Story perspectives

Chicago's Turbulent 2025: New Pope, Crime Concerns, Political Scandals

12/30/2025

Summary

Story summary

In 2025, Chicago welcomed a Chicago-born pope, Pope Leo XIV, and a new Bears head coach, Ben Johnson.
The year saw political turmoil with former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan convicted of corruption and immigration crackdowns under U.S. President Donald Trump.
Crime rates fell, though a mass shooting and Officer Krystal Rivera’s death drew concern.
Rising living costs and a contentious budget battle ended with Chicago avoiding a government shutdown.

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Story summary

In 2025, Chicago welcomed a Chicago-born pope, Pope Leo XIV, and a new Bears head coach, Ben Johnson.
The year saw political turmoil with former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan convicted of corruption and immigration crackdowns under U.S. President Donald Trump.
Crime rates fell, though a mass shooting and Officer Krystal Rivera’s death drew concern.
Rising living costs and a contentious budget battle ended with Chicago avoiding a government shutdown.