The Chicago Bears leaving after 106 years isn’t the story.
The story is that it’s just another data point in a pattern that’s been playing out for years.
Businesses leave.
Residents leave.
Corporate headquarters leave.
Investment leaves.
Now even one of the most iconic sports franchises in America is looking elsewhere.
Chicago office vacancy is approaching 30%. Numerous downtown office buildings have lost 50%–70% of their value. Commercial real estate owners are handing keys back to lenders. Population growth trails 3rd world cities. Companies continue expanding in places like Texas, Florida, Tennessee, Indiana, and the Carolinas instead.
Yet every time someone points this out, we’re told not to notice.
We’re told it’s random.
We’re told it’s unrelated.
We’re told it’s everyone else’s fault.
At what point do we stop pretending these are isolated events?
If city and state leadership aren’t part of the problem, then what is?
Why are businesses choosing other states?
Why are employers moving investment elsewhere?
Why are residents voting with their feet?
Why is a franchise that’s been part of Chicago’s identity for more than a century now pursuing a stadium across the state line?
If Dem leadership isn’t responsible for these piss poor outcomes, then what exactly is? Haven’t heard a coherent argument yet. Waiting.
Here’s a Data point: Chicago is growing.