NYC NOW

Joe Hong, a WNYC reporter covering food prices and supply-chain issues, teams up with Karen Yee, who focuses on SNAP and food insecurity in NYC. They delve into the potential fallout from SNAP cuts, explaining how new work requirements could lead to loss of benefits for many. With grocers heavily relying on SNAP sales, they express concerns over possible layoffs and inventory shifts. The conversation highlights rising food prices in low-income neighborhoods, emphasizing the increasing reliance on SNAP and the looming economic ripple effects.

David Brand, a housing reporter with WNYC, joins the conversation to unpack an intriguing ballot proposal aimed at digitizing New York City's extensive paper map archives. He discusses how this initiative could significantly streamline urban planning and development processes. However, David also highlights concerns from local officials regarding the implications for local control and planning commission capabilities. Additionally, listeners will learn about the ongoing federal shutdown affecting air travel and heating assistance in the city.

In this engaging discussion, WNYC reporter David Brandon sheds light on the controversial selection of Brooklyn developer Sergey Ryback, linked to Mayor Eric Adams’ campaign, to develop a city-owned lot in Coney Island. He also highlights the impact of the federal shutdown, which is delaying heating assistance for over a million low-income residents. Additionally, Brandon reveals how NYC street vendors are advocating for the removal of license caps, expressing concerns about immigration crackdowns in their community.

Stephen Nesson, a WNYC reporter known for his coverage of transit mental health outreach, shares insights from his ride-along with the PATH outreach team. He discusses the complex interactions between aid workers and the NYPD during crisis situations. The conversation highlights the push for transit ambassadors and the debate over police involvement in mental health responses. Additionally, street vendors are actively seeking changes to licensing laws in NYC, while early voting trends in New Jersey show a significant turnout ahead of the gubernatorial race.

Colleen Wilson, a transportation reporter for the Bergen Record, reveals the challenges facing New Jersey Transit, including delays and fare hikes, while discussing the critical Gateway Project. Education reporter Jesse Gomez dives into New Jersey’s school funding formula, addressing student achievement and the ongoing debate over school choice. As excitement builds for the NYC Marathon and winds pick up ahead of Halloween, these insights into transit and education shape the urgent conversations leading up to New Jersey’s gubernatorial election.

Karen Yee, a WNYC reporter, shares insights on Attorney General Letitia James' lawsuit against the Trump administration aimed at preserving SNAP benefits amid the federal shutdown. She discusses the local impacts of this battle and its significance for New Yorkers. The conversation also explores a proposed bill for graphic warning labels in gun shops to raise awareness about the risks of gun ownership. Additionally, a striking report reveals that two districts in the Bronx have outperformed nearly 30 others in affordable housing construction since 2014.

Join Jeff Colton, a political reporter for Politico, and Samantha Max, a housing reporter for WNYC, as they dive into New York City's vibrant political landscape. They discuss a remarkable surge in early voting, analyzing its implications for the upcoming mayoral race. Delays in the Metro North expansion to the Bronx raise concerns among commuters. Samantha sheds light on illegal lockouts affecting tenants, emphasizing legal protections and the housing crisis, revealing a compelling narrative of struggle and resilience.

Governor Kathy Hochul says she’s exploring whether schools can send extra meals home to students if the federal shutdown disrupts food stamp benefits. Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani’s plan to freeze rents for stabilized tenants could face obstacles from the current administration. And new city data shows drug overdose deaths fell nearly 30 percent last year, with declines in every borough.

New Yorkers receiving food stamps are suing the Trump administration over changes to the program, known as SNAP. Plus, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries says affordability is a key reason why he’s endorsing Zohran Mamdani for mayor of New York City. Meanwhile, President Trump is backing Rep. Jack Ciattarelli in New Jersey’s governor’s race, calling him the right candidate to lower energy costs in the state. And finally, voters in Manhattan will be asked to select their pick for the borough's next district attorney on Election Day.

Early voting gets underway across New York City. Plus, the legendary Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been selected. And finally, a look at the long tradition of selling counterfeit luxury items in Lower Manhattan.