that keeps trying to close planned parenthood clinics), and he has advocated for dark money in politics. Gross.

[@StepDubUp]

​@@wevedonethisbefore8729 And you actually support planned parenthood? I think that we found the real slimeball here.

[@mieuxdisante]

@@wevedonethisbefore8729 Thank you for putting in the work!

[@storminnordman9596]

@@wevedonethisbefore8729not only that, he worked with 8chan/Jim Watkins in 2020 in the run up to the Jan. 6th insurrection. He doesn’t have a moral fiber in his being.

[@Premier-Media-Group]

Even if some Aldermen ARE doing the right thing day-to-day, when they don't call out their corrupt colleagues they're just as guilty.

[@DonnieDarko727]

I there were any good cops, there wouldn't be any bad ones

[@Plutospacecadet]

🎯

[@blakesmith2101]

Exactly !

[@africkinamerican]

​@@DonnieDarko727 It aint that simple bro

[@Tony-fx8fb]

@@DonnieDarko727 if that's true, then there's no good humans either?

[@dougjones2160]

The craziest stat is that both Chicago and Illinois separately are top 5 in corruption.the corruption is twofold. The taxes are insane from sales to homes. I stay 30 miles out but i am preparing to leave in next year. Great information!

[@RondelayAOK]

You’re lucky. I’d like to go.

[@Andman8210]

Illinois sucks, leave while you can.

[@wolfel1954]

Agree 101%. Corruption everywhere. Property tax up to the roof. They tax everything. After paying bills, services, nothing left.

[@katydid147]

Except they don't tax retirement income. I moved to Wisconsin where they do and it's a higher rate than Illinois' "flat tax."

[@bluoval3481]

@@katydid147 you can bet your shirt Illinois is drafting up legislation right now to tax retirement income in the future.

[@kentrobinson2270]

No they not lol…. That means their sweet fat pensions would be taxed

[@garydownes1594]

Why can you leave?

[@mwindischable]

I learned more about Chicago gov corruption in this 46 minutes than I ever did by the corporate press. Independent journos are the only ones I listen/watch anymore. Great job on this.

[@elizabethcarrington5819]

Yes! I was thinking the same thing.

[@thomasogrady8899]

One sided take by a far right Goldwater Institute lawyer. And you bought it.

[@mwindischable]

@@thomasogrady8899 you’re right. What was I thinking? Chicago’s public sector pensions are well funded for many lifetimes.

[@tomogrady821]

You were tricked by a far right GOP attorney. LOL.😁

[@ferretsmiles]

@@mwindischable you learned about it just now because you only wanted to learn about it now. This shit isnt anything new but he is just packaging it into a slight right wing way.

[@susannally8979]

Regarding the tax on your receipt Peter. The 3% is the State of Illinois tax. The 25% is the city of Chicago fast food tax. Even though you bought your drink at a grocery store it's still considered "fast food". It didn't seem like it was explained so I hope this helps.

[@EvaOwnsAll]

25%.....

[@Ask-a-Rocket-Scientist]

There was the perfect illustration of the consequences of corruption.

[@Q1776Q]

@@EvaOwnsAll Welcome to Chicago!

[@Q1776Q]

@Lookup2Wakeup HA...good one!!! 🤣🤣🤣

[@axucaroso]

​@Lookup2Wakeup Yeah, well, quess what? Politicians are not completely truthful.

[@Skylander404]

Every single time I watch one of your videos I am blown away by the quality. You ask real, hard hitting questions to people who experience these places first hand. I live in Chicago myself (grew up outside of the city in Naperville, then moved to the city after college), and I have slowly grown to love the place. However, as the love has grown stronger, so too has my hatred for some of the truly awful things that happen here. Corruption is rife and so many people don't even know that they are being essentially scammed every day. It makes me want to leave, which is awful because there is so much here to be enjoyed.

[@pkmoments]

You’ve just articulated exactly how I’ve felt about the city. Grew up in a northern suburb and decided not to live in Illinois after college. I live outside of Milwaukee now and I really like it here for many reasons. Mainly less taxes and corruption and it’s only about an hour away to visit friends and family.

[@jjoohhhnn]

I was worried when I saw the suit he'd try to sanitize things or deny one side but I was very pleasantly surprised when I realized he's probably one of the best guides thus far. I would love to see him as a reappearing character and hear more on Chicago and the constitution in a bit to see how the city is changing.

[@lollol737]

I agree! would love to hear more about federal government corruption or how things are going in different states

[@tamella2672]

This video was incredibly informative. I've lived here my whole life, and I'm familiar with the corruption and the Dailey era, but the way Dailey Jr. betrayed this city, he should be behind bars.

[@manny760]

Great episode, lots of people need to see this. Paints a clear picture of what most politicians do on every level.

[@tustak]

It was not very big problems he did lift up imo ...

[@leemontoya8028]

It's called Corruption! There's a person I think his name is Donald Trump! This is what he keep's talking about!

[@leemontoya8028]

But yet! they keep getting Voted in! Or do they cheat?@@okGDJ

[@SPG8989]

​@@okGDJyou understand right...left...both are corrupt. Trump is just as corrupt as Biden, just like Obama is just as corrupt as Bush. We haven't had a legit leader in decades....hell they all probably were corrupt on some level going back to Washington

[@gregevans6241]

I work in the media with my office in the middle of it all. I have seen so much theft in the government by politicians at every level that I get sick to my core. I am fed up with these civic leaders and their actions. They all steal I one form or another.

[@mdotto8707]

Another fascinating piece of video journalism! Thank you Peter! Your work is so good!

[@longshucksgaming]

One thing I love about peter's videos is, even with hot button divisive issues, he never comes across as preachy or having an agenda. He puts the questions out there for the sake of the viewer and simply writes down the answers on his metaphorical pen and paper

[@Phelps1111]

yeah he's what I consider a true journalist. Tries to just report things without injecting his opinions/thoughts too much.

[@timmyexile8141]

How could you possibly think that given the title of the video and the fact that most of the video is someone else talking who clearly has an agenda?

[@lukeperez7953]

@@timmyexile8141corruption isn’t an opinion.

[@johnsanchez3469]

Clearly this tiny little human has an agenda and Peter gave him a voice. This person is not complaining about higher wages ge is being paid and all the amenities of the city he is enjoying.

[@timmyexile8141]

I never even used the word opinion in my comment. @@lukeperez7953

[@jamesreese4170]

Man that last statement hit hard and needs to be shared at a national level. The free market of ideas is what this nation was built on. Beautifully put Mr. Barr.

[@Kelsey260]

Ok but how is it a free market when statistically speaking, most successful companies/people had support and privileges that many don't. Maybe if people weren't living paycheck to paycheck, we would see a lot more ingenuity and entrepreneurship.

[@zqpcydbfoqbdiehdj]

@@Kelsey260that being said, affordable to free housing. affordable food, affordable clothes, affordable healthcare. And less allowance for corrupt minds to manipulate a system that affects the majority of the residents. Why do all people want to be Kings & Queens? I mean.. ain’t nothing wrong with overcoming the norm.. but, the thing that make most people unhappy is the lack of the basic stuff. Housing, Food, Clothes to dress & some Entertainment.

[@clockmaister]

@@Kelsey260 it's free in a sense that you are guaranteed the right to voice your opinion. Maybe you're taking it for granted, but it's far from it. Myself, I'm from Eastern Europe and there's places where just voicing opposition or TALKING about corruption would land you in jail. You don't have that in the US. Be grateful for that! of course it can always be better, but also far, FAR worse.

[@jamesreese4170]

@@Kelsey260 the key word was ideas. He was talking about free speech not economics. Everyone has the right to express their ideas as long as they aren’t inciting violence by doing so. The free market of ideas is that if everyone just ignores your really absurd opinion then you might think twice about them.

[@klasseact6663]

​@shaneparsons7529 I couldn't agree more! My g/f and I went to Maine this summer for her Dad's wake service and the people were great! I'd never been to the east coast before and it made a great impression. We were in downtown Portland and this other town with Bay in the name, can't remember the name right now and it too was great, different vibe but still nice! The guy is short and has a napoleon complex, very smart and knows it and sadly, shows it. This guy feeds into their stereotype, it's why alot of people don't like them🤔

[@tombosley3048]

Lived in Illinois all my life, and this was all news to me. Of course we all know how corrupt the state is, but man. I had no idea how Chicago was ran. This was very informative, really enjoyed this one

[@chijohnaok]

I was born in Chicago and spent my first 35 years living in Chicago (or the near suburbs). I saw this corruption growing up. My parents owned apartment rental property. If you didn't want your property taxes to go up too much, then you hired a law firm (that had connections within the county government) to help keep the assessed property value lower (which ultimately determines your final tax bill). These assessments were revalued every 4 years. You paid the law firm a percentage (I think that it used to be a third) of the amount that they were able to "reduce" your taxes by. If the property owner of an identical apartment building next door didn't hire such a law firm, then their property taxes were going to be significantly higher. This is but one example of how corruption works in Chicago.

[@WindyCity1014]

​​​@@chijohnaokthere is nothing inherently corrupt about appealing your property tax assessment. The same type of process is used in thousands of counties across the country and it is the property owner's choice whether to hire an attorney--I did it myself and it was very simple. Implying that this is an example of corruption is misleading.

[@chijohnaok]

@@WindyCity1014 I understand how the process works. When I lived in Cook County I personally went through the appeals process multiple times on my residential property, but not once was I successful in getting an adjustment in the assessed value. When my parents hired an attorney with connections to file their appeal, they were successful in reducing the assessed value EVERY.SINGLE.TIME over a 25 year period but once (the one time they failed was after my parents had purchased the property. It is difficult to argue the assessed value immediately after you purchased it).

[@pinkythechihuahua3156]

Don't you think every large city is as "corrupt" as is Chicago? It's just that Chicago was home to mobsters in the 1930'., but so where places like NYC. There will always be corruption every where. Think of what's happening in court right now in NYC where a certain someone upped the value of his properties for a better. Interest rates on loans. That's corruption as well. I am a Chicago native daughter, born and raised, who moved to California 43 years ago. I visited the City in 2994 and was quite surprised how clean the City, at least downtown was. It didn't look like that when I was growing up. Chicago is a beautiful City with some of the best food in the country.

[@pinkythechihuahua3156]

Sorry....2004, I'm not a time traveler, or am I? Hmmmm

[@TiffanyMalone-qd6ro]

WOW for this Attorney to speak about corruption in Chicago. That's a big deal and scary at the same time. I'm praying God keeps this man safe.

[@stevdaughtr6098]

Then they would have to go after every single resident of Chicago. My grandma was from Chicago. My mom was from Chicago. All they ever said was how bad the corruption was.

[@akaKonfrad]

From Chicago. In the mid to late 2000s my Father, a General Contractor, was forced to make contributions to several DNC candidates in order to get any contracts to him and his team. This was done to all the other GC's he knew working in Chicago. They told him if he didn't pay for their election campaigns, they'd work to keep contracts away from him and or keep permits impossible to attain. Eventually all those larger contracts went straight to the unions and he began looking for smaller projects.

[@sillyme8185]

Wow! Just shows that the Mafia is still at play. Just under a different name.

[@jshepard152]

@@sillyme8185 And you see who benefits from it.

[@Fredflinstone23]

DNC at its finest… Imagine if they were investigated same way they did with Trump…

[@ashurmoshe2125]

Bro what?!?! That’s so messed up! Forced to contribute to the dnc?! Unbelievable

[@raisatainan]

This is similar to Brazil. Search about the Lava Jato (Car Wash) Operation.

[@jmj936]

Your content is fantastic, Peter. You have exactly the right mix of what an interviewer needs. A non-judgmental approach to different lifestyles and a curiosity that keeps things very interesting. No matter where you go, you make it cool. Btw, I live in Chicago and the lawyer hit the nail squarely on the head about corruption. It's kind of like an artform here, almost a contest. We're so used to it, it's just part of the deal. Same with the state of Illinois. Keep up the great work.

[@ghassanjenainaty4212]

From Beirut Lebanon i send wishes for peace and love to the city of Chicago. I was a survivor of the horrible explosions that rocked Beirut port 3 year ago. Peace for Chicago and hope to visit it someday

[@colonelsanders4006]

Sorry you had to experience that, but I thought the explosions happened at the port of Beirut, not the airport?

[@mikelord9860]

​@@colonelsanders4006Yes you are correct, it was on the waterfront.

[@colonelsanders4006]

​@@mikelord9860 Maybe he was at the airport when it happened. I just read that the airport doors and windows were smashed despite being 6 miles away from the explosion. Apparently no flights were cancelled.. WTF

[@ghassanjenainaty4212]

@@colonelsanders4006 Yes dear the explosion happened at the port. It was third worse explosion in the world after Hiroshima. Now i made the corrections and thanks for drawing my attentions. Peace

[@diotone5580]

Peter. Next time, let them eat first! But anyway, great video. Ben made a lot of good points. I think a lot people need to realize they can't make critical decisions like voting people in to office with only an hours amount of research. Challenge yourself and your biases. When it comes to corruption anywhere, I'll leave it with a good quote. "The only thing necessary for triumph of evil is for good man to do nothing." - Edmund Burke.

[@brayhill]

Hilarious. I've also described the aldermanic system as feudal, so I'm glad I'm not alone. As a Chicago business owner, I've been shaken down by aldermen, and they are the sole power in their wards. Best euphemism for bribery that I've heard? I had an alderman demand a "private, ad-hoc, cash-only fundraiser."

[@JerryDLTN]

I remember my grandmother explaining that if for example your garbage didn't get picked up, you wouldn't call the public works dept, you'd call your alderman, the alderman would call the public works dept, and then when it came time for election season, the alderman would go campaigning door to door and remind you how he/she helped you with your garbage.

[@JerryDLTN]

The aldermen would have a free movie day for anyone registered to vote. You'd receive free movie tickets to a movie theater in the district on a Saturday and that ticket was also a raffle ticket. At intermission, they'd have a drawing for stuff like tennis rackets and bicycles. My friend's parents took me with them to the theater and I won a tennis racket and a bicycle. I had to tell them my name and address. About a week later, someone from the alderman's office came to my house to tell my parents that because they either wasn't registered to vote (or were registered to the wrong party), I'd have to give the tennis racket or bicycle back. I somehow got to keep both. We moved out in '83.

[@JaylenLanier]

Coming from a very small city to Chicago, aldermen sound like boogeymen lol. Crazy how I’ve only been here for a year and I’m ready to get the hell out of here!

[@dannylgriffin]

@@JerryDLTN truth. Or a pothole in your street. Or snow removal. That got Jane Byrne elected mayor!

[@Mana-xd2tp]

Alderman is also a medieval Anglo-Saxon title of nobility in the Witanegmot. The influence of Ancient Greece and Rome in the U.S is so overblown and skin deep compared to the Saxons.

[@juliamoon6562]

Really appreciate the way this man explained corruption in Chicago. It's all owned by someone makes so much sense why the city never ACTUALLY improves. And I don't mean private developments and gentrifying neighborhoods. This guys has a good head on his shoulders, he's very aware, the other things he was saying were so on point and true. Him and his wife make a great team. Awesome interview.

[@brendons.5374]

When an interviewee can only rail about corruption from 20 years ago that was 90% committed by one administration, his cry’s of limitless corruption lose some credibility, but that’s just my opinion.

[@juliamoon6562]

@karlwithak. first step to change is AWARENESS. My entire point.

[@juliamoon6562]

@karlwithak. you sound like you’ve lived in chicago too long lol 😆 this place depressing AH

[@tcoker0416]

​@@brendons.5374agreed. Also makes me wonder about his business deals....

[@SomeLazyDr]

Never improves? In the last twenty years, you guys have had the Lakeshore Park get way nicer - the beachfront there is nicer than even Santa Monica. You have a lot of new high quality bike trails. Your city is cleaner than every big American city. You can walk around the Chicago River now, which used to be a disgusting open sewer. Your police, while being a little abusive, seem to actually do their job versus just sucking up public money and doing nothing. Your city, while a little corrupt (and honestly not really more so than any other place), isn't strangled by so many useless contradictory laws that nothing ever can get done. Chicago isn't perfect. It's cold as shit in the winter and your MTA leadership is useless allowing blatant drug abuse on the trains and buses. But compared to a lot of places in America, you guys really do have it good.

[@Lunarbutterflytarot]

As a Chicago resident thank you for this video

[@stevegranger7647]

These documentary’s he does are all worth watching I promise you will learn something from all of them. But this one was really informative. You hear about Chicagos list of problems and there’s a lot this shed light on why. A must watch.

[@allycbythesea7937]

Great conversation with the lawyer as a UK viewer I found this fascinating as I do all your videos. Didn’t think I’d be taking a deep dive into Chicago politics tonight but so glad I did. Outrageous corruption leaving a beautiful city on the brink.Big up the lawyer man. A beacon of truth and passionately caring about his city and people. I think he’s brave too taking on all the corrupt mayors

[@richardm3023]

He knows that he will wind up in a cornfield in Indiana if he makes too much noise.

[@PK111133]

As a Chicagoan who does know that the city is somewhat corrupt, I actually thought this wasn't very good. Overdramatic and sensationalized. The infrastructure deals he talks about are 15-20 years old at this point and were done because of budget shortfalls that happened with growth slowed in the city. The Alderman system has flaws but other cities with more modern governance structures have just as much if not more corruption. The Meigs Field story is 20 years old, the airport was 100% general aviation (no commercial flights, just private jets) and was operating at yearly loss for the city of several million dollars and was scheduled to close anyway. The city was basically subsidizing a perk for the rich that 99% of Chicagoans never got to use. I have a good friend who works for CPS as a high school teacher. He tells me the kids aren't dumb, they're just well aware of the fact that most of them won't go to college and so they simply have no incentive to do anything other than scrape by to pick up their diploma so that's what they do. Our last mayor Lori Lightfoot was called alot of things ... but corrupt or violent or intimidating ... not so much. According to guys like this the city has been "on the brink" for 20 years. And yet it keeps going.

[@edog4011]

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[@imperialmotoring3789]

Democrats and "sanctuary city" nonsense is what is destroying my city.

[@VickyG442]

​@PK111133 I'm in Peoria and I really appreciate the mix of his and your viewpoints. I personally ❤ Chicago and the counties in the lower portion of the state are not really that appreciative of the tax dollars the people of Chicago put in that help the southern counties that take more than they contribute.

[@dmoral1]

This guy does a better job than our local news media on getting the real stories 👏🏽

[@drizzle452]

I hope so. He throws numbers and stats around without citing…but they could be right. Also lacks nuance. People in the city often prefer segregation-it’s human nature. They prefer being around people that look like them and speak their language

[@zmxvbj]

@@drizzle452 America is not a melting pot, its a salad bowl with all the different ingredients being pretty much separate

[@garydownes1594]

And not melting.

[@coonhoundqueen9216]

I really liked this guy's educational level of insightfulness in regards to his talk outside the resturant. He's awesome. Great find Peter

[@nancyb7495]

Nice Job! I hope there are more in Chicago series. I couldn’t help laughing at the guys wife glancing at her French dip a dozen times, but wouldn’t eat on camera while her husband was speaking. 😂

[@juandenz2008]

@@nancyb7495 I was thinking the whole time that their food was getting cold. The wife was polite and didn't want to start eating or interrupt the conversation and say "let's eat", but the meals would've been better while still hot.

[@Thehubb1]

He doesn’t know shit

[@earthkarma7420]

I don't know why she wasn't eating her food. She wasn't talking. He is very well informed.

[@nonyabisness-cg7mf]

Another prime example of not knowing what goes on behind closed doors. Great couple. Very informative. Loved the DC video with them as well.

[@hunterlankowski8634]

Peter your content is eye opening and i feel it is an important tool to assist this country and us as humans in general on healing from all the divide. Please never get discouraged in your work and keep doing this. I appreciate the open kind and honest work more than i can put in to words. Keep going!

[@PeterSantenello]

Thank you Hunter!

[@vickypatout5361]

Peter, I thoroughly enjoyed this one & your wife did a beautiful job on the editing! Thank you for showing more of different parts & people of America 🇺🇸 and thanks especially for your genuine curiosity & eagerness to learn all side of these multifaceted topics! After reading some comments, I hope watching you will encourage others to realize that their experience is not the ONLY experience ❤

[@jakedarang]

This guy really described Chicago and free speech in to a perfect way. Excellent video.

[@mind-of-neo]

Love this guy. He is an absolutely wonderful presenter! Please have him on again!

[@Auto.Therapy]

Wow!! First of all thank you again for coming to Chicago you are clearly God sent because you really gave all people a sense of understanding to what happens in our city. Also the attorney deserves an award for his work in this city! I never heard of him but I would love to meet him. I really really hope people around the city and around the country finds this video and truly listen and understand how things are in Chicago. We are good people with good hearts but we need change and this corruption is destroying the city… the bill will come due and who is going to pay the tab… thank you.

[@WilliamMiller-nr5gb]

This is yet another fantastic video. The importance and timeliness of its last few minutes can not be overemphasized.

[@rudygomez-lugo2509]

Peter I congratulate you on this blog, this attorney and his lovely wife are very concerned about the future of how our country is manage and they just showing us in some abstractal way the make up of Chicago underline, very sad indeed. Keep up the great work.

[@Smidgen-x4i]

One of the best reporting videos I've seen in a long time. Thank you.

[@jbb-cj1md]

Surprised the lawyer didn't mention journalist Mike Royko, who chronicled so much of Chicago's corruption.

[@gnosticnight]

Don't forget great TV investigative reporters of that era like Len O'Connor, John "Bulldog" Drummond, Bill Kurtis, Walter Jacobson, etc. And look what's out there now. Truly sad.

[@Justanotherconsumer]

@@gnosticnight the internet killed local news and newspapers, been a real boon for small scale corruption because there’s no one to report on it.

[@gix6]

What about Pam Zekman…. I saw a clip once where the guy she busted was confronted by her after his court case and he slapped the mic out of her hand and threw money at her and told her “shut up bitch go buy a new microphone” I think the case was about a towing company that was stealing for a chop shop on the south side.

[@gregoryking8574]

Do you know did guy peter visit some of the most corrupt country in the world like Russia China he's he's he's comparing America to those type of countries he wants something for nothing he want the government to give it free with our work for it do you know it some state that don't pay tax so he need to k Take his freeload butt away from my country

[@jeremyreevessicg2218]

Major information in this one but I’m not surprised of all this corruption coming from another liberal sanctuary city such as Chicago.

[@boogiedaddy3434]

I've had a bit of an obsession with Chicago ever since I visited 5 years ago. Everything I have looked at has been very surface level, however, and had no idea how deep the corruption went with the aldermen. Thank you for enabling us to see some of these layers. It's a fascinating city and though it has its issues, I really want to go back and visit again soon.

[@brandonwilson9097]

Do not take these schmucks as gospel. This is right wing agenda shit to a T. This city has its problems as all cities do, but despite those it is the best city in America. Instead of focusing on the horrificness of southern red states they try to make amazing cities like chicago seem as bad as they can

[@MR-ml2po]

The alderman can either be good or really bad with their powers. Irs how they use it. Things still get done and built but it can be ridiculous.

[@cg-1973]

It still has a lot of advantages over New York and San Francisco. You can actually get your kids a decent public education in Chicago. There are more good schools here than there are in NY, even though NY has a much higher population. Stanford described Chicago as the only functional public school system in the U.S. Getting into a good school means doing research and applying, though. Also, we have a good public library system. Our parks are old and rundown, but the people who work in them are highly motivated and excellent leaders for children and youth. They offer very good, inexpensive childcare and tutoring after school and on breaks. I think that one reason the riots were so bad was because the parks were closed. For kids without dads, the park directors and instructors were some of their only positive role models.

[@RJT80]

The best thing I ever did was get out of Chicago. It's unrecognizable from the city I grew up in 20-30 years ago. And one thing to understand is it's a city of neighborhoods. That makes self segregation easier. Because that's what people do and always will. If crime rises because of newcomers to a neighborhood people simply leave. It's common sense. It's self preservation.

[@TickleMeElmo55]

​@RJT80 Unrecognizable? Old man, it's arguably better. You left over a generation ago so you commenting on it now doesn't old much credibility.

[@91hanami]

Really outstanding work Peter! Love this city! And you captured the heart of it as well as the underbelly. Many thanks to Benjamin Barr and his wife for giving the tour and perspective.

[@Dylan_Dynamite]

Grateful I found this channel. It's more than everything I've ever expected!

[@RyDawg084]

When I visited Chicago last year I wondered why the airport O’Hare was so far from downtown! Now I know why they got rid of the city airport

[@JesusDoesHisNails]

By 2003 that airport was only for small private planes. The runway was too short for any modern jet, so you still need to land at Midway, but most likely at O'Hare since that can accommodate any aircraft, including the Airbus A380.

[@hyemuhyemu8221]

We have Midway International Airport too. Its basically in the city. You land over people heads and houses

[@MicrochipMD]

Avoid Ohare airport at all costs. Absolutely horrible and full of illegal aliens coughing with TB in arrivals / baggage claim

[@elementkx]

I remember a friend of mine wanted to open a car repair shop, but the alderman said no because he said there was already one in is ward. And that was his only reason and it was rejected. Case closed.

[@pattibrekke8536]

Peter, your videos are in my opinion the most factual, educational, at moments painful but then very fabulously interesting. Your doing a awesome job young man. Thank you and as the day progresses Keep on keeping on... ✌️

[@24hourgmtchannel64]

As a lifelong illinoian of 58 years, I've been extremely critical of the state with many of the negatives but also acknowledge the positives. I am 50 miles south of Chicago in Grundy County and my property taxes are $8,800 and go up $400 a year. This alone is pushing us to leave.

[@susanvaughan4210]

I'd love to hear the clarity and detail of a Benjamin Barr level discussion of the corruption that's happening at a national level.

[@JesseGordon-sz3xj]

Great idea!

[@sillyme8185]

Resident of Chicago here. I had to do a double take... Our parking income goes to Abu Dhabi???😲 I knew Daley signed a 75 year contract but WTF??? Is there anything we can do to make the transfer of this contract null and void??? Thank you for this! ❤

[@DailyRants89]

Nope, I think they brought it to the courts already and they said no. Daley fucked over the city and its residents for a lifetime.

[@pttthhh]

Yep. such things should be illegal.

[@BAR-ct7ti]

One thing you can do is stop voting for anti American politicians.

[@vjs4539]

Stop voting Democrat

[@jacktrevino1108]

@@BAR-ct7ti No matter, they'll just make a 3AM ballot dump even if you do, and the public will do nothing about it as time has shown!

[@sianspherica]

As someone from Toronto (a city of comparative size to Chicago) who recently visited Chicago for the first time (and LOVED it) these few videos on Chicago are completely fascinating to me. Well done Peter.

[@newbutthunt]

My co-worker who is a Chicago native said he fell asleep in a cab in *Toronto* and upon awakening thought he was on Lake Shore Drive in Chicago😬he said there's parts of Toronto that are very similar to Chicago.

[@EmpireStateExpress01]

​@@newbutthuntThere is a Lake Shore Boulevard in Toronto lol

[@brandonwilson9097]

Because a lot of it is false.. especially the population figures this idiot spouts

[@deejay4837]

Oh yeah...why don't you try living there. That opinion will change real fast.

[@sunny74763]

Toronto just safer Chicago with more diversity

[@maiaguelo23]

I've had watched several videos already. These are quality content I highly recommend you've done Peter. I had learned so much by listening and watching with different cultures in the US that opens my eyes in different perspective. Keep up doing the good work. Kudos! 😊😊

[@jakebunker8874]

Thanks Peter. My wife and me just got back from Chicago 2 weeks ago(First weekend in October). Watched your last two videos and I was just as shock at how nice and clean downtown was. I just kept walking around saying I know this isn’t the real Chicago I hear about and the grittiness is somewhere but I didn’t ever see any of it where I was.

[@Pomeray8]

I venture into those areas when I visit because there is much to see in and around them. It is fun delving deep. While there are places with worse blight, more shocking levels of abject poverty, and far more violence it is still not great. Disinvestment, watching money bleed out of place on purpose through the designs of policy is horrendous to quality of life anywhere. Life expectancy is at least 14 years difference between those in rich neighborhoods and those in poor neighborhoods. What makes it worse is Chicago is an amazing place, which means it should know better. If it mends old wounds it will go from amazing to one of the best places to live. 50 of the largest 75 biggest US cities are broke. So, it's not alone there.

[@hyemuhyemu8221]

The grittiness in Chicago is much better than you think it would be. For example even in the poor neighborhoods in the west and south side it is much more common to see late model luxury cars, AMG G Wagons, Hell cats etc then to ever see a tent. Not saying there isn't tents, but tents and homeless are much more rare in Chicago hoods than in other similar cities. Chicago has high wages like the coasts but it has low COL

[@hyemuhyemu8221]

Chicago's main issue in the hoods in gang related (not outright poverty). Cars like 100K AMG G Wagons and 400k Rolls Royce have been caught on camera shooting at their opps. But anywhere, any hood as long as you don't join gangs, or mess with people, people won't mess with you. Treat people with love and respect and Chicago will give you more love and respect back

[@erikberry6408]

​@hyemuhyemu8221 Lmao...are you dumb?? Go underneath viaducts or go to the lakefront for tents...South and West sides don't have that shit because why would homeless live in some ghetto ass black neighborhood when they could live in or near a rich white one???? Duh

[@imperialmotoring3789]

Wander into one of the many neighborhoods taken over by the illegals (like mine). You will see a lot of litter and latinx gang graffiti.

[@jasper-cg]

This kind of angle or style of coverage which doesn't surface itself on the first look of any place, is becoming a signature of Peter's videos. Kudos for that!

[@morganjacobus]

I moved to downtown Chicago two years ago and love the city. It's got it's problems, but there is much to be thankful for. However, every time I hear about the parking deal it makes my blood boil. Perfect example of shortsighted leaders pursuing quick fixes for complex problems, profiting off their insufficient solutions, and kicking the crisis down the road for the next generation. Wish I could have seen you while you were in Chicago, Peter. Thank you for hard work and thoughtful videos!

[@josephcurran231]

Parking prices in these cities are a money grab for politicians ,they don't have to even lift a finger. They pay an attendant 13.00 an hour to do their stealing for them .

[@louskunt9798]

Wow! I think you’re the first person I’ve heard of that actually moved INTO Chicago in the last few years. Everyone and their brother, including a lot of massive corporate headquarters and other storefronts have fled the city and numerous more continue to do so due to the train wreck that Chicago has become. It’s a real shame, but it has gotten so bad. Most folks have learned that nothing will ever pulled that city out of the dump. Very unfortunate. I certainly wish you the very best and hope you have a better experience there than 100% of the rest of the citizens have had.✌️

[@Jo-li5ht]

@@louskunt9798 this is straight up hyperbole!

[@iwouldliketoorderanumber1b79]

Your a true Chicagoan now someone que Frank Sinatra’s “Chicago”.

[@morganjacobus]

@@louskunt9798 We get that a bit! haha We do know a decent amount of people who moved to the city from other parts of the country after the pandemic. Typically young professionals coming for work. It's not as much of a train wreck as its depicted in the media, but we've also grown used to that too

[@donnakrosp3734]

Your Chicago series is so interesting & informative!! Just WOW!! Thanks, Peter!!

[@lmzkot5175]

My favorite episode so far! Born and raised here. Love this place for what it was and all the great memories but can’t wait to get out!

[@Drew-C-]

This interview was amazing. I was so intrigued by everything that was discussed here. Bravo

[@MarktYertd]

"Indeed, if one can get items/things from stores without facing consequences in chícago. this means the level of corruption within that environment."

[@benitzers8858]

yes

[@sempi8159]

There is an underlying problem, people dont just steal for fun...

[@zanedietlin7645]

WOW! Those finishing words from this gentleman. That left a mark. So well spoken, so impressive. Thanks Peter!

[@Howrider65]

I know some small towns in Florida that are corrupt. I think you can find this in most all states. And getting rid of Meigs field was a crime.

[@tony_5156]

True however sone are 100% worse than others Chicago is called chiraq for a reason

[@libfab1]

I've know for years that Chicago has some issues, but man. The recent videos that you're putting out about Chicago are eyeopening.. Now it makes sense.

[@Jay-gz6mv]

This guy was a great guide for the city. Very informative and easy to understand

[@JesseGordon-sz3xj]

He really had to put things in laymans terms for us. That was probably his biggest challenge aside from walking and talking without a script or teleprompter telling him what to say.

[@Donillini]

He’s actually pretty terrible.

[@VickyG442]

​@@Donillinimaybe he can interview you and you can show us how it's done.

[@tel5690]

Born in shuamberg Illinois and lived in Chicago in the late 70's and early 80's and left 1981-82 Never came back. No reason to ever The Megs Field airport shutdown is real truth..corruption at its best Extremely informative video.

[@oc2173]

Peter you sneaky snake! can't believe you stopped by my neighborhood. I would definitely suggest a circle tour around the rings outside of chicago's downtown to really see the changes and diversity of the city by neighborhood.

[@MrBowNaxe]

What a great start to what I can only imagine is going to be an another amazing series! I saw the teaser yesterday when I stopped for gas coming home from Arizona and I couldn't drive fast enough to get home to watch the video. I know many have said it before but, I can't sing your praises enough... Peter you're stories are awesome and the people you get to help fill the rest of us in on them is nothing short of brilliant! Thank you so much for sharing and I can't wait to see what's next.

[@PeterSantenello]

Thanks you so much! I was lucky to find Benjamin.

[@JaneDoe-rc3rz]

Peter, I so appreciate all you do! Thank you for OPENING UP AMERICA TO US ALL!❤

[@haydenbarker5049]

Am here at the Irish pub in the video ! Really loved your commentary and really enjoying this city. Thank you Peter (and team) for all the creations so far. I continue to follow you with interest. If you're ever in Toronto feel free to make contact.

[@Scott-dp3lu]

Sure you are

[@wtk6069]

Peter, I love how you can use your channel's same basic format so creatively to accomplish very different goals depending on the story told by the locals. Your episodes can be a simple travelog or, as in this case, something potentially much deeper. It would be amazing if a grassroots movement to finally reform Chicago corruption could come out of it, the kind of viral effect like we've seen changing Titus' life. It probably won't happen because there's so much baked-in corruption, but just maybe your work can move the needle a bit in the right direction.

[@imperialmotoring3789]

Voting out every Democrat is the answer.

[@macdonnell.damien22]

Any movement that starts in Chicago will get hijacked by dirty politicians and local corporations. That's the way it works here; I hate it personally but I'm also not from here so I haven't been here long enough to act like it's normal.

[@ASH-xt8uh]

Me too

[@Rhino12]

Peter always finds the coolest people to provide insight!

[@lhead7226]

As someone who moved to Illinois 20 years ago I figured out really quickly that 1) politicians don't retire they are indicted 2) Alderman seats are passed down by generations, like a king on a throne 3) Illinois is the only state with a huge pension problem, but at the same time it allows their retirees to move to other states and collect a pension while working in the other state. They allow people to retire at 55 based on their last years wages, even if they didn't work that higher paying job their entire job history. As an example, a 54 year old school teacher moves up to principal their last year at the school and their wages increased from $70,000 to $150,000, their retirement is based on the $150,000 pay, they retire the next year and then they move to Arizona where they become a school teacher and work another 20 years and then retire. They will be paid retirement from Illinois while working that last 20 years and then collect a second retirement for the second state as well. I could go into the corruption and kickbacks, but honestly it's almost to crazy to believe.

[@bglk2310]

Here in CT it is just as bad. Corrupt politicians promising the world to state worker unions, they also are allowed to play the same games. Strange how once they get that golden parachute they move out where it is cheaper to live.

[@katydid147]

Ha! Some of your points are wrong, and also this video is about Chicago.

[@RDrakeSans1]

Teachers, as a whole, are not paid what their worth truly is to society, the fabric of the country, working families, and the public at large. What you're describing is a poor argument against what should be considered a venerated profession. I'd suggest you may want to look into the teaching profession as a whole across this country before you make a summary judgement against what may be possible, but is, in fact, a rarity in Illinois. Educators should be put on the same pedestal as doctors, and are more often treated as glorified babysitters for our children.

[@lhead7226]

@@katydid147 can you point out what was wrong?

[@sharoncochran8508]

WOW!

[@luckyguy600]

Good video. Well done and your guests Benjamin Barr & his lovely wife explained things about Chicago very distinctly. I am a Canadian,& have had two pleasant visits to Chicago enjoying the waterfront museums.

[@David-sw2rj]

This attorney is highly intelligent and knowledgeable. Jesus. What an eye opener about Chicago's messy history, politics, etc.

[@durpdurp0257]

He has great awareness as well

[@dblissmn]

I'd like some political balance here. Barr is the Republican lawyer who defended the egregiously corrupt Tom DeLay from money laundering charges on a frankly rather technical first amendment argument that drastically narrows the ability to prosecute corruption. This long platform for Barr is a massive fail compared to a typical video on this channel, and even compared to some of the positive points made about Chicago aside from Barr.

[@iwouldliketoorderanumber1b79]

He also deals with facts and evidence like your suppose too.

[@tustak]

I actually think he had quite weak/minor arguments ...

[@deziking]

Learned a lot from this video Thank you to Peter man. This is truly amazing journalist. I don't think people who live in chicago knows anything about this. Sad.

[@Dani-Innit]

I sit (in stunned silence) watching this in Rogers Park. This city is home but the corruption is so deep! I thought knew how deep the corruption ran but oh i was so naive. 😢

[@floristkurt3052]

I live here in Chicago and man is this guy speaking the truth. I am awed by this mans' corruption-hating mindset. It is tough believing that EVERYONE is in on this scam in Chicago, but we can fight it.

[@brayhill]

Yup. I tried to keep my company in Chicago. Rather than help me, the alderman for the ward where I was looking shook me down.

[@Kinesiology411]

No, you can't. It's not just Chicago, it starts in DC and aside from a war there's no changing it, and we all know that won't happen.

[@brayhill]

@phish311 I can't figure out if you are illiterate or part of the system. Anger at being shaken down for a bribe makes me "gimme gimme"?

[@sillyme8185]

Yep, we sure can. And working on it.

[@floristkurt3052]

@@brayhill sorry for the late reply. Get in touch with this lawyer in the video on how to get back out here. There is Money out here in Chicago. From the neighborhoods to downtown. Its there, you just have to get it. These politicians are the true welfare queens out here trying to get something out of nothing. I cannot see what Phish311 wrote, perhaps they blocked me? My count says 4 replies but I cannot see. Maybe they are trying to snake the comment section.

[@mieuxdisante]

"The Arc of the Universe bends towards Justice." Wow, what a beautiful episode. Thank you for the good work, Peter. Best regards from Vienna, Austria, Europe. Cheers, M.

[@djmattplay]

I lived in Chicago for 15 years. The first few years was in Lincoln Park, and all of the rest of the years were downtown in different areas of river north. My first 13 years, I never witnessed gunfire or personally knew anybody who was robbed or car jacked. From 2020 thru fall 2022, I witnessed gunfire three times, I followed the stories of all three. Four people were shot, and one was fatal. I had a friend who was carjacked at gunpoint. I had two friends who were robbed at gunpoint. And knew of another acquaintance who was randomly attacked with a knife. All of the sudden things were hitting very close to home while all of my costs and living situation’s were significantly increasing in cost, while getting significantly worse in terms of living comfort and convenience. Being originally born in Pontiac, Michigan outside of Detroit. Although I only live there as a very young child, I bought a house near family and moved back. The comfort convenience in my life has gone up significantly while my costs have gone down significantly. I do miss a lot about Chicago, my network of industry friends and the excitement of the city, but I chose just to be a hop, skip and a jump away from a visit, instead of living in it.

[@deepwaters9300]

Same. I'm getting my place ready to sell. (pray for me even if you are not religious) I lived downtown off of Michigan at Huron for the first few years and then bought a place near DePaul in Lincoln Park. When I lived downtown I walked everywhere no problem. I walked from the Lyric Opera House at midnight to Michigan. I watched my back but I was completely safe. I roamed all over the place and always felt safe. Lincoln Park I took the subway and L back and forth downtown no problem. I even walked sometimes.Had Vallas been elected I would have stayed. Didn't see this new Mayor coming at all. People used to be smarter than this and would vote for someone more opposite than the previous Mayor. Well, they chose someone worse. The homeless guy in the other video called this Mayor a bum. You know it's bad. On top of that, be happy you got out, the pollution has turned very bad in Chicago. It smells like burnt rubber. I did some research and it turns out the cement factories are burning plastics as fuel. I can't be there for more than 24 hours without getting very sick. I'm getting my place ready to sell from outside the state. Crazy and sad.

[@michaelanthony4750]

Better not vote the same.

[@gloworms]

Been downtown for 10 years. Completely agree.

[@djmattplay]

@@michaelanthony4750 I voted against what won every time.

[@michaelanthony4750]

@@djmattplay good

[@bartlevenson7851]

On of your best, if not the best videos. Great you are moving in the direction of interviewing great people who know what their talking about, as opposed to some youtubers who just run around with a jiggly camera and never speak to anyone. These will remain unnamed, but other viewers should catch my drift, here.

[@albatrossfm]

This was interesting to see as someone who moved to Chicago like 5 years ago. I understand there’s only so much time in the world to make these videos but would have been cool to see you explore the city beyond the Loop and Lakefront. So much awesome culture away from the city center!

[@albatrossfm]

Not West Loop tho. West Loop sucks 🫡

[@flygirl2b]

He usually does a series of videos on each area - his wife is probably still editing the next few videos on Chicago.

[@anon-r9q1111]

he has more chicago videos coming. he does them in a week's visit and releases them in the future. he uploads every saturday so most likely next week will be about another side of the city

[@JesseGordon-sz3xj]

He has a first impressions video of Chicago that is great.

[@VickyG442]

​@@JesseGordon-sz3xjoh I'll have to go find it.

[@mickeylee2624]

Loved the very educational knowledge and wisdom shared by Ben!!👏👏👏 The past 5 years have shown the bubbling up of the extremes of "Safety-ism" to the point where perceived danger has been used to justify the complete suppression of basic freedoms to the detriment--DISPROPORTIONATELY to those of "marginalized" communities for whom the same Virtue Signaling claim to support while pushing said Safety-ism.

[@SammyTheSituation]

Thanks Peter. I love content like this.. I love how you reach out to locals and how they reach out to you to have open, honest conversations about how they live where they are. Fascinating. You give tourism a whole new paradigm well beyond the standard sight-seeing and amusements.

[@RancidRobott]

Any council member or politician, in Chicago, with any kind of intelligence should realize how important people like this man and his wife are for the city, also the sheer volume of views this platform has the ability to be seen and the fact they are smart enough to use that to bring some awareness about the issues going on in their city(thanx to Peter)…Badass

[@cruzin54321]

This dude needs security. I’m worried for his safety.

[@HisShadowX]

The museum of science and industry is hands down the best museum in the country and the biggest. It’s in Hyde park in Chicago and wonderful

[@nancynelson5411]

It’s the only building left from the world’s fair…

[@HisShadowX]

@@nancynelson5411 Yes, if you're ever down there, walk out into the park. It's no longer hidden since the Californians sort of took over that neighborhood, but there's a Japanese garden there on an island and it's wonderful.

[@jefftucker9225]

I haven't been there in a long time, do they still have the Germany U-boat on display?

[@HisShadowX]

@@jefftucker9225 Yes it’s still a very small part to a large museum :)

[@gurkamalkaur3207]

Please continue to produce these informative videos. Definitely sharing them with friends. I appreciate your work.

[@johnrowlette7430]

Another great video Peter. I spent my entire career working in downtown Chicago. It is a beautiful city. It has gorgeous architecture, vibrant music, iconic neighborhoods, and food. Mr Barr mentioned it, he loves the Midwestern people. This is very true. You have a ton of very hard-working people. The "Grabowski's" was a term used to describe the workers. It refers to a blue-collar type who is tough and hard-working. But Peter, most of these jobs are gone. The City of Chicago has forced many small businesses out because of taxes. And along with them big companies like Boeing, Caterpillar, Tyson Foods, Citadel, and TTX. Next on the docket is McDonalds and The Chicago Mercantile Exchange. The City can not keep raising taxes, that's not the answer. They need to get their financial situation in order. This is a tall order and its so politically corrupt, I am not sure it could ever be done. What is going to happen when they turn all the empty office space into low income housing? I cringe at the thought but it is coming.

[@PeteQuad]

What I never understand with these big cities is the total negation of economies of scale. In the private sector, as there are more units of anything, it becomes cheaper per unit for the associated cost (service, manufacturing, operation, etc.). But in these cities, it seems the larger they get, the more money they need per person in taxes. This is across the board, including things like per student, per employee, per location, etc

[@1928zxcv]

Your not wrong by any means and I’m not saying it’s perfect , just offering to balance the information: “The Chicago area set a record for corporate relocations and expansions in 2021, according to Site Selection magazine, making it the top metropolitan area in the United States for investment for the ninth consecutive year.” -TMG real estate advisors … for every company that moved out, we get some that move in or expand here (those are hidden , page 15 , news stories, relegated to industry publications , not mainstream news). Boeing left because their sweetheart deal that Daley gave them was up. They were gonna leave no matter what. The former Allstate Insurance campus is being redeveloped and already has new tenants. Griffin certainly had his own reasons but Citadel employees were also bugging leadership to move elsewhere. Miami is appealing to younger single professionals for a lot of reasons …. to your point , CME leaving would be a MAJOR blow no question about it. Manufacturing is not on decline here either

[@Gobbldeegoo1]

Writes out that entire story just to conclude that he doesn’t want affordable housing for people 😂 What a piece of 💩…

[@johnrowlette7430]

@@1928zxcv I actually sold products designed for the IMA. Illinois Manufacturers Association. I would say that the number of manufacturing companies has declined by 50-60 plus percent over the last 30 years.

[@MrMlbfan6]

@@PeteQuadcorruption is the issue lowkey

[@samuelfink4799]

Your content is better than anything on tv or Netflix by far.

[@North-of-the-49th]

This is a true statement. 👍

[@Woketard]

Because he reports the truth. This isn't "woke." Wokies non-stop lie.

[@tamaramcgrath3327]

I don’t even watch those at all ever anymore. This is true journalism

[@randyward2766]

Very enlightening. I've always heard that Chicago is corrupt but never knew more than that. So interesting to hear the particulars.

[@dt6822]

Another Brother applying the Way. May Providence bless you and may you have long years and many joys

[@arnovan2010]

Peter thanks again for doing a series in Chicago. I grew up in Chicago in the 60's 70's and 80''s. A lot of what was discussed in this Video about the Alderman and their power is 100 percent true. I remember back in the 70's If I got any parking tickets, or needed our alley plowed in the Winter or anything else as all you would do is make a trip to the Alderman's office and they would take care of it for you in exchange for you voting for them or any other candidate that they wanted you to vote for. Basically the Alderman takes case of something for you and then you say what lever do you want me to pull at the polling place.

[@pab1381]

Here just to show you how awful and how hard Chicago and cook county officials/workers work, I’m on probation for felony drug possession. My probation officer is worthless. I had a meeting with her a couple weeks ago where I gave her ALL of my verification for community service and treatment and all that. I go to court this past Friday and the probation lady went up there and said she had no verification or anything. If I hadn’t given everything to my lawyer I would’ve looked so bad. Almost as if they do it on purpose.

[@evamccray6500]

They do, do it on purpose. It keeps a bunch of non-producers in a job. They are just skin suits, warm bodies no more no less.

[@KJ-lb4tj]

What does she, the probation officer have to gain? Or is she overwhelmed and chaotic?

[@micheleparker3780]

OMG; that's AWFUL - do they realize that their playing with people's LIVES?????😮

[@hendo337]

Probation officer belongs in jail

[@evamccray6500]

@@micheleparker3780 To a lot of those people it is nothing but a game. They just don't care. The justice system is Just Us. Everybody else are on their own. The "system," wins about every time. Since the prison system is run by private companies now they have to work overtime at keeping those prisons at least at capacity. Most they keep overcrowded. Then they build another prison. It is a racket.

[@EYES2seeEARS2hear78]

Thank you Peter and the attorney you spoke with. This is the reason I watch 1st amendment auditors like Long Island Audit. Exposing corruption by exercising 1st amendment protected right to record in public. Deeds done in darkness do not like to be exposed. Citizen journalists are more important than ever. Rights are like muscles, if you don’t exercise them, they go away.

[@maribelle9739]

Wow...what an amazing, intelligent, informative video...Thank you. Benjamin Barr is sincerely a man who is out to correct the injustice's of the corrupt underbelly of society. Go Get them!!!!