Max Politics

Rep. Dan Goldman, a Democrat representing New York's 10th congressional district covering parts of Manhattan and Brooklyn, joined the show to discuss issues facing his district and New York, divided government in Washington, opposing Trumpism, the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, and more. (Ep 451)

From a live event at New York Law School, hear author and columnist Frank Barry talk with host Ben Max about Barry's new book Back Roads and Better Angels: A Journey Into the Heart of American Democracy, including reflections on New York's role in our national identity, challenges, and fundamental values. (Ep 450)

NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams returned to the show to discuss his 2024 'State of the People' address, his policy agenda and a variety of challenges facing the city, his latest assessment of Mayor Eric Adams' job performance, and more. (Ep 449)

New York City Council Member Shekar Krishnan, chair of the Council's Parks Committee, and Adam Ganser, Executive Director of New Yorkers for Parks, joined the show to discuss the push for more funding for city parks, pools, beaches, playgrounds, and other public recreational places. (Ep 448)

Margaux Knee, Chief Administrative Officer for LinkNYC, joined the show to discuss the LinkNYC network of public wi-fi kiosks that replaced payphones around the city and the newer "5G smartpoles," public information technology, closing the 'digital divide,' public-private partnerships, and more. (Ep 447)

Andrew Kimball, President and CEO of the New York City Economic Development Corporation, joined the show to discuss how the Adams Administration and NYC EDC are advancing economic development initiatives, especially the 'harbor of the future' plan, the city's overall economic health, and more. (Ep 446)

New York State Senator Julia Salazar, a Brooklyn Democrat and lead sponsor of 'Good Cause Eviction' legislation, joined the show to discuss the 'good cause' compromise passed in the new state budget, how the deal got done and how it fits into the larger housing policy package, and what comes next in terms of implementing and assessing the policy. (Episode 445)

State Housing Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas discusses the recent major housing policy deal in New York, covering tax incentives, rent regulations, and the goal of creating 100,000 affordable homes. They explore the balance between tenant rights and property owner interests, emphasizing the significance of compromise in housing legislation for effective solutions.

NYC Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer discusses the Adams Administration's housing agenda, focusing on strategies for tackling housing supply, affordability, and homelessness. The conversation highlights urgent housing policy agendas, balancing power dynamics for tenant protection, and deliberation on F.A.R. cap liberalization. The guest emphasizes the need for comprehensive housing reforms and community engagement to address the critical housing crisis in NYC.

State Senator Gustavo Rivera, a Bronx Democrat and chair of the Senate health committee, joined the show to discuss the status of state budget negotiations, including around major health issues, housing policy, and more. (Ep 442)