The Brian Lehrer Show

Eli Valentin, Assistant Dean of Graduate Studies at Virginia Union University and a political analyst for Univision, dives into the surprising shift of Latino voters from Trump to Democrats. He discusses how generational and ideological changes are reshaping voting patterns, highlighting economic concerns as a key driver. Valentin explores neighborhood variations and the impact of ICE raids, while also touching on the influence of religion and colonial history on political choices. Personal stories reveal the complexity behind mixed voting decisions in this evolving demographic landscape.

Dean Fuleihan, the incoming first deputy mayor in the Mamdani administration and a seasoned city official, shares his drive to tackle New York's affordability crisis and promote universal childcare. He reflects on past successes, like the rapid implementation of essential programs during his previous tenure. Laura Nahmias, a Bloomberg News reporter, analyzes Fuleihan's stabilizing influence at City Hall and delves into political dynamics between past and current governors, emphasizing the urgent need for strategic fiscal planning amid evolving city challenges.

Jelani Cobb, the Dean of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism and a staff writer for The New Yorker, dives into the turbulent threads of recent history. He reflects on his parents' Great Migration and its impact on his dedication to public education. Cobb explores what he calls 'the parameters of hope,' contrasting optimism from the Obama era to the disillusionment after George Floyd's death. He connects the Voting Rights Act and immigration reform to today's political climate, delving into the nativism highlighted in Trump’s rhetoric.

Nancy Solomon, host and producer of the Ask Governor Murphy call-in series, shares insights from her engaging dialogue with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. They discuss Murphy's plans for a clean energy mandate and the implications for utility costs. Nancy reveals the behind-the-scenes coordination of a call from Mikie Sherrill amid a federal shutdown vote. They also tackle pressing issues like Trenton's water infrastructure and the political fallout from the Gateway Tunnel project, all while keeping the tone light and relatable.

Karen Yi, a reporter focused on homelessness and poverty, and Joe Hong, an investigative data journalist, dive into the complex world of grocery pricing and SNAP benefits. They explore how prices vary across neighborhoods and the hidden factors influencing these costs. A discussion on why shopping local can sometimes be pricier reveals the challenges of low-income areas. Listeners share personal experiences, while insights into the effects of SNAP interruptions on both customers and stores add depth to the conversation about food affordability in New York City.

In this insightful discussion, Greg David, a fiscal expert and contributor for THE CITY, dives into the significant budget challenges facing Mayor-elect Mamdani. He highlights how Wall Street’s temporary boom could ease initial budget gaps. The conversation extends to the sustainability of these gains, migration patterns of wealthy New Yorkers, and the pressing issues of affordability for the working class. David also weighs in on tax strategies to support Mamdani's ambitious agenda while addressing rising insurance costs impacting small businesses.

Nicholas Wu, a Congressional reporter at POLITICO, dives into the House's return after a lengthy break. He discusses the contentious shutdown deal, revealing the frustration among Democrats towards Senate colleagues who went off script. Wu explains the potential implications of new Epstein documents tied to Trump and outlines the House's strategy for the upcoming vote on ACA subsidies. He also addresses the internal strife within the Democratic Party and the trade-offs between immediate impacts and long-term political strategy.

The conversation kicks off with mayor-elect Mamdani's vision of 'sewer socialism,' emphasizing public infrastructure for all. Listeners share pressing local issues, including overflowing trash and potholes making life difficult. Safety concerns arise with poor street lighting and hazardous bike lanes. A listener suggests pedestrianizing local streets to improve traffic flow and cyclist safety. Health complaints bubble up as sewage odors plague a school area. The show captures a community rallying for small improvements that could have a big impact.

Elizabeth Kim, a political reporter from Gothamist and WNYC, dives into the pivotal moments of Mayor-elect Mamdani’s transition. She discusses the strategic selection of budget-savvy Deputy Dean Fulahan and his reassuring experience. The potential design of a community safety department raises eyebrows as policing dynamics are set to shift. Conversations around Jessica Tisch's future as Police Commissioner and the implications of Mamdani's comments on Israel bond investments stir political currents. Kim highlights an administration focused on competency and community engagement.

In this discussion, Mark Hertsgaard, a journalist and climate advocate, and Paula DiPerna, a policy consultant and climate economist, delve into the crucial COP30 summit in Brazil despite the U.S. absence. They explore how global investment in clean technologies is evolving, driven by affordable solar innovations. The duo examines whether progress can continue without U.S. participation, highlighting the importance of local leadership. With insights on climate challenges and the intricate nature of policy implementation, they emphasize the urgency of collective action.