Mariah Woelfel covers city government at WBEZ. Before joining the City Hall beat in 2021, Mariah worked as a general assignment reporter and producer at the station, where she covered the creation of and start to Illinois’ multimillion dollar recreational cannabis industry, as well as the city and state’s healthcare systems during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to WBEZ, Mariah worked as a reporter, producer and All Things Considered host at WVIK, an NPR member station in western Illinois.
She grew up in Chicago and currently lives on the city’s West Side with her dog, Lola.
Mariah Woelfel
Reporter
Stories by Mariah Woelfel
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As Mayor Lori Lightfoot runs again, a look at who’s backing her and who’s looking elsewhere
As Lightfoot faces a crowded field for reelection, previous supporters are questioning whether they’ll vote for her again.
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Who is running for mayor of Chicago in 2023? Here’s the running list of candidates.
A crowded field of challengers are running against incumbent Mayor Lori Lightfoot for Chicago mayor in 2023.
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Chicago aldermen say the city needs a department of environment — not an office. But what’s the difference?
Smaller and with less of a budget than many city departments, Lightfoot’s new climate office lacks enforcement power most of all, detractors say.
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Chuy García begins new bid for Chicago mayor by citing his work with Harold Washington
To stand out from the crowded field in February’s election, U.S. Rep. Chuy García spoke of his time working with Chicago’s first Black mayor.
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Chicago aldermen approved a new city budget. Here’s what it means for you.
Chicago aldermen approved a $16.4 billion spending plan on Monday that keeps the property tax rate flat and increases police spending.
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City Council delivers a major check on Lightfoot’s power
Members of City Council clashed with the mayor and voted down her appointment to lead the city’s education committee.
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Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson says he is running for Chicago mayor
Johnson joins a crowded field of candidates looking to unseat Mayor Lori Lightfoot, and has the backing of some progressive groups including the Chicago Teachers Union.
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Chicago City Council members wrap up budget hearings, look toward vote
Aldermen spent the last two weeks grilling department leaders about their spending priorities. A vote on the budget is scheduled for early November.
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How a reduction in Chicago precincts may affect voters this election season
Some Chicago aldermen fear a reduction in voting precincts across the city will lead to voter suppression.
These are the weirdest complaints heard at the Chicago Animal Care and Control hearing
Aldermen field a lot of calls about animals, and not just dogs and cats.
