Bridget Bergen

Margaret Barthel, a reporter for WAMU, shares insights on the Democratic victories in Virginia and New Jersey, framing them as a backlash against Trump, while highlighting voters' economic concerns. Bridget Bergen, a producer at WNYC, discusses the historic election of Zohran Mamdani as NYC's first Muslim mayor, emphasizing his transformative policy platform and how he rallied voters. The conversation also touches on California's redistricting and its implications for Democratic gains in upcoming elections.

Rachel Janfazel, a researcher focused on youth culture and politics, discusses how Zohran Mamdani's relatable communication and affordability message resonated with young voters in NYC. WNYC reporter Bridget Bergen shares insights from her on-the-ground reporting, revealing how these young voters became influential persuaders for their families, significantly boosting turnout. They delve into the strategies used to engage and mobilize their households, showcasing a remarkable grassroots effort to shape the election.

Bridget Bergen, a seasoned WNYC reporter, shares insights on Zohran Mamdani's groundbreaking victory as New York City's first Muslim mayor. They discuss his grassroots campaign that inspired young voters and working-class communities. Bergen highlights Mamdani's focus on affordability and community support, as well as his bold messages addressing Trump and local challenges. She also touches on the broader implications of electoral shifts in New Jersey and the unexpected voter reactions regarding local election timings.

Elizabeth Kim, a political reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, dives into the surge in early voting with Bridget Bergen, a senior political reporter focusing on election data. They discuss a fivefold increase in early voters, particularly among those aged 55 and up. Additionally, Kim sheds light on candidate Mamdani's strategic silence regarding housing proposals, while both reporters analyze voter coalition shifts and the implications for equity in housing. They also compare grassroots efforts versus paid campaigns, revealing the evolving dynamics as election day approaches.

Bridget Bergen is a senior political reporter and analyst for Gothamist and WNYC, while David Brand covers housing for the same outlets. They dive into the last mayoral debate, unpacking candidates' plans for tackling record homelessness among public school children. Mamdani critiques Cuomo's leadership on this issue, while David explains vacancy rates and affordable housing funding. They also discuss e-bike enforcement strategies and the role of scandals, particularly Cuomo's, in shaping voter perceptions.