New GDP numbers show U.S. economy grew faster than expected last quarter
The latest Commerce Department report shows the U.S. economy grew 4.3% in the third quarter, beating expectations as officials and analysts debate whether the momentum can last.
Student loan borrowers in default face wage garnishment starting Jan. 7
The Department of Education will begin garnishing wages from borrowers who have defaulted on federal student loans starting in early January.
Stimulus payment December 2025, IRS direct deposit relief payment & tariff dividend fact check
Hold off on that purchase! Online rumors of new stimulus checks by year’s end are out there.
Leaving cookies, milk, and carrots for Santa and his reindeer now costs over $8, study finds
Before children around the world get ready for a good night’s sleep on Christmas Eve, they’ll leave out cookies, milk, and carrots for Santa and his reindeer.
Powerball jackpot spikes to $1.7 billion for Christmas Eve drawing
After there was no big winner in last night's drawing, the Powerball jackpot for the upcoming drawing will be one of the largest in lottery history.
Paramount–Skydance boosts hostile Warner Bros. Discovery bid with $40.4 billion equity financing guarantee
Paramount Skydance hasn’t given up on acquiring Warner Bros.
Most Americans say they don’t plan year-end charitable giving, poll finds
Most Americans are not planning additional charitable donations before the end of 2025, according to a new AP-NORC poll.
President Trump defends economy, blames predecessor in national address
Political science professor Stephen Maynard Caliendo weighs in on President Trump’s prime-time address, examining its tone, timing and what the president hoped to accomplish as economic concerns and unemployment rise.
Powerball jackpot surges to $1.5 billion ahead of Saturday's drawing
The huge cash prize is up for grabs again after no ticket matched all the winning numbers in Wednesday night's drawing.
Delayed November jobs report shows US added 64K jobs but lost 105K in October
The Labor Department jobs report released Tuesday shows U.S. employers added 64,000 jobs in November but lost 105,000 in October. The reports for both months were delayed due to the 43-day federal government shutdown.
Powerball jackpot soars to $1.25 billion for Wednesday's drawing
The cash prize continues to grow after no lottery player matched all of the winning numbers in Monday night's drawing.
Pastors demand relief as Cook County property tax deadline hits homeowners hard
With the second Cook County property tax payment due Monday, pastors and civil rights leaders are calling for a 60-day extension, penalty freeze, and rollback of sharp increases hitting West and South Side homeowners.
What shoppers should know before buying and returning gifts | ChicagoNOW
Consumer expert Pattie Ehsaei explains how tighter return windows, restocking fees and stricter receipt and packaging rules could affect shoppers during the busy holiday return season. | ChicagoNOW is a fast-paced, conversational show that spotlights what’s trending in and around Chicago.
Indiana Senate rejects Trump's redistricting effort
Indiana shot down President Donald Trump's redistricting plan. Now, the state might lose federal money.
Sports betting is delivering major cash for states — see what states are cashing in
Several states have seen huge tax revenues from sports betting, according to a recent analysis.
Illinois gas customers brace for rising winter heating bills as watchdogs sound alarm | ChicagoLIVE
Consumer advocates warn that escalating supply costs and repeated utility rate hikes are creating a “double whammy” for Illinois households, urging residents to stay informed, avoid risky gas deals, and seek help when bills spike.
Trump admin touts economic outlook for 2026
The White House projects lower inflation and steady jobs ahead while debates over interest rates and healthcare affordability intensify in Washington.
Trump's management of the economy hits its lowest point, poll finds
A new poll is showing declines in Trump’s economic and immigration approval. Here’s what we know.
Powerball jackpot surges to $1 billion for Saturday's drawing
Lottery players will have another chance to win this huge cash prize after no ticket matched all the winning numbers from Wednesday night's drawing.
Budget battle continues at City Hall | The Chicago Report
The city budget standoff intensifies. Will they get a deal before the holidays, or risk an unprecedented Chicago shutdown?