This week, Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Gov. Kathy Hochul and MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber unveiled a new plan aimed at speeding up bus commutes by an estimated six minutes.

The "Next Stop: Fast Buses, Better Service" initiative includes prioritized bus corridors, including major changes along Flatbush Avenue, such as center-running bus lanes and island boarding. NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross and political reporters Bobby Cuza and Kelly Mena examine the proposal and the absence of free buses, one of Mamdani's campaign promises.

Then, elected officials in the city are in line for an 18.2% pay raise under proposed legislation in the City Council. The increase follows a recommendation from the Quadrennial Advisory Commission, an independent panel that reviews compensation for local lawmakers every four years. Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin say they will decline any approved pay increase. The "Off Topic" team discusses the potential salary bumps and what it could mean politically.

Tuesday's Democratic primary election demonstrated the power of Mayor Zohran Mamdani's endorsement. Every candidate backed by the mayor emerged victorious, underscoring his growing influence within New York Democratic politics. As the results become clear, NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross, political reporter Bobby Cuza and political anchor Errol Louis break down the key races, the biggest surprises, and what the outcomes could mean for the future direction of the Democratic Party in New York.

This week, Spectrum News NY1 hosted a congressional debate in New York's 13th District, which includes Harlem, Upper Manhattan and parts of the Bronx. The candidates are incumbent Rep. Adriano Espaillat and his much younger opponent, Darializa Avila Chevalier, who has been endorsed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the Democratic Socialists of America. NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross, political reporter Bobby Cuza and statehouse reporter Bernadette Hogan discuss the debate and what it indicates about the Democratic Socialists of America's growing presence in New York City politics.

After that, the "Off Topic" team catches you up on the rest of this year's congressional contests. There are 38 legislative primaries on the ballot, and a handful of them are highly competitive. Consider this your voter guide as primary day approaches.