Elected judges are rarely voted out of office. Here’s why.
In Cook County, elected judges are seldom voted out of office — even when they have controversial records.

WBEZ’s Curious City series is an ongoing news experiment at WBEZ, online and on the radio dial around Chicago at 91.5 FM. Our mission is to include the public in editorial decision-making, make journalism more transparent and strengthen multimedia coverage about Chicago, the surrounding region and its people (past or present).
Curious City airs on Thursdays during All Things Considered on WBEZ
In Cook County, elected judges are seldom voted out of office — even when they have controversial records.
For over a century, the Polish community has celebrated Polish unity at the annual parade. This year, they’re showing support for Ukraine.
West Nile virus infections soared in Illinois in the early 2000s, including among crows. Tracking the birds can help keep humans safe.
The battle in Chicago helped give momentum to a nationwide fight for legislation to protect people with disabilities.
Chicago Symphony Orchestra musicians Oto Carrillo and Diane Mues talk about how playing in a local youth orchestra shaped their lives and careers.
Five teens talk about whether stereotypes affect their relationships and how schools can help students from different backgrounds relate.
How can I get reimbursed by the city when a pothole damages my tires? And why does Chicago pave roads with asphalt, anyway?
Between 1968 and 1974, the Free Theater made experimental theater available to all. What happened to its legacy?
How do giveaways work? Why do people give during pledge drives in the first place? We answer some common questions about membership drives.
Joy Morton and his salt company didn’t just dominate the salt industry. They helped create the city as we know it.