Congress tries to save AM radio as automakers threaten to pull the plug. Chicago listeners may have a lot riding on the outcome

When Ford announced it would stop installing AM radios in its vehicles this spring, it generated so much static among station owners, listeners and legislators that the automaker quickly reversed course.

But with Tesla and a growing number of EV manufacturers banishing the original car radio from their high-tech digital dashboards and into the audio graveyard occupied by eight-track players and CD changers, a Congressional subcommittee Tuesday began debating the merits of proposed legislation to make AM receivers standard equipment in all new vehicles.

In Chicago, where AM stations including WGN, WBBM, WLS and WSCR still command nearly half of radio listenership, there may be a lot riding on the outcome.

“It’s an issue for the listeners, because you should be able to choose how you want to get your content,” said Mary Sandberg Boyle, a veteran radio executive who became the first