You Decide with Errol Louis

Almost 55 years ago, Bella Abzug entered Congress, quickly emerging as a fierce champion of women's and minority rights and forging powerful alliances with fellow New York trailblazers like Shirley Chisholm and Elizabeth Holtzman. In part two of this Spectrum News NY1 series, Errol Louis examines Abzug's relentless work ethic and major legislative achievements, including the Child Care Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, as well as her early and outspoken support for gay rights. The episode also explores her toughest political battles—from her failed U.S. Senate run and mayoral campaign to her central role in the movement to impeach President Richard Nixon. Finally, the series traces Abzug's enduring influence on modern progressive politics and her global advocacy for women's rights.

From Mississippi to Beijing to the halls of Congress, Bella Abzug battled injustice her entire life. Known for her trademark hats and fearless style, Abzug helped reshape New York politics and the national women's movement. In part one of this two-part podcast series from Spectrum News NY1, Errol Louis traces Abzug's early life from her path to Columbia Law School to her work as a civil rights attorney and anti-war activist. The episode explores her role in defending African American civil rights, her leadership in a leading women's peace group and the frustrations that ultimately pushed her to run for Congress in 1970 — when she was 50 years old and ready to upend the political establishment.

The race for governor is already stealing the political spotlight in New York with competitive primaries looming for both the Democratic and Republican parties. Running for reelection, Gov. Kathy Hochul is facing a primary challenge from Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado. Republicans will also have a primary on their hands with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announcing this week that he's entering the governor's race, setting up a GOP primary challenge against Rep. Elise Stefanik, who represents an upstate district in Congress. So, as we look ahead to 2026, what should we expect? NY1 statehouse reporter Bernadette Hogan and Politico Albany Bureau Chief Nick Reisman joined NY1's Errol Louis to break down the current landscape of New York state politics, revisiting Hochul's 2022 victory, her standing heading into the next election and the potential challenges she faces. The conversation also explored the dynamics shaping Hochul's relationship with New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, along with the legislative pressures and political crosscurrents that could complicate her path to reelection.

Yair Rosenberg, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of the Deep Shtetl newsletter, dives into the troubling rise of antisemitism in America. He argues that this form of hate is often homegrown, amplified by social media algorithms that reward outrage. Rosenberg traces historical roots, highlights generational gaps in awareness, and criticizes influencers who spread misinformation. He also discusses the challenges faced by New York City's Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani in navigating complex Jewish political dynamics.

Hakeem Jeffries, U.S. Representative and House Democratic Minority Leader from New York, shares insights on party strategy and policies to retake the House. He discusses the recent dismissal of charges against Letitia James and its implications for the DOJ. Jeffries addresses affordability issues in New York City during his conversation with the newly-elected mayor. He highlights the threat of Republican policies on healthcare and outlines Democratic successes, aiming for renewed control in upcoming elections.

While Zohran Mamdani will be the youngest mayor in more than 125 years, his top strategist is even younger — 26-year-old Morris Katz. Katz joined NY1's Errol Louis to discuss Mamdani's historic win, reflecting on the campaign's digital strategy to meet younger voters in one of their favorite hangouts: social media. He also spoke about the tactics used by Andrew Cuomo's campaign and their impact on the Jewish community. And finally, Katz offered a critique of the broader political consulting industry, saying it lacks authenticity and accountability.

New Yorker editor and the host of "The New Yorker Radio Hour" David Remnick joined NY1's Errol Louis to discuss the big mayoral win of Zohran Mamdani and look at why he strongly resonated with younger voters. Remnick also reflected on the challenges of covering President Donald Trump, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and his own remarkable tenure at The New Yorker and Netflix's upcoming documentary, "The New Yorker at 100."

Political director Bob Hardt analyzes Zohran Mamdani's groundbreaking victory as New York City's youngest and first Muslim mayor. They discuss Mamdani's activist roots, campaign style featuring Bollywood themes, and the support from young voters driving turnout. Hardt highlights identity's impact on governance and engagement with marginalized communities. The conversation also touches on election dynamics, Cuomo's concession tone, and implications for future political landscapes, showcasing a fresh chapter in NYC politics.

This year's mayor's race has been full of surprises, but none more significant than the rise of Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani. Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo entered the race as the heavy favorite yet lost the Democratic primary badly and now trails in the polls as an independent candidate. Despite his high unfavorable ratings, Cuomo isn't out of the running just yet. How did a 34-year-old Queens assemblyman make such a huge splash in such a short time? And does Cuomo have the ability to close Mamdani's lead and cross the finish line first on Tuesday? Susan Kang, an associate professor of political science at John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY) and a member, like Mamdani, of the Democratic Socialists of America, joined NY1's Errol Louis to discuss the twists and turns of the mayor's race, early voting numbers, and how the DSA helped elevate Mamdani into a national figure. She also spoke about how she first got involved in politics and what she hopes the next administration will bring to New York City.

In October 1984, an NYPD officer fatally shot 66-year-old Eleanor Bumpurs during an eviction at her Bronx apartment. Bumpurs, a disabled mother and grandmother, became the face of a national outcry that helped spark one of the first anti–police brutality movements centered on a Black woman. Historian LaShawn Harris, who was 10 years old and living across the street at the time, revisits the tragedy in her new book, "Tell Her Story." Harris joined NY1's Errol Louis to discuss her decade of research and dozens of interviews, the intersection of police violence and mental health crises, and her effort to humanize Bumpurs while illuminating the lasting toll such events take on families and communities.