This week, New York Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado suspended his campaign for governor after struggling to lock in support from key progressive leaders. Meanwhile, on the Republican side, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman officially secured the party's backing and — after a bumpy process — unveiled his running mate. NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross, political reporter Bobby Cuza and political director Bob Hardt break down the state of the race for governor.

Then, Mayor Zohran Mamdani headed to Albany for what's known as "Tin Cup Day," making the case for new tax hikes on wealthy New Yorkers and businesses. The mayor also struck a somewhat less pessimistic tone about the city's budget outlook, a shift from his earlier warnings of a $12 billion budget deficit. The "Off Topic" team weighs in on Mamdani's trip to the State Capitol and what it signals about the city's financial future.

This week, Gov. Kathy Hochul selected former City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams as her pick for lieutenant governor ahead of the Democratic State Convention. But the move sparked discontent from the leader of the Brooklyn Democratic Party. NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross, and political reporters Bobby Cuza and Dan Rivoli break down Hochul's choice.

After that, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing growing scrutiny following a severe cold snap that has left 17 people dead outdoors. While the mayor initially received praise for his handling of the snowstorm, more critics are emerging, criticizing the administration's response. The "Off Topic" team weighs in on whether the honeymoon for Mayor Mamdani and for New York City may already be over.

This week, Mayor Zohran Mamdani told New Yorkers the city is facing a staggering $12 billion budget deficit, a shortfall he says he inherited from former Mayor Eric Adams. The news has sparked sharp reactions across the political spectrum — including from some budget mavens who say the city's financial situation isn't a precarious as the mayor claims. NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross and political reporters Bobby Cuza and Ayana Harry break down what the deficit could mean for the new mayor's key campaign promises.

Then, a federal judge appointed a new leader for Rikers Island. What does this latest move mean for the troubled jails complex and its future? The "Off Topic" team digs into yet another chapter in the long-running saga of a very problematic island.