State budget director discusses New York's finances

Heading to Albany: Housing activist joins DSA ranks at Capitol

July 9, 2026- We get to know Samantha Kattan, a Democratic Socialist working at a housing nonprofit, who is the presumptive next representative for a western Queens Assembly District after winning an open primary in June.

South Brooklyn Democrat eyes Assembly rematch

July 9, 2026- Southern Brooklyn Democrat Chris McCreight explains why he is running for the Assembly again and weighs in on the future leadership of the Brooklyn Democrats.

Lawmakers look to restrict traveling animal exhibitions

July 9, 2026- A decade ago New York prohibited elephants from being part of circuses and now Gov. Kathy Hochul will have to decide whether other large animals can be part of traveling exhibitions. We discuss legislation approved at the Capitol with Brian Shapiro, state director in New York at the Humane World for Animals.

The case for updating New York's geological office

July 9, 2026- We talked with New York State Council of Professional Geologists Executive Director John Nadeau about legislation reshuffling the state's geological survey bureau and creating a state geologist post in order to make New York eligible for federal geology funds. We also consider how many geologists the state should have on staff.

Insurance mandate would shift costs for brand-name drugs

July 8, 2026 - Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest, a Brooklyn Democrat, makes the case for legislation requiring private insurance companies cover name-brand drugs at the same price as generic alternatives when there is a shortage of the generic drug.