Episodes

6h ago

The Mamdani Administration announces an inauguration block party, Governor Kathy Hochul signs a bill to increase state prison oversight and a roundup of New Yorkers’ tips for staying in budget this year.

3d ago

Pope Leo XIV has named Joliet, Illinois Bishop Ron Hicks to replace Archbishop Timothy Dolan at the Archdiocese of New York. Plus, a long lost piece of music and its unlikely journey to an East Village record store.

4d ago

New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams is looking back on Mayor Eric Adams' administration as an era of embarrassment and missed opportunities.

5d ago

One of Mayor Eric Adams’ most lasting legacies might not be a drop in crime or the corruption scandals that plagued City Hall under his watch. It’s that he started to get mountains of trash bags off the sidewalks and into containers. Plus, bird lovers and scientists unite for the annual Christmas bird count.

6d ago

Federal immigration officers entered private areas of New York City shelters without presenting judicial warrants at least five times this year, according to official incident reports. Plus, an official document from 1674 confirms that Zohran Mamdani should be sworn in as the 112th mayor of New York City, not the 111th.

Dec 15

The New York State Gaming Commission has officially approved three full-scale commercial casino licenses for sites in Queens and the Bronx. Plus, how much are New Yorkers paying for Christmas trees these days?

Dec 12

Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos is making her case to keep the top job overseeing the nation’s largest school system. Meanwhile, Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani says he’s still interviewing candidates to be part of his new administration at City Hall next month.

Dec 11

Outgoing New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has a lengthy to-do list before he leaves office next month. Plus, a new study shows that congestion pricing has significantly decreased air pollution in New York City and the surrounding region.

Dec 10

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman will face Representative Elise Stefanik for the GOP’s ballot line for next year’s gubernatorial election. Plus, a storied leftist university faces a $48 million deficit amid planned layoffs.

Dec 9

Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani announced that he and his wife Rama will be moving into Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the New York City mayor. He cited security concerns as motivation for the decision. Plus, a police department in upstate New York is sending social service case workers to some 911 calls.

Dec 8

Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani says he and his wife will move into Gracie Mansion after his January inauguration, leaving their rent-stabilized Astoria apartment for security reasons. Meanwhile, the F and M lines have swapped East River tunnels, causing significant delays on the F line after a switch failure at 53rd Street. Mamdani is also issuing a new Know Your Rights message in response to recent ICE activity. In Manhattan, a progressive public school long known by the acronym ICE is rebranding because of the political climate. And finally, with the MetroCard set to disappear, New Yorkers are finding creative ways to repurpose their old cards.

Dec 5

Janae talks with WNYC’s Brian Lehrer about 5 things going on in New York City news.

Dec 4

Sen. Zellnor Myrie has introduced legislation that will impose consistent standards on foreclosure auction sales after an investigation by WNYC and New York Focus. Plus, immigrants who want to become a U.S. citizen will face a higher hurdle next year: a harder citizenship exam.

Dec 3

An investigation by WNYC and New York Focus found lenders are using a disputed method of calculating debts in thousands of foreclosures and taking money from hundreds of former homeowners.

Dec 2

A New York state government committee recommended Monday that three downstate casino projects — one in the Bronx and two in Queens — be awarded casino gaming licenses. Plus, the future of a historic, crumbling church building on the Upper West Side will be determined next week.

Dec 1

A Staten Island lawmaker wants drivers in his borough exempted from New York City’s right-on-red ban. Meanwhile, New York City Councilmember Julie Menin says she’s secured enough votes to be the Council’s next Speaker.

Nov 28

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman says he is installing surveillance along the Long Island and Queens border after Zohran Mamdani’s election as New York City mayor. Meanwhile in New Jersey, two sisters died in a Thanksgiving Day house fire while helping their father escape. Also, New York City is asking volunteers to help review archival records that document the region’s history of slavery from the seventeen hundreds through eighteen thirty eight. Finally, Columbia University historian Kim Phillips Fein explains the long history of socialist ideas in New York City and how that past shapes the debate around Mayor elect Mamdani’s policy proposals.

Nov 27

Time is running out for the city to stay on schedule with its plan to demolish part of a public housing complex in Chelsea. Meanwhile, Downtown Manhattan has gone from “taco wasteland” to ‘taco revolution,” that’s according to food critic Robert Sietsema. He talks with WNYC’s David Furst and makes the argument that great tacos are now very much on the menu in the neighborhood.

Nov 26

New Yorkers across the boroughs are preparing for an expected crackdown by U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the city. Plus, the Criterion Channel is streaming a collection of family reunion movies this month including the indie classic “Pieces of April.”

Nov 25

Months into the first school year since New York banned smartphones in school, students are talking to each other more than they used to. Meanwhile, Gov. Phil Murphy wants New Jersey to pass similar legislation to ban cell phones in schools across the Garden State.

Nov 24

A federal judge has agreed to throw out a criminal mortgage fraud case against New York Attorney General Letitia James. Plus, a majority of tenants at a supportive housing unit in Far Rockaway have been sent to eviction court within the past two years.

Nov 21

Mayor elect Zohran Mamdani met with President Trump at the White House, where both described common ground on affordability and public safety. Meanwhile, New Jersey has set dates for the special election to fill governor elect Mikie Sherrill’s vacant House seat. Also, Penn Station’s future is back in the spotlight as federal planners court private sector support. Plus, we hear from the artist behind Mamdani’s signature campaign font.

Nov 20

Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani plans to meet with President Trump Friday in Washington DC following months of tension. Plus, Mayor Adams' office says New York City has reached its life expectancy goal of 83 years. And finally, a New York City education panel voted to give some of the largest school-bus companies a three-year contract extension. The extension comes as school bus horror stories persist.

Nov 19

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch accepts Mayor-elect Mamdani’s job offer in his new administration. The fight over the future of Elizabeth Street Garden is heading to court, and Coney Island polar bear plunge registration opens.

Nov 18

New York City’s Department of Transportation is installing public cabinets to charge e-bike batteries. The chair of the MTA says most riders are now using OMNY tap-to-pay. And new data says prison sexual abuse is being investigated faster

Nov 17

Young voters across New York City hit the polls in record numbers to elect Zohran Mamdani as the new mayor. But they didn’t lead him to victory alone.

Nov 14

Elected officials are asking for a trial in the killing of an unarmed man and a bill to ban horse drawn carriages is voted down. Meanwhile, the Studio Museum in Harlem reopens on November 15th., Also, New York City Mayor Eric Adams tries to influence Mayor-Elect Mamdani’s Policy, and a Brooklyn man is arrested for flying in a fan-powered plane.

Nov 14

New York Attorney General Letitia James says Albany’s top federal prosecutor does not have the authority to investigate her, arguing that interim U.S. Attorney John Sarcone was never properly installed and that subpoenas he issued should be thrown out. Meanwhile, Citi Field will host a first of its kind Dominican and Puerto Rican winter league all star baseball game. Also, New York is partnering with appliance maker Copper to develop 10,000 new 120 volt induction stoves for public housing.

Nov 13

The federal case against New Jersey Congressmember Lamonica McIver will proceed and a viral scale model of New York City is getting an official exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Street Garden is becoming a city park.

Nov 13

Two NYPD officers were injured in Washington Heights during an encounter with immigration agents and unionized Starbucks workers go on strike to disrupt Red Cup Day.

Nov 13

New York grocers say sales have dropped by as much as 25 percent as SNAP delays leave customers without funds, forcing stores to cut orders and mark down perishable goods. Meanwhile, the city’s health commissioner is urging New Yorkers to get flu, COVID and RSV vaccines amid a sharp rise in respiratory illnesses. And the state is investigating how a third party vendor sent a false Bank of America alert to nearly 200,000 text subscribers.

Nov 13

The Chair of the Civilian Complaint Review Board, which acts as an NYPD watchdog has submitted his resignation and a Queens Councilmember sounds an alarm on EBT theft. Meanwhile, tips for seasonal depression, and finally, Bronx Science students react to alum Mayor-elect Mamdani’s win.

Nov 12

Mayor Eric Adams has vetoed a bill that would block rent hikes for low-income tenants who use city housing vouchers, a policy his own administration introduced. Meanwhile, New York City street vendors will rally outside City Hall Wednesday with tacos, churros and samosas to push for legislation creating 10,000 new vending permits over the next five years. Plus, Bagelfest returns to Citi Field on Sunday with tastings, competitions and a new “growth lab” featuring up and coming bakers from across North America.

Nov 11

The Supreme Court is expected to decide today whether the Trump administration must comply with lower court orders to resume full SNAP payments as delayed food aid begins reaching residents across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Meanwhile, the FAA is expanding flight reductions to six percent nationwide amid a shortage of air traffic controllers caused by the ongoing government shutdown. Also, in New York City, Fifth Avenue is closing this afternoon for the Veterans Day Parade marking 250 years of the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. Plus, WNYC’s Hannah Frishberg reports from the Bronx’s Fulton Fish Market, where the sprawling cold-storage space has been transformed into one of the city’s most unexpected party venues.

Nov 10

New York City Mayor elect Zohran Mamdani has named his top deputies, including former de Blasio official Dean Fuleihan as first deputy mayor and longtime aide Elle Bisgaard Church as chief of staff. Meanwhile, the fate of Little Italy’s Elizabeth Street Garden remains uncertain as Mamdani signals plans to revive an affordable housing project there. Plus, WNYC’s Arun Venugopal looks at how moments from Mamdani’s victory speech, including his choice of a Bollywood anthem, reflect his South Asian heritage and message of unapologetic identity.

Nov 10

The Trump administration is asking the Supreme Court to block lower court rulings requiring full food aid payments during the government shutdown, as some tri-state residents begin receiving November SNAP benefits. Meanwhile, the Senate has taken its first step toward ending the shutdown after a divided procedural vote on compromise funding legislation. Also, the MTA is expanding automated bus lane enforcement to four more routes in Brooklyn and the Bronx, with warnings beginning Monday.

Nov 10

New York is moving ahead with distributing federal food assistance benefits despite the Trump administration’s order for states to halt SNAP payments during the shutdown. Meanwhile, there will be no trash, recycling, or compost pickup in the city Tuesday for Veterans Day. Also, the basketball world is mourning Brooklyn native and Hall of Famer Lenny Wilkens, who has died at 88. And in sports , the Jets notch their second straight win while the Giants fall to Chicago.

Nov 8

It’s fall in New York City and the fashion scene is in full swing. Teen Vogue style director Alyssa Hardy joins us to talk about the trends defining this season, from thrifting and sustainability to how New Yorkers can keep their looks fresh while staying mindful of affordability.

Nov 7

U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik launched her campaign for New York governor, making her the first Republican to enter the 2026 gubernatorial race. Plus, what Andrew Cuomo’s loss signals for his future and the future of political moderates in New York.

Nov 7

The Trump administration has asked a federal appeals court to block a judge’s order to distribute full November SNAP benefits during the federal shutdown. Meanwhile, the FAA will order airlines to cut flights by up to 15 percent starting Friday at 40 major airports, including JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, citing growing delays and controller shortages caused by the shutdown. Also, ICE is targeting NYPD officers with social media ads urging them to switch agencies. Plus, the FDNY says a discarded cigarette caused the Bronx car explosion that injured seven firefighters earlier this week. Finally, Film Forum wraps up its tribute to silent film historian Kevin Brownlow with sold out screenings of his restored 1927 epic “Napoleon.”

Nov 7

Governor Kathy Hochul is urging SUNY students to volunteer at food pantries as the federal shutdown nears 40 days and threatens food aid for millions of New Yorkers. Meanwhile, ICE is recruiting NYPD officers through social media ads promising higher pay and up to $50,000 in bonuses. Also, more New York City buses will start using cameras Monday to ticket drivers who block lanes, part of the MTA’s push for faster, safer service. Plus, in this week’s transit segment, a closer look at Mayor Elect Zohran Mamdani’s bus plan and how controversy around the planned Gateway tunnels may have helped Mikie Sherrill win the New Jersey governor’s race.

Nov 6

Bangladeshi voters in Brooklyn’s Kensington neighborhood helped propel Zohran Mamdani to the most powerful position in New York City. Meanwhile, a film shop in Chinatown has become an unlikely destination for portraits.

Nov 6

Police say a 27 year old woman was struck and killed by a wrong way driver in the West Village this morning. The driver stayed at the scene and has not been charged. Meanwhile, airlines including United and Delta are offering refunds as the FAA prepares to cut air traffic by 10 percent nationwide during the government shutdown. Officials will release the list of affected airports later today. Plus, Jersey City’s mayoral race is heading to a runoff next month between former Governor Jim McGreevey and Councilmember James Solomon. Ry Rivard from Politico joins us to talk about what’s next in the race.

Nov 6

Nassau County Republicans are celebrating after County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s 10 point reelection. Party Chair Joe Cairo says Cairo says Mamdani’s success gave his suburban candidates something to run against. Meanwhile, nearly 3,000 former city workers fired over the COVID vaccine mandate could soon return to work. Mayor Adams says the city will open a reinstatement window for those employees. Plus, the city’s Department of Records is holding a book sale Friday and Saturday from 10 to 4 at the Surrogate’s Courthouse in Lower Manhattan.

Nov 5

New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani names his transition team, speaking with WNYC’s Brigid Bergin about his early plans for office. Plus, as Mamdani prepares to take charge, WNYC’s David Brand looks back at Mayor Eric Adams’ housing record and the challenges the incoming administration will inherit.

Nov 5

Zohran Mamdani is the mayor elect of New York City. The 34 year old Democratic Socialist and immigrant from Uganda becomes the city’s first Muslim mayor after a grassroots campaign that energized young and working class voters. Meanwhile, Democrat Mikie Sherrill has been elected governor of New Jersey, defeating Republican Jack Ciattarelli in a closely watched race. And WNYC’s Brigid Bergin joins us to talk about Mamdani’s rise and what comes next for City Hall.

Nov 5

Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani has been elected New York City’s 111th mayor, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani becomes the city’s first Muslim mayor and its youngest in more than a century. Meanwhile, Cuomo says he’s proud of his supporters and remains skeptical of Mamdani’s agenda. In New Jersey, Democrat Mikie Sherrill has won the governor’s race, defeating Republican Jack Ciattarelli in a closely watched contest. Plus, enrollment in New York City public schools has dropped again, down 2.4 percent from last year. Finally, WNYC’s Nancy Solomon joins us to talk about Mikie Sherrill’s victory in New Jersey.

Nov 4

Early election numbers show more people voted in New York City than in total for many previous year elections. Meanwhile, state regulators say Kalshi has been operating an illegal betting operation but the company says it’s not a betting platform.

Nov 4

Polls are now open across New York and New Jersey as voters head out on Election Day. Meanwhile, there are strict rules about what’s allowed at polling sites and what voters can expect when they arrive. Plus, Timothy Hunter from NYC Votes joins us to talk about what to do if you encounter any issues while casting your ballot.

Nov 3

Voters are gearing up to hit the polls this Tuesday as New Yorkers decide who’s best to lead the largest city in America. Meanwhile, the Trump administration says it will only partially pay SNAP benefits this month due to the ongoing government shutdown. And finally, why all three mayoral candidates want to keep NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch as head of the department.

Nov 3

Polls are closed today after a nine-day stretch of early voting. Five times as many voters cast ballots this year compared to four years ago. Polls reopen tomorrow at 6 a.m. Meanwhile, the federal government shutdown is delaying food assistance for residents who rely on SNAP benefits. Officials in New Jersey say the impact may soon be felt across the state. Plus, Election Day is tomorrow and New Yorkers will elect a new mayor. Democrat Zohran Mamdani is running against independent Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. WNYC’s Elizabeth Kim joins us live from City Hall to talk about the final stretch of the race.

Nov 3

More than 735,000 New Yorkers voted early this year, over five times the turnout from 2021 as the city prepares for Election Day on Tuesday. Meanwhile, trash, recycling, and compost collection will be paused for Election Day in New York City. Plus, Saturday Night Live poked fun at the mayor’s race, parodying the final debate between Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa.

Nov 1

With Election Day just days away, we unpack how gentrification, race, and identity are shaping the mayoral contest. WNYC’s Elizabeth Kim reports that some Black New Yorkers are weighing the city’s changing politics and what real representation means for their communities.

Oct 31

With Election Day coming up Tuesday in New York and New Jersey, WNYC’s Brian Lehrer and Janae Pierre break down five key moments shaping the local races, from the hope versus fear dynamic guiding voters to unexpected alliances over affordable housing, a Trump era strategy unfolding in Passaic County, Curtis Sliwa’s surprising choices, and what grown up campaigns could learn from middle school elections.

Oct 31

Mayor Eric Adams is directing $15 million to community kitchens and food pantries ahead of Saturday’s cutoff for SNAP benefits, as the Trump administration halts November payments during the ongoing government shutdown. Meanwhile, City Comptroller Brad Lander says the NYPD is falling short on deadlines to release footage of police encounters. And in Harlem, the Harlem Family Institute is working to train psychoanalysts who understand how the lasting trauma of slavery continues to shape Black communities today, part of a broader conversation sparked by author Lee Hawkins at the Schomburg Center.

Oct 31

Food pantries across New York City are preparing for long lines as the Trump administration halts SNAP payments during the ongoing federal shutdown. Meanwhile, New York City’s three mayoral candidates say they’d keep Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch in her job if elected. Plus, a last-minute deal has averted a yellow school bus shutdown, ensuring buses keep running for roughly 150,000 students, including many with disabilities and those living in shelters.

Oct 30

Some major disruptions are coming to the nation’s food stamp program, and the results could be devastating not just for SNAP recipients but grocers too. Food retailers say more than half their sales rely on SNAP. Without those funds, they have to cut back on staff and products.

Oct 30

LaGuardia Airport is reporting inbound flight delays of more than an hour, with similar slowdowns at JFK and Newark, as air traffic controllers work without pay during the month-long federal shutdown. Meanwhile, the same shutdown is delaying New York State’s heating assistance program until at least November 17th, leaving low-income residents waiting for help. And early voting is underway in New York City, where WNYC’s David Brand breaks down a ballot proposal to digitize the city’s paper map archives.

Oct 30

A Brooklyn developer who donated campaign cash to Mayor Eric Adams’ 2021 run is getting control of a city-owned lot in Coney Island for a new housing project. Meanwhile, the federal shutdown is delaying heating assistance for low income New Yorkers until at least mid November. And New York City street vendors are urging the City Council to lift caps on vending licenses, saying current limits leave many at risk of immigration crackdowns.

Oct 29

New York City street vendors are calling on the city council to pass legislation that would remove limits on the number of licenses issued by the city. Meanwhile, more than 160,000 New Jerseyans have already cast their ballot in the hotly contested race for governor. And finally, mayoral hopeful Zohran Mamdani wants transit ambassadors to handle mental health calls instead of the NYPD.

Oct 29

More than 50,000 runners and a million spectators are expected at the New York City Marathon this Sunday, with police deploying thousands of officers to keep watch from the streets and the sky. Meanwhile, the National Weather Service is warning of strong winds up to 40 miles per hour across the region heading into Halloween weekend. Plus, in New Jersey, voters head to the polls Tuesday to pick a new governor in a tight race between Republican Jack Ciattarelli and Democrat Mikie Sherrill, with transit and education expected to top the new administration’s agenda. Bergen Record transportation reporter Colleen Wilson joins us to explain.

Oct 29

Attorney General Letitia James is suing the Trump administration to force it to continue food stamp payments despite the ongoing federal shutdown. Meanwhile, lawmakers in Albany are weighing a proposal to require graphic warning labels in city gun shops. Plus, a new report finds major disparities in affordable housing construction across New York City, with two Bronx districts producing more units than nearly 30 others combined.

Oct 28

Early voting is underway in New York City mayor and turnout has far exceeded previous election cycles. Meanwhile, the MTA says a major project to bring Metro North service to the East Bronx will be delayed by three years. And finally, New Yorkers get a say in the future of housing in New York City.

Oct 28

Governor Kathy Hochul says she’s exploring whether schools can send extra meals home to students if the federal shutdown disrupts food stamp benefits. Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani’s plan to freeze rents for stabilized tenants could face obstacles from the current administration. And new city data shows drug overdose deaths fell nearly 30 percent last year, with declines in every borough.

Oct 27

New Yorkers receiving food stamps are suing the Trump administration over changes to the program, known as SNAP. Plus, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries says affordability is a key reason why he’s endorsing Zohran Mamdani for mayor of New York City. Meanwhile, President Trump is backing Rep. Jack Ciattarelli in New Jersey’s governor’s race, calling him the right candidate to lower energy costs in the state. And finally, voters in Manhattan will be asked to select their pick for the borough's next district attorney on Election Day.

Oct 27

Early voting gets underway across New York City. Plus, the legendary Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been selected. And finally, a look at the long tradition of selling counterfeit luxury items in Lower Manhattan.

Oct 27

Federal housing funds could be at risk due to the government shutdown. Meanwhile, NY Attorney General Letitia James pleads not guilty to federal mortgage fraud charges. Finally, the City Council holds a hearing on how the Housing Authority is handling mold and leaks in NYC housing.

Oct 25

Child care in New York City can cost families as much as $30,000 a year, rivaling rent and pushing some parents to leave the city. WNYC’s Brigid Bergin talks with families in Brooklyn’s Ditmas Park about how affordability is shaping the mayoral race.

Oct 24

New York Governor Kathy Hochul says New York will use millions in state funds to keep Planned Parenthood clinics open to Medicaid patients after federal cuts. Meanwhile, starting this Friday, e-bike and scooter riders in New York City will have to follow a new 15 mile per hour speed limit. Plus, New Yorkers celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal. Finally, pear season is in full swing.

Oct 24

Attorney General Letitia James pleaded not guilty in Virginia today to federal charges brought by the Trump administration, setting up a high stakes political and legal fight between two longtime adversaries. Meanwhile, New York City voters will decide whether to move local elections to even-numbered years to coincide with presidential races and boost turnout. Also, WNYC’s Ryan Kailath reports on a new museum on the Lower East Side celebrating a century old technology first unveiled in New York City.

Oct 24

Attorney General Letitia James heads to court in Virginia this morning to face charges brought by the Trump administration. Meanwhile, the Port Authority plans a weekend emergency drill at the Harrison PATH station. Also, the FDNY is using artificial intelligence to spot brush fires faster. Plus, in this week’s transit segment, Mayor Eric Adams races to approve a Brooklyn Queens Expressway overhaul before leaving office.

Oct 23

Mayor Eric Adams, who called Andrew Cuomo a quote "snake and a liar" last month, now says he'll campaign with Cuomo in his bid for mayor. And finally, new sugar warnings are popping up on menus at chain restaurants across the five boroughs.

Oct 23

New York City Council leaders are condemning the Trump administration after federal agents detained several Canal Street vendors earlier this week. The Broadway musicians’ union has reached a tentative deal to avert a strike. and with early voting set to begin Saturday, the three candidates for mayor faced off in their final debate Wednesday night. WNYC’s Elizabeth Kim joins us for a recap.

Oct 23

New York City’s mayoral candidates sparred over whether freezing rents for stabilized apartments is realistic policy during last night’s debate, with Andrew Cuomo arguing it would hurt landlords’ ability to cover costs. Meanwhile, a new report from the state comptroller shows Wall Street profits jumped to $30 billion in the first half of the year, putting the industry on track for one of its strongest years ever. And Governor Kathy Hochul has vetoed a bill that would have required all 911 ambulances in New York City to have at least two certified responders, drawing criticism from the union representing EMTs and paramedics.

Oct 22

Federal immigration agents stormed Canal Street in Chinatown Tuesday, detaining several men and setting off spontaneous protests from bystanders. Homeland Security officials say the raid targeted counterfeit goods but the incident is reigniting debate over federal immigration enforcement in New York City. WNYC’s Karen Yi reports. Plus, Mayor Eric Adams says there’s finally a plan to fix “The Hole” a long neglected neighborhood straddling Brooklyn and Queens that’s been plagued for decades by flooding and poor infrastructure. WNYC’s Liam Quigley has the latest.

Oct 22

A Queens woman has been charged with abandoning her baby at Penn Station. Meanwhile, In the Bronx, the borough’s iconic Christmas House will stay dark again this holiday season. Also, a new poll shows the New Jersey governor’s race tightening between Mikie Sherrill and Jack Ciattarelli. And tonight at 7 live on WNYC, the three candidates for New York City mayor , Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa, face off in their final debate before Election Day. WNYC’s Brigid Bergin joins us to preview the debate.

Oct 22

Federal immigration agents detained several people in a dramatic morning raid on Canal Street in Chinatown, sparking confusion among vendors and bystanders. Meanwhile, WNYC co-hosts the final New York City mayoral debate Wednesday night, as Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa and independent candidate Andrew Cuomo look to close the gap against Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani. And upstate New Yorker Christopher Moynihan, who was pardoned by President Trump for his role in the January 6th insurrection, has been arrested and charged with threatening to kill House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Oct 21

School bus companies are warning they may stop service for 150,000 New York City students next month if emergency contracts with the Department of Education aren’t extended. Meanwhile, a new report shows a record 154,000 students in the city experienced homelessness during the last school year WNYC’s Jessica Gould has the latest. Plus, Governor Katy Hochul is weighing a bill that would allow doctors to help terminally ill patients end their lives. WNYC’s Jon Campbell reports on the emotional debate surrounding New York’s Medical Aid in Dying Act.

Oct 21

A new report finds expenses are climbing sharply for owners of low-income apartments across New York City even as rising rents and affordability dominate the mayor’s race. Meanwhile, chain restaurants are beginning to post new labels warning customers about high-sugar items under new city health rules. Also, a jury has convicted one former correction officer and acquitted two others in the 2024 killing of prisoner Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility. Plus, with two weeks until Election Day, New Jersey’s race for governor between Republican Jack Ciattarelli and Democrat Mikie Sherrill remains neck and neck. Historian Kristoffer Shields, director of the Eagleton Center on the American Governor at Rutgers University, joins us for this week’s Campaign Catch Up.

Oct 21

A fight over New York City school bus contracts is intensifying with a coalition of bus companies threatening to halt service next month unless their contracts are extended. Meanwhile, mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani is confronting questions about his age as his campaign weighs revealing key appointments before Election Day. And in New Jersey, Republican gubernatorial nominee Jack Ciattarelli is calling for more rooftop solar panels even as his top supporter, President Trump, rolls back federal incentives for renewable energy.

Oct 20

MTA officials are inspecting hundreds of subway cars after a train carrying passengers decoupled and split apart Sunday night in the Bronx. Plus, a new Mexican restaurant in Jackson Heights has a name that's prompted a bit of a neighborhood backlash. And finally, the Trump administration will begin implementing new work requirements for people receiving food stamps.

Oct 20

With just over two months left in office, Mayor Eric Adams is urging federal officials to fast-track the long delayed reconstruction of the Brooklyn Queens Expressway’s triple cantilever in Brooklyn Heights. Meanwhile, former Congressman George Santos says his 84 days in prison were “humbling” as he defends President Trump’s decision to commute his sentence. And the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s rooftop has closed until 2030 to make way for a new contemporary art wing.

Oct 18

Twenty years after a Bloomberg era rezoning transformed Greenpoint’s waterfront, the neighborhood stands as a case study in both growth and displacement. As housing costs dominate the mayoral race, WNYC’s David Brand reports on how the lessons from Greenpoint’s boom are shaping the city’s next big housing debate.

Oct 17

Judge Lewis Kaplan is ordering the Trump administration to release $33 million for counter-terrorism to the MTA. Plus, a pop culture historian is pushing to name part of Essex Street after Jack Kirby, the co-creator behind some of the Marvel characters we know and love. And finally, you've probably already noticed an abundance of brassicas at your local market. We’ll share recipes that include kale, broccoli, bok choy and more.

Oct 17

New York City’s three mayoral candidates, Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa faced off last night in the first of two general election debates, sparring over their experience, the city’s affordability crisis, and how they’d work with President Trump. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has ordered the city to halt work on a new 34th Street busway, warning it could withhold funding for other projects if New York doesn’t comply. Finally, WNYC’s Brigid Bergin joins us with a recap of the mayoral debate.

Oct 17

Attorney General Letitia James says she’s ready to defend herself against fraud charges filed by President Trump’s Justice Department. Meanwhile, domestic violence complaints in New York City have jumped 18 percent since 2019, with advocates warning that arrests alone aren’t solving the problem. Also, the City Council is weighing the future of Hart Island, the city’s public cemetery, where officials say burial space could run out in less than two decades. Plus, on this week’s transit segment, WNYC’s transportation team breaks down what President Trump’s decision to cut funding for the Gateway Tunnel project could mean for rail service between New York and New Jersey.

Oct 16

President Donald Trump says the Gateway program’s Hudson River train tunnel connecting New Jersey and New York is "terminated." Meanwhile, the fate of the West Village's beloved Tony Dapolito recreation center rests in the hands of the city's next mayor. And finally, how can mayoral front runner Zohran Mamdani earn the NYPD’s trust?

Oct 16

New York’s highest court has upheld a law moving town and county elections to even-numbered years, rejecting a Republican challenge that claimed the change was unconstitutional. Meanwhile, about 1,200 dogs and their owners are expected to hit the East Village this Sunday for the 35th annual Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade. And four years after New York City began requiring salary ranges in job postings, a new proposal would expand pay transparency rules to include current employees.

Oct 16

New York City’s three mayoral candidates, Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa, will take the stage tonight for their first general election debate. Meanwhile, the NYPD’s gang database has shrunk by nearly 40 percent in three years, but a new oversight report finds thousands of people were kept in the system longer than allowed because of programming errors. Plus, at Belmont Park, crews have hoisted the final steel beam, marking a major step in the Long Island racetrack’s full rebuild.

Oct 15

Migrants living at the Row Hotel in Midtown Manhattan are receiving notices to leave the shelter as the city prepares to close the facility. Plus, MGM Resorts has decided to withdraw its bid for a full casino in Yonkers. And finally, more people are struggling to afford dog and cat food, so they’re turning to pantries for help.

Oct 15

Messages from a leaked group chat obtained by Politico show members of Young Republican groups from New York and across the country using racist, sexist, and antisemitic slurs. The outlet reports several members have since lost their jobs. Meanwhile, New York’s power grid operator warns the city could face longer and more frequent outages over the next five years due to rising electricity demand and delays in new power generation. Also, officials in White Plains are urging the public to avoid the area around the Westchester shopping complex after a partial parking garage collapse forced multiple road closures. Plus, Politico reporter Jason Beeferman joins us later to discuss the fallout from the leaked messages.

Oct 15

Several families are without homes after an auto body shop explosion and six-alarm fire Tuesday night in Hillside, New Jersey. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul’s office says state run New York airports will not air a Homeland Security video from Secretary Kristi Noem that blames Democrats for the federal government shutdown. Newark Airport won’t air it either, according to the Port Authority. Plus, Governor Hochul says she remains committed to expanding universal childcare in New York, speaking at the Variety Boys and Girls Club in Astoria alongside Assemblymember and mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani.

Oct 14

MTA Chair Janno Lieber called the system’s billionth ride a milestone and says it's another sign of growing post-pandemic ridership. Meanwhile, Broadway musicians are one step closer to potentially walking off the job in the next few weeks. And finally, advocates for people incarcerated in New York State are pushing Gov. Hochul to sign a bill that would expand prison oversight and require more cameras.

Oct 14

Miss Major Griffin Gracy, a veteran of the 1969 Stonewall uprising and a longtime LGBTQ and public health activist, has died. Meanwhile, the NYPD is searching for a driver who struck an 11 year-old boy on an electric scooter in Gravesend, Brooklyn. The child remains in critical condition. Also, New York Attorney General Letitia James is speaking publicly after her federal indictment last week by the Trump administration’s Justice Department. And as temperatures drop, Gothamist food writer Robert Sietsema joins us to talk about the best spots in the city for a comforting bowl of soup.

Oct 14

New York City’s next mayor could decide whether to dramatically raise the minimum wage. Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani wants to double it to $30 an hour, while independent candidate Andrew Cuomo proposes $20. Policy experts are divided on how the increases would affect workers and businesses. Meanwhile, overcrowding is worsening in the city’s juvenile detention centers, with some teens reportedly sleeping in classrooms and common areas. And the City Council is holding hearings this week on the future of Hart Island, New York’s public cemetery, which could reach capacity by 2030

Oct 13

New York City renters have filed more than 1,100 complaints since the city’s ban on most broker fees took effect in June, many accusing landlords and brokers of ignoring the new rule. Meanwhile, Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani is criticizing President Trump over the federal prosecution of state Attorney General Letitia James. Also, city contractors hired to replace a crumbling, century-old elevated stretch of Riverside Drive West in Washington Heights walked off the job last year, leaving behind an unfinished construction site and hundreds of residents stuck in a public works purgatory. And finally, we meet the guy behind those “Friend” ads at subway stations across the city.

Oct 11

With less than a month until Election Day, public safety remains a top concern for New York City voters. WNYC’s Brittany Kriegstein and Ben Feuerherd report on how residents across the city are responding to each candidate’s plans for policing and mental health response.

Oct 10

New York State’s top law enforcement official, Attorney General Letitia James, is facing federal charges of mortgage fraud. Plus, after years of protests over the Israel-Hamas war and allegations of discrimination, some Columbia University students and faculty question whether honest dialogue is possible. And finally, Gov. Kathy Hochul and mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani both want universal child care for the state but they disagree on who’s paying for it.

Oct 10

A long stalled plan to build nearly 900 affordable apartments at Brooklyn’s Atlantic Yards site is getting new life after state officials tapped a new developer. Meanwhile, the NYPD is deploying 140 new hybrid patrol cars as it works toward the city’s 2035 all-electric vehicle mandate. And on Long Island, the group behind Islip Forward, an app that lets residents report and track ICE sightings, says it will keep operating despite criticism from the Trump administration. Founder Ahmad Perez joins us to explain.

Oct 10

New York Attorney General Letitia James has been indicted on a federal fraud charge, accused of lying on loan papers about a Virginia property she owns. The indictment follows President Trump’s calls for the Justice Department to pursue his political opponents. Meanwhile, mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is weighing both sides of the debate over banning Central Park’s horse-drawn carriages. Also, PATH will suspend service between Harrison and Journal Square this weekend for track work, with shuttle buses running in both directions. And in this week’s transit segment, we look at a string of tragic incidents, a woman killed by riders on a large e bike, two girls who died subway surfing, and a man beaten to death at a Brooklyn station.

Oct 9

Gov. Kathy Hochul says the White House is clawing back money to support patrols, security camera operations and K-9 units for the city’s transit system. Plus, the NYPD's top officer is retiring a week after Mayor Adams ended his re-election bid. And finally, Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli squared off in a fiery debate Wednesday night tackling topics like the Gateway Tunnel Project and New Jersey Transit service.

Oct 9

Police are charging a Bronx man with murder in the fatal beating of a Brooklyn man at the Jay Street MetroTech subway station this week. Meanwhile, New York Comic-Con begins this Thursdayat the Javits Center, drawing about 200,000 fans along with artists and actors. And as the mayor’s race enters its final stretch, frontrunner Zohran Mamdani faces growing questions about whether he’s coasting to Election Day.

Oct 9

Elected officials from New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles held a strategy call as they prepare for possible National Guard and federal law enforcement deployments ordered by President Trump. Meanwhile, a state appeals court has ruled Nassau County cannot enforce its ban on transgender female athletes at county run facilities. Also, mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo says he’d rebuild the Rikers Island jail complex instead of closing it. And the Yankees’ season ends with a 5–2 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 4 of the ALDS.

Oct 8

New Yorkers receiving unemployment are now eligible for a weekly payment of up to $869, up from the previous max of nearly $500. Also, Saul Zabar, the longtime owner of the iconic Upper West Side gourmet Jewish food market, has died at the age of 97. And finally, the city’s largest landlord was hit with a $3.1 million penalty for illegally charging tenants for water.

Oct 8

New York City’s teachers union is expanding access to its childcare “matchmaker” website, now open to all families after launching last year for members only. Meanwhile, a new mural at St. Patrick’s Cathedral honors generations of immigrants as church leaders clash over rhetoric on immigration. And in New Jersey, Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli enter the final stretch of a close governor’s race, with urban turnout likely to play a key role. WNYC’s Mike Hayes reports.

Oct 8

Edwin Cruz Gomez, of Uniondale, Queens is charged with murder and attempted murder after prosecutors say he intentionally drove his SUV into a family, killing a sixteen year old girl. Meanwhile, Election Day is just a few weeks away and while voters will choose a new mayor in New York City and a governor in New Jersey, many will also be electing judges. But as WNYC's Samantha Max reports, it can be hard to find information about judicial candidates. Also, the Yankees live to play another day after rallying from a six to one deficit to beat the Toronto Blue Jays nine to six, forcing Game 4 tonight in the Bronx.

Oct 7

Bronx prosecutors have indicted ten people in a series of retaliatory shootings over Labor Day weekend that left four people dead. The NYPD blames drill rap for the retaliatory shootings. Meanwhile, older New Yorkers take their skills to the stage for New York City’s third annual “Talent is Timeless” showcase.

Oct 7

Police are investigating the death of child in Brooklyn as a homicide. Meanwhile, a new report from Councilmember Lincoln Restler’s office says government employees are the biggest offenders in Brooklyn’s illegal parking problem. Also, the Yankees face elimination Tuesday night in Game 3 of the ALDS against the Toronto Blue Jays. And with four weeks until Election Day in New York City, Democrat Zohran Mamdani maintains a wide lead over former Governor Andrew Cuomo, while Republican Curtis Sliwa trails.

Oct 7

MTA Chair Janno Lieber is accusing Amtrak of delaying a major rail expansion that would add four Metro North stations in the East Bronx and bring service to Penn Station for the first time. Meanwhile, police say a 60-year-old woman was killed after two men riding the same e-bike crashed into her near the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Also, the Rangers, Islanders, and Devils are all set to open their new hockey seasons this week.

Oct 6

U.S. Transportation secretary Sean Duffy is blaming Democrats in Congress for the federal government shutdown. Meanwhile, after Zohran Mamdani said he’d cut gifted programs for kindergartners, Andrew Cuomo said he’d expand them. And finally, New Jersey’s GOP candidate for governor, Jack Ciattarelli, has pledged to overturn a 50-year-old set of landmark court rulings that require each of the state’s municipalities to build affordable housing.

Oct 6

Governor Kathy Hochul has renewed an executive order allowing New York pharmacists to continue administering COVID-19 vaccines without a prescription. Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams is traveling to Albania Monday on what City Hall says is a trip to promote tourism and economic ties. Also, the Yankees are on the brink of elimination after dropping the first two games against the Toronto Blue Jays in the best-of-five American League Division Series. And finally, acting Sanitation Commissioner Javier Lojan discusses how his department is working to curb the city’s rat population following the resignation of New York City’s rat czar, Kathleen Corradi.

Oct 6

Police say officers shot and killed a 28 year old man during a response to a domestic violence call in East Flatbush, Brooklyn. The NYPD says the incident is under investigation. Meanwhile, Bronx community groups are raising concerns about a proposed elevated service road alongside the Cross Bronx Expressway. And at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, hundreds of New Yorkers, along with cats, dogs, a camel, a horse, and even an owl, gathered for the annual Blessing of the Animals celebrating the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi.

Oct 4

Thousands of first time voters have registered in New York City this year, many citing frustration over affordability as their reason. WNYC’s Brigid Bergin explains how their arrival could shape the upcoming mayoral race and what it reveals about the city’s shifting electorate.

Oct 3

President Donald Trump’s administration has reversed $187 million in cuts to counterterrorism and security funding for police departments and programs in New York state. And finally, WNYC’s Brian Lehrer joins us to discuss the top stories from his show and the WNYC newsroom.

Oct 3

The MTA says OMNY will undergo system updates starting Friday night and through Sunday night. During that time, riders won’t be able to buy or reload OMNY cards and tap payments won’t process until updates are complete. Meanwhile, the agency will stop accepting coins on buses next year as part of its full transition to OMNY. Plus, student enrollment in Newark Public Schools is rising sharply, even as many districts nationwide are seeing declines. We speak with Chalkbeat’s Jessie Gomez.

Oct 3

New Jersey lawmakers are considering a program that would provide direct cash payments to expectant mothers earning less than $44,000 a year in an effort to reduce child poverty. Meanwhile, large plumes of smoke over an Astoria baseball field earlier this week were traced to fireworks and flares set off by fans of a Moroccan soccer team during a North American meetup. And the Yankees are advancing in the MLB playoffs after shutting out the Boston Red Sox 4–0 in the decisive Wild Card game, with rookie pitcher Cam Schlittler delivering a dominant performance.

Oct 2

Some tenants returned to NYCHA’s Mitchel Houses Wednesday evening after an explosion tore up the side of the Bronx public housing building. Meanwhile, the Trump Administration announced its holding billions of dollars that had been promised for transit projects in our area. The administration says it's holding the money because of New York’s DEI policies.

Oct 2

The Trump administration has frozen $18 billion in federal funds for the Hudson River Gateway tunnel and the Second Avenue subway extension, citing New York’s diversity, equity and inclusion requirements. Meanwhile, a New Jersey teenager has been charged with murder after allegedly ramming his SUV into two girls on bicycles, killing them both. At LaGuardia, two Delta jets clipped wings in a low-speed collision that injured one flight attendant. And in New Jersey, leaked Naval Academy records of Rep. Mikie Sherrill are roiling the governor’s race as she blames her opponent Jack Ciattarelli and the Trump administration. WNYC's Mike Hayes has the latest.

Oct 2

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch is warning that looming federal counterterrorism funding cuts could jeopardize historic safety gains in the subway system. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul says the state will not cover costs to keep federal attractions like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island open during a potential government shutdown, instead urging New Yorkers to blame Republicans in Washington. Plus, New Jersey has issued a statewide drought watch after months of below average rainfall and declining reservoir levels.

Oct 1

Residents are being evacuated from NYCHA's Mitchel Houses after reports of an explosion. Also, the Trump administration is holding money for two of New York's biggest infrastructure projects. Meanwhile, New York state has already legalized marijuana and state lawmakers are considering whether psychedelic mushrooms will be next.

Oct 1

Emergency crews remain on the scene of a partial building collapse in the Bronx after a 20-story ventilator shaft gave way at the Mitchel Houses. Officials are also investigating a potential gas leak. Meanwhile, New Yorkers who receive state rebate checks of up to $400 will need to pay federal income tax on them next year. And Open House New York returns in October with its biggest weekend ever, offering access to 341 normally off-limits locations across the city. WNYC's Ryan Kailath has more.

Oct 1

An ongoing showdown in Washington over health insurance subsidies could affect how much New Yorkers pay for coverage next year. Meanwhile, the proposal to build a casino and entertainment complex in Willets Point, Queens is moving forward after a community advisory committee unanimously voted to advance it to a final round of scrutiny. Plus, House Democrats say the National Archives’ Inspector General is investigating the release of New Jersey Rep. Mikie Sherrill’s Navy service records to her opponent in the governor’s race.

Sep 30

A proposal for a casino and entertainment complex near Citi Field in Queens is moving forward. Plus, New Yorkers living in rent-stabilized apartments will start paying more beginning October 1st. Also, Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos made the annual “state of our schools” address this week after Mayor Eric Adams announced he’s dropping out of the race. And finally, the MTA board approved a fare hike on Tuesday, raising the fare from $2.90 to $3.

Sep 30

A new report says unsafe working conditions at Kawasaki’s rail car plants in Nebraska and Yonkers are delaying train deliveries for the MTA. Meanwhile, the MTA board has approved a fare hike that will raise subway and bus rides to $3 starting in January, along with ending 30-day unlimited passes and coin payments on buses. In Queens, the proposed Metropolitan Park casino has advanced to a final review round, joining three other contenders for three downstate licenses. And with five weeks until Election Day, WNYC kicks off Campaign Catch Up with Ben Max to break down the latest developments in the mayoral race.

Sep 30

Hundreds of lawsuits filed by people who say they were sexually abused in New York City juvenile detention centers have been dismissed by a Bronx judge, leaving more than 450 survivors in legal limbo due to wording in the city’s gender-based violence law. Meanwhile, the New York City Council has set aside $2 million to provide divorce lawyers for low-income survivors of domestic violence. Also, the New York Jets fell to the Miami Dolphins 27–21 on Monday Night.

Sep 29

A Bronx judge recently dismissed more than 450 lawsuits brought by people who claim they were sexually abused while in juvenile detention. Plus, Gov. Kathy Hochul is warning New Yorkers about scams targeting the state’s inflation refund checks. And finally, the price of an avocado in New York City can range from 25 cents to $3, depending on where you live. WNYC reporters Karen Yi and Joe Hong explain what that says about grocery shopping across the five boroughs.

Sep 29

A state advisory committee has approved Bally’s $4 billion Bronx casino proposal in a 5-1 vote, moving the project into the final licensing round. Meanwhile, police are searching for three suspects in connection to a fatal shooting in Forest Hills on Sunday night. Also, Governor Kathy Hochul is warning New Yorkers about scams targeting state inflation refund checks. Finally, food critic Robert Sietsema joins us to break down how to tackle the restaurant packed MacDougal Street in Greenwich Village.

Sep 29

A political strategist says Mayor Eric Adams’ departure from the race is unlikely to dramatically shift the mayoral contest, even if his supporters backed a single candidate. Meanwhile, Attorney General Letitia James will draw on a fund from the Democratic Attorneys General Association to cover her legal defense in a Justice Department probe. In baseball, the Yankees clinched a playoff berth while the Mets were eliminated after a late season collapse. And WNYC’s Brigid Bergin unpacks Mayor Adams’ suspension from the Mayoral race.

Sep 27

The New York Liberty’s bid to defend their first championship ended with an early playoff exit, fueled by injuries and inconsistency. Days later, the team declined to renew Coach Sandy Brondello’s contract, leaving a star studded roster without clear direction. Sports reporter Jackie Powell unpacks what went wrong this season and what’s next for the franchise.

Sep 26

A federal immigration agent seen in viral videos shoving a woman to the floor outside a Manhattan immigration court has been relieved of duty while the Department of Homeland Security investigates. Plus, Andrew Cuomo is getting an endorsement from Jim Walden in his bid for New York City Mayor. Also, New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse shares recommendations as we enter cold and flu season. And finally, now's your chance to stock up on and preserve herbs for the upcoming season.

Sep 26

Police are looking for a man they say shot and killed a woman at her Queens building two weeks ago. Plus, the MTA is exploring new technology that would transfer heat in subway stations deeper underground. And finally, a look at how the rising cost of housing in New Jersey is taking center stage in the governor's race.

Sep 26

The National Association of Immigration Judges says the Trump administration has terminated over 80 immigration judges nationwide. Meanwhile, in the Bronx, city council members disagree on whether to build supportive housing units for Rikers detainees. Finally, community boards vote to approve casinos in Queens and Yonkers, after the bid for three in Manhattan failed.

Sep 25

A new report finds a city correction staffer aided federal immigration officers on multiple occasions in 2024 and 2025, in violation of city sanctuary protections for immigrants. Meanwhile, a community advisory panel voted in favor of a plan to bring full-scale casino gambling to Yonkers. Plus, New York City is facing wrongful death claims from the families of at least four people who died in Harlem's Legionnaires' disease outbreak. Also, a cult classic documentary about New York City's parks, plazas, and sidewalks returns to the big screen this week. And finally, the environment is on the minds of some Harlem residents as Climate Week continues at the UN General Assembly.

Sep 25

City and state officials say they told the owner of a Brooklyn hookah lounge to address violations and violence at the club months before a mass shooting this summer left three people dead. Plus, Yankees captain Aaron Judge reaches a major milestone, becoming just the fourth player in MLB history to reach 50 home runs four times in a career. And finally, in the latest installment of Politics Brief, we tackle casinos, the mayoral race, and Chuck Schumer's night at the Met Opera.

Sep 25

Amtrak officials say nearly 200 people were arrested by ICE for alleged sexual activity in the Penn Station men's bathroom. Meanwhile, government agents may have posted opinions on social media regarding the Mangione trial which is a violation of court rules. And a man was shot in Penn Station Wednesday evening.

Sep 24

Kathleen Corradi is leaving her post as New York City’s first ever rat czar. Plus, Democrat Phil Wong and Republican Alicia Vaichunas are work friends and political rivals in the Queens council race. And finally, prison staffing and morale are low at New York prisons, six months after a wildcat prison strike ended.

Sep 24

A Long Island roller derby team is back in court Thursday as it challenges Nassau County’s ban on transgender athletes at public facilities. Meanwhile, a Manhattan man is facing charges after police say he attacked an off duty NYPD officer at the 14th Street and 3rd Avenue subway station Tuesday night. Plus, Bluestockings, the radical Lower East Side bookstore, is closing its doors after more than 25 years. WNYC’s Ryan Kailath has more.

Sep 24

A Long Island roller derby team is back in court Thursday as it challenges Nassau County’s ban on transgender athletes at public facilities. Meanwhile, a Suffolk County judge ruled that Rex Heuermann, the alleged Gilgo Beach serial killer, will face a single trial on charges tied to seven murders. And the New York Yankees have clinched a playoff berth with a come from behind win over the Chicago White Sox Tuesday.

Sep 23

New Data shows the city's social services agency is playing a bigger role than ever when it comes to stemming an affordable housing crisis. Plus, pressure is mounting on Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to weigh in on the mayor’s race. Also, a new plan to develop the Columbia Street Waterfront District took a big step towards becoming reality. And finally, the parents of a man killed at New York City’s West Indian Day Parade last year say they’ve barely heard from the police working to solve the case.

Sep 23

The Secret Service says it has dismantled a network of hundreds of servers capable of disrupting telecommunications as the UN General Assembly meets in Manhattan. Meanwhile, the City Council is preparing to vote on a controversial housing proposal in the Bronx that would create apartments for people leaving Rikers Island with serious medical needs. Also, Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B is lending her voice to MTA subway announcements, reminding riders to pay fares and follow safety rules. And NY1’s Errol Louis joins us to break down the unusual four-way race for New York City mayor.

Sep 23

Lawmakers in Albany have introduced a bill to expand access to vaccines by allowing doctors and pharmacists to follow state or regional guidance in addition to federal recommendations. Meanwhile, mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani says he will reschedule a televised town hall with WABC 7 after the network’s parent company reinstated Jimmy Kimmel following his suspension. And as Climate Week begins, New York City has joined a national coalition opposing an EPA proposal to roll back its authority to regulate vehicle emissions.

Sep 22

Gubernatorial candidates Republican Jack Ciattarelli and Democrat Mikie Sherrill largely wrangled over affordability issues in front of a raucous crowd. Meanwhile, a committee rejected a proposal to build a casino right next to the United Nations.

Sep 22

Manhattan’s East Side casino proposal has been voted down, marking the third failed bid for a casino in the borough. Meanwhile, new city data shows public urination summonses have surged nearly fivefold in recent years. In Queens, a 13-year-old boy is in critical condition after being shot in the head outside a Dunkin’ store in Cambria Heights. And across the Hudson, New Jersey has legalized human composting as an alternative to burial and cremation, with families already beginning to use the new option.

Sep 22

A community advisory committee votes Monday on the proposed $11 billion Freedom Plaza casino complex next to the United Nations. Meanwhile, in New Jersey’s gubernatorial debate, Republican Jack Ciattarelli vowed not to raise sales taxes while Democrat Mikie Sherrill declined to make the same pledge. And in sports, both the Jets and Giants dropped to 0-3 after close losses this weekend.

Sep 20

Governor Kathy Hochul has endorsed Zohran Mamdani for New York City mayor, raising questions about how Democrats will navigate divides between centrists and progressives. The endorsement also puts pressure on Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries to weigh in. WNYC’s Jon Campbell explains what it reveals about the party and what it could mean heading into November.

Sep 19

Police say a teenager faces charges after he allegedly threatened to shoot up Bayside's Cardozo High School. Plus, New York City data shows drug arrests are on the rise in a commercial district in the South Bronx known as "The Hub." Also, Bad Bunny’s residency in Puerto Rico ends this weekend. But five years ago, the superstar was giving a different type of concert in New York City. And finally, we highlight crops indigenous to Latin America that you may find at your local farm stand.

Sep 19

Mayor Eric Adams says Thursday’s arrest of a 16-year-old student at Cardozo High School in Bayside shows how easy access to firearms is putting New Yorkers at risk. Police say they found a loaded 9mm pistol with 13 rounds in the teen’s backpack after the FBI flagged a threatening Instagram post. Meanwhile, New York pharmacies are administering updated COVID-19 vaccines ahead of federal guidance, following an executive order from Governor Hochul. Plus, 11 New York City elected officials were freed Friday after being arrested outside 26 Federal Plaza, where they were protesting immigration enforcement practices. WNYC’s Arya Sunderam joins us to explain what happened and what it means.

Sep 19

NYPD commissioner Jessica Tisch has filed disciplinary charges against two officers involved in the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Win Rozario during a mental health crisis in Queens last year. Meanwhile, a bill in Albany would require grocery stores and delivery apps to disclose whether they are marking up prices online. Also, Jim Henson fans can celebrate the late Muppet creator’s birthday this weekend at the Museum of the Moving Image in Queens. Plus, in this week’s transit segment: New York City’s seven-year plan to move trash into curbside bins, the looming threat of a Long Island Rail Road strike, a City Council bill to limit how ride-hail apps like Uber and Lyft can deactivate drivers, the Transit Museum’s annual bus festival in Brooklyn, and the question of why New York hasn’t adopted automated subways like other global cities.

Sep 18

Thousands of charter school students, parents and educators rallied in Brooklyn Thursday morning to call on elected officials to support charter schools. Meanwhile, Eva Moskowitz, founder of Success Academy, is back in the political fray as New York City leaders weigh their options in a crowded mayoral race.

Sep 18

A Texas man has been arrested on charges of harassing and making a terroristic threat against Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani. Prosecutors say Jeremy Fistel was brought to New York and pleaded not guilty this morning. Meanwhile, fewer than 10 percent of tickets from the city’s pedicab crackdown have led to penalties, raising questions about enforcement. Plus, in this week’s politics segment, WNYC’s Brigid Bergin and Jimmy Vielkind discuss Hochul’s endorsement of Mamdani, Cuomo’s struggle to connect with living Democrats, and why Brad Lander may have complicated his relationship with the frontrunner.

Sep 18

New York City Council members are pushing for more frequent testing of cooling towers following this summer’s deadly Legionnaires’ outbreak, though some public health experts warn that testing alone won’t prevent future cases. Meanwhile, the Council is holding a hearing today on a proposal to build specialized housing for formerly incarcerated people on a Bronx hospital campus, but Mayor Eric Adams has withdrawn his support for the project. Plus, while overall hate crimes have declined from their peak two years ago, NYPD officials report that crimes targeting Jews remain higher than pre-2023 levels.

Sep 17

Prosecutors say 95-year-old Galina Smirnova, who’s charged for killing her roommate at a Brooklyn nursing home, has dementia. Also, the New York City Council is celebrating a judge's recent decision barring Mayor Eric Adams from allowing immigration officers on Rikers Island. Plus, New York City continues its push to eliminate piles of trash from sidewalks. And finally, multiple water main breaks have occurred in New Jersey this summer leading to boil water advisories and affecting some streets. Dr. Daniel Van Abs, expert on water resource management, explains some of the causes.

Sep 17

Police are charging a 95-year-old woman with murder after she allegedly hit and killed a fellow resident at the Seagate Rehabilitation and Nursing Center on Coney Island. Plus, there will not be a casino in Times Square or Hudson Yards after committees tasked with reviewing proposals rejected Caesars Palace's plan and the Avenir Casino in Hudson Yards. And finally, a coalition of residents in Canarsie, Brooklyn, are pushing for a new community center. The push comes as the city is funding a feasibility study on the project, but advocates say officials need to do more.

Sep 17

In a city council hearing on Tuesday, local community groups testified that immigrant residents fear reporting domestic violence and applying for public benefits. Meanwhile, in Red Hook, a new project will install nearly two miles of floodwalls and gates, raise certain streets, and upgrade the sewers. Finally, the Liberty play the Phoenix Mercury in game two of the WNBA playoffs.

Sep 16

President Trump is criticizing New York Gov. Kathy Hochul for backing Zohran Mamdani for mayor. Plus, Luigi Mangione still faces another murder count and weapons possession charges in state court after a judge dropped two terrorism counts in court Tuesday. And finally, some residents say the rezoning in Jamaica, Queens is a chance to undo decades of neglect.

Sep 16

A Manhattan judge has dismissed two terrorism charges against Luigi Mangione, the man accused of killing the CEP of UnitedHealthcare last December in Midtown, citing insufficient evidence. Meanwhile, City Council members are criticizing the Adams administration for skipping a Monday hearing on how federal cuts to SNAP and Medicaid will affect New Yorkers. Plus, the Council is planning a public hearing next week on battery storage systems across the five boroughs, as some residents raise concerns about fire risks. Finally, WNYC’s Ryan Kailath has a preview of the city’s fall arts season.

Sep 16

New York City is bracing for the worst traffic of the year next week when world leaders arrive for the UN General Assembly. Meanwhile, the Long Island Rail Road has avoided a strike for now after five unions voted to authorize one but requested federal intervention, delaying any walkout until at least May 2026. Plus, city health officials say they’ll spray pesticides Tuesday night in Brooklyn and Queens neighborhoods to curb mosquitoes and the risk of West Nile virus.

Sep 15

Long Island Rail Road workers won’t strike this week after unions asked President Trump to step in and help broker a contract deal. Meanwhile, New Yorkers are planting daffodils and wildflowers across the city as part of a living 9/11 memorial. In sports, the Liberty beat Phoenix in overtime to open the WNBA playoffs, and the Rangers are remembering Hall of Fame goalie Eddie Giacomin, who died at 86. Plus, WNYC’s Stephen Nessen reports on Brooklyn’s “bike bus” helping kids ride safely to school.

Sep 15

New York Attorney General Letitia James is proposing new regulations that would require social media users to prove their age with photo or video verification. It's part of an effort to curb the effect of addictive feeds on minors. Meanwhile, the MTA is expanding its bus lane camera program in Queens and the Bronx to keep lanes clear and improve service. Plus, despite Mayor Adams’ cash incentives, landlords have not reopened any warehoused rent-stabilized apartments. WNYC’s David Brand explains why the city is now doubling the payout in hopes of bringing units back on the market.

Sep 15

Governor Kathy Hochul has endorsed Zohran Mamdani in the New York City mayoral race, calling him a leader who shares her urgency on affordability and safety despite their differences. Meanwhile, the Legal Aid Society is urging city watchdogs to automatically investigate deaths in custody, citing five cases this year. Plus, PATH trains are running again between Harrison and Journal Square after a weekend suspension for track work, with more shutdowns scheduled in the coming weeks.

Sep 13

A new statewide smartphone ban is changing classroom culture. School bus delays are proving far worse than official data show. And immigration enforcement is stirring fear among some families. WNYC’s Jessica Gould talks about how students, parents, and teachers are navigating the start of the school year in New York City.

Sep 12

A state Supreme court judge ruled that former federal prosecutor Jim Walden's name must stay on the ballot even though he ended his bid for mayor. Meanwhile, prosecutors say the man accused of killing a Queens couple in their home confessed to the crime . Plus, the New York Liberty are preparing for their first round playoff matchup against the Phoenix Mercury. Finally, fall is around the corner and that means grape season. GrowNYC’s Amelia Tarpey shares why grapes are in peak season at city farmstands.

Sep 12

The City Council has approved legislation requiring New York to publish detailed information on every supportive housing unit, after reports showed more than 5,000 of the city’s 40,000 units sat empty as recently as June. Meanwhile, the American Museum of Natural History will resume its popular children’s sleepovers in October for the first time since 2020. Plus, Prospect Park will host the Second United Lenape Nations Pow Wow this weekend, organized with the Eenda Lunaapeewahkiing Collective. Brent Stonefish, cofounder of the group, joins us to talk about the event and its celebration of Lenape life and culture.

Sep 12

The MTA is bracing for a possible Long Island Rail Road strike next week as five unions representing nearly half the workforce vote on whether to walk out. Meanwhile, the City Council has passed legislation requiring the city to track and report thousands of supportive housing units that remain vacant despite record demand in shelters. Also, Clifton Park resident Joseph Macken has gone viral after completing a 20-year project: a 50-by-30-foot scale model of New York City built from balsa wood and Styrofoam. Plus, in this week’s transportation segment, we break down what’s at stake in the LIRR contract talks and the state comptroller’s new audit of subway service.

Sep 11

Nadine Menendez, wife of former New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez, has been sentenced to 4.5 years in prison for colluding in her husband’s corruption schemes. Meanwhile, New York City is launching the Civic Corps, a new AmeriCorps-style program that pays residents to work in community service roles. Plus, WNYC checks in with high school students on how they’re coping after the first week of New York’s statewide cellphone ban. Finally, Federal agents arrested dozens of people at a food processing plant in Central New York last week. WNYC’s Jimmy Vielkind reports on how the raid became a critical moment in the immigration debate.

Sep 11

East Harlem leaders want to repurpose a long-forgotten rail station to link the incoming Second Avenue subway to the neighborhood’s Metro North stop. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has floated federal control of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and WNYC’s Hannah Frishberg reports on how local officials and first responders are reacting. Plus, GrowNYC will host a free Fermentation Fest at the Union Square Greenmarket on Friday, with fermentation expert Sandor Katz and Norwich Meadows Farm co-owner Zaid Kurdieh joining us to preview the event.

Sep 11

This Thursday marks 24 years since the September 11th attacks, with Vice President JD Vance scheduled at the Memorial Plaza ceremony and President Trump attending services at the Pentagon before appearing at Yankee Stadium that night. Meanwhile, subway crime dropped to its lowest level in more than a decade this summer, with felony assaults down 21 percent from last year. Plus, the city Health Department will spray parts of Staten Island’s North Shore Thursday night to reduce mosquitos and combat the risk of West Nile virus.

Sep 10

The New Jersey Department of Health issued an executive order effectively allowing New Jerseyans six months or older to get a COVID shot. Plus, two million New Yorkers insured through Healthfirst could lose coverage this fall for a major hospital network. And finally, while hundreds spend hours in line for tickets to Shakespeare in the Park, they’re entertained by Garald Farnham playing the lute.

Sep 10

New York City voters will weigh in on housing this fall after the Board of Elections approved three ballot questions aimed at speeding up development. Meanwhile, FIFA has opened its ticket lottery for the 2026 World Cup, which includes eight matches at MetLife Stadium and the final. Plus, a new Siena poll shows Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani leading the mayor’s race, and Fordham professor Christina Greer joins us to discuss the opposition he faces.

Sep 10

The Port Authority says PATH service between Harrison and Journal Square will be suspended this weekend for repairs. Meanwhile, police are searching for Jamel McGriff, who is wanted in connection with the deaths of Frank and Maureen Olton in Queens after their Bellerose home was set on fire. Plus, Hoboken is under a boil water advisory after two water main breaks. Also, Greenpoint residents are raising concerns about odors from an asphalt recycling plant in Long Island City.

Sep 9

The United Nations is in town and will bring lots of traffic to Manhattan, as usual.. Plus, New York’s top court is weighing a change to local elections. Also, New York State Attorney General Letitia James is going toe to toe with the Texas attorney general to defend the Empire State's shield law for abortion providers. And finally, a Harlem man recently found out the apartment he’s been living in for more than 20 years was supposed to be rent stabilized.

Sep 9

Some two million New Yorkers could lose access to NewYork-Presbyterian hospitals and doctors starting in November. Meanwhile, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch is pushing back against President Trump’s threats to send National Guard troops to New York. Plus, a City Council study finds nearly half of businesses are violating a law requiring stores to close doors while air conditioning is on and to post signs about reporting violations.

Sep 8

Gov. Kathy Hochul still hasn’t made an endorsement in November's mayoral election, keeping with several other high ranking New York City Democrats. Plus, New York City is giving out 350,000 free Chromebooks with built-in internet access to public school students. Meanwhile, Fort Greene Park Conservancy is raising concerns about how a proposed 72-story tower on nearby Flatbush Avenue could affect the park. And finally, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has hired a Bronx elections lawyer to look over petition signatures supporting his run for reelection as an independent.

Sep 8

City Council leaders have asked the Board of Elections to block three proposed ballot questions that could speed up housing development while limiting Council power. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul must decide whether to sign a bill requiring two-person crews on subway trains, a move the Transport Workers Union says is critical for safety but the MTA warns could raise costs. Plus, New York City is struggling to keep enough ambulance workers on the streets, with union leaders warning that record turnover and stalled contract talks are driving longer waits for 911 emergency response. Vice president of the FDNY EMS officers union Anthony Almojera joins us to explain.

Sep 8

A Hudson County judge has barred the owners of three Hoboken luxury buildings from renting more high-priced units until they add affordable housing. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul is defending New York’s vaccine access and criticizing President Trump’s federal health policies, saying they are dividing families. Plus, residents of Rochdale Village in Queens are opposing a proposed fee hike of up to 57 percent, arguing years of mismanagement are putting their affordable housing at risk.

Sep 6

In this edition of Five Things, WNYC’s Janae Pierre and Brian Lehrer break down the mayor’s race after Jim Walden’s exit, including speculation that Mayor Eric Adams and Curtis Sliwa could be pushed aside to clear the field for Zohran Mamdani and Andrew Cuomo. They discuss the divisions within the Democratic Party, the fight for New Jersey’s governorship, the growing battles over vaccines, the rollout of New York’s school cellphone ban, and how the Mets and Yankees are shaping up for the playoffs.

Sep 5

Jersey City school officials are considering following the lead of their neighbors across Hudson and banning phones in schools. Plus, Gov. Kathy Hochul is declaring a health emergency to help New Yorkers get COVID vaccines. Also, we share what elected officials and other leaders in Brooklyn are saying in the days since six people were shot after the West Indian Day festivities. And finally, as summer comes to an end and farmstands switch produce, there's still plenty of cucumbers at farmstands across the city.

Sep 5

New York City is now offering $50,000 to landlords who opt to renovate vacant rent-stabilized apartments and return them to the market. Plus, 11 more public library branches will offer seven-day service starting this weekend. And finally, state court officials will decide whether more than a dozen judges who are 70 or older can keep serving.

Sep 5

Small residential facilities where people can stay during mental health crises are expanding across New York, growing from eight in 2021 to 43 statewide. Meanwhile, prosecutors say 18-year-old Faisil McCants faces federal robbery and gun charges in an East Harlem shooting that killed 69-year-old bystander Robin Wright. The NYPD says he is also charged with murder and weapons offenses. Also, New York’s LGBTQ+ film festival NewFest is offering free screenings to Arizonans after Phoenix’s Desperado Film Festival was canceled under federal orders targeting diversity and inclusion programs. Plus, MTA data show major incidents delaying 50 or more trains peaked in June and July, marking the worst summer for subway service since 2018.

Sep 4

New York City Comptroller Brad Lander is out with a new report that grades city bus lines. Plus, the New York Times reports that President Trump's advisers have discussed offering jobs to Mayor Eric Adams and Republican Curtis Sliwa to get them out of the mayoral race. Also, shifting federal guidance of vaccinations could make getting a COVID shot more of a hassle this year. And finally, Lifelong New Yorker Chloë Bass turns the MTA’s public address system into art.

Sep 4

Governor Kathy Hochul visited a Brooklyn middle school to mark the start of New York’s new statewide smartphone ban in schools. Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Public Library will hold a free fair celebrating older adults at its Central Library with live music, vendors, and a keynote on aging. Plus, the NYPD says two men who died in custody last weekend had been arrested for low-level offenses, bringing the total to at least five deaths in custody so far this year. WNYC’s Charles Lane reports.

Sep 4

Nearly 900,000 New York City public school students return Thursday under a new statewide cellphone ban signed by Governor Hochul last spring. Meanwhile, an analysis commissioned in Sullivan County says new casinos in New York City could undercut existing gaming operations in the Catskills. Plus, former Bronx Republican district leader Nicole Torres has been sentenced to two years in prison for pocketing kickbacks from potential poll workers.

Sep 3

Advocates are pressing New Jersey courts to enforce affordable housing requirements as towns fall short on construction. Meanwhile, pharmacies say demand for COVID shots is rising at the start of the school year, but new FDA guidelines are complicating access. Also, the New York Liberty have clinched a playoff spot despite losing 6 of their last 10 games. And WNYC’s Liam Quigley reports on how Fire Island is grappling with climate change.

Sep 3

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch is sending a thousand extra officers to the Bronx after a recent spike in shootings. Plus, the NYPD is investigating the deaths of two men in police custody over the weekend. And finally, former City Comptroller Scott Stringer reflects on the career of Representative Jerry Nadler, who announced this week he will not seek reelection.

Sep 3

Schools Chancellor Melissa Avilés-Ramos says city schools will do everything possible to keep undocumented students safe from detention. Meanwhile, despite Labor Day weekend saw shootings in Brooklyn and the Bronx, new NYPD data show overall gun violence is trending down. Plus, independent candidate Jim Walden has dropped out of the New York City mayor’s race.

Sep 2

Authorities are investigating several shootings and a slashing near the West Indian Day Parade in Brooklyn Monday night that left multiple people injured. Police say one man is under arrest on weapons charges. Meanwhile, a new study finds the horseshoe crab population in Long Island Sound has sharply declined over the past two decades. Also, President Trump says he will award Rudy Giuliani the Presidential Medal of Freedom days after the former mayor was injured in a car crash. Plus, new MTA statistics show subway service disruptions this summer reached their highest levels since 2018. Finally WNYC’s Community and partnerships desk spent some time at 109th Avenue in South Jamaica, Queens to hear from locals.

Sep 2

New MTA data show major incidents delaying 50 or more trains reached their highest levels in June and July since 2018, when former Governor Andrew Cuomo declared a transit emergency. Meanwhile, groups that donate school supplies say they are rethinking their strategies as President Trump’s 30 percent tariffs on China drives up prices on nearly every classroom item. Plus, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan is stepping down as the executive director of Catholic Charities of New York after more than two decades in the role.

Sep 2

Authorities are investigating three shootings and a slashing near the West Indian Day Parade route Monday night that left several people injured. Meanwhile, City Council leaders are urging the city’s Board of Elections to reject three housing-related ballot measures advanced by Mayor Adams’ Charter Revision Commission, saying they mislead voters and weaken Council authority over land use. Plus, the Jets and Giants will open their NFL seasons Sunday with several new quarterbacks joining the Giants’ roster.

Sep 1

Police are searching for the pilot of a catamaran that collided with a party boat on the East River, sending three people to the hospital with minor injuries. Meanwhile, city officials are investigating the death of a Rikers Island detainee, the eleventh in custody this year. Also, Yankees captain Aaron Judge has tied Yogi Berra for fifth on the team’s all-time home run list with his 358th career homer. Plus, GrowNYC’s Amelia Tarpey explains why melons are peaking at city farmstands, and WNYC’s Brittany Kriegstein reports on a viral water park in a Washington Heights bike lane.

Aug 30

Brooklyn is preparing for J’Ouvert and the West Indian Day Parade, celebrations that draw huge crowds. But they have also been marred by violence in recent years. After a mass shooting in Crown Heights earlier this month, the city is relying on violence prevention groups and the NYPD to keep the events safe. WNYC’s Ben Feuerherd joins us to explain.

Aug 29

A 7th person has died in Central Harlem's ongoing outbreak of Legionnaires' disease. Plus, a federal judge has extended a temporary order requiring U-S Immigration and Customs Enforcement holding rooms in New York City to meet certain conditions. And finally, the story of a Katrina survivor who made a home in New Jersey.

Aug 29

More than 200 violence prevention workers will be in Brooklyn this weekend to help keep residents safe during the West Indian Day Parade and J’Ouvert festival. Meanwhile, the Port Authority is cutting AirTrain fares to JFK through Labor Day to ease congestion during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. Plus, on this week’s transit segment: Federal officials are soliciting new design proposals for Penn Station with construction targeted to begin in 2027. And the city approves a pilot for eight autonomous vehicles to test in Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Aug 29

Mayor Eric Adams says he will deploy 1,000 additional police officers to the Bronx following a series of recent shootings. Meanwhile, the Reverend Al Sharpton led hundreds in a march on Wall Street to protest the Trump administration’s effort to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Plus, nearly two dozen workers who renovated NYPD precincts will share in an $850,000 settlement after Comptroller Brad Lander found they had been severely underpaid.

Aug 28

A new City Council report finds the borough with the most ghost plates is the Bronx. The illegal plates are tied to speeding vehicles that break traffic laws. The 16th annual Unicycle Festival comes to the city. A new report highlights the inequalities between Brooklyn neighborhoods when it comes to parks, transit and schools. And finally, WNYC’s Michael Hill discuses what caused multiple sink holes to develop on a troubled stretch of highway in northern New Jersey.

Aug 28

A City Council investigation says the Bronx has the highest concentration of illegal out-of-state license plates used to evade tolls and fines, with one in five sampled vehicles citywide showing fraudulent or missing plates. Meanwhile, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso has released a report underscoring sharp disparities across neighborhoods. Plus, in this week’s Politics Brief: Governor Hochul says “no” to President Trump on sending the National Guard into New York, and Zohran Mamdani’s record in Albany.

Aug 28

Mayor Eric Adams says the NYPD will launch a full mobilization plan in the Bronx after a string of shootings left three people dead and two others injured this week. Meanwhile, police say an off-duty officer was killed in a hit-and-run on the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway when the driver of a box truck struck his motorcycle and fled the scene Wednesday. Also, the Port Authority expects a record 2.4 million passengers over Labor Day weekend and is urging air travelers to plan for long lines and delays. Finally, the National Transportation Safety Board says a fire on PATH tracks earlier this month in Jersey City was caused by electrical issues.

Aug 27

A street advocacy group is calling on the city to revoke approval for a pilot program that'll allow a self-driving taxi company to test out their cars in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Plus, federal judges have formally appointed Joseph Nocella Jr. as U.S. attorney for New York's Eastern District. Meanwhile, a nonprofit housing group wants to build an affordable housing complex in the South Bronx. And finally, immigrants across New York City want safer, better paying jobs but they face a major hurdle: building digital skills.

Aug 27

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order that could withhold federal resources from states with cashless bail policies, potentially affecting billions in funding for New York. Meanwhile, fans at the US Open in Flushing are paying steep prices for tickets and concessions, with some ground passes reselling for more than $300. Plus, State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli is seeking a fifth term and faces a Democratic primary challenge from Drew Warshaw, who says the office should do more to address affordability. WNYC’s Jimmy Vielkind joins us to explain.

Aug 27

A Manhattan judge has found an NYPD officer guilty of assault and official misconduct for pepper spraying a man who was already handcuffed. Meanwhile, Liberty star Jonquel Jones is joining the Brooklyn Public Library for a children’s storytime Wednesday afternoon in Crown Heights.

Aug 26

Governor Kathy Hochul says she told President Trump, New York doesn’t need him to send National Guard troops. Plus, New York Attorney General Letitia James is asking a federal court to stop immigration officers from arresting people at federal immigration courts. Also, New York City animal shelters are once again accepting surrendered pets. And finally, what to do if you think your Con Ed bill is too high.

Aug 26

New York City’s deadly Legionnaires’ outbreak in Harlem appears to be waning with no new fatalities reported since Friday. Meanwhile, police are searching for two men who posed as NYCHA workers and stole more than $200,000 in jewelry and cash from a Brooklyn woman. Plus, Bruce Springsteen’s Born to Run marks its 50th anniversary, and Eileen Chapman of the Springsteen Archives at Monmouth University joins us to reflect on the album’s legacy.

Aug 26

President Trump is threatening to cut funding to states that rolled back cash bail, including New York. Meanwhile, the MTA is holding in person hearings for riders to weigh in on fare changes. Plus, Breanna Stewart returned to the Liberty lineup after a month-long injury, scoring 19 points in an 81–79 win over the Connecticut Sun.

Aug 25

Nearly all New York schools are ready to prohibit cell phones this year. Also, longtime New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has a Democratic primary opponent. Plus, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the department was desperate for applicants six months ago. Last week, she swore in the largest class since 2016. And finally, we hear from New Yorkers in Manhattan's East Harlem neighborhood.

Aug 25

New York City officials are investigating after they say an NYPD squad car ran over a man lying on a road in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Plus, a look at the reaction to a viral video showing Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani lifting weights at an Open Streets in Brooklyn over the weekend. And finally, for some immigrant families, the start of the school year brings fear and uncertainty—about immigration enforcement, their children’s safety, and what rights they actually have.

Aug 25

Mayor Adams' son Jordan Coleman appeared on a TV show cited in the bribery case against former adviser Ingrid Lewis-Martin. Meanwhile, Governor Hochul is warning that Hurricane Erin is still a potential danger. Finally, Zohran Mamdani held a chip bag treasure hunt to try and embarrass Mayor Eric Adams.

Aug 23

In Manhattan, prosecutors and investigators are learning a new way to interview suspects, witnesses, and victims in an effort to get more accurate information and prevent false confessions. As WNYC's Samantha Max tells host Janae Pierre, the new technique draws on scientific research about the human brain.

Aug 22

An NYPD detective is recovering after he was struck by gunfire from his fellow officers during an incident Friday morning. Plus, the National Weather Service warns of life-threatening rip currents through Saturday at regional beaches. Meanwhile, a quarter of residents in the Bronx don’t have broadband internet access at home. And finally, there's a new entry in Red Hook's collection of oddball delights; a pinball museum.

Aug 22

Mayor Adams' former chief adviser is facing four new conspiracy and bribery indictments. Plus, the US Open tennis tournament gets into full swing in Queens next week after qualifying matches this week. And finally, we meet a group of young New Yorkers building some cool creations.

Aug 22

City health officials report that the Legionnaires' outbreak is declining, but confirmed cases could still rise as more people seek treatment and earlier cases are verified. Meanwhile, the Brooklyn District Attorney's office hopes an Ohio man arrested for throwing a sex toy at a Liberty game can help them identify other people doing the same. Finally, the Trump administration appears to be targeting companies known to employ unauthorized workers to achieve its goals regarding immigration arrests.

Aug 21

A New York appeals court has thrown out President Trump’s massive civil fraud penalty. Plus, New Jersey has stopped enrolling new families seeking child care vouchers. And finally, health department officials lost more than a third of their cooling tower inspectors in the three years leading up to the outbreak despite a significant boost in funding.

Aug 21

A former top adviser to Mayor Adams is facing new corruption charges. Plus, The controversy over Central Park's carriage horses is back in the political fray after one of them died in Midtown earlier this month. And finally, where to get the best pancakes in New York City.

Aug 21

A WNYC analysis of city data finds marshals are evicting tenants at a rate of 1500 apartments a month, that’s the highest eviction rate since 2018. Another WNYC analysis found that seven of the ten buildings at the center of the Legionnaires' disease outbreak, some of which are run directly by the city, had no inspections over the past year. Finally, Muslims on Long Island which owns an existing mosque in Bethpage, sued under federal religious discrimination law, after the town blocked its plan to tear down two structures and build a larger mosque on the site. As a result of a settlement of long running land use and religious discrimination case, the town will fund nearly $4 million dollars towards the build.

Aug 20

Two Harlem construction workers are suing contractors they blame for Legionnaires’ outbreak. Plus, the National Weather Service says much of New York City, Long Island and New Jersey will be under a coastal flood watch beginning Thursday night, thanks to Hurricane Erin. Also, the MTA is leaving the Bronx behind in a key effort to speed up subway service. And finally, the parks department has used a city-owned Bronx lot as an unofficial garbage dump for decades, and locals say the smell is unbearable.

Aug 20

New York City beaches will remain closed for swimming Wednesday and Thursday as Hurricane Erin generates dangerous rip currents. Plus, Mayor Adams says rat sightings in New York City have declined for eight straight months. And finally, childcare is becoming increasingly unaffordable for families. That’s why more parents in New Jersey and New York are relying on subsidized vouchers to help pay for it.

Aug 20

Officer Omar Habib pleaded not guilty after prosecutors accused him of placing a man in an illegal chokehold. But the Bronx DA's office says Habib can be heard on his body camera recording asking himself, "what'd you do, bro?" Meanwhile, Jersey City residents are paying hundreds of dollars to apply for affordable housing. Mayoral candidate Bill O’Dea wants the fees to be eliminated. Finally, Governor Phil Murphy says Erin will miss the Garden State by a "substantial amount," but he's warning residents to avoid going in the water while the hurricane passes by.

Aug 19

Even after local and state leaders significantly boosted funding for child care vouchers, thousands of children are still on the waitlist for low cost care. Plus, Mayor Adams is suing the city's Campaign Finance Board for denying him $5 million in matching funds for his re-election bid. And finally, New York City will replace thousands of rental vouchers after the federal government’s Emergency Housing Voucher program expires. But at what cost?

Aug 19

Governor Hochul and some New York lawmakers are demanding an Ecuadorian family's release after agents detained them at a Manhattan immigration court last week. Plus, backers of eight casino projects are vying for three downstate gaming licenses that New York State plans to award this year. But they first have to get past reviews by local community advisory committees. And finally, we look into what might be causing people’s hair to stick straight up at 41st Street and Seventh Avenue in Manhattan.

Aug 19

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz says six weed shops were padlocked following undercover buys and coordinated raids over the past month. Meanwhile, New Jersey has 33 large-scale solar energy projects ready to break ground, but PJM says the projects won't be greenlit until at least late-2026. Finally, Hurricane Erin will likely bring dangerous conditions to our shores. The storm remains hundreds of miles away from New York City, with no forecast indicating it will make landfall.

Aug 18

The city’s Department of Education is urging parents of newly arrived migrant children to enroll them in public school as classes start next month. Also, though Hurricane Erin is expected to stay well offshore, dangerous surf and rip currents could show up along the area’s coast over the next few days. And finally, WNYC’s Brittany Kriegstein visits the scene of this weekend’s mass shooting in Brooklyn’s Crown Heights neighborhood.

Aug 18

Officials say they’re concerned about possible retaliation after a targeted shooting at a Brooklyn hookah bar left three dead and ten wounded early Sunday. Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams is down a board member at the MTA as hearings on new fare and toll hikes begin this week. Plus, Mount Sinai Hospital and the Real Dads Network are providing free heart health screenings for Black men to address disproportionately high rates of undiagnosed disease.

Aug 18

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries says he’s still deciding whether to endorse Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani. Meanwhile, Staten Island will get its own NYPD Quality of Life Team starting Monday. Plus, fans can already access free practices and events at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center as US Open Fan Week runs through Saturday.

Aug 16

A beloved squirrel named Peanut, a raid by New York environmental officers, and a maelstrom of online outrage. What began as a wildlife seizure turned into a viral flashpoint in the culture wars, with fallout for innocent bystanders, overwhelmed state agencies, and the enforcement of environmental law. WNYC’s Jon Campbell unravels the saga from internet stardom to state intervention, revealing a story of mistaken identity, government overreach, and the power of online fury in an election year.

Aug 15

New York State Attorney General Letitia James is among dozens of state AGs urging Instagram to protect users' data after the platform released a map feature that allows users to share their real-time location. Meanwhile, the MTA is increasing train service for the start of the U.S Open Monday. Also, Mamdani canvassers return to the streets ahead of the general election. Plus, state lawmakers warn Governor Hochul about looming fiscal trouble. Finally GrowNYC’s Amelia Tarpey shares how to make the most of peak eggplant season.

Aug 15

New York City food delivery customers can now tip more easily under new City Council laws affecting apps like DoorDash and UberEats. Meanwhile, a sweeping Midtown rezoning could bring 10,000 new homes to Manhattan’s West Side. Plus, we remember Latin jazz legend Eddie Palmieri, who helped define New York’s salsa sound. Music journalist Aurora Flores Hostos joins us to reflect on his legacy.

Aug 15

A fourth person has died in the Harlem Legionnaires’ disease outbreak, which has now sickened 99 people. Meanwhile, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams says the Council will vote to override Mayor Adams’ vetoes of bills expanding protections for food vendors and delivery workers. Also, Legal Services NYC is calling on the city to pause evictions on days when the heat index exceeds 90 degrees. Plus, Southern food chain, Bojangles, will open its first Brooklyn location this winter in East Flatbush. And in this week’s transit segment: more delays for PATH riders and new LIRR benches debut at Grand Central Madison.

Aug 14

City Council has approved a plan to rezone midtown Manhattan, opening the door to add thousands of new housing units. The Attorney General of New York is suing the parent company of Zelle. Plus, a new social club for people who love a good coincidence. And finally, WNYC’s Arun Venguopol looks into new data that finds New York City has bounced back from pandemic lows.

Aug 14

The New York City Council is expected to vote this Thursday on a pair of bills aimed at expanding protections for transgender patients in city hospitals. Meanwhile, state Attorney General Letitia James is warning fans about a rise in fake Bad Bunny ticket sales ahead of the singer’s upcoming shows. Also, city officials say another public school student is in immigration detention after being taken into custody at an immigration hearing. Plus, in this week’s politics segment, more on the fiery New York City Mayoral Race.

Aug 14

Former Governor David Paterson is backing Mayor Eric Adams’ reelection bid after supporting Andrew Cuomo in the primary. Meanwhile, federal officials plan to appeal a judge’s order mandating better conditions for immigrants held in Manhattan. And Mayor Adams has vetoed two City Council bills that would have raised pay for grocery delivery workers.

Aug 13

Backers of a casino proposed for Times Square have reversed course on a proposal to create a $22 million fund benefiting residents of a nearby affordable housing complex. Plus, the Central Park Conservancy says it's time to ban horse-drawn carriages. Also, a judge has ordered Immigration and Customs Enforcement to improve conditions at their hold rooms in downtown Manhattan. And finally, WNYC’s Mike Hayes hit the Jersey Shore to see how voters are feeling about the upcoming race for governor.

Aug 13

After a deadly weekend at the Jersey Shore, Seaside Heights officials say they’ll crack down on beach access after lifeguards leave for the day. Meanwhile, in Paterson, New Jersey, most residents have running water again but it’s still not safe to drink. Plus, WNYC’s Samantha Max reports on how some New York City parents who report domestic violence end up under scrutiny by the Administration for Children’s Services.

Aug 13

New York state officials say they dropped millions in fines against the developer of the long-delayed Atlantic Yards affordable housing project after the company threatened legal action. Meanwhile, pandemic-era subway cleaners will receive $3 million in backpay following a city comptroller lawsuit against the MTA. Plus, Mets first baseman Pete Alonso makes history as the franchise’s all-time home run leader.

Aug 12

New York State's cell phone ban in schools is on the way. Plus, the NYPD says three people are dead after a driver struck two pedestrians and another car in Queens Tuesday morning. Also, experts say President Trump will likely face greater difficulty in New York if he wants to exert federal control. And finally, the union representing New York State Troopers says its officers should get time off after shoot-outs and other stressful calls.

Aug 12

Mayor Eric Adams says his administration has helped more than 3,500 New Yorkers move into permanent housing as part of his effort to reduce street and subway homelessness, especially among those with serious mental illness. Meanwhile, health experts warn that fewer inspections of cooling towers could raise the risk of Legionnaires’ disease. Plus, Governor Hochul must decide whether to sign a bill banning anonymous calls to the state’s child abuse hotline. WNYC’s Jon Campbell explains the stakes.

Aug 12

New York City health officials say the Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Harlem is slowing, even with seven new cases reported this week. Meanwhile, President Trump says he'll explore stepping up the number of federal law enforcers in New York City in the coming months. Plus, newly released test scores show slight improvement for students throughout the five boroughs.

Aug 11

The EPA is terminating contracts with its union. Also, a plan to shift some NYPD responsibilities to a new agency is drawing both praise and skepticism. Plus, New York state is marking Harlem Week with new laws honoring the neighborhood’s legacy. And finally, former Gov. and mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo is going viral for a series of social media posts attacking his rival Zohran Mamdani over housing policy.

Aug 11

Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani wants to create a new city agency to handle mental health and violence prevention work currently overseen by the NYPD funded with more than a billion dollars in re-allocated and new money. Meanwhile, environmental justice groups are rallying Monday against Governor Hochul's plan to build a temporary replacement for the Cross Bronx Expressway. Plus, after a series of recent earthquakes in the tri-state area, we turn to fault analyst Alexander Gates to help us understand what's really going on and whether we should be concerned.

Aug 11

The looming end of a federal rental assistance program has New York housing officials scrambling to find alternative aid to prevent thousands from becoming homeless. Meanwhile, the NYPD will launch its “Q-teams” in Queens on Monday, targeting quality-of-life issues like abandoned cars, illegal mopeds, and noise complaints. And a PhD student from New Hampshire completes a full-length paddle down the Hudson River, arriving in the city Sunday after testing water quality along the way.

Aug 9

The long-promised Second Avenue Subway extension is finally making its way into East Harlem, bringing the promise of long-overdue transit access. But for some, that progress comes at a cost. The MTA is using eminent domain to acquire at least 19 properties, mostly residential, to make way for a future station at East 116th Street. WNYC's Ramsey Khalifeh meets the Diego family, who have just 90 days to leave the apartment they've lived in for decades.

Aug 8

Federal prosecutors have issued subpoenas to New York State Attorney General Letitia James related to two of her most controversial cases. Plus, a downstate casino proposal is offering residents of a nearby development a cut of the action. Also, it’ll be another weekend of transportation troubles across the 5 boroughs. Meanwhile, thousands felt the shake of earthquakes in New Jersey this week. And finally, summer brings a seasonal variety of fruits and we’re sharing tips for what's in abundance at your local market right now.

Aug 8

A Vital City report shows that hiring more police officers doesn’t necessarily mean less crime. Meanwhile, two people are facing charges for allegedly stealing the home of an elderly woman in hospice care. Also, a stretch of streets from the Brooklyn Bridge to Dyckman Street will be closed to cars Saturday for the city’s Summer Streets program. Plus, New Jersey secures a more than $2 billion settlement with DuPont and related companies to clean up “forever chemicals” at four contaminated sites. Columbia University’s Dr. Julie Herbstman joins us to discuss the health impact of these chemicals.

Aug 8

Mayoral hopeful Andrew Cuomo is proposing free subway and bus service for low-income New Yorkers. Meanwhile, a 100-year-old historic home near Staten Island’s New Dorp station is on the market for only the second time in its history. A new report from State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli warns of severe doctor shortages in rural New York counties, with some lacking pediatricians, OBGYNs, and mental health providers. Finally, in this week’s transit segment: plans for a new 34th Street busway, Cuomo’s free transit pitch, and safety upgrades to Canal Street following a deadly crash.

Aug 7

Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani is walking back criticisms he leveled at the NYPD in 2020 during the George Floyd protests. Plus, Gov. Hochul says she’s open to charging more teenagers as adults following an uptick in youth defendants committing more serious crimes. Also, officials say they're installing barriers and sand-filled barrels in front of pedestrian crossings at Canal Street and Bowery. And finally, the way you walk may soon be enough to reveal your identity through gait recognition technology.

Aug 7

A former top NYPD lawyer is suing the department, saying she was pushed out after recommending discipline against a close ally of Mayor Eric Adams. Meanwhile, the Delacorte Theater in Central Park reopens tonight with a star-studded production of Twelfth Night after a major renovation. Plus, WNYC's analysis finds city inspections for Legionella dropped to post-pandemic lows ahead of a Harlem outbreak that has killed three and sickened dozens. Reporter Joe Hong joins us to break down the data.

Aug 7

Two men, Miguel Mora and Christhian Aybar have been arrested in connection with the shooting of an off-duty Customs and Border Protection officer now face state charges, including robbery, assault and weapons possession charges. Meanwhile, New York City mayoral candidates are trading attacks over policing after last week's mass shooting in Midtown. WNYC's Elizabeth Kim reports on how one of the victim's families is distancing itself from the tragedy's politics. And New York state officials explain why they're waiving millions in penalties for a developer who missed an affordable housing deadline at Brooklyn's Atlantic Yards.

Aug 6

New York City Representatives Nydia Velazquez, Adriano Espaillat, and Dan Goldman were looking to conduct an oversight visit at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn but were turned away. Plus, New Jersey’s gubernatorial race continues to tighten. And finally, New York’s climate law calls for the retirement of fossil fuel infrastructure. But that’s not stopping a natural gas giant from resurrecting a pipeline plan that was already rejected by the state nearly a decade ago.

Aug 6

A 15-year-old carriage horse named Lady collapsed and died on a Hell’s Kitchen street Tuesday afternoon. Meanwhile, the Port Authority has broken ground on a new truck parking plaza at JFK Airport to reduce congestion in southeast Queens. Plus, New York City health officials are urging residents in Central Harlem to remain alert for signs of Legionnaires’ disease, as the outbreak in the area grows to 67 cases and three deaths. Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse joins us with the latest.

Aug 6

A third person has died in connection to the ongoing Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Harlem. City health officials say 67 people have been diagnosed since late July. Meanwhile, a Harlem resident who recovered from a previous Legionnaires’ infection shares their advice for others. Plus, New York City has opened the nation’s first city-funded shelter specifically for transgender and gender-nonconforming people experiencing homelessness, located in Queens.

Aug 5

Two Episcopal church members face detention by ICE, prompting parishioner warnings across New York. Meanwhile, authorities are investigating the drowning of a 20-month-old girl at a Bronx daycare on Friday. Plus, Andrew Cuomo says he wants to beef up the NYPD unit that responded to last week's mass shooting in Midtown. Finally, food writer Robert Sietsema spotlights Williamsburg’s culinary boom.

Aug 5

City health officials confirm another death linked to a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Central Harlem, bringing the total number of cases to 58 since late July. Meanwhile, a Long Island City gym has agreed to change its cancellation policy after the attorney general’s office said it violated state law. Plus, after an 18-month renovation, the Delacorte Theater reopens this week, marking the long-awaited return of Shakespeare in the Park. Patrick Willingham, Executive Director of the Public Theater that runs Shakespeare in the Park, joins us ahead of the new season.

Aug 5

Parents of students with disabilities in summer school say broken air conditioning and overheated buses are making an already difficult experience worse. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul says it’s time to move past nonpartisan redistricting in New York. Plus, Senator Elizabeth Warren shows support for democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani.

Aug 4

The NYPD's quality of life enforcement teams are expanding to Brooklyn after launching in the Bronx and Manhattan last month. Plus, New York City is moving forward with a plan to build new affordable and market-rate housing at the Elliott-Chelsea Houses but not before vacating its senior residents. Meanwhile, Gov. Hochul is promising to protect cannabis dispensary owners who are facing relocation after state officials already approved their licenses and locations. Also, a crackdown on cyclists and e-bike riders is impacting delivery workers. And finally, we share a few free events to get into this month.

Aug 4

Governor Hochul says she’s welcoming Texas Democrats who departed their state to protest a Republican redistricting plan. Meanwhile, the Delacorte Theater in Central Park reopens this week following an 18-month, multi-million dollar renovation. Plus, the latest episode of Terrestrials, a podcast from Radiolab, explores the surprising ecosystem of the Hudson River with a focus on one unexpected resident: crabs. Producer and music director Alan Goffinski joins us to talk about it.

Aug 4

Prosecutors and investigators in Manhattan are adopting new research-backed methods for questioning suspects, witnesses, and victims aiming to improve accuracy and reduce wrongful convictions. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul warns that cuts to federal Medicaid funding could destabilize New York’s healthcare system. Plus, Assembly-member Amy Paulin is calling on ICE to release a South Korean national and recent Scarsdale High School graduate detained after a routine court appearance.

Aug 2

A WNYC investigation found dozens of forged signatures on petitions submitted by Mayor Eric Adams’ campaign to get on the November ballot. The petitions also included names of deceased voters. We break down the findings and the implications.

Aug 2

Since 2015, Stephen Colbert has been one of the most familiar faces in political comedy, broadcasting from Manhattan’s Ed Sullivan Theater. But now, CBS says The Late Show will end in 2026. WNYC’s Janae Pierre speaks with New York Times comedy critic Jason Zinoman about what’s behind the decision and what it signals for the future of satire, late-night television, and Colbert himself.

Aug 1

A WNYC investigation has found dozens of people who say their signatures were forged or that they were misled into signing ballot petitions for Mayor Eric Adams. Meanwhile, the state of New Jersey is set to raise taxes on cigarettes. Plus, the story of two photographers who track coyotes in Central Park.

Aug 1

New York City’s subway system has a lower rate of major violent crime compared to public transit in other large U.S. cities, according to a new report. Meanwhile, New Jersey Congressman Jeff Van Drew says he worked to preserve a special Medicaid program threatened by a new federal tax and spending bill. But as WNYC’s Mike Hayes reports, New Jersey hospitals are still expected to lose hundreds of millions in funding.

Jul 31

A New Yorker has died amid a Legionnaires’ outbreak in Central Harlem, with more than 20 people sickened. Meanwhile, New York’s cannabis regulators are forcing over 100 dispensaries to move or shut down. Plus, Mayor Adams vetoes the City Council’s casino ban in the Bronx, and the MTA considers lifting its ban on alcohol ads across subways and buses.

Jul 31

Local officials are warning residents to stay off the roads and prepare for flash flooding as hefty storms roll through the area Thursday night into Friday. Meanwhile, dozens of New York cannabis dispensaries may have to move or close. New York law bars dispensaries from opening within 5-hundred feet of schools. Plus, there’s another MTA fare hike coming. WNYC’s transit reporter Stephen Nessen joins us with what to expect.

Jul 31

The NYPD has released new information about Shane Tamura, who fatally shot four people in a Midtown Manhattan office building this week. Investigators say Tamura had ammunition, prescription drugs, and a second suicide note in his Las Vegas apartment. Meanwhile, a federal official tells WNYC that the investigation into former NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban’s alleged ties to a nightlife industry shakedown is now on hold. Plus, Mayor Eric Adams is unveiling a $3 million plan to redesign Manhattan’s 14th Street.

Jul 30

The MTA is proposing to raise the cost of a single subway or bus ride to $3 starting in January. Plus, the NYPD is sending detectives to Las Vegas to question associates of Shane Tamura, the man police say shot and killed four people at a building in Midtown Manhattan. Also, some tips to keep mosquitos away this summer. And finally, the Parks Department is asking New Yorkers to help with its once a decade arboreal census.

Jul 30

Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani is back in New York City after a nearly two-week trip to Uganda. Meanwhile, the Adams administration is proposing changes to a senior housing subsidy to create more family-sized units. In Brooklyn, police say a man was killed by a train after a fight on the Prospect Park subway platform early Wednesday morning. Plus, the fatal shooting inside a Midtown office building this week is raising concerns about safety in buildings with high-profile tenants. Security Expert Brian Higgins joins us to help us understand how buildings with prominent tenants are guarded, and what corporate security teams are thinking about in the aftermath of such an incident.

Jul 30

Monday’s deadly shooting inside a Midtown office tower is raising questions about whether existing security protocols are enough. Police say the shooter killed an NYPD officer and a security guard inside the Park Avenue building, despite both being stationed there. Meanwhile, a new count finds more homeless people in New Jersey are living on the streets or in abandoned buildings this year. Also, the MTA has voted to loosen its 2018 ban on alcohol advertising, potentially bringing beer and liquor ads back to city buses and subways.

Jul 29

The NYPD officer who was the first person killed in a shooting in a Midtown office building Monday evening was working a special assignment that many officers take to earn extra money. Plus, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is planning to implement phone restrictions in schools this fall. Also, New York’s oldest residents are finding it hard to pay their bills, buy healthy food or leave their home. And finally, a new poll on the New Jersey governor's race puts Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill's lead against Republican Jack Ciattarelli in the single digits.

Jul 29

A power outage at the West 4th Street station is causing delays on the A, B, C, F, and M subway lines, according to the MTA. Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams says it appears a gunman who opened fire inside a Midtown skyscraper Monday was targeting NFL offices. Four people, including an off-duty police officer, were killed. Plus, WNYC’s Arun Venugopal reports on how mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is mobilizing some immigrant voters while facing criticism from others within his own South Asian community.

Jul 29

Four people, including an NYPD officer, were killed in a Midtown office shooting Monday night before the gunman turned the weapon on himself. Meanwhile, more than a dozen states, including New York and New Jersey, are suing the federal government over a new requirement to collect personal data from food stamp recipients. Also, city officials are warning outdoor workers to stay safe as a heat wave pushes temperatures into the mid-90s. Plus An investigation is underway after the Midtown office building shooting, WNYC’s Brittany Kriegstein has the latest on the suspect.

Jul 28

A spokesman for former Gov. Andrew Cuomo pointed to a pilot program he announced in 2013 that invested $25 million to add 5,000 Universal pre-K seats. Plus, the New York City Health Department is investigating a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease in central Harlem. Also, 311 complaints about dog waste on sidewalks have gone up every year since the pandemic. And finally, a mid-season check in on the defending WNBA champion New York Liberty.

Jul 28

The Trump administration’s new agreement with Columbia University requires the school to reduce its reliance on international students. Meanwhile, legal experts say a new federal lawsuit targeting New York’s sanctuary city laws is unlikely to succeed in court. The Department of Justice alleges the city unlawfully blocks immigration agents from enforcing federal law. Plus, the battle over New Jersey’s top federal prosecutor is heating up. The Trump administration named Alina Habba as acting U.S. Attorney bypassing a panel of federal judges who had planned to replace her. Ry Rivard from Politico New Jersey joins us with the latest.

Jul 28

New York’s mandatory paid sick leave for COVID-19 expires this Thursday. The policy required public employers and large companies to provide 14 days of paid leave to workers under quarantine. Meanwhile, Bronx elected officials are calling on federal lawmakers to do more to curb the flow of illegal guns into New York City. Plus, with a heat wave pushing temperatures as high as 105 degrees, officials are urging New Yorkers to stay safe and use available cooling centers across the five boroughs.

Jul 26

A new federal law is making major cuts to SNAP, the program that helps more than 1.8 million New Yorkers afford groceries. WNYC’s Karen Yi reports on how the changes could strip benefits from older adults, low income workers, and others, while shrinking support for hundreds of thousands more.

Jul 25

New York City officials are investigating a reported ATM scam involving payment cards issued through the city's Summer Youth Employment Program. Plus, Sunset Park residents are calling for the city to improve pedestrian safety along Third Avenue where two men were recently killed. And finally, The iconic Broadway musical “A Chorus Line” is turning 50 and it changed Broadway forever.

Jul 25

Planned Parenthood clinics across New York are scrambling to fill a multimillion dollar hole after being cut off from Medicaid reimbursements under a federal law. Meanwhile, a new state law now requires public schools to develop emergency response plans for cardiac arrests and other medical events among students and staff. Plus, the Trump administration is taking New York City to court, arguing its sanctuary policies, limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, violate the Constitution. WNYC’s Michael Hill speaks with First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro about the lawsuit and the city’s legal stance.

Jul 25

Nearly 50 percent of voters in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary filled out all five ranked choice slots, a slight increase from 2021. Of those, 70 percent left Andrew Cuomo off their ballots. Meanwhile, former Congressman George Santos is set to report to federal prison Friday after pleading guilty to wire fraud and identity theft. Also, Yankees legend CC Sabathia will be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday. Plus, the MTA is overhauling its train communication system, Hoboken PATH riders continue to face disruptions, more open gangway trains are arriving on the G line, and new guardrails along the 7th Avenue line are raising questions.

Jul 24

Columbia University has struck a deal with the federal government that ends multiple civil rights investigations and restores access to research funding. Plus, New York City will move forward with its ban on smartphones in public schools this fall. Also, domestic violence survivors can now access mental health services more easily in shelters. Meanwhile, the mayoral contest in Buffalo four years ago, has lots of parallels to the current race in New York City. And finally, some tips to deal with the heat and humidity this weekend.

Jul 24

New York City’s Summer Streets program returns for five consecutive Saturdays starting this weekend, closing more than 22 miles of roadway to cars across the boroughs. Meanwhile, Prospect Park’s LeFrak Center at Lakeside is also set to reopen after its first major renovation since 2013. Also, the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts is celebrating its 60th anniversary with events in partnership with Lincoln Center. Plus, in this week’s politics segment: mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s trip to Uganda, Andrew Cuomo’s campaign promises, and the latest on the governor’s race.

Jul 24

A man involved in a Times Square fight between police and migrants earlier this year has been sentenced to 18 months in jail after pleading guilty to assault. Meanwhile, mental health clinicians across New York are urging Governor Hochul to sign a bill safeguarding access to gender-affirming care. Plus, New York City is expanding a program that places therapists and mental health services inside domestic violence shelters.

Jul 23

Police data shows the NYPD issued ten times more criminal summonses to cyclists in the second quarter of 2025 than the first. Plus, Columbia University announces new punishments for students who took over part of a campus library during a Pro-Palestinian protest last spring. Also, Uber is giving free rides to domestic violence survivors. Meanwhile, the Senate is reviewing a state bill called the MELT Act; short for Mandating End of Lawless Tactics. And finally, a gladiator training class teaches the basics of sword fighting and more in Manhattan.

Jul 23

Representative Mike Lawler says he won’t run for New York governor next year, opting instead to seek a third term in Congress. Meanwhile, a panel of judges declined to extend interim U.S. Attorney Alina Habba’s term in New Jersey as she awaits a Senate vote on her possible full-time appointment. Plus, after record rainfall and flash flooding killed two people in Plainfield, New Jersey, the city is working to rebuild homes and businesses. Jazz Clayton-Hunt, chief of staff to the mayor of Plainfield, joins us to talk about the recovery efforts.

Jul 23

Immigrant communities in New York are bracing for a crackdown following a warning from President Trump’s immigration czar this week. Meanwhile, plans to redevelop the abandoned Parkway Hospital in Queens into housing for low-income seniors are moving forward, but the loss of $8 million in federal funding forced developers to scrap some green energy upgrades. Plus, New Jersey residents can expect higher electricity bills next year after a deal between energy companies and the state’s grid authority.

Jul 22

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has announced after-school programming for 40 new schools beginning this fall. Plus, New York is one of several states suing the Trump administration over new rules that block undocumented immigrants from receiving social services. Meanwhile, federal aid cuts won’t stop New York State officials from sending out rebate checks this fall. And finally, a mayoral frontrunner is calling for city-owned grocery stores across the five boroughs. But New York City already has them.

Jul 22

School districts across New York have less than two weeks to figure out how to ban smartphones from classrooms after Governor Kathy Hochul pushed for the measure as part of this year’s state budget. Meanwhile, New York and New Jersey are among several states suing the Trump administration over rules that block undocumented immigrants from accessing social services. Plus, federal officials say two men have been arrested in the shooting and attempted robbery of an off-duty Customs and Border Protection agent.

Jul 21

New Jersey Rep. Herb Conaway is calling out the Trump administration for its plan to detain immigrants at a military base in the state. Meanwhile, a jury found a Central Park carriage horse driver not guilty of abusing the horse that collapsed in Midtown in the summer of 2022. Plus, a run-down building in Battery Park is getting a big upgrade. Also, Mayor Adams is trying to remove protections for cyclists on a stretch of Bedford Avenue near South Williamsburg. And finally, a new report examines the effects of congestion pricing on the air quality in and around the tolling zone in Lower Manhattan.

Jul 21

A federal border officer is recovering after being shot during a robbery attempt in Riverside Park. Police say the off-duty agent returned fire, wounding a suspect who is now in custody. Meanwhile, New York City is proposing new safety rules for basement and cellar apartments as part of an effort to protect tenants in flood-prone areas. And Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani has paused his campaign for a trip to his birthplace of Uganda.

Jul 19

More than a century after its plans for the Second Avenue Subway began, the MTA is set to launch the next phase of the project which would bring new stations to East Harlem. WNYC’s Ramsey Khalifeh unpacks how this long-promised investment could transform the neighborhood and what residents fear it might cost them.

Jul 18

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is expanding a program that seeks to reduce violent crime on specific blocks. Plus, New Jersey could lose more than $3 billion in federal Medicaid funding after President Trump signed a new law that many low-income people rely on for health insurance. Also, the Association of Volleyball Professionals is transforming Wollman Rink into a sand court and showcasing some of the world’s best players. And finally, New Yorkers who receive food benefits can now visit the Museum of Natural History for free.

Jul 18

New York City’s largest public defender group, the Legal Aid Society, has delayed a planned strike after demanding higher pay and lower caseloads. Meanwhile, mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo says the state should return power to the city to set its own rent regulations. Plus, a Brooklyn family court judge has dismissed manslaughter charges against a 12-year-old accused of accidentally shooting his 15-year-old cousin last year.

Jul 18

Several law enforcement unions, including those representing NYPD lieutenants, detectives, and sergeants, have endorsed Mayor Adams’ reelection bid during an event outside City Hall Thursday. Meanwhile, mosquitoes are swarming across New York City this summer amid hot and wet weather. Police are also searching for a woman accused of taking a subway train for a joyride in Queens early Thursday. Plus, the MTA is responding to near historic rainfall this week, proposed ferry service route changes, and updates on a controversial bike lane in South Williamsburg.

Jul 17

Former NYPD Commissioner Tom Donlon filed a civil racketeering lawsuit accusing the Adams Administration of running a criminal enterprise through city government. Plus, a number of city law enforcement unions are endorsing Mayor Adams' re-election campaign. Also, the gaming company Bally's won't be able to build a casino in the Bronx. And finally, a lesson on spotted lanternflies.

Jul 17

New York State Attorney Letitia James is suing the Trump administration to try and save a FEMA program that would fund 38 infrastructure projects in the state. The affected programs are meant to help shield against disasters like rapid flooding. Meanwhile, Pop singer and New Jersey native Connie Francis, has died at the age of 87. Also, on this week’s politics segment, WNYC’s Elizabeth Kim and Brigid Bergin give the latest updates on the New York City Mayoral race including candidate Zohran Mamdani’s private meeting with power brokers.

Jul 17

Felony assaults in New York City have jumped 45 percent since 2017, even as most other major crimes decline. Meanwhile, the RFK Bridge’s lift span over the Harlem River will close intermittently overnight Thursday from midnight to 5 a.m. Friday. Plus, a new analysis by StreetLight ranks Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx among the top U.S. counties for getting around on foot or by bike.

Jul 16

New York City and state officials are turning parts of the Christian Cultural Center's campus into a housing development. Plus, New York State has a dedicated team to push information about severe weather to emergency managers. And finally, the Trump administration’s tax bill will slash a $29 million program that helps some New Yorkers eat healthy on a budget.

Jul 16

Former interim NYPD commissioner Tom Donlon has filed a federal lawsuit accusing the Adams administration of running a criminal enterprise through the department. Meanwhile, police are investigating the stabbing and killing of a 16-year-old girl Tuesday in the Bronx. Plus, Newark is activating code red through Friday morning as the heat and humidity will make it feel hotter than a hundred degrees. Finally, WNYC’s Elijah Hurewitz-Ravitch reports on a new construction project that is disturbing horses at a nearby stable.

Jul 16

Queens high school student Derlis Toaquiza is expected to be released soon after spending more than a month in immigration detention. He was taken into custody after attending a mandatory immigration hearing in Lower Manhattan. Meanwhile, remains found in a submerged vehicle on Long Island have been identified as a man who disappeared nearly 15 years ago. Plus, Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani met with New York City power brokers Tuesday to discuss affordability, public safety, and his relationship with the Jewish community.

Jul 15

Officials in Plainfield, NJ are clearing debris after several inches of rain caused flood waters to rise. Plus, former governor Andrew Cuomo says he’s staying in New York City’s mayor’s race as an independent candidate. And finally, the National Weather Service says the heat could break 100 degrees later this

Jul 15

Authorities say two women died in Plainfield, New Jersey after flash flooding swept their car into a brook during Monday night’s storms. Meanwhile, a heat wave is gripping the region, with temperatures expected to feel like 100 degrees by midweek. Also, New York City is enacting new laws to guarantee minimum pay and protections for 20,000 grocery delivery workers. And with the MLB All-Star Game set for Tuesday night, Defector staff writer Maitreyi Anantharaman joins us to preview the action.

Jul 15

Rain is tapering off after flash flooding hammered parts of New York and New Jersey Monday night, leaving roads submerged and businesses flooded. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul is calling on Congress to give states more power to detect and disable drones. Plus, the New York City Council is proposing the “Back Home Act,” a set of bills aimed at helping tenants and landlords displaced by fires and floods.

Jul 14

Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that he’ll be campaigning as an independent in New York City’s mayor’s race. Plus, the NYPD began rolling out its new quality of life teams Monday across Manhattan. Also, a bill making its way through the state house would allow law enforcement to use a common domestic violence risk assessment tool more widely. Meanwhile, a Brooklyn woman uses TikTok to post about her daily life as she recovers from an addiction to crack cocaine. And finally, New York City's very own Amaya Espinal has won this season of the reality dating show "Love Island.”

Jul 14

The New York City Council is set to pass a bill Monday requiring city jails to notify family and attorneys immediately after someone dies in custody. Meanwhile, medical examiners have ruled the death of 18-year-old Saniyah Cheatham in police custody a suicide. Plus, construction has started on the $16 billion Hudson River Tunnel project, which will add a new rail tunnel for NJ Transit and Amtrak before repairing the storm-damaged original tube. WNYC’s Stephen Nessen takes us inside.

Jul 14

New York City is set to spend $120 million on immigration legal services in its new budget, nearly doubling last year’s funding and marking a record investment. Meanwhile, Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla is criticizing PATH after equipment failures forced nearly all train service in and out of his city to shut down Saturday night. Plus, the MLB All-Star festivities begin in Atlanta with the Home Run Derby, where Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm will compete for a $1 million prize and a custom chain. Tomorrow’s midsummer classic will see Mets stars Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor join Yankees standouts Aaron Judge and Carlos Rodón.

Jul 12

This summer, city drones are spotting more sharks off Rockaway and other beaches, prompting multiple temporary closures and stirring unease among beachgoers. WNYC’s Liam Quigley explains what’s driving the uptick in sightings. Also, New York Aquarium curator and marine biologist Hans Walters talks about shark behavior, the kinds of sharks near New York, and busts some of the biggest myths about these ocean predators.

Jul 11

A judge has granted a temporary restraining order, preventing the firings of dozens of NYPD officers who the department says were improperly hired. Plus, a state appeals court says the Adams administration must implement reforms to expand housing vouchers for low-income New Yorkers. Also, New Jersey native Amanda Anismova is off to the women's Wimbledon final Saturday. Meanwhile, Whole Foods has filed a lawsuit against the Public Hotel, in the Bowery, saying late night crowds for the hotel’s popular rooftop bar are blocking its deliveries. And finally, a popular dating competition has taken over nightlife in New York City.

Jul 11

Columbia graduate and campus activist Mahmoud Khalil is suing the Trump administration for $20 million, alleging he was falsely imprisoned, maliciously prosecuted, and smeared as an anti-Semite. Meanwhile, a dozen crisis workers in New York and New Jersey who staff the 988 Lifeline’s LGBTQ+ support line are expected to lose their jobs this month. Plus, WNYC’s David Furst speaks with Phillip Markle, artistic director of the Brooklyn Comedy Collective, about this weekend’s Fun & Dumb Improv Festival.

Jul 11

A month after New York City banned broker fees for most renters, a StreetEasy report shows rents rose only slightly, easing fears of a major spike. Meanwhile, state officials warn the new federal tax law could leave a $3 billion hole in New York’s budget. Friday and Saturday bring the year’s final Manhattanhenge sunsets, with prime views on cross streets like 14th and 72nd. And in transit news, riders are dealing with sweltering subway cars, a judge has approved Mayor Adams’ plan to remove protections from a Bedford Avenue bike lane, and work continues on a $16 billion rail tunnel linking Midtown and New Jersey.

Jul 10

Democratic Rep. Adriano Espaillat of New York is endorsing Zohran Mamdani for mayor. Plus, supporters of federal Environmental Protection Agency employees who were put on leave last week are pushing the agency to reinstate them. Also, a decades-old Manhattan diner is closing its doors later this month. Meanwhile, a report from the Legal Aid Society suggests that New York City’s Administration for Children’s Services is subjecting families to more traumatic investigations than is really necessary. And finally, a woman whose son died while subway surfing is suing the social media companies that helped to popularize the dangerous trend.

Jul 10

The chemical company DuPont is agreeing to pay $27 million dollars to residents of Hoosick, New York whose water supply was contaminated with toxic chemicals. Meanwhile, New York City officials say a man who had been detained at Rikers Island died Wednesday while receiving treatment at Bellevue Hospital. Plus, on this week’s politics segment, WNYC reporters Brigid Bergin and Jimmy Vielkind give us an update on Zohran Mamdani’s new supporters, Andrew Cuomo’s future plans, and the governors race.

Jul 10

The Hochul administration warns that federal Medicaid cuts could hit the Bronx especially hard, threatening both health coverage and jobs in the borough. Meanwhile, in honor of Disability Pride Month, the Andrew Heiskell Library, New York City’s only braille and talking book library, is rolling out new electronic Braille readers. And in Brooklyn, a woman has filed notice of intent to sue the city, alleging police failed to intervene when a mob of Orthodox Jewish men surrounded her outside a Crown Heights synagogue after a protest of Israel’s security minister. She says she was not participating in the demonstration.

Jul 9

Former NYPD chiefs filed lawsuits against the department alleging the Adams administration allowed a system of corruption to take hold in the department. Plus, New Jersey Gov. Murphy's office says utility bills spiked 20% in June. Also, according to Fordham University's tick index, the risk of being bitten by a tick in the New York region this summer is high. And finally, the two-day Maker Park Music Festival kicks off this Friday.

Jul 9

A new artificial intelligence training center for New York City teachers is raising concerns among some educators about creating a harmful environment that stunts student learning and critical thinking. Meanwhile, the United Federation of Teachers has voted to endorse Zohran Mamdani in the mayoral election. Also, a WNYC analysis finds Mamdani won about 30 percent of districts that previously voted for Donald Trump. Data show many of the voters in those Trump-Mamdani neighborhoods are Asian American. WNYC’s Joe Hong has been speaking with some of those voters in Bensonhurst and Flushing. He discusses his findings.

Jul 9

A federal judge has paused New York City’s solitary confinement ban, saying a court-appointed monitor must first review whether the law is safe for Rikers Island. Meanwhile, an arts group housed at West Park Presbyterian Church is being evicted as the landmarked building faces possible demolition amid financial struggles. And the Adams administration is calling for the release of a 19-year-old Grover Cleveland High School student detained by ICE in Texas, arguing federal authorities are undermining public safety.

Jul 8

The Adams Administration is calling for the release of an 11th grader who was detained by federal immigration authorities last month. Also, a new report from the city health department finds that doulas were involved in more than 6% of births last year, up from less than 5% in 2022. Plus, after being threatened with a knife, Albany’s interim U.S. Attorney wants the permanent job. Meanwhile, a New York City nonprofit is offering psychiatric services to the most vulnerable New Yorkers by pulling up to where they are. And finally, New York City art schools are seeing an application boom.

Jul 8

City officials are warning New Yorkers to prepare for dangerous summer weather through Wednesday, with a heat advisory in effect and a flood watch starting Tuesday afternoon. Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams is pitching a major shakeup to city elections by introducing “open primaries” where all candidates run together regardless of party. Plus, WNYC’s Liam Quigley explains why Staten Island beaches could be the perfect spot for New Yorkers looking to avoid the crowds.

Jul 8

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Tuesday, warning it could feel as hot as 100 degrees in the city. Older adults, outdoor workers, and those without air conditioning are especially at risk. Meanwhile, a new city health department report shows more pregnant New Yorkers are using doulas for support, with Mayor Adams expanding free access as part of efforts to improve Black maternal health. Plus, the city is increasingly relying on drones to monitor beaches for sharks

Jul 7

Mayor Adams is calling on former Governor Andrew Cuomo not to run in the general election this November. Plus, service disruptions are coming to the G train. And finally, a search for the subway line with the most hot car complaints.

Jul 7

New York City’s transportation department plans to hire dozens of new officers to crack down on reckless delivery drivers on mopeds and e-bikes. Meanwhile, the National Weather Service is warning of showers, thunderstorms, and possible flash flooding across the metro area starting Tuesday. Plus, as global pollinator populations decline, the city’s parks department is working to protect bees and butterflies with 23 pollinator-friendly gardens across the five boroughs. Matthew Morrow, director of horticulture for NYC Parks, and Georgina Cullman, an ecologist with the department, discuss the effort.

Jul 7

The New York City Council has passed a bill eliminating misdemeanor charges and potential jail time for street vendors who violate city laws. In New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation to expand the state’s film tax credit program, reserving $250 million in incentives for productions that choose the Garden State over Hollywood. Meanwhile, the NYPD reports a steep decline in catalytic converter thefts across the city over the past three years.

Jul 5

Governor Phil Murphy has signed legislation designed to position New Jersey as a hub for film and television production. The new law expands tax incentives to attract studios and production companies, with the goal of competing directly with Hollywood. WNYC’s Mike Hayes explains what this could mean for New Jersey’s entertainment industry.

Jul 4

The NYPD commissioner has cleared an officer who fatally shot an unarmed man during a 2019 traffic stop, going against a judge’s recommendation to fire him. Meanwhile, Fourth of July celebrations in Plainfield, New Jersey, are canceled after severe thunderstorms swept through the area. Plus, the Mets and Yankees square off this weekend in their second Subway Series of the season. And Congress narrowly passed a sweeping tax and spending package this week, handing President Trump a major legislative victory. WNYC’s Jimmy Vielkind breaks down what it means for New York State.

Jul 3

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul’s top spokesperson is on leave after an allegation of sexual harassment. Plus, deadly car crashes are trending down in New York City, according to new data from the city's transportation department. Also, New York City officials are reminding residents to prioritize firework safety ahead of 4th of July celebrations. Meanwhile, New York City officials backed off a plan to turn the Elizabeth Street Garden in Lower Manhattan into a housing complex for low income seniors. And finally, July is the height of summer stargazing.

Jul 3

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo is losing support for a potential independent mayoral run, with Reverend Al Sharpton joining others urging him to step aside. Meanwhile, the New York Knicks have hired Mike Brown as their new head coach. And in Newark, a new program is offering high school graduates contracts to return to the district as teachers.

Jul 3

The NYPD is asking the White House for authorization to intercept and disable potentially hostile drones flying over New York City. Meanwhile, a city commission is recommending that borough presidents get new authority over land use decisions, allowing them a decisive vote if the City Council rejects rezoning or development plans. And New York’s baseball stars shine: Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor and Yankees slugger Aaron Judge have been named starters for this year’s MLB All-Star Game.

Jul 2

A New York jury has found music mogul Sean Diddy Combs not guilty of sex trafficking and racketeering in a split verdict. Plus, data from New York City’s Democratic Primary shows that assemblymember Zohran Mamdani won without a majority of black voters. Also, we discuss the impact of we Bangladeshi aunties campaigning for Mamdani. And finally, homeless service providers are accusing officials in Emerson, New Jersey of hypocrisy.

Jul 2

Port Authority police are investigating a multi-bus crash that shut down service to the New York Port Authority Bus Terminal during Wednesday’s morning rush. Meanwhile, hospital groups in New York say President Trump’s new tax and spending bill could strip health coverage from 1.5 million New Yorkers and cut $8 billion from hospital funding. Plus, an investigation by NJ Advance Media finds more than 100 youth sports coaches and trainers across New Jersey have been accused of sex crimes since 2015, raising urgent questions about safety and accountability. Reporter Matt Stanmyre joins us to discuss.

Jul 2

Democratic nominee for New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani says he'd break with predecessors, including Eric Adams, on a key education policy ... the mayor's control of public schools. Meanwhile, The NYPD says major crime keeps falling across New York City. Offenses such as murder, rape and robbery are down 6-percent citywide. Meanwhile, New York City is allocating nearly $14 million dollars toward gender-affirming care and other critical services for transgender and gender nonconforming New Yorkers.The money is part of the newly approved $116 billion city budget and marks the largest investment of its kind in the city's history.

Jul 1

New York City’s Rent Guidelines Board approved a 4.5% hike for nearly a million rent stabilized apartments. Plus, Mayor Eric Adams is calling the city's $116 billion spending plan "the best budget ever," but parks advocates disagree. And finally, we visit a new mental health community center that aims to help people with serious mental illnesses avoid social isolation.

Jul 1

Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani has clinched the Democratic nomination for New York City mayor, with preliminary ranked choice results showing him winning 56 percent of the vote over former Governor Andrew Cuomo. The Associated Press has now called the race in Mamdani’s favor. Meanwhile, federal investigators say they are still trying to determine what caused a historic Mexican sailboat to crash into the Brooklyn Bridge in May, killing two crew members. Plus, lawmakers in New Jersey have approved a nearly $60-Billion dollar budget for the Garden State. Statehouse reporter for The Star-Ledger and NJ.com Susan Livio breaks it down.

Jul 1

Rents are going up for nearly 1 million New Yorkers in rent-stabilized apartments after the Rent Guidelines Board approved increases Monday night. Starting in October, one-year leases will rise 3 percent, and two-year leases will go up 4.5 percent. Meanwhile, New Yorkers are getting their first look at ranked choice results from last week’s primary election. Plus, a Staten Island family will be allowed to keep their pet pig temporarily while it receives medical treatment. But once it recovers, the mayor says the pig must move to the family’s upstate home, where owning a pig as a pet is legal.

Jun 30

We get the latest in the federal corruption case of a former aide to Governor Hochul. Plus, the city starts spraying for West Nile Virus. And finally, we hear from the social media influencers gathering outside the sex trafficking trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs.

Jun 30

Police say a 16-year-old girl is in critical condition after being shot in the head near the Stonewall Inn as Pride celebrations wrapped up Sunday night. A 17-year-old was also shot and is in stable condition. Meanwhile, the MTA will stop selling MetroCards by the end of the year as it completes its shift to the OMNY tap-to-pay system. A planned four percent fare hike could also raise the cost of a single ride to $3. Plus, the city’s Rent Guidelines Board is set to vote Monday night on potential increases for rent-stabilized apartments. WNYC’s David Brand joins us to explain what’s at stake.

Jun 30

The city’s Rent Guidelines Board is voting Monday on proposed rent increases for over a million stabilized apartments. Meanwhile, New York City is investing in new mental health clubhouses to support people with serious mental illness. And police are investigating a shooting that injured two teenage girls near the Stonewall Inn just hours after the Pride parade.

Jun 28

In this edition of Five Things, WNYC’s Janae Pierre and Brian Lehrer break down the Democratic mayoral primary, where Zohran Mamdani has taken a commanding lead over Andrew Cuomo. They discuss what the results say about the city’s political direction, whether Eric Adams could reemerge in the general election, and how Alvin Bragg easily held on to his DA seat.

Jun 27

New York City is starting a pilot program for free childcare. Plus, police investigate a spike in homicides across the city. Also, the city cracks down on illegal short term rentals. A town in New Jersey has a plan to create more affordable housing, but will it ever get built? Finally, hordes of influencers line up outside the Diddy trial in Lower Manhattan.

Jun 27

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo trails Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani for the Democratic nomination for mayor, but he'll be on the ballot on another party's line. It remains to be seen if he'll actively campaign. Meanwhile, Yankees slugger Aaron Judge is heading to the MLB All-Star Game. Plus, its WNYC's "Ask a Super" segment.

Jun 27

WNYC’s David Brand reports the city wants to build 6000 new apartments at the Brooklyn Marine Terminal. Meanwhile, in the Bronx, twenty-year-old Arius Williams has been indicted for allegedly throwing his two-year-old son off the Bruckner Express Overpass. Next, NYC pools open today, including the brand new Gottesman Pool in Harlem. Finally, our transit team speculates how the recent election primary might affect the future.

Jun 26

Immigration authorities are now housing detainees at federal jail in Brooklyn. Plus, a mother looks for answers in her daughter’s Brooklyn killing. And health officials in New York warn about the addictive nature of vaping. Finally, many mental health professionals still try to win the trust of homeless clients so that they’ll accept hospital services voluntarily.

Jun 26

Thursday is the final day of classes for New York City public school students, but attendance has dipped significantly. A WNYC analysis found that many schools saw lower attendance this June compared to previous years. Meanwhile, New Jersey is spotlighting its ban on beach smoking with a 20-foot inflatable cigarette display in Asbury Park. Plus, in this week’s Politics Brief, WNYC’s Jimmy Vielkind and Brigid Bergin break down the implications of Zohran Mamdani’s presumptive win in the Democratic mayoral primary.

Jun 26

WNYC’s Clayton Guse reports that the head of Public Appeal has been accused and charged with assault and strangling his girlfriend. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, officials are using a twenty-foot inflatable cigarette to alert the public that smoking is not allowed on public beaches. Finally, the LGBTQ community is preparing for the annual parade to celebrate Pride Week.

Jun 25

With a commanding lead in the Democratic Primary, Zohran Mamdani says he’s now focusing his attention on New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Also, a slate of recently announced developments will create more than 700 affordable units in Coney Island. Plus, the MTA is making a small tweak to two lines that could bring big changes to riders. Meanwhile, residents in a small Queens neighborhood are in a battle over air quality. And finally, a new book dives into the stories behind thirty monuments and statues commemorating Black Americans around New York City.

Jun 25

The presumed victor in the Democratic primary race for New York City Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, says he expects the momentum of support behind him will carry through to November’s general election. Meanwhile, the summer swelter continues in New York City with a heat advisory in effect until 7 Wednesday evening. Plus, WNYC’s Jon Campbell breaks down the results of the Democratic primary election.

Jun 25

Zohran Mamdani is commanding a significant lead in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary, as votes continue to be counted from yesterday’s election. Meanwhile, state officials are warning that air quality will be compromised across New York on Wednesday due to elevated ozone Plus, in New Jersey, the State Fair Meadowlands will go dark for the next two summers. Organizers say the hiatus, prompted by World Cup events at MetLife Stadium, will allow them to “re-imagine” the fair before it returns in 2027.

Jun 24

New Yorkers are casting ballots for their choice for Mayor, Public Advocate, City Council and other citywide offices. Plus, one of the issues that’s top of mind for candidates in the mayor’s race is housing affordability. Also, unemployment is increasing nationwide, but in New York State it's going the other way. And finally, what New Yorkers should watch out for in the city’s first heat wave of the year.

Jun 24

New Yorkers are casting ballots in today’s primary election, with candidates making their final appeals as record temperatures grip the city. Meanwhile, city officials are warning residents to watch for signs of heat stroke as the extreme heat continues. Also, Con Edison is reducing voltage by 8% in parts of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Bushwick, Greenpoint, and Williamsburg and asking residents to limit energy use while crews make repairs.Plus, the family of Win Rozario, a Queens teen fatally shot by police during a mental health crisis, is suing the NYPD, the city, and the officers involved.

Jun 24

It’s Primary Day in New York City, with voters casting ballots for mayor, public advocate, city council and more. WNYC’s Brittany Kriegstein is reporting from Brooklyn Borough Hall. Meanwhile, the Adams administration is reversing course on a controversial plan to build affordable senior housing on the Elizabeth Street Garden site. First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro says the city will pursue alternative locations instead.

Jun 23

Hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers have already voted ahead of Tuesday’s Democratic Primary Election. Plus, the MTA says it collected $61 million from drivers through its congestion pricing program in May. Also, Mayor Adams announces a new strategy in the city’s war on rats. And finally, a nonprofit-run workforce development program is helping to give people with criminal records a second chance as bike mechanics.

Jun 23

New York City is entering its first heat wave of the summer season, with temperatures expected to remain dangerously high through the week. Meanwhile, the Adams administration is dropping its plan to build housing on the Elizabeth Street Garden, preserving the green space and seeking alternative development sites. Plus, with Primary Day tomorrow, candidates for mayor, comptroller, and public advocate are making their final appeals to voters after record early turnout. WNYC’s Brian Lehrer and senior politics reporter Brigid Bergin have the latest.

Jun 23

New York City is under an extreme heat warning as Primary Day approaches Tuesday, with temperatures expected to top 100 degrees. Officials are urging residents to stay indoors and check on neighbors. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered state agencies to stay on high alert after U.S. airstrikes on Iran over the weekend. Plus, major overnight road work begins on the FDR Drive uptown Tuesday night, lasting through mid-August.

Jun 21

While gun violence has risen in public housing across much of New York City this year, East Harlem is bucking the trend. Shootings in the neighborhood’s NYCHA complexes have dropped 30% since 2023, compared to just 7% citywide. WNYC’s Brittany Kriegstein reports on the coalition of police, nonprofits, and community members working together to keep violence down, and why that progress remains fragile.

Jun 20

A federal judge says he’ll order that activist Mahmoud Khalil be released from immigration detention. Plus, New Yorkers are voting early at a rate that experts say may signal a transformative shift in the electorate. Also, a bill has passed in the New York City Council that would require the parks department to install at least 50 new outdoor drinking fountains over the next decade. And finally, NYCHA and a pair of developers are awaiting final approval from the federal government. After that, residents of a senior apartment building will have 90 days to move.

Jun 20

Governor Hochul is urging voters to head to the polls this weekend before dangerous heat hits early next week. Meanwhile, police are investigating threats made against mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. And with the mayoral primary just days away, WNYC’s Brittany Kriegstein spoke with all nine leading Democratic candidates about how they would approach crime and public safety.

Jun 20

A new lawsuit alleges correction officers at Mid-State Correctional Facility beat Harlem resident Messiah Nantwi to death while he was handcuffed, and failed to activate required body cameras. Meanwhile, mayors across New York, including Eric Adams, are pushing back on a bill passed by state lawmakers that limits their ability to block ballot measures. Finally, the Spring Starfest in Brooklyn invites New Yorkers to view distant galaxies through expert-operated telescopes.

Jun 19

Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani is facing backlash for not denouncing the slogan “globalize the intifada,” which critics say promotes violence against Jews. Meanwhile, new details have emerged about Derlis Chusin Toaquiza, a 19-year-old Queens high school student detained by ICE at an immigration court hearing. His legal team says he has no criminal record and was preparing for exams and school activities. Also, an environmental group is pushing for a new policy that’ll allow visitors to swim at the city’s newest beach, if the water is good. And finally, New York City officials are urging residents to prepare for the first serious heat wave forecasted to move in early next week.

Jun 18

A major rezoning of Midtown Manhattan is moving forward after the City Planning Commission approved it. Plus, legislators watered down consumer protection bills before leaving Albany for the year. And finally, progressive candidate Zohran Mamdani’s campaign has been aggressively courting Muslim and South Asian New Yorkers.

Jun 18

The New York City Office of Emergency Management is urging residents to prepare for the first major heatwave of the season, expected next week. Meanwhile, the Department of Sanitation says there will be no trash, compost, or recycling pickup on Thursday in observance of Juneteenth. Plus, food writer Robert Sietsema takes us to overlooked dining spots in the heart of one of the city’s busiest areas: Times Square.

Jun 18

The U.S. Department of Justice is set to review a dispute over Massapequa’s Native American mascot after the Department of Education ruled that New York State’s ban on indigenous team names violates federal civil rights policy. Meanwhile, early voting in New York City’s primaries remains open on Juneteenth, with polls running from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. And the city is in for a heat wave starting this weekend, with temperatures expected to soar into the 90s by Saturday.

Jun 17

Video posted to social media shows Mayoral candidate and New York City comptroller Brad Lander being detained by someone who appears to be a masked law enforcement official. Plus, the Supreme Court is opening a new window for religious groups in New York to challenge longstanding state regulations that require employers to cover the cost of abortions. And finally, a look into the voting power of residents in Southeast Queens.

Jun 17

U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders has endorsed Zohran Mamdani for New York City mayor and Justin Brannan for comptroller, while former Governor Andrew Cuomo has won support from Hasidic sects in Borough Park. Also, on Long Island, immigration raids appear to be driving away some day laborers who gather at Home Depot stores looking for work. Plus, the Hoboken City Council is weighing a ban on AI rent-setting tools, following similar action in Jersey City.

Jun 17

The Department of Homeless Services is now requiring all new homeless shelters to provide air conditioning, as nearly 40% of existing sites still lack it. Meanwhile, bee swarms are being spotted across the five boroughs. Experts say the insects are mostly harmless and on the move to form new colonies. Plus, the National Weather Service is warning of patchy dense fog this morning across parts of Southern Connecticut, the Lower Hudson Valley, and interior Northeast New Jersey

Jun 16

The tech industry is pushing back against an effort to regulate artificial intelligence in New York. Plus, New York City workers who conduct sweeps of homeless encampments are supposed to offer to store people’s personal belongings. But new records obtained by WNYC show that rarely happens. Finally, how a multi-millionaire dollar environmental effort in New Jersey is aimed at preventing damage from future storms.

Jun 16

The NYPD is expanding its quality-of-life “Q-teams” across the city this summer to handle non-emergency complaints like outdoor drug use and illegal parking. Meanwhile, the FAA is capping flights at Newark Liberty Airport to 34 per hour through late October to ease delays. Plus, early voting is now underway in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary. WNYC’s Brian Lehrer and senior politics reporter Brigid Bergin bring us the latest.

Jun 16

Mayor Eric Adams is commending both demonstrators and officers after thousands marched in Manhattan Saturday to protest President Trump on his birthday. Meanwhile, two of four detainees who escaped from a Newark immigration detention center last week have been recaptured, according to the FBI. State lawmakers have passed a bill requiring major AI developers to reduce risks of harm, with penalties for violations. And flags across New York are flying at half-staff today to honor Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, who were killed in a politically motivated shooting.

Jun 14

In this episode, we look at how LGBTQ+ New Yorkers are pushing for greater protections and visibility as they face a more hostile political environment. Plus, a guide to this year’s Pride celebrations across the city.

Jun 13

Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani and Comptroller Brad Lander are teaming up in the ranked choice election. Also, the attorney general for the Dominican Republic says local power broker Antonio Espaillat and his sister were irresponsible and negligent by failing to stop the club roof from collapsing in April. And finally, an arrest in upstate New York highlights the consequences when local police cooperate with federal immigration agents.

Jun 13

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani exchanged sharp attacks during the final Democratic mayoral debate Thursday night. Cuomo questioned Mamdani’s experience, while Mamdani challenged Cuomo’s record. Meanwhile, New Jersey lawmakers are advancing a bill to expand the state’s community solar program, boosting capacity to power over 500,000 homes. Finally, WNYC’s Brigid Bergin breaks down key moments from the final Democratic primary debate for New York City mayor.

Jun 13

Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani condemned a flier circulated by a super PAC supporting Andrew Cuomo during Thursday’s mayoral debate. The flier criticizes Mamdani’s record on Israel. Meanwhile, a new report from the Coalition for the Homeless finds nearly 73,000 non-asylum-seeking New Yorkers slept in shelters last year — a 12 percent increase from the year before. Also, the father of a missing Bronx toddler is pleading not guilty to murder, manslaughter, and menacing charges. Finally, in this week’s transit segment: Mamdani calls for free city buses, Cuomo weighs in on MTA funding, and we explore why the A train serves three parts of Queens.

Jun 12

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul testified before Congress Thursday about New York’s immigration policies. Plus, a group of New Yorkers is suing the state, alleging it hasn't done enough to protect their food assistance benefits from being stolen. Also, state lawmakers are stalled on a bill that would require speed limiters be put in the cars of some of New York’s most reckless drivers. And finally, a popular Chinatown bar became a destination last summer, now it’s receiving community backlash.

Jun 12

Police arrested dozens of people Wednesday who were protesting logistics giant Maersk for its role in delivering U.S. fighter jets to Israel. Meanwhile, the New York City Council has advanced plans for a casino at the former Trump Golf Course in the Bronx, bringing the project closer to state approval. And in this week’s politics segment, we look at New York leaders’ reactions to President Trump’s immigration policies, Zohran Mamdani’s proposed wealth tax, and a major endorsement for Andrew Cuomo.

Jun 12

Governor Kathy Hochul is set to testify Thursday before the Republican-led House Oversight Committee on New York’s immigration policies. Meanwhile, the founder of Queens Defenders has been indicted in federal court for allegedly stealing funds meant for low-income legal services. And the Bronx moves closer to landing a casino, after the City Council approved a proposal to build one on the former Trump Golf Course site.

Jun 11

The recent protests in Los Angeles over the Trump administration's immigration enforcement are spreading to other parts of the country, including New York City. Plus, some City Councilmembers are pressuring Mayor Adams to let more New Yorkers ride public transit at a discount. And finally, weddings carry on as usual alongside high-profile trials and immigration arrests at the city clerk’s office.

Jun 11

Eighty-six people were arrested during a protest outside federal immigration headquarters in Lower Manhattan, where demonstrators rallied against the Trump administration’s mass deportation efforts. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, Congressmember Mikie Sherrill and former state lawmaker Jack Ciattarelli have won their respective primaries and will face off in the November gubernatorial election. Plus, state lawmakers in Albany have passed a bill to protect public access to police radio transmissions, now awaiting action from Governor Kathy Hochul.

Jun 11

Congressmember Mikie Sherrill and former GOP nominee Jack Ciattarelli secured their parties’ nominations and will face off in New Jersey’s gubernatorial election this November. Meanwhile, Brooklyn Councilmember Justin Brannan and Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine faced off in a final debate ahead of early voting in New York City. Plus, City Councilmembers are pushing Mayor Adams to expand the Fair Fares program, which offers discounted public transit to low-income New Yorkers.

Jun 10

Long Island Railroad service is back to normal after a fire at Grand Central Madison. Plus, the wife of former U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez is asking a federal judge to throw out her bribery conviction from earlier this year. Also, a new audit by the state comptroller's office finds some affordable apartments are sitting empty for up to seven years. Meanwhile, immigrant communities in New York City and beyond are navigating a changed travel landscape for their loved ones abroad. And finally, New Yorkers are commemorating the life of late New York Rep. Charlie Rangel this week.

Jun 10

New York’s State Senate has passed the Medical Aid in Dying Act, which would allow terminally ill patients to request life-ending medication. The bill now awaits Governor Hochul’s decision. Meanwhile, it’s Primary Day in New Jersey, where voters are selecting party nominees for governor and state assembly seats. Also, a fire at a Grand Central Madison substation disrupted Long Island Rail Road service. Two people were injured. Plus, NYC’s Department of Investigation says it needs more authority to hold the Administration for Children’s Services accountable. Commissioner Jocelyn Stauber explains as lawmakers weigh new transparency legislation.

Jun 10

New Jersey’s primary election for governor begins today, with six Democrats and five Republicans competing to succeed Governor Phil Murphy. Meanwhile, Forest Hills Stadium in Queens is drawing renewed 311 noise complaints as its summer concert season gets underway. And the undefeated New York Liberty aim for their ninth consecutive win Tuesday night as they host the Chicago Sky in Brooklyn.

Jun 9

An explainer on a new law banning most broker fees in New York City. Plus, city officials plan to replace the Vernon C. Bain jail barge in the Bronx with a new marine terminal. Also, New York state senators are expected to pass a bill that would grant terminally ill patients the right to request medication to end their life. And finally, “Let There be Neon” plans its move to Sunset Park after four decades in Tribeca.

Jun 9

The NYPD is installing dozens of new security cameras in public areas of Upper Manhattan, funded by a $1 million federal grant. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch says the cameras will help prevent crime and aid investigations. Meanwhile, a bill to keep NYPD radio dispatches accessible to emergency groups and journalists is headed to the governor’s desk after passing both chambers of the state legislature. Plus, with just 15 days to go until Primary Day in New York City, WNYC’s Brian Lehrer and Brigid Bergin share key updates.

Jun 9

A new law banning most broker fees on New York City apartment rentals goes into effect Wednesday. Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams has signed an executive order adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism, aligning the city with federal and state standards. Plus, the free “Summer Thunder” concert series returns to Union Pool in Wlliamsburg later this month.

Jun 7

The Knicks made the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years, and then fired head coach Tom Thibodeau just days later. What happened? What’s next? And did this team just peak, or are they on the brink of something bigger? Newsday Knicks beat reporter Steve Popper joins us to break it all down. Plus, he answers a few questions from around the WNYC newsroom.

Jun 6

Democratic candidate Jessica Ramos is endorsing her opponent Andrew Cuomo in New York City's mayoral race. Plus, a South Indian restaurant tops the New York Times' list of Best One Hundred New York restaurants. And finally, recent data show New York City beaches are the site of a surprising conservation success story for horseshoe crabs.

Jun 6

Immigrant rights groups say the Trump administration’s new travel ban set to take effect Monday will deeply impact New Yorkers with ties to Yemen, Afghanistan, Somalia, and other affected countries. Meanwhile, student advocates warn that Mayor Adams’ “Afterschool for All” plan needs to do more to serve kids with disabilities. Plus, New Jersey’s primary race for governor wraps up Tuesday. Max Pizarro of Insider NJ previews what to expect in the final stretch.

Jun 6

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to release hundreds of millions of dollars in housing and transit funds it was withholding from New York City. Meanwhile, the two leading Democratic candidates for public advocate, Jumaane Williams and Jenifer Rajkumar, traded sharp attacks in their first televised debate. Also, the New York Liberty have opened the season with eight straight wins, their best start in franchise history. Plus, in this week’s transit segment: a new 15 mph speed limit for e-bikes, bus-only lanes coming to Flatbush Avenue, and Amtrak proposes direct service to Long Island for the first time.

Jun 5

Immigrants appearing for required check-ins with a private contractor for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Lower Manhattan are being arrested instead. Plus, security camera footage shows Rep. Jerry Nadler's staffer being handcuffed last week by Homeland Security police. Also, modular construction becomes the latest attempt to address New York State's affordability crisis. Meanwhile, multi-family, energy efficient affordable housing could become harder to build in New Jersey under the Trump administration. And finally, New York City’s summer stargazing begins!

Jun 5

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is endorsing Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor. Ocasio-Cortez calls Mamdani the best candidate to energize working-class voters and defeat frontrunner Andrew Cuomo. A new survey shows New Yorkers feel safer than last year, but not as safe as before the pandemic. Plus, WNYC’s Brigid Bergin recaps the first mayoral debate, where all nine Democratic candidates, including former Governor Andrew Cuomo, appeared on stage.

Jun 5

The first Democratic mayoral debate featured sharp interruptions and direct attacks on frontrunner Andrew Cuomo. City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams confronted the former governor for saying he had no personal regrets during his time in office. Meanwhile, the U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon is urging federal authorities to review Columbia University’s accreditation status, accusing it of showing “deliberate indifference” toward Jewish students facing antisemitism. Plus, a new early childhood center is coming to PS 6 in Flatbush. It will include a mix of general and special education seats along with a specialized autism program.

Jun 4

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is pushing back against questions about how he's responding to ICE arrests in the city. Plus, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka is suing a Trump administration appointee following his arrest at a controversial immigration detention center last month. Also, a lack of local infrastructure and resident resistance are delaying some construction projects for affordable homes in New Jersey. And finally, a new style duplex is replacing traditional, single-family homes in northern New Jersey.

Jun 4

Air quality alerts are in effect today across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, with ozone levels expected to reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. Meanwhile, Amtrak is pitching its first-ever direct service from the Northeast Corridor to Long Island. The plan includes stops in Jamaica, Hicksville, and Ronkonkoma. Also, the first Democratic mayoral debate airs Wednesday night, ahead of the June 24th primary.

Jun 3

Immigration advocates and the New York City Council are urging a judge to block federal law enforcement officials from working on Rikers Island. Plus, Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado is running for governor of New York. Also, Council Speaker Adrienne Adams banked $2 million last week in matching funds thanks, in part, to her opponent. Meanwhile, the city’s child welfare agency is seven times more likely to investigate a Black family than a white one according to the agency’s own numbers. And finally, a Harlem neighborhood is the first to have its trash fully containerized and picked up by a fleet of new garbage trucks.

Jun 3

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says the FAA has completed critical updates to Newark Airport’s outdated air traffic control systems after last month’s outage. Meanwhile, New York City is backing legal efforts to free Dylan Contreras, a Bronx high school student taken into ICE custody during a routine court appearance. And Congressman Jerry Nadler is calling for a federal investigation after Homeland Security officers handcuffed one of his staffers inside his Manhattan office. WNYC’s Arya Sundaram has the details.

Jun 3

Early voting starts Tuesday in New Jersey’s primary for governor, with six Democrats and five Republicans on the ballot. In New York, transportation officials are calling on Albany to pass a bill requiring speed-limiting tech for drivers with repeated speeding violations. And a new state law goes into effect this week requiring large retailers to adopt workplace violence prevention plans and conduct safety training for employees.

Jun 2

U.S. Rep. Jerry Nadler is demanding a Congressional investigation into a dramatic incident last week in which a Nadler staffer was handcuffed by Department of Homeland Security police in the lawmaker's office. Plus, New York state is imposing new rules on companies like Klarna and Afterpay. And finally, young New Yorkers reflect on the police killing of George Floyd and its significance, five years after his death.

Jun 2

Equinox and SoulCycle will pay $600,000 in restitution after Attorney General Letitia James found the companies made it too difficult for members to cancel. She says the high-end gyms violated consumer protection laws. Meanwhile, Newark Liberty Airport is reopening a runway two weeks early after completing repaving work that began in March. And WNYC culture reporter Ryan Kailath shares some fun and free (or cheap) things to do around the city this month.

Jun 2

Mayor Eric Adams says gun violence in New York City is at a record low, with the fewest shootings and homicides ever recorded over the first five months of the year. Meanwhile, State Senator John Liu plans to endorse Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist, for mayor. Plus, early voting begins Tuesday in New Jersey’s gubernatorial primary. This will be the first primary without the county line ballot format, and unaffiliated voters can register with a party at the polls.

May 31

In this episode, hosts Janae Pierre and Brian Lehrer discuss the top stories from his show and the WNYC newsroom. It's a segment we're calling "Five Things." This week, we examine former Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s political prospects amid a reported federal investigation into nursing home deaths during COVID. Mayor Eric Adams’ reelection strategy also comes into focus following the dismissal of federal charges. The roundup continues with the ICE detention of Dylan, a 20-year-old Venezuelan high school student arrested at a Manhattan immigration court just after his deportation case was dismissed. Plus, a judge’s ruling protects the MTA’s congestion pricing program from federal retaliation. And finally, we check in on New York’s sports teams.

May 30

Mayor Adams is announcing a new partnership with city organizations that will increase the number of cops in Central Park this summer. Plus, the New York Yankees play the Los Angeles Dodgers in a 3-game series this weekend. Also, some local leaders hope marking May 10th as “Chinese American Railroad Workers Memorial Day” will help honor the history of those who built parts of the Long Island Rail Road. And finally, the story of a soccer program that tries to bring migrant families together and create a sense of belonging.

May 30

New York City is launching a pilot program to reduce the number of babies born in homeless shelters by testing different housing interventions for 500 pregnant people. Meanwhile, the state attorney general will not pursue charges against MTA officers who fatally shot a man at Jamaica Station last year. Plus, with hurricane season starting Sunday, New Jersey DEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette discusses how the state is preparing its coastline for extreme weather.

May 30

A new COVID variant, NB.1.8.1, has been detected in New York after spreading across Asia and 22 other countries. Health officials say it doesn’t appear more severe than previous strains. Meanwhile, a former NYPD traffic officer and a Queens call center owner have pleaded guilty to a scheme that profited off crash victims by selling their personal information. Also, the Knicks beat the Pacers to keep their playoff hopes alive and push the series to a Game 6. Plus, on this week’s transportation segment: a federal judge grants the MTA a preliminary injunction, blocking the federal government from retaliating over congestion pricing while the case plays out. There’s also movement on a new Port Authority Bus Terminal, updates on the Penn Station redevelopment, and updated on 5G service on the G line.

May 29

Thousands of cable subscribers in the New York City area are about to lose NY1 or News 12 thanks to a dispute between cable providers. Plus, the city says a new park along the East River waterfront will help prevent water from reaching the neighborhood. Also, New York’s Empire State Development is letting the owner of the Atlantic Yards avoid millions of dollars in monthly penalties for missing a decade-old affordable housing deadline. And finally, WNYC teamed up with the non-profit Street Lab to highlight voices in Washington Heights.

May 29

The owners of a housing development that was supposed to be built as part of the original deal to construct Barclays Center won't face any penalties for failing to build it by deadline. Plus, 5G cell service is coming to the G train between Court Square and Hoyt-Schermerhorn Streets. The network is expected to go live as early as this fall. Finally, we get the latest on the race for New York City mayor.

May 29

A federal judge says the Trump administration likely violated the Constitution in its bid to deport Palestinian Columbia University student Mahmoud Khalil over his political activism. Meanwhile, state lawmakers are weighing new rules to limit ticket resales, including allowing artists to ban markups on their shows. And the New York Knicks face a must-win playoff game at Madison Square Garden tonight to keep their postseason hopes alive.

May 28

The Trump administration is ordering researchers at the Goddard [GOD-dard] Institute for Space Studies in Manhattan to clear out. One of horse racing's top events is coming to the new Belmont Park in 2027. Why some tenants in supportive housing are facing eviction

May 28

A 13-year-old boy has been charged in last month’s fatal shooting of Daoud Marji in the Bronx. U.S. Marshals have arrested a man wanted for beating and robbing an off-duty NYPD officer. Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams is urging undocumented families not to withdraw students from school after ICE detained a Venezuelan teen at a court hearing. Plus, Brooklyn’s Dumbo Drop returns with flying toy elephants and street festivities. And community leaders are remembering former Congressman Charles Rangel, who represented Harlem for more than four decades.

May 28

A federal judge has temporarily barred the Trump administration from withholding funds from New York in retaliation for the city’s congestion pricing program. Meanwhile, a TikTok show called “Roommate Court” is gaining popularity for its comedic takes on apartment disputes. Plus, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum will now offer free field trips to students across the Tri-state area.

May 27

A federal judge is ordering the Trump administration not to block or withhold funding for New York state as retaliation for the MTA's congestion pricing program. Plus, the panel that sets the rent for tenants in a million stabilized apartments held a rare "re-vote" on Tuesday. Also, electric bills for New Jersey residents are about to jump up around 20% next month. Meanwhile, bird lovers in Manhattan plan to turn Broadway malls into avian oases. And finally, the New York Botanical Garden’s new exhibit pays tribute to Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh with botanical displays and large scale art.

May 27

Police say a second man has been arrested in connection with the alleged kidnapping and torture of a 28-year-old man in Soho earlier this month. Meanwhile, forecasters say the New York region is in for several rainy days starting Wednesday and continuing through Saturday. Plus, some New Yorkers say Times Square feels more chaotic post-pandemic, even as data shows violent crime there is at a ten-year low.

May 27

New York City’s Rent Guidelines Board is holding a rare revote this morning to reconsider the proposed range of increases for two-year leases on rent stabilized apartments. Meanwhile, more lanes are reopening this week on a damaged stretch of Interstate 80 in western New Jersey, though full repairs are still a month away. Plus, the New York Knicks head into a must-win matchup against the Indiana Pacers as the Eastern Conference Finals continue.

May 26

The Justice Department is suing Newark, Jersey City, Hoboken, and Paterson over sanctuary policies it says obstruct immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, lawmakers in Albany are at odds over a new payroll tax plan. Also, New York City parents are frustrated by the nonstop flood of WhatsApp messages from school group chats. Reporter Vito Emanuel explains. Plus,Plus, a food tour through St. Marks Place in the East Village highlights standout spots for cheesesteaks, San Diego style burritos, and regional Chinese noodles.Plus, a food tour through St. Marks Place in the East Village highlights standout spots for cheesesteaks, San Diego style burritos, and regional Chinese noodles.Plus, a food tour through St. Marks Place in the East Village highlights standout spots for cheesesteaks, San Diego style burritos, and regional Chinese noodles. Plus, food critic Robert Sietsema gives a tour of St. Marks Place in the East Village, highlighting standout spots for cheesesteaks, San Diego style burritos, and regional Chinese noodles.

May 24

Former Governor and mayoral hopeful Andrew Cuomo and Jeanine Pirro have a long, combative history. Now, The New York Times reports that Pirro, recently appointed to lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Washington D.C., is overseeing a criminal investigation into Cuomo’s congressional testimony about his handling of COVID in nursing homes. WNYC's Samantha Max explores their political rivalry and what it could mean for the case.

May 23

New York City’s Rent Guidelines Board will hold a re-vote next week after internal disagreements over proposed rent hikes for stabilized two-year leases. Meanwhile, The White House says Andy Byford AKA “Train Daddy”, who ran the city's subways and buses from 2018 until early 2020, has been tapped by President Trump to lead the redevelopment of Penn Station. Also, the city will deploy drones with life-saving equipment and speakers to assist lifeguards at public beaches this summer. Plus, mayoral candidate Adrienne Adams delivered an emotional speech marking the anniversary of her father’s death and linked it to former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s handling of the pandemic. Finally, residents at Rochdale Village, a co-op complex in Southeast Queens, are bracing for steep increases in monthly maintenance fees to cover repairs, mortgage debt, and an unpaid water bill.

May 23

Detained Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate Mahmoud Khalil, has held his infant son for the first time after a judge blocked the Trump administration’s effort to keep them separated. Meanwhile, Jersey City lawmakers are banning landlords from using AI software to set rents. Plus, AmeriCorps funding cuts by the Trump administration threaten childcare programs in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.

May 23

The Associated Press is reporting that former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is under federal investigation for allegedly lying to Congress about his administration's pandemic response. Meanwhile, Memorial Day weekend travel is expected to cause major delays on roads and at airports across the region. Also, the Knicks will try to even their series against the Indiana Pacers tonight at Madison Square Garden in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Plus, this week’s transit updates include Amtrak construction on the first of its two East River tunnels, a proposed 34th Street busway, and Mayor Adams’ $400 million plan to redesign part of Fifth Avenue.

May 22

Mayor Adams is directing the NYPD to increase security in certain areas after the killing of the two Israeli Embassy employees in Washington D.C. Plus, a church in Toms River, New Jersey will soon find out whether its proposal to build a homeless shelter can proceed, even as it’s under threat of becoming a pickleball court. Also, a profile of first deputy mayor Randy Mastro, the second most powerful person in City Hall. And finally, Amtrak is getting ready to launch a major reconstruction of two of its East River train tunnels.

May 22

According to new police data, subway crime in New York City is at historic lows. However, felony assaults on trains are up 20 percent. Meanwhile, a new exhibit at the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx pays tribute to Vincent Van Gogh. Plus, forest fire season is underway in New Jersey. Major wildfires in both the north and south of the state over the past year have put large areas at risk. Eric Weber, assistant division fire warden for the state Forest Fire Service, joins us to talk about how to reduce that risk.

May 22

Columbia University faculty and students are reflecting on another turbulent year on campus as commencement wraps. Meanwhile, New Jersey Representative LaMonica McIver appeared in court Wednesday on charges she assaulted federal officers.. Plus a new poll finds most residents say housing in the state is too expensive. Plus, a new Rutgers University poll shows that more than half of New Jerseyans think housing is too expensive in the Garden State.

May 21

The Department of Justice is opening a criminal investigation into former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Plus, health officials in New Jersey say that concert-goers who attended Shakira’s concert at MetLife Stadium last Thursday may have been exposed to measles. And the first-ever dog park on a NYCHA property is now open — at the Castle Hill Houses in the Bronx.

May 21

Lawmakers in Jersey City will vote Wednesday on whether to ban rent algorithm software like RealPage to set rental rates. Meanwhile, the cost to reserve a seat on NYC Ferry trips to the Rockaways is going up. Also, it’s commencement day at Columbia University, following a tense year on campus. Plus, Fleet Week is officially underway in New York City.

May 20

The Trump administration is allowing construction to resume on a major wind farm off Long Island. Meanwhile, a new poll shows Representative Elise Stefanik as the clear frontrunner for the Republican nomination for New York governor, Also, a New Jersey congresswoman faces federal charges after an incident outside an immigration detention center in Newark. Also, NYCHA opens its first-ever dog park in the Bronx. And in Upper Manhattan, a rent-stabilized apartment that’s housed four generations of one family is now at the center of a legal fight.

May 20

In a reversal, the Trump administration will allow a major wind project off Long Island to resume construction. Meanwhile, with five weeks until the Democratic mayoral primary, Zohran Mamdani becomes the first candidate to campaign using a ranked-choice strategy. Plus, starting next fall, smartphones will be banned in New York public schools. The policy, passed as part of the state budget, aims to address growing concerns about distraction and social media’s impact on students. WNYC’s Jessica Gould has the details.

May 20

New York City’s Department of Investigation says workers’ comp claims by correction officers cost the city more than $340 million last fiscal year. Meanwhile, Wynn is pulling out of its bid to build a casino in Hudson Yards as a major housing project in the neighborhood moves forward. Federal officials are also investigating a close call between two planes at LaGuardia Airport. Plus, Fleet Week kicks off tomorrow with the annual Parade of Ships, following a deadly crash involving a Mexican navy ship over the weekend.

May 19

We get an update on what caused a Mexican Navy ship to strike the Brooklyn Bridge Saturday night. Plus, police are looking for suspects in three separate shootings across the city. Also, William F. Tate IV will be named the 22nd president of Rutgers University. Meanwhile, New York City wants to make it easier for non-profits to own homeless shelters. And finally, subway service to the Rockaways returns after a four-month shutdown.

May 19

NJ Transit says it needs time to bring trains back online after reaching a tentative deal with its engineers and ending a strike. Train service is expected to resume Tuesday. Meanwhile, a dangerous section of Jacob Riis Beach will remain closed this summer after several recent drownings. Plus, the deadline to register for New Jersey’s gubernatorial primary is Tuesday, though most voters don’t know the election is coming. To learn more, WNYC’s Michael Hill spoke with Jesse Burns, Executive Director of the League of Women Voters of New Jersey.

May 19

New Jersey Transit trains will resume service Tuesday morning after the agency reached a tentative agreement with its locomotive engineers union, ending a multi-day strike. Meanwhile, a nonprofit program aimed at preventing youth homelessness by offering one-time, low-barrier cash payments is showing early signs of success. And in Queens, the Department of Transportation has converted a traffic lane on the Queensboro Bridge into a dedicated pedestrian path.

May 17

The New York Liberty kick off the 2025 season with high expectations and some early hurdles. Host Janae Pierre checks in with sports reporter Jackie Powell on how the defending champs are adjusting to injuries, reshaping their offense, and preparing for another title run.

May 16

NJ Transit service remains at a standstill as hundreds of train operators go on strike. A look at how candidates for New York City mayor are talking about antisemitism. Plus, we get a preview of the New York Liberty and their upcoming season.

May 16

NJ Transit railroad engineers and trainmen are on strike, leaving thousands of commuters scrambling to find other ways to get to work and school. We get the latest on the impasse and what's at stake. Meanwhile, the Yankees and Mets will square off in the Bronx starting Friday. Both teams are in first place, turning this year’s Subway Series into a high-stakes showdown.

May 16

New Jersey Transit rail service has come to a halt as 450 train engineers went on strike overnight, in what could be one of the state’s largest transit disruptions in decades. Wages remain the key issue in stalled contract negotiations. Meanwhile, a New Jersey resettlement group says it will not help relocate white South Africans approved for entry under a federal policy it calls discriminatory. And in sports, the Mets and Yankees face off tonight in the Bronx for the season’s first Subway Series, with excitement building around the high-stakes matchup.

May 15

A new City Health Department pilot program offers New Yorkers a cash incentive to help properly dispose of spent needles. A billionaire family in New Jersey wants to build a housing development on a MOUNTAINTOP in West Orange. And an ongoing exhibit at Manhattan's Poster House Museum takes visitors on a trip to Puerto Rico.

May 15

Thursday marks the final day for NJ Transit to reach a deal with union engineers to avert a strike that could halt all rail service. Meanwhile, Friday is national Bike to Work Day, with New York City officials promoting cycling as a healthy, eco-friendly commute option. Rides for municipal workers are planned in every borough. Also, the Knicks were blown out by a Celtics team that was missing star player Jayson Tatum in Game 5 of the NBA playoffs. Plus, this week in politics, lawmakers are holding a hearing on prison reform following the deaths of two inmates in custody. Plus, we get an update on Andrew Cuomo’s campaign finances.

May 15

A potential NJ Transit strike could begin if the agency and its engineers’ union fail to reach a contract agreement, marking what would be the region’s first major transit stoppage in two decades. Meanwhile, Albany lawmakers are pressing prison officials for answers after corrections officers were charged with murder in the deaths of two incarcerated people. Plus, the MTA held live auditions Wednesday at Grand Central Madison for its Music Under New York program, with 54 performers vying to become official subway musicians.

May 14

More than eight million households across New York State will receive inflation refund checks this fall. Plus, three years after a racist mass shooting at a Buffalo supermarket, New York State is taking steps to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Also, former New York City Mayor De Blasio will pay the city $320,000 to settle an outstanding fine for improperly bringing his police detail during his failed presidential bid in 2019. Meanwhile, the Rikers Island jail complex is getting an outside official to run many of the day-to-day operations. And finally, state lawmakers are taking a fresh look at food regulations.

May 14

A federal judge has ordered a “remediation manager” to oversee New York City jails until conditions improve. In sports, the Knicks are back in Boston, hoping to secure a spot in the conference finals. Plus, at Newark Liberty Airport, staffing shortages and equipment issues continue to disrupt operations. WNYC’s Michael Hill speaks with foreigner FAA senior executive Michael McCormick to learn more. (edited)

May 14

The attorneys general of New York and New Jersey are suing the Department of Homeland Security, claiming the federal government is withholding disaster relief funds from states that don’t comply with certain immigration enforcement policies. Meanwhile, in Brooklyn, police say a man was fatally shot by NYPD officers after allegedly confronting them with a knife during a domestic violence call. Also, Mayor Adams has announced a new Office to Combat Antisemitism, citing a rise in hate incidents. Plus, the Knicks are in Boston tonight with a 3-1 series lead, hoping to clinch a spot in the conference finals.

May 13

A big upgrade could be in the works for a 20-block stretch of Brooklyn’s Atlantic Avenue. Plus, the U.S. Transportation Secretary has a plan to fix the decades-old equipment that's plagued air travel at Newark Airport in recent weeks. Also, a potential strike by NJ Transit engineers is already disrupting the plans of concert-goers this week. Meanwhile, democratic candidates vying to be New Jersey’s governor sparred over the Trump administration’s immigration policies. And finally, a local magician turned an empty Brooklyn storefront into a speakeasy magic venue

May 13

Public school parents can vote for representatives on their community education councils until midnight Tuesday. Plus, a federal judge is placing the jails on Rikers Island under the control of an impendent receiver. The NY Jets will play in London next season. And finally, an exit interview with the outgoing NYC Parks Commissioner.

May 13

City Councilmember Gale Brewer is calling for the return of green stickers that shame drivers who flout alternate side parking rules, pointing to persistent issues in her Upper West Side district. Meanwhile, New York’s state reparations commission now has until 2027 to release its recommendations. And the Knicks are one win away from the conference finals after beating the Celtics 121-113 in Game 4.

May 12

A jury has begun hearing opening statements in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex trafficking trial in New York. Plus, a soaring skyscraper in downtown Brooklyn may replace an office building considered one of the borough's biggest eyesores. And, a campaign finance watchdog is withholding public matching funds from Mayor Adams' re-election campaign. Also, hundreds of federal grants to New York-based researchers have been canceled under the Trump administration. And finally, a new 12-foot tall bronze statue of a Black woman in Times Square has people talking.

May 12

Former Newark Mayor Sharpe James has died at 89. Meanwhile, the NYC Campaign Finance Board fined Andrew Cuomo’s campaign more than $600,000 for allegedly coordinating with a PAC. The board also approved $1.5 million in matching funds. Also, in the NBA playoffs, the Knicks host Game 4 against the Boston Celtics Monday night at MSG. Plus, WNYC and NJ Spotlight News will host a forum with the Democratic candidates for New Jersey governor. Anchor Briana Vannozzi joins us with a preview.

May 12

A new report shows more than half of New Yorkers over 70 have no retirement income, with a growing share of seniors living in poverty. Meanwhile, NJ Transit engineers could strike as early as Friday after rejecting a contract offer, and officials are urging commuters to prepare for major disruptions. Plus, New York City sunsets now fall after 8 p.m., ushering in longer daylight hours through mid-August.

May 10

Roy Lee was suspended from Columbia University after creating an AI app that helped users cheat on technical interviews. He dropped out, went viral, and raised $5.3 million to grow a startup. WNYC’s Janae Pierre speaks with reporter Ryan Kailath about what the story reveals about AI, ethics, and academic accountability

May 9

Federal aviation officials say Newark Airport was hit with another tech outage Friday morning, the second such meltdown in as many weeks. The NYPD arrested more than a dozen protesters at Brooklyn College Thursday night. Plus, May 10th is now officially Chinese American Railroad Workers Memorial Day. And finally, the Sunset Park community board adopted a plan to redesign Third Avenue under the Gowanus Expressway but they recently learned the plan is on hold.

May 9

Air traffic controllers lost radar contact with planes approaching Newark Airport Friday, according to the FAA, the second incident in two weeks. Meanwhile, federal mediators have called NJ Transit and its engineers union to Washington, ahead of a possible strike. Also, a Brooklyn man is charged with setting multiple fires in NYCHA buildings. And after a dog attack on the Upper West Side, lawmakers are pushing for stricter rules for owners.

May 9

New York has a state budget, more than a month after its deadline after lawmakers finalized the $254 billion spending plan late Thursday. Meanwhile, health officials have confirmed three new measles cases in Orange County. That brings the state’s total to seven so far this year. Plus, prosecutors say 20 people have been charged in one of the most prolific auto theft rings in New York City in the past decade

May 8

New Yorkers gathered at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan as a new pope was elected. Meanwhile, Mayor Adams is promoting his new budget proposal to restore cleaning crews to some of New York City's busiest green spaces. Plus, a school on the Upper West Side is wrestling with how to discipline seniors who staged a prank some teachers described as xenophobic. Also, a new ICE detention center in Newark is drawing the ire of the mayor of New Jersey's largest city. And finally, three Republican candidates vying to be New Jersey’s next governor made their case to voters at a forum Wednesday hosted by WNYC and NJ Spotlight News.

May 8

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio says federal officials are "reviewing the visa status" of people arrested Wednesday during a pro-Palestinian demonstration at Columbia University. Meanwhile, a woman is suing New York City after a car hit her following a protest and police responded by arresting her. Plus, it's allergy season. WNYC’s Michael Hill speaks with Dr. Guy Robinson, the lone individual tasked with tracking that data in the city.

May 8

Speed cameras may soon ticket drivers in work zones on MTA bridges and tunnels new state budget lets the agency use them at spots like the Verrazzano Bridge and Queens-Midtown Tunnel. Meanwhile, In Brooklyn, Councilmember Lincoln Restler lost a court challenge to remove his primary opponent from the ballot after claiming their supporters misled residents into signing a petition. Plus, the Knicks now lead the Celtics 2–0 after another one-point win on the road. Game 3 is Saturday at Madison Square Garden. Game 4 is Monday.

May 7

Westchester County officials say Rye Playland amusement park will open in time for the season after all. Also, two New York City hospitals have agreed to a $750 million dollar settlement of hundreds of sexual abuse claims by patients of former gynecologist Robert Hadden. Plus, New York State lawmakers are loosening requirements for private and religious schools to show they provide a basic education. And finally, some undocumented immigrants are opting to leave the country on their own, rather than risk deportation.

May 7

Two Manhattan lawmakers say New York should deny a money transmitter license to X, Elon Musk’s platform formerly known as Twitter. Musk is seeking approval in all 50 states to launch X Money, a service that would compete with apps like Venmo. Meanwhile, the Knicks are looking to take a 2–0 lead over the Boston Celtics in the NBA semifinals on Wednesday night. Plus, a group of Bronx student journalists is facing tough questions about press freedom, personal safety, and how their work lives online. We hear from their advisor Debbi Porterfield and student editor Cesar Jimenez.

May 7

Nearly half of the NYPD’s bomb squad is eligible to retire this year, including many of their dogs. Meanwhile, starting this Wednesday, travelers without a passport must show a REAL ID to board domestic flights. Plus, the MTA will close the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel overnight from Wednesday through May 13th to test its massive flood doors as part of hurricane preparedness.

May 6

Gov. Hochul and legislative leaders are taking $8 billion from reserves as part of the New York state budget deal. Plus, New York City’s Park Commissioner Sue Donoghue is stepping down later this month. Also, city council members in Summit, New Jersey have been considering a contentious law that would allow police to arrest homeless people camping in public places. And finally, a special thanks to all teachers on National Teacher Appreciation Day.

May 6

Sanitation officials are taking landlords to court over rat-infested lots. In Harlem, a judge let the city into a trash-covered property after the owner ignored orders. Officials say they’ve done this nine times this year. Meanwhile, rain is expected through Friday, with multiple rounds of showers moving through the region. Plus, new reporting this morning from various outlets including Bloomberg and the New York Times say air traffic controllers briefly lost communication with planes at Liberty Newark Airport last week.

May 6

May 5

New York City will stop enrolling new families who are eligible for child care vouchers. Plus, one of the six guards charged in the deadly beating of upstate prisoner Robert Brooks has pleaded guilty to manslaughter. Also, a plan to add protected bike lanes in Long Island City is getting the green light from a Queens judge. And finally, New York City’s Rent Guidelines Board voted on a range of potential increases ahead of its final vote in June.

May 5

Hundreds of flights at Newark Airport face delays or cancellations due to staffing shortages and weather. Meanwhile, New York City’s cultural institutions are rushing to fill funding gaps after the Trump administration cut support for the National Endowment for the Arts. Plus, with just over a month to go until New Jersey’s primary, money is pouring into the governor’s race, but following the cash trail isn’t easy. NJ Spotlight News reporter Colleen O’Dea joins us to explain why.

May 5

Car crashes in Manhattan’s congestion zone have been dropping for three years and congestion pricing may be speeding that up. Meanwhile, the Eta Aquarids meteor shower peaks this Monday, with up to 30 meteors an hour before dawn. It continues through mid-May. Starting Saturday, the International Space Station will be visible over the city during the evening. Plus, Bronx Week kicks off this week with free events through May 18.

May 3

The New York Knicks are headed to the second round of the NBA playoffs after beating the Detroit Pistons 118-115 in Game 6 on Thursday. The win wasn’t pretty and required a last-second buzzer-beater from Jalen Brunson to seal the victory. Next, the Knicks face the defending champion Boston Celtics. WNYC’s Janae Pierre speaks with Newsday Knicks beat reporter Steve Popper about what the win says about the team and how they match up with the Celtics.

May 2

The NYPD says an officer shot a man holding his own mother at knife point Thursday night in a Pelham Bay, Bronx apartment. Plus, police will start issuing criminal summons for e-bike and e-scooter riders who run red lights and stop signs. Also, a spicy wine with jalapeños is trending just in time for Cinco de Mayo. And finally, some New York City residents are taking an extreme approach to eliminating their carbon footprints.

May 2

Governor Kathy Hochul is backing a new law that would increase penalties for wearing a mask while committing a crime. Forecasters are warning of rain and thunderstorms in the New York City area this weekend. And Mayor Eric Adams has unveiled a $115 billion city budget plan that could define the final stretch of his mayoralty as he faces a tough re-election battle. WNYC’s Elizabeth Kim has more.

May 2

State lawmakers are proposing a bill that would allow the New York City Council to remove a sitting mayor with a three-fourths vote after a public hearing. Meanwhile, the city’s Department of Transportation is kicking off National Bike Month with events across the five boroughs. Also, the Knicks clinch a spot in the second round of the NBA playoffs after edging out Detroit. Plus, on this week’s transportation segment: Amtrak tunnel repairs, a looming NJ Transit strike, and the MTA begins testing new subway fare gate designs to fight evasion.

May 1

Gov. Hochul’s budget includes money to add new spaces in subway stations where mental health outreach workers can connect with homeless people. And, Mayor Adams’ $115 billion budget plan includes new spending on policing, affordable housing and more. Also, a new proposal from the Adams administration could mean a rent hike for people using housing vouchers. Plus, reporters at the Marshall Project look into prisoners’ safety in jail infirmaries. And finally, mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is pitching a new idea that would base social services underground.

May 1

TD Bank shut down Mayor Eric Adams’ campaign account within a week of his federal indictment, according to new documents filed with the city’s Campaign Finance Board. Meanwhile, the MTA is urging Amtrak to rethink its plan for a three-year tunnel closure, warning it could disrupt Long Island Rail Road service for years. Plus, WNYC’s Jessica Gould breaks down the city’s new approach to math education and why even parents may need a refresher.

May 1

New Jersey Transit engineers may go on strike May 16th if no contract deal is reached. In New York City, the Rent Guidelines Board is weighing rent increases for more than a million stabilized apartments, with a final vote expected in June. Meanwhile, the New York Attorney General says federal cuts have wiped out AmeriCorps funding across the state. Plus, this week’s politics segment dives into Mayor Adams’ campaign finance issues, updates in the mayoral race, and the latest from state budget negotiations.

Apr 30

A federal judge orders the release of Pro-Palestinian student activist Mohsen Mahdawi from detention. Plus, an NYPD paperwork snafu has landed someone in jail. Also, the Prospect Park Alliance is cutting down one-third of the trees in the Dog Beach Elm Grove because of Dutch elm disease. And finally, historian Marc Zinaman released a coffee table book documenting 100 years of queer history in New York City.

Apr 30

Governor Hochul and state lawmakers say a final budget deal could come this week or next, but changes may follow later in the year. Meanwhile, New Yorkers without a Met Gala invite have several stylish alternatives including the People’s Ball, Debt Gala, and Metro Gala. Plus, the Jane’s Walk NYC festival returns this weekend with hundreds of free history walks across the five boroughs.

Apr 30

New York is moving closer to legalizing physician-assisted suicide, as the State Assembly advances the Medical Aid in Dying bill. Meanwhile, the future of Rye Playland is in doubt after a contract collapse with the park’s operator. And the Knicks fall to the Pistons at home, missing a chance to clinch the series. Game 6 is set for Thursday in Detroit. **Correction: An old episode of NYC Now was inadvertently uploaded this morning. It was has since been updated with the correct version.

Apr 29

MTA officials laid out plans Monday to use artificial intelligence technology to push its surveillance capabilities to new levels. Also, city officials say unauthorized demolition work and years of neglect caused the deadly collapse of a parking garage in Lower Manhattan in 2023. And a federal prosecutor is threatening to sue telecom companies in a bid to get them to monitor users' messages and crack down on child sex predators. Plus, GrowNYC’s Greenmarket program supports over 200 local producers today. And finally, as National Poetry Month comes to an end, we share poems from a father-son duo in Brooklyn.

Apr 29

The MTA will test modern fare gates with sliding glass doors at 20 subway stations this fall, part of a pilot aimed at curbing fare evasion that costs the agency hundreds of millions annually. Meanwhile, the New York Knicks are one win away from advancing to the second round of the NBA playoffs as they play the Pistons at the Garden. Plus, New York state lawmakers have a handshake deal on the state budget that's almost a month late. WNYC state government reporter Jimmy Vielkind. Has the details.

Apr 29

New York City will allow affordable apartments to bypass the housing lottery and list vacancies directly on real estate sites like StreetEasy, in an effort to speed up the rental process. Meanwhile, Governor Hochul and state lawmakers have struck a tentative deal on the nearly $254 billion state budget, almost a month late. Plus, the Trump administration is investigating whether New York’s ban on Native American school mascots violates federal civil rights laws, with a Long Island school at the center of the dispute.

Apr 28

Elected officials, veterans and union workers are blasting the White House for its proposal to cut staffing at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Plus, Mayor Adams’ executive budget will invest another $46 million to revitalize New York City's supportive housing initiative. Also, residents of Staten Island's south shore head to the polls Tuesday to fill an open City Council seat. And finally, delivery workers in New York City are accusing DoorDash of a pattern of wage theft.

Apr 28

Starting Monday, New Yorkers receiving cash assistance must once again meet work requirements or risk losing benefits. Meanwhile, Senator Cory Booker and Representative Hakeem Jeffries held an hours-long sit-in on the Capitol steps to protest looming cuts to social services. Plus, NYPD data show thousands of homeless encampment sweeps last year, but only about a hundred people wound up in shelter. WNYC’s Karen Yi has more.

Apr 28

Newly reviewed data shows NYPD officers removed more than 27,000 homeless people from public spaces last year, mostly in Manhattan. Meanwhile, Amtrak is cutting service between Albany and New York City starting today for major tunnel repairs. Plus, Basketball Hall of Famer and Knicks legend Dick Barnett has died at 88, as the Knicks push to close out their playoff series against Detroit.

Apr 26

NYC Now is back this weekend with the final episode in its series on Mayor Eric Adams and how he has found himself at the mercy of intersecting political powers — from his voter base, to prosecutors, to Governor Kathy Hochul, and, of course, President Donald Trump. Now, with the mayoral election just a few months away, we look at what lies ahead for Adams and the city. Host Janae Pierre sits down with WNYC politics reporter Brigid Bergin and fellow host Brian Lehrer. Miss the previous episodes in our series? Listen to #1 here , #2 here , #3 here , #4 here and #5 here .

Apr 25

Former New York Congressmember George Santos will be spending at least seven years in federal prison. Plus, comptroller candidate, Justin Brannan, has a plan to re-invest a $500 million piece of the city's multibillion-dollar pension funds and use it to pay for universal child care. Also, a report on the future of containerizing New York City’s garbage. And finally, a food critic shares a few good eats in the West Village neighborhood.

Apr 25

A manhunt is underway after a deadly stabbing on a Manhattan subway platform during Friday morning’s rush hour. Meanwhile, the Manhattan district attorney’s office is urging more survivors to come forward after a finance attorney was indicted on more than 100 counts of sexual assault. Also, Catholic churches across New York City are holding Masses Friday night to honor the late Pope Francis, whose funeral is Saturday. Plus, as we wrap up coverage of Earth Week, we examine New York’s progress and setbacks on its ambitious climate goals with Columbia University’s Michael Gerrard.

Apr 25

The nonprofit that operates New York City’s 988 suicide and crisis hotline says it may have to lay off staff due to a funding shortfall. Meanwhile, former Congressman George Santos is set to be sentenced Friday after pleading guilty to multiple federal charges. Also, the Mets are riding a seven-game winning streak and hold the best record in Major League Baseball. Plus, in this week’s transportation segment, a misstep by federal prosecutors may weaken their legal case against the MTA’s congestion pricing plan.

Apr 24

There’s more turmoil swirling around the congestion pricing plan. Plus, New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch destroyed more than 3,000 illegal guns at an event on Long Island this week. Plus, Council Speaker Adrienne Adams’ mayoral campaign recently picked up some significant endorsements. And finally, an inside look at New York City’s progressives’ battle to pick Zohran Mamdani or Brad Lander for mayor.

Apr 24

The Trump administration may shift legal strategy in its bid to kill congestion pricing after accidentally uploading a letter suggesting current arguments are weak. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, a teen has been charged with setting a wildfire that's burned at least 15,000 acres in Ocean County. Also, the NYC Council is preparing to vote on bills aimed at limiting tourist helicopters following a deadly crash in the Hudson River. Plus, Tom Wright, President and CEO of the Regional Plan Association joins us for Earth Week to discuss how New York State is progressing in its ambitious climate goals.

Apr 24

A new report shows nearly a third of foster youth who aged out of New York City’s system last year couldn’t secure housing and had to remain in care past age 21. Meanwhile, city officials say long-promised reforms to the private trash hauling industry won’t be fully in place until 2027. Plus, wildfire smoke is affecting air quality today, with health officials urging vulnerable groups to limit outdoor activity.

Apr 23

A new report shows that young people in the New York City foster care system have a hard time finding housing once they age out of care. Also, three federal prosecutors assigned to Mayor Eric Adams' corruption case have resigned. Plus, houses of worship hope to be part of the solution to New York’s affordable housing crisis. And finally, Eater New York recently released its list of the best pizza slices across the five boroughs.

Apr 23

Amid a public outcry, lawmakers in Summit, New Jersey, have delayed a vote on a planned local law that would ban homeless encampments in public spaces. Meanwhile, a Bronx Catholic school has been saved from permanent closure. Plus, local immigration advocates say more migrant children are going to court without lawyers, after the Trump administration cut funding for their representation. WNYC's Arya Sundaram has been tracking the impact on the ground in immigration court.

Apr 23

Mayor Eric Adams appeared to take aim at a U.S. senator from Maryland who met with a man the Trump administration deported in violation of a court order. Meanwhile, drug-related deaths in New York City shelters dropped 17% last year, according to a new city report. Plus, a new City Council bill would require the city to regularly review access to drinking fountains in public parks.

Apr 22

The wife of Mahmoud Khalil says immigration officials prevented her husband from being able to attend the birth of their first child. Plus, a new poll indicates that Gov. Hochul's standing with New York State voters is improving. Also, Brooklyn's Bedford public library is officially reopening this week following substantial renovations over the past few years. And finally, we’re celebrating Earth Day with New York's climate and clean energy goals in mind.

Apr 22

A new Siena poll shows U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer’s approval rating has fallen following his support of a Republican-led budget deal to avoid a federal shutdown. Meanwhile, the Adams administration says hundreds of new rain gardens and so-called infiltration basins are now in place across Flatbush and Canarsie to help manage stormwater and reduce flooding. Plus, on Earth Day, experts say New York State is lagging in its goal to fully transition off fossil fuels by 2040. WNYC’s Rosemary Misdary reports on how the state might catch up.

Apr 22

Local immigration advocates say more migrant children are showing up to court without legal representation, after the Trump administration cut funding for their attorneys. Meanwhile, New York City’s hotel lobby is urging officials to lower the occupancy tax, blaming tourism losses on new federal tariffs. Plus, President Trump is backing a Long Island school district fighting to keep its Native American mascot, despite a statewide ban.

Apr 21

St.Patrick’s Cathedral was filled with mourners at its Easter Monday mass as churchgoers learned of Pope Francis’ death. Plus, a Hudson Valley health system agrees to restore psychiatric care and mental health reforms. Meanwhile, details are emerging about Mohsen Mahdawi, the second Columbia University student protest leader detained by U.S. immigration officers in recent weeks. And finally, the NYPD is investing in new technology to combat drones used for “nefarious purposes.”

Apr 21

The Trump administration is giving New York State a May 21 deadline to shut down its congestion pricing program or explain how it complies with federal law. Meanwhile, New York City’s Department of Consumer and Worker Protection is rolling out enforcement guidelines for the city’s upcoming ban on most tenant-paid broker fees. Plus, Carnegie Hall launches the “Nuestros Sonidos” festival, a citywide celebration of Latin music featuring genres from bachata to Latin jazz.

Apr 21

The MTA says it will not comply with the federal government’s demand to shut down congestion pricing, despite Sunday’s deadline. Meanwhile, New York City Council members are holding a hearing on parking reforms, focusing on safety measures like daylighting and truck loading zones. Plus, a former NYPD officer fired for firing his weapon off-duty is suing to get reinstated, arguing the punishment was too harsh.

Apr 19

NYC Now is back this weekend with part five in its series on Mayor Eric Adams and how he has found himself at the mercy of intersecting political powers — from his voter base, to the courts, to Governor Kathy Hochul, and, of course, President Donald Trump. This week, host Janae Pierre and WNYC reporter Samantha Max take a deep dive into the chaotic decision to drop the mayor’s corruption case and the resulting revolt among federal prosecutors. And we look at the institution at the center of it all: the Southern District of New York. We examine its history, its fiercely guarded independence, and how the Adams case could undermine its future.NOTES: Miss the previous episodes in our series? Listen to #1 here , #2 here , #3 here and #4 here . Reply… Also send to the group

Apr 18

City officials in the Bronx are charging 20 alleged gang members with 15 shootings spanning the last three years. In New Jersey, WNYC’s Mike Hayes reports on a new local law that criminalizes homelessness. Plus, WNYC’s Hannah Frishberg takes us inside tryouts for the Timeless Torches, the New York Liberty’s senior dance team.

Apr 18

New York Attorney General Letitia James says the Trump administration’s call for her prosecution is politically motivated, after federal officials accused her of falsifying property records. Meanwhile, Mayor Adams is pausing composting fines for smaller buildings, saying more education is needed on the city’s new waste rules. Plus, in a major shakeup, the Trump administration is taking control of the Penn Station overhaul, removing the MTA from the lead role. WNYC’s Stephen Nessen explains what this means for commuters.

Apr 18

A federal judge is now considering whether the Trump administration can cut $11 billion in health grants, including $360 million for New York State. Meanwhile, New York City transportation officials say self-driving cars aren’t ready for the city’s streets just yet. Also, the Knicks begin their playoff run Saturday night at Madison Square Garden. Plus, on this week’s transportation segment: The federal government is taking the lead on the Penn Station overhaul.

Apr 17

New York City’s public advocate released a report showing Black women are nine times more likely to die from pregnancy or childbirth than white women in the city. Plus, defense lawyers have developed backdoor legal maneuvers to move their clients to the front of the line for mental health services. Also, criminal justice experts say the Adams administration is not doing enough to shutter Rikers Island on time. Meanwhile, many residents of the Garden State say the search for affordable housing is a timely one. And finally, it’s been 60 years since Mayor Robert Wagner signed New York City’s Landmarks Law, beginning an era of historic preservation across the city.

Apr 17

Neighbors say the man fatally shot by police in Astoria this week struggled with mental health issues and had been left without support following his parents’ deaths. Meanwhile, Governor Hochul vows to fight the Trump administration’s decision to pause a major wind energy project off Long Island. Plus, in this week’s Politics Brief, a Trump administration official is asking prosecutors to investigate whether New York Attorney General Letitia James committed mortgage fraud, former Governor Cuomo faces mixed news in the mayoral race, former Mayor Bill de Blasio reappears alongside Mayor Adams, and state lawmakers weigh a ban on flavored nicotine pouches as budget talks continue.

Apr 17

A record number of New Yorkers are on cash assistance, but starting April 28, recipients will once again need to meet work requirements to keep their benefits. Meanwhile, a new report finds that low-income Black and Hispanic families in the city face a disproportionate number of child welfare investigations. Plus, the sanitation department is opening a new compost pickup site in Astoria, offering free bags of compost to residents on select days.

Apr 16

Former Mayor Bill de Blasio isn’t ready to back any candidates in New York City’s mayoral race. Plus, some Muslim worshippers on Long Island have a new ally in a quest to build an upgraded mosque in Nassau County. Also, there are a couple days left of juror selection in the high profile case of Harvey Weinstein. And finally, the Forest Hills Stadium summer concert series is officially back on after months of bitter standoff between venue organizers and a group of residents in the area.

Apr 16

New York state lawmakers have struck a deal on changes to pretrial discovery laws without Governor Hochul, potentially breaking the budget logjam. Meanwhile, Legal Aid attorneys are asking a judge to block the NYPD from arresting people for low-level offenses that should only result in tickets. Plus, WNYC’s Karen Yi reports thousands of working families in New York could lose their child care vouchers unless the city and state step in with more funding.

Apr 16

Some New York lawmakers want the state to penalize Tesla for failing to meet job targets at its Buffalo plant, amid CEO Elon Musk’s growing role in federal agency shutdowns. Meanwhile, City Councilmembers are demanding answers from Adult Protective Services after the agency rejected 80 percent of aid referrals last year. Plus, Queens Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani receives the largest public matching funds payout in the 2025 mayoral primary so far, while Andrew Cuomo’s campaign blames a technical glitch for missing out.

Apr 15

The New York state budget is running more than two weeks late. Andrew Cuomo’s campaign failed to receive an expected $2.6 million payment in public matching funds. And a new Trump administration rule requires immigrants in the U.S. without legal status to register with the federal government.

Apr 15

Rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds are in the forecast for the New York City area Tuesday night. Meanwhile in Queens, Forest Hills Stadium will move ahead with its summer concert season after resolving a contentious permit fight. Plus, a new podcast explores the surprising dangers of sirens.

Apr 15

A new court filing reveals immigration officials detained another Columbia University student, Mohsen Mahdawi, a green card holder from the West Bank, possibly over his role in pro-Palestinian protests. Meanwhile, city officials want to rezone parts of Long Island City to build 14,000 more homes, sparking concern from longtime residents. Plus, federal investigators have recovered key components from the Hudson River helicopter crash that killed six people.

Apr 14

Mayor Eric Adams is in the Dominican Republic to honor the victims of last week’s roof collapse at a popular nightclub. Plus, a lawsuit filed by a former Brooklyn principal against the DOE can move forward. Finally, the odd adventures of a wild turkey.

Apr 14

Apr 14

The helicopter tour company involved in last week’s deadly Hudson River crash is shutting down immediately as federal authorities launch a safety review and search for missing wreckage. Meanwhile, former Governor George Pataki is praising Governor Hochul for holding firm on her budget priorities despite delays. Plus, the New York City Council is considering two bills to crack down on immigration service fraud after a spike in complaints statewide.

Apr 12

This week, we’re turning our attention to Mayor Adams’ campaign finances. In his successful 2021 bid, he raised big money. He later landed in hot water with federal prosecutors, accused of taking travel perks and illegal campaign contributions in exchange for official acts. But those charges have since been dismissed, leaving the city's Campaign Finance Board on its own to hold the mayor accountable. Host Janae Pierre and WNYC’s senior politics reporter Brigid Bergin explore what lies ahead for Adams as he pushes for reelection. Miss the previous episodes in our series? Listen to #1 here , #2 here , and #3 here .

Apr 11

Thursday’s deadly helicopter crash in the Hudson River is re-igniting the debate over chopper tours in New York City air space. Plus, a new NYPD unit is targeting quality of life issues in the five boroughs. Also, the New York City Council wants to double the number of public bathrooms across the five boroughs. And finally, WNYC’s Giulia Heyward checked out one of the city’s hottest underground comedy shows and shares her experience.

Apr 11

Mayor Eric Adams says sightseeing helicopters should remain part of city life, but only if safety and maintenance are ensured. His comments come after a deadly crash killed six people in the Hudson River. Meanwhile, the White House says allowing detained Columbia graduate Mahmoud Khalil to remain in the U.S. would undercut efforts to combat antisemitism. Plus, investigators are still trying to determine what caused the helicopter to fall from the sky. WNYC’s Brittany Kriegstein has the latest.

Apr 11

New York residents could be hit hard by deep federal Medicaid cuts under debate in Congress. Meanwhile, state lawmakers have left Albany without a budget deal in place. Plus, this Friday night, New Yorkers will gather in Inwood to honor victims of a deadly nightclub roof collapse in the Dominican Republic that claimed more than 220 lives.

Apr 10

According to the NYPD, first responders pulled at least two people from the Hudson River Thursday after a helicopter crash. Plus, the MTA and U.S. Transportation Department have agreed to a schedule in a lawsuit over the Manhattan tolls that shows a judge won't make any decision for another six months. Also, a Hell's Kitchen landlord is getting tax breaks despite racking up hundreds of violations. And finally, Airbnb is spending millions to back candidates for local office who support easing short-term rental restrictions.

Apr 10

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch has fired Officer Kevin Marcial after he admitted to shooting at his girlfriend’s husband during a 2022 car chase in Brooklyn. Meanwhile, New Yorkers will gather in Inwood Friday evening to mourn victims of the deadly roof collapse at a nightclub in the Dominican Republic. Plus, nearly 200 people deemed unfit for trial remain on Rikers Island due to a shortage of psychiatric beds. WNYC’s Samantha Max and Charles Lane explain why.

Apr 10

A federal judge in Manhattan has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from fast-tracking migrant deportations in New York without due process, after it used a centuries-old law to expel alleged Venezuelan gang members. Meanwhile, a bird collector who smuggled endangered species through JFK Airport has been fined $900,000 and sentenced to probation. Also, Harlem’s Uptown Night Market kicks off its season Thursday with food, music, and local vendors. Plus, in this week’s politics brief, the state budget stalemate and Mayor Adams’ independent re-election bid are in focus.

Apr 9

New York City’s Department of Sanitation is hitting landlords with a flurry of tickets for failing to follow the new composting rules. Meanwhile, the city has approved around-the-clock work to build Brooklyn's new jail, as officials plan to shutter Rikers Island. And finally, the Uptown Night Market returns this Thursday under what's known as the "Arches of Harlem.”

Apr 9

Mayor Eric Adams is allowing federal agencies like ICE and the FBI to establish offices on Rikers Island for the first time in a decade, raising questions about transparency and the city’s sanctuary policies. Meanwhile, the good-government group Citizens Union is proposing a new law that would let voters recall future mayors, citing Adams’ recent corruption scandal. Plus, families of Rikers Island detainees who died in custody this year say they’re struggling to learn how their loved ones passed. WNYC’s Brittany Kriegstein reports.

Apr 9

New York City business owners say they’re struggling to plan under the uncertainty caused by President Trump’s new tariffs on foreign goods. Meanwhile, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie is pushing legislation to curb Governor Hochul’s leverage in budget negotiations, as the state budget remains overdue. Also, police credit a controversial gang database with helping to indict 16 people tied to a string of shootings in East Harlem, even as the City Council weighs shutting the tool down.

Apr 8

Charges have been dropped against New York City Councilmember Susan Zhuang after she allegedly bit a police officer's arm at a protest last summer. Plus, the Trump Administration wants school districts to confirm that they aren't using diversity, equity or inclusion programs. And finally, Long Island University in Brooklyn partnered with Jay-Z’s entertainment company to form the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports and Entertainment. Its first class of students were awarded scholarships stating they would “graduate without debt.” But that wasn’t the case.

Apr 8

With Trump’s new tariffs in effect, Manhattan business leaders warn the city’s economy could take a hit beyond Wall Street. Meanwhile, the NYPD is asking high schoolers to pitch solutions to the dangerous subway surfing trend in a new citywide essay contest. Plus, the City Council is challenging Mayor Adams’ proposed 2026 budget with a $117 billion counterproposal. WNYC’s Sean Carlson speaks with Budget Chair Justin Brannan.

Apr 8

The MTA’s congestion pricing tolls will likely remain in place for at least six more months as a legal battle with the Trump administration plays out. Meanwhile, New York City has taken control of an apartment building from a negligent landlord for the first time in seven years. Plus, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez may play a key role in shaping the city’s mayoral race, with progressives hoping her endorsement can rally voters against Andrew Cuomo.

Apr 7

New York City is suing some large distributors of flavored e-cigarettes, claiming they illegally target children with their tobacco products. Plus, legislative leaders still don't have a state budget deal. Also, MTA leaders are touting the first overhaul to the Queens bus network since the 1950s. Meanwhile, Google’s artificial intelligence algorithm could go up against the experienced ear of an MTA track maintainer. And finally, a poem for National Poetry Month.

Apr 7

New York City tenants are urging the Rent Guidelines Board to freeze rents, saying rising costs are displacing working-class families. Meanwhile, a new karaoke night invites fans to sing alongside Broadway stars every Monday on Orchard Street. Plus, the deadline for artists to submit design proposals for monuments honoring influential women in New York City history is this Monday, April 7th.

Apr 7

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards is urging Con Edison to reconsider its proposed rate hikes, warning they would burden working families. Meanwhile, police credit the quick thinking of children and first responders for saving lives during a stabbing in Brooklyn that injured four girls. Plus, a developer is proposing a casino next to the United Nations, complete with a Museum of Freedom and Democracy, as part of a bid for a state gaming license.

Apr 5

Miss the previous episodes in our series? Check out the first one and the second one .

Apr 4

Transit officials are touting a new plan to make Manhattan’s Delancey-Essex station accessible to people by adding new elevators. Plus, major crime fell by 11% and subway crime dropped 18% in New York City. Also, with the help of some real-estate developers, the city is moving homeless New Yorkers into new apartments. And finally, cherry blossoms are about ready to bloom and leaders at Branch Brook Park in Newark, New Jersey are set to welcome visitors.

Apr 4