The Brian Lehrer Show Monday Morning Local Politics
Jul 14, 2025
Bridget Bergen, WNYC's senior political correspondent, dives into New York's vibrant political scene. She analyzes Jim Walden's independent candidacy for mayor, highlighting his past as a federal prosecutor and the challenges he's facing. The conversation addresses the intricate dynamics among candidates like Zora Mamdani and Andrew Cuomo, as well as the impact of campaign financing. Bergen also explores the charged atmosphere of political rhetoric, including allegations of anti-Semitism, and the importance of media engagement in shaping public perception.
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Walden's Prosecutorial Campaign Lens
- Jim Walden distinguishes himself as an independent with a prosecutorial approach to government problems.
- His campaign rhetoric reflects his former federal prosecutor background emphasizing corruption and law enforcement.
Cuomo's Conditional Reentry Plan
- Andrew Cuomo teases entering the race actively but proposes a unity poll to choose the strongest challenger to Mamdani.
- All candidates will be on the ballot, but active campaigning may shift post-primary dynamics.
Mamdani's BDS Stance and Focus
- Zora Mamdani supported BDS in the past but does not prioritize it in his mayoral campaign.
- Mamdani focuses on local priorities and aims to avoid making foreign policy issues central to his campaign.