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Off Topic/On Politics

Off Topic/On Politics

Written by: Spectrum News NY1
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What happens when three New York reporters sit in a (small) room and talk politics? Join the NY1 political team each week for a conversation where no topic is off-limits and everything is on the record.​@ 2023 Charter Communications. All Rights Reserved. Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Did Mamdani actually solve New York City's budget crisis?
    May 15 2026

    This week, Mayor Mamdani unveiled his executive budget, turning a projected multibillion-dollar deficit into a balanced plan without major service cuts, a property tax hike, or tapping a rainy-day fund.

    The plan relies largely on help from Albany and a $2.3 billion pension plan restructuring that would push costs from 2032 to 2037, but it still requires approval from the state, retirement funds and unions. The city budget must also still be negotiated with the City Council.

    NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross, political reporter Bobby Cuza, and statehouse reporter Bernadette Hogan break down what's in, what's out, and how the mayor got it done.

    After that, the re-introduced Community Opportunity to Purchase Act, or COPA, would give some nonprofit groups the first chance to buy certain distressed multifamily buildings. Supporters, including Council member Sandy Nurse, say the proposal would help preserve affordability. Opponents say it may be illegal.

    The "Off Topic" team looks at the bill, which was vetoed by former Mayor Eric Adams and has now been revived despite fierce opposition from the real estate industry.

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    27 mins
  • Hochul says there's a budget deal; Albany says not so fast
    May 8 2026

    This morning, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced there was a "general agreement" between her office and Albany legislators on a $268 billion state budget. The spending plan includes auto insurance reforms, immigration protections, an energy rebate and more. However, state Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie called the announcement "premature," saying there is no final deal in place. NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross and political reporters Bobby Cuza and Ayana Harry discuss the latest drama surrounding the negotiations.

    After that, a viral video posted several weeks ago by Mayor Zohran Mamdani targeting hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin continues to generate blowback. Griffin says he will add thousands of jobs in Miami instead of New York City amid the mayor's push to tax wealthy earners and corporations. The "Off Topic/On Politics" team breaks down the political fallout from Mamdani's social media strategy and examines whether he is taking the wrong approach with some of the city's wealthiest business leaders.

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    36 mins
  • A new NYPD controversy: How will Mamdani respond to a council member's arrest?
    Apr 24 2026

    This week, Brooklyn City Council member Chi Ossé was arrested during a protest in Bedford-Stuyvesant aimed at stopping the eviction of a woman amid disputed allegations of deed theft. Video of the arrest quickly went viral, and Ossé has since raised concerns about his treatment by police during the incident. Mayor Zohran Mamdani described the footage as "concerning" and said he reached out to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch in response. NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross, political reporter Bobby Cuza, and statehouse reporter Bernadette Hogan break down Ossé's arrest and the mayor's reaction.

    Also this week, Gov. Kathy Hochul discussed her proposal to overhaul New York's auto insurance system, arguing it will help lower costs for drivers. She emphasized she is not ready to make a final budget deal unless her proposed changes are included. The "Off Topic" team weighs in on what the plan could mean for New York drivers.

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    36 mins
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