You can listen to the latest Power Poll podcast here.

We asked our Power Pollers what’s on their spring to-do list and while they were at it, we got their take on electric vehicles, who’d they like to bring to dinner, and those tariffs.

Which suggestion below would you prefer to enjoy the city’s outdoor revival?

• 5% to catch the Art on the MART projections. The world’s largest digital art projection returns in spring, lighting up the Merchandise Mart’s massive façade.
• 11% stroll through Jackson Park’s cherry blossoms. For a brief window, the Japanese garden in Jackson Park bursts into delicate pink blooms, making it one of the most serene spots in the city.
• 15% see the tulips on Michigan Avenue. The Magnificent Mile transforms into a colorful spectacle with thousands of tulips stretching from Oak Street to Roosevelt Road.
• 27% take a boat cruise. Whether it’s an architecture tour or a speedboat ride. Seeing the skyline from the water is a quintessential Chicago Spring experience.
• 42% dine on a waterfront patio. The Riverwalk and Lake Michigan’s shoreline come alive with outdoor seating, perfect for soaking up the fresh air while enjoying a meal.

Where are Chicagoans moving – and what’s most surprising?

Lately, a lot of people have been moving out of Chicago for various reasons. So, we asked: which destination surprised you the most as a place Chicagoans are moving to?

• 39% St. Louis MO- Another Midwest option with a lower cost of living.
• 25% Indianapolis, IN – A Midwest city with a slower pace and lower housing costs.
• 17% Milwaukee, WI – A close and affordable option with a strong job market.
• 10% Atlanta, GA – A growing metro area with a lower cost of living than Chicago.
• 8% Houston, TX – A booming economy and no state income tax make it attractive.
• 1% Phoenix, AZ – Many Chicagoans seek out the warm weather and lower taxes.

Electric Vehicles in 2025?

The method of transportation people may use to move to the previously listed locations is another topic we seek Chicago’s input on. Nationwide, electric vehicle (EV) sales are up 15% with over 365,000 EV’s sold in the third quarter of 2024. Tesla’s market share has been shrinking as General Motors and Ford gain ground. What do the Power Pollers think about EV’s?

Do you own and/or would you consider buying an EV in 2025?

• 64% Not interested in an EV.
• 17% I am considering purchasing an EV.
• 14% I already own an EV.
• 5% I am considering leasing an EV.

It seems that many Chicagoans are not quite ready to make the transition to fully-electric vehicles.

Dinner with a notable Illinoisan – who’s your pick?

This month we offered a table of Illinois heavyweights – past and present- and asked our pollers who they would want to have dinner with.

• 34% Governor JB Pritzker
• 23% Former Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley
• 12% Former House Speaker Michael Madigan
• 8% Former Gov. Rod Blagojevich
• 7% of State Alexi Giannoulias
• 4% Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot
• 3% Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle
• 3% Comptroller Susana Mendoza
• 3% Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton
• 2% Mayor Brandon Johnson
• 1% Former State’s Atty. Kim Foxx

President Trump’s New Tariffs: Good or bad?

President Trump recently announced the so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs and they have sparked serious debates around the nation. Some argue that these measures could protect American industries and jobs, while others worry about the risk of escalating trade tensions and economic uncertainty.

We asked the Power Pollers: What’s your take?

• 63% I do not agree with the tariffs.
• 20% It is too early to tell.
• 15% I agree with the tariffs.
• 2% I don’t have an opinion.

Final Thoughts: What This Month’s Poll Says About Chicago

Chicagoans are embracing the change in season while remaining skeptical of new tech and current Presidential policies.

Until next month’s Power Poll, keep your patios sunny and root for your favorite Chicago baseball team.

Note: The Serafin Power Poll isn’t a scientific survey, but like Chicago weather, it gives you a pretty good idea of which way the wind is blowing. The poll represents the views of regional decision-makers and thought leaders in the Chicago metropolitan area.