The Mincing Rascals this week are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Austin Berg of the Illinois Policy Institute, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ on WCIU, and political pundit Marj Halperin! This week, the Rascals start the podcast discussing the Mike Madigan trial. Why should people still be interested in the trial? Controversy continues to follow Pete Hegseth, president-elect Trump’s pick for defense secretary. Do the Rascals believe Hegseth will continue to be the nominee? Next, the Rascals talk about President Biden pardoning his son Hunter. What do the Rascals think of the pardon? Do the Rascals believe Hunter would have been pardoned if Kamala Harris won the election? And do the Rascals believe Trump will pardon the January 6th rioters? New Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke will implement new policies that she hopes will reduce violence. Were the Rascals encouraged by her plans? And finally, it’s recommendation* time! What are the Rascals eating, drinking, watching, reading, or listening to?

*The Mincing Rascals recommendations this week are: