FAQ NYC

Hosts delve into New York's bustling political landscape, questioning if it's time for generational change in Congress. They analyze the crowded race to replace a veteran politician and debate the merits of age limits for candidates. Discussions shift to Mayor-elect Mamdani's potential challenges and opportunities in governance. Themes of hope versus skepticism emerge, especially regarding housing affordability and community safety. They wrap up with insights into transition staffing risks and a look at upcoming races.

Michael Rohatyn, a filmmaker and son of financier Felix Rohatyn, teams up with documentary filmmaker Peter Yost to explore New York City's precarious fiscal crisis in 1975 through their documentary, Drop Dead City. They discuss Michael's emotional interviews with his father as he faced Alzheimer's, uncover the significance of the Municipal Assistance Corporation, and reveal how archival footage shaped the film's narrative. The duo reflects on civic commitment, the evolving perception of public service, and the lessons this historic crisis imparts for today's policymakers.

The hosts dive into the intense Council Speaker race post-election and the rising tensions around Mayor Mamdani's agenda. Kathy Hochul faces chants of "tax the rich" at Somos, showcasing her political challenges. They also explore early movements for the 2026 Congressional elections, highlighting potential candidates. Discussion turns to the NYPD, community responses to recent events, and the implications of decision-making power within the new administration. As political dynamics shift, the hosts examine how deal-making could define the future leadership landscape.

Patrick Gaspard, a distinguished senior fellow and former Obama aide, shares insights on the historic transition to Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. He discusses Mamdani's all-female transition team, the significance of grassroots engagement, and how to maintain momentum for political renewal. Gaspard highlights the need for appointments that reflect the administration's vision and outlines strategies for addressing challenges, including persistent racist attacks. With a mix of optimism and pragmatism, Gaspard illustrates the exciting possibilities ahead for New York City.

Ben Frachtenberg, a visual editor and photographer for The City, joins hosts Harry Siegel and Amy Sohn to discuss the art of street photography. He shares insights from his solo exhibition, In Tension, showcasing the contrast between the isolation of COVID-era streets and vibrant public moments. Ben dives into the ethical dilemmas photographers face, the importance of capturing candid moments, and how he manages anxiety while doing his work. He also critiques pop culture portrayals of photojournalism, emphasizing the need for authenticity in storytelling.

New York City's mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani, gives a hopeful victory speech that resonates with a diverse coalition. Excitement builds at his victory party, with emotional responses and robust volunteer efforts on display. The hosts delve into the implications of his expansive vision versus budget constraints, while also exploring potential challenges like Islamophobia and necessary community outreach. The rising influence of the Working Families Party and DSA shapes the political landscape moving forward, hinting at significant changes in local governance.

Alex Brook Lynn, FAQ NYC's original executive producer, rejoins the podcast to talk with Harry Siegel about New York City's election, and how and why Paris — which has all the same big urban issues — has taken a different approach to providing things like affordable housing for working class people, childcare, and more.

In episode six, we’re focusing on affordability, housing and the related ballot proposals. We’re joined by housing experts Jamie Rubin (Chief Investment Officer of Aligned Climate Capital & Chairman of the Board of NYCHA) and Alicia Glen (Founder and Managing Principle of M Squared & former Deputy Mayor for Housing and Economic Development), who share their thoughts on what the next Mayor should accomplish – and how. Remember: early voting is in full swing. Visit vote.nyc or call 1-866-VOTE-NYC to find your early and election day polling sites — they may be different — and see what will be on your ballot. — FAQ NYC and Max Politics are teaming up for a limited series, coming to you every Tuesday through November, featuring special guests who will help us dig into the latest in the mayor's race – and what's at stake for New Yorkers. City Hall Free For All is brought to you with generous support from Jamie Rubin and Vital City. This week's episode was hosted by Christina Greer, Katie Honan, Ben Max and Harry Siegel. Our Senior Producer is Giulia Hjort, and Noah Smith is our engineer. Our series consultants are Jess Hackel and Courtney Harrell. Music from Epidemic Sound.

Ric Burns, director of the epic New York: A Documentary Film, joined the FAQ NYC hosts on Thursday evening for beer and cider at Schneider’s Saloon inside the Tenement Museum to talk about 21st century scandals and hopes in the space where German immigrants huddled to do just that in the 19th Century.

Bill Bratton, a two-time former New York City Police Commissioner, shares invaluable insights on policing amid the current mayoral race. He discusses the implications of frontrunner Zohran Mamdani’s policies, suggesting Commissioner Tisch should exit under a Mamdani administration due to conflicting agendas. Bratton emphasizes the importance of specialized units like the SRG in maintaining public safety and critiques the potential outcomes of shifting mental health responses from police to social workers. His perspectives on judicial trends also reveal significant implications for law enforcement.