The Brian Lehrer Show Working Families Party Weighs in on Mamdani's Win
Jul 8, 2025
Ana María Archila and Jasmine Gripper, co-directors of the New York Working Families Party, delve into Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani's significant primary win. They discuss the party's advocacy for progressive policies in housing and childcare and how these issues resonate with working-class voters. The conversation touches on the dynamics of ranked choice voting and the importance of grassroots engagement in elections. They also reflect on the evolving role of the Working Families Party amid changing Democratic leadership.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
WFP's Origins and Impact
- The Working Families Party was founded in 1998 by labor unions and community groups to focus on working families' needs.
- Its influence helped pass minimum wage increases and rent regulations benefiting tenants and workers.
True Representation Is Present Ties
- Effective representation depends on current connection to working-class struggles, not just background.
- Mamdani is seen as more attuned to working-class issues than Adams despite Adams' claims.
Rent Hikes Favor Landlords
- Data shows landlords generally earn profits beyond their expenses despite rent increases.
- Under Adams, rents rose, worsening affordability for tenants who bore the burden.