October 3, 2025

Harold

When Zohran Mamdani won the primary race for New York mayor, the Democratic establishment's lukewarm response echoed the treatment of another charismatic, unconventional candidate decades earlier. This week, we bring you the story of Harold Washington, the greatest politician you've probably never heard of, and the backlash that ensued when he became Chicago's first Black mayor.

View episode details

Hi. We love you. Be our Life Partner.

Support the show to get ad-free listening, bonus content, and our brand new Greatest Hits Archive – more than 250 favorite episodes hand-picked by Ira Glass.

Recently Aired

View archive

Visit our store for shirts, posters, tote bags, and more.

Shop now