

You Decide with Errol Louis
Spectrum News NY1
NY1's Errol Louis has been interviewing powerful politicians and cultural icons for years, but it's when the TV cameras are turned off that things really get interesting. From career highlights, to personal moments, to stories that have never been told, join Errol each week for intimate conversations with the people who are shaping the future of New York and beyond. Listen to "You Decide with Errol Louis" every Wednesday, wherever you listen to podcasts.
Episodes
Mentioned books

13 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 33min
Defying the odds with Zohran Mamdani
Ayana Harry, a political reporter for NY1, joins the discussion on the shocking primary win of 33-year-old Zohran Mamdani over Andrew Cuomo. They explore Mamdani's innovative ground game, modern messaging, and the enthusiastic mobilization of younger, immigrant voters. Ayana critiques Cuomo's outdated campaign tactics and limited public engagement as major pitfalls. The duo also reflects on the broader implications for New York City's political landscape and what this means for future elections.

Jun 25, 2025 • 19min
BONUS EPISODE: Mamdani stuns New York City with primary day upset
Political history was made in New York City on June 24, and once NY1's live TV coverage wrapped early Wednesday morning, NY1's Errol Louis, Courtney Gross and Bobby Cuza broke down the surprise results of the Democratic primary in this special crossover episode of Off Topic/On Politics and You Decide. Queens Assemblyman and Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani, 33, pulled off an upset over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, an outcome few insiders predicted. The team unpacked how Mamdani's grassroots movement energized young voters and what his win means for the future of the Democratic Party.

Jun 20, 2025 • 36min
BONUS: The slate of contenders: Sorting out New York's political scene with Gerson Borrero
With the June 24 primary almost upon us, could Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani pull off an upset over Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic race for mayor? Could City Comptroller Brad Lander capitalize on his arrest by federal immigration officials and make a last-minute push? Gerson Borrero is a journalist, radio host and political commentator who appears weekly on NY1's "Inside City Hall." He's also the former editor-at-large of City & State and former editor-in-chief of El Diario/La Prensa, the largest Spanish-language newspaper in New York City. He joined Errol to discuss various angles of the primary. Borrero shared his analysis of the slate of candidates, the influence of the Working Families Party, and the potential impact of alliances between candidates.

Jun 19, 2025 • 29min
Bill de Blasio: Lessons from City Hall
When it comes to mayoral primaries, few people know the terrain better than Bill de Blasio. As the 109th mayor of New York City, he served two terms from 2014 to 2021, the last Democratic mayor since Ed Koch to serve two terms in office. De Blasio joined NY1's Errol Louis to discuss his thoughts on the 2025 Democratic primary. They also discussed the importance of a clear message and how he looks back on his relationship with the media. Join the conversation, weigh in on X using the hashtag #NY1YouDecide or give us a call at 212-379-3440 and leave a message. Or send an email to YourStoryNY1@charter.com.

Jun 11, 2025 • 40min
The race for mayor: Can Adrienne Adams become NYC's first woman mayor?
With the June 24 Democratic primary fast approaching, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams sat down with NY1's Errol Louis to discuss her run for mayor. A late addition to the race, Adams emphasized her leadership style, which she says is based on appointing competent, community-based leaders. The episode marks the eighth and final installment of the "You Decide" mayoral candidate interview series. Adams discussed her views on budgeting, the legislative achievements of a majority-female City Council and innovative approaches to address mental health and public safety. She also shared her personal background, education at Spelman College and insights on the importance of diverse leadership in the city. Join the conversation, weigh in on X using the hashtag #NY1YouDecide or give us a call at 212-379-3440 and leave a message. Or send an email to YourStoryNY1@charter.com.

11 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 54min
The race for mayor: A look at Zohran Mamdani's grassroots campaign
Zohran Mamdani, a dynamic New York State Assemblyman and mayoral candidate, shares insights from his grassroots campaign focused on affordability and tenant protections. He highlights his personal journey from Uganda to New York, emphasizing the generational shift in leadership. Mamdani discusses his vision for free bus fares, a Department of Community Safety, and a push for universal childcare. He critiques previous administrations while outlining bold strategies to engage voters and mobilize support, showcasing his commitment to progressive policies.

Jun 3, 2025 • 41min
The race for mayor: Trying to jumpstart his campaign, Brad Lander talks housing, growth and leadership
With the June 24th Democratic primary less than a month away, City Comptroller Brad Lander sat down with NY1's Errol Louis to discuss his campaign for mayor. The episode marks the sixth installment of the "You Decide" mayoral candidate interview series. The conversation touched on Lander's background and his various roles in the city government. He outlined his proposals, including ending homelessness, improving the New York City Housing Authority, and guaranteeing childcare and after-school programs. The comptroller also talked about his comprehensive housing plan, which includes the controversial idea of repurposing some city-owned golf courses for housing. Join the conversation, weigh in on X using the hashtag #NY1YouDecide or give us a call at 212-379-3440 and leave a message. Or send an email to YourStoryNY1@charter.com.

May 30, 2025 • 47min
(From 2019) Charles Rangel: The lion of Lenox Avenue tells his Harlem story
Back in March of 2019, Errol had the honor of speaking with Rep. Charles Rangel for just the eighth episode of this podcast. They talked about everything—from his roots in Harlem and his service in the Army, to his rise through New York politics and his experience on the House Judiciary Committee during the Watergate era. He also shared his thoughts on the first Trump presidency, with the insight and candor that defined his career. Today, we're bringing that conversation back into the feed—to remember, reflect, and hear once more from the voice of the late, great Charlie Rangel.

May 29, 2025 • 37min
The race for mayor: Zellnor Myrie's ambitious campaign
With the June 24 Democratic primary fast approaching, Brooklyn state Sen. Zellnor Myrie sat down with NY1's Errol Louis to discuss his decision to run for mayor. The episode marks the fifth installment of the "You Decide" mayoral candidate interview series. Myrie discussed proposals including increasing affordable housing by building one million homes, boosting police headcounts and ensuring accountability, addressing affordability issues, and improving public healthcare. He criticized the record of other leaders, including Andrew Cuomo, while highlighting his own achievements and experiences. The discussion also touched on mental health, public safety and the accomplishments of the 2018 incoming class of officials, which Myrie was part of. Join the conversation, weigh in on X using the hashtag #NY1YouDecide or give us a call at 212-379-3440 and leave a message. Or send an email to YourStoryNY1@charter.com.

May 22, 2025 • 46min
The race for mayor: Whitney Tilson's vision for New York
Whitney Tilson, a newcomer to politics, is trying to make a splash in the crowded Democratic race for mayor. A successful investor, civic activist and lifelong Democrat, Tilson sat down with NY1's Errol Louis to discuss his decision to run for mayor and try to shake up the political establishment. The episode marks the fourth installment of the "You Decide" mayoral candidate interview series. Tilson highlighted his plans to improve city safety, affordability, education, housing and homelessness. He also discussed his background in education reform and hedge fund management, detailing his influence on charter schools and political activism. Tilson also provided insights into tackling New York City's housing crisis and effective investment strategies. The episode concludes with a discussion of Tilson's upbringing and his parents' dedication to public service. Join the conversation, weigh in on X using the hashtag #NY1YouDecide or give us a call at 212-379-3440 and leave a message. Or send an email to YourStoryNY1@charter.com.


