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.