NJ Spotlight News with Briana Vannozzi

Tonight we’re bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where Joanna Gagis has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, ahead of President Trump’s address to the nation tonight, we look at a New Jersey law that advocates say will protect voting rights.   Plus, we hear from a small business fighting back after being forced to close their doors after their permit was abruptly rescinded.   And Stevie Van Zandt - the Musician and E Street Band member joins us to talk about celebrating America’s 250th with music.  

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, everyone is talking about it - cyclospora - we’ll tell you all you need to know about the parasitic intestinal illness that’s ruining summer for some people.   Plus, World Cup fever - we’ve got one of the final teams staying in New Jersey, we’ll tell you who it is. And look all the teams that’ve come through and how one social media influencer helped put the Garden State on the global stage.   And, imagine being able to take an entire snapshot of the universe. We’ll talk with one Rutgers astrophysicist joining the effort to map the cosmos.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New Jerseyans are seeing their gas prices rise again - we look at the escalating conflict between the US and Iran and what it means when you go to fill the tank.   Also, another heatwave is hitting the state this week. What do the rising temperatures mean for those who are homeless?    And, when the heat rolls in, many New Jerseyans head to the beach. So which one should you go to?

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a new poll puts New Jersey in LAST place for business friendliness - We’ll talk with one biz leader sounding the alarm on what the state needs to change this reputation.   Plus, the state’s crisis hotline 9-8-8 is expanding, but its funding is not. We look at the impact of the state budget on mental health services.   And, continuing our analysis of the final budget - we take a look at the surplus, and whether it’s enough to cover a rainy day in New Jersey.

Tonight we’re bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where Joanna Gagis has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, is the World Cup paying off for New Jersey? We’ll look at the winners of the fan experience.   Plus, school’s out for the summer but many districts are already scrambling for September because of budget cuts.   And, is the new state budget truly affordable? We get the perspective from a progressive think tank.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News,  from extreme heat, to storms and pounding rain, the weather has wreaked havoc on the state for the last few days, we’ll get the latest on the hardest hit areas.   Plus, we’ll get reaction from the business community to Governor Sherrill’s final budget   And, Stevie Van Zandt is in the house- the Musician and E Street Band member joins us to talk about celebrating America’s 250th with music.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we get the latest from Washington from Rep. Tom Kean Jr. to birthright citizenship.   Plus, Jersey City got a last-minute bailout in the state budget, but some council members are calling for an audit of their books.   And, speaking of the state budget, we talk with Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin about the state’s record-level spending plan.

Tonight we're bringing you special edition of NJ Spotlight News, in commemoration of America's 250th anniversary. We're looking back at the Revolutionary War history that unfolded right here in New Jersey and showcasing stories that often get overlooked in textbooks. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the final state budget bill has officially been signed into law - we’ll get you the latest.   Plus, as temperatures climb into the triple digits ahead of the holiday weekend, we’ll hear from the new state climatologist on how to stay cool.   And the Supreme Court released a number of landmark decisions this week, including birthright citizenship, we talked to New Jersey’s Attorney General Jen Davenport about that and more.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, today is the budget deadline. The final bill is moving through the legislature and Governor Sherrill has until midnight to sign it.  We’ll take a look at what’s in it, and get Republicans’ reaction to it.   And, we continue our coverage of America’s 250th anniversary with a look at the untold stories of the American Revolution.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the clock is ticking for lawmakers to approve the state’s next fiscal year budget before tomorrow’s deadline. Lawmakers were finally able to see a draft of the bill on Sunday, as they gathered in Trenton to vote on a flurry of bills that provide revenue to help fund the record $60.7 BILLION dollar budget.   Plus, the Supreme Court ruled today to allow mail-in ballots to be counted if they were post-marked on election day. We’ll look at the impact of that and other significant decisions.   Also, while the state budget awaits final passage in the legislature, questions abound about WHY the city of Trenton lost funding for high-impact tutoring, even though students there are in desperate need of support.   And, as we prepare to celebrate America’s 250th this week, we look at the important stories often LEFT OUT of our nation’s history.

Tonight we’re bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where I’ll have a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we take a deep dive into the real environmental impact of AI data centers on communities.   Plus, as America gets ready to celebrate its 250th anniversary, we’ll highlight the pivotal role New Jersey  played in the American Revolution.   And, Asbury Park is a destination for musicians and music fans worldwide - we look at the evolution of the music scene there and one festival celebrating up and coming local artists.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we get the latest on what’s happening inside and outside of Delaney Hall.   Plus, we talk with Democratic candidate Rachel Peace who’s hoping to unseat long-time Republican Congressman Chris Smith in the 4th district.   And, we get a check on how NJ Transit is handling the influx of World Cup riders.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, lawmakers have a deal on a record $60 billion dollar budget, so when will the budget bill be released? We’ll get the latest.   Plus, we hear from one Democratic lawmaker on legislation that may be passed in the larger budget bill.   And, new data just released today shows a shocking uptick in the number of confirmed cancer cases around a former landfill site in Keyport  - we talk to the NJ.com reporter who broke this exclusive report.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, anchor Joanna Gagis talks with the Republican Senate Budget Officer Declan O’Scanlon about why the GOP’s calling foul on some of the Governor’s proposed budget cuts. Plus, NJBIA CEO Michele Siekerka discusses if businesses scoring a win from the World Cup and the potential economic impact. Later, it’s something we all need but many of us never get enough of - sleep - Dr. Carol Ash of the Deborah Heart & Lung Center explains how going to bed on time can change your life expectancy. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, our education writer Cat Carrera shares the experiences of two New Jersey teens whose families have been affected by federal immigration policy.    Plus, with temperatures on the rise, we look at urban heat islands - what are they and why do they hurt the residents who live in them?   And, U.S. Senator Andy Kim joins us to discuss the latest on the Iran deal and his take on Delaney Hall.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, new e bike regulations are about to take effect, as two more teens have died in crashes this month. But one advocate says the new rules have unintended consequences.   Plus, Democratic Congressman Donald Norcross joins us to talk about a labor bill he pushed through on the House floor that addresses union contracts   And, we talk with Republican state Senator Jon Bramnick about his proposal to require more transparency from lawmaker and all the latest from Trenton.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, dark money continues to be a factor in in New Jersey’s elections, including this month’s primary races. We’ll break it down.   Plus, hear one lawmaker’s plan to help the icons of New Jersey - our diners - survive and thrive.   And, we look at the history of Juneteenth that marked the end of slavery… and the continued calls for change here in the state.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, from the Knicks to the World Cup it was an exciting weekend sports in the area - but how did our transit systems perform as it moved guests to and from the game?   Plus, we look at the impact that youth sports are having on families - some are spending tens of thousands a year just so their kids can compete!   And, we hear from one state senator asking for extra state aid for school districts in the Pinelands and Highlands area. Does his plan have bipartisan support?

Loneliness has been recognized as a public health crisis. It exists everywhere and is far more common than many will admit. In this intimate series, host Manya Brachear Pashman, an award-winning religion reporter, explores what it means to feel alone and how faith, religion and spirituality are driving both the science of belonging and the surprising ways that people are forming meaningful bonds. Through candid conversations with medical professionals, community builders, and members of the clergy, the program unpacks isolation from multiple angles and offers solutions to help navigate loneliness, find connection, and help people feel seen again.

Tonight we’re bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where Joanna Gagis has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Republican Justin Murphy talks about challenging Democrat Cory Booker in the November elections - does he have a shot at ousting the Senior U.S. Senator?   Plus, the Boss has a new home - we get the latest on what fans can expect at the new Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music   And, President Trump signed a $70 billion dollar spending plan for ICE and Border Patrol - what does it include?

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we talk with Jersey City Mayor James Solomon on a range of topics - from their World Cup events, to the city’s fiscal health AND discrepancies in recent crime reporting data.   Plus, we take a look at the impact of rising costs and a brutal spring freeze on New Jersey’s farming industry.   And, how is the state handling health concerns during the World Cup? New Jersey’s Department of Health Commissioner joins us to discuss that and more.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, World Cup fever - we’ll get you the latest on the top matches, on transit plans and the most important question - are tickets still available?   Plus, June is recognized as Pride Month. We recently spoke with the head of Jersey Pride about this being a time for celebration and a continued push for equal rights.   And, Dr. Adam Hamawy joins us to talk about his big win in the Congressional District 12 primary race… and the growing criticism over his controversial past ties.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we talk to one lawmaker looking to crack down on pop up parties at the shore.   Plus, Cape May Mayor Zack Mullock is the Democrat taking on Republican Congressman Jeff Van Drew in the 2nd district, he joins us to talk about his win and his campaign.   And, the World Cup kicks off THIS WEEKEND here in New Jersey - will it be a boom or bust for New Jersey’s economy?

Tonight we’re bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where Joanna Gagis has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the primary election night results are in, we’ll get you the latest on the winners and losers as we head into the midterms.   Plus, we’ll talk to one of last night’s winners - Democrat Rebecca Bennett who will now face off against Congressman Tom Kean Jr. in District 7.   And, Republican Congressman Jeff Van Drew gives HIS take on Delaney Hall after his recent visit.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News,  it’s primary day here in New Jersey, we’ll talk with strategists on both sides about what their party stands to gain and lose today.   Plus, making history - we recently spoke with Belleville’s youngest and first Latino mayor about his historic win.    And, who are the front-runners in the races and will the situation at Delaney Hall impact voters choices at the polls? We’ll take a closer look.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we talk with the new state Environmental Protection Commissioner about his goal's and his agency's response to a suspected cancer cluster in Keyport.   Plus, New Jersey's Supreme Court won't take up the schools segregation case, at least for now. We'll look at what comes next for the two sides.   And, it was a chaotic weekend at Delaney Hall as clashes between protestors and law enforcement continued, we get the latest from a reporter who's been covering it all.

Tonight we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where Joanna Gagis has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Governor Sherrill announced a new plan this week to deal with the rise of AI data centers. Plus, we talk with NJ state GOP Chair Christine Hanlon about her party’s response to the situation at Delaney Hall and a look ahead to the June 2 Congressional Primary races. Also, Bayonne elects its first female mayor - we’ll talk with the Mayor-Elect on her plans for the Hudson County city. And, students solving decades-old cold cases - we’ll take you to one college classroom that’s making groundbreaking discoveries in unsolved cases using D-N-A technology.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New Jersey and New York are teaming up once again on the World Cup - but this time, they're launching an investigation into FIFA's handling of ticket sales.   Plus, as the clashes between ICE officers and protestors continue at Delaney Hall in Newark, we talk with one advocate about conditions both in and outside of the immigrant detention center.    Also, in the crowded field of candidates in the Congressional District 12 race, we talk with Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp about his run for the seat.    And later, a high stakes legal battle over Bergen County’s Blue laws could have major implications for retailers in North Jersey.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a historic shift, how the DOJ’s decision to reclassify medical marijuana will affect patients and the cannabis market. Plus I recently spoke with Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds Jackson on why she wants to trade the State House for Capitol Hill. And, Congressman Rob Menendez joins us to discuss the ongoing unrest at Delaney Hall detention center.

Tonight we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable - where Joanna Gagis has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, how the state’s new Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner is looking to expand services and reach more of our vets, Joanna Gagis takes a look ahead of this Memorial Day. Plus, how the Girl Scouts is helping young women build the confidence they need to empower themselves, Raven Santana has that conversation with the CEO of Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey.   And, we speak with State Senator Troy Singleton about the state’s deepening housing affordability crisis– and his proposals to fix it.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Memorial Day is this weekend- we’ll get the latest from AAA on what you can expect if you’re flying or driving.   Plus, Briana Vannozzi spoke with one advocacy group pushing for more funding for childcare in the state. We’ll bring you that conversation.   And, the District 12 Congressional primary race is heating up - we recently spoke with one Democratic candidate, Dr. Brad Cohen.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, one Newark charter school’s “Blue Ribbon” award is called into question -  our own urban education writer Julie O’Connor tell us all that she uncovered about the school in her reporting  Plus, an alarming new Rutgers study about firearm suicides after the pandemic - and what it reveals about disparities among gun owners. We’ll talk to the researcher. And, NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri joins us to discuss the latest on World Cup transit preparations.

Tonight we bring you a special NJ Decides edition of NJ Spotlight News with conversations from the four Democratic candidates running in the primary against Republican Congressman Tom Kean Jr. in the state's 7th congressional district.     

On this edition of NJ Spotlight News, we take a look at recent conversations we’ve had on issues that are impacting residents in New Jersey and the nation. Take a listen. 

On this edition of NJ Spotlight News, we take a look at recent conversations we’ve had on issues that are impacting residents in New Jersey and the nation. Take a listen. 

On this edition of NJ Spotlight News, we take a look at recent conversations we’ve had on issues that are impacting residents in New Jersey and the nation. Take a listen. 

On this edition of NJ Spotlight News, we take a look at recent conversations we’ve had on issues that are impacting residents in New Jersey and the nation. Take a listen. 

Tonight we're bringing you a special edition of NJ Spotlight News with another installment of our series "Painting Community." This episode focuses on public art in Camden and highlights the work of Camden native and local artist, De'von Downes.   

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we’re bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where Joanna Gagis has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, today marks 100 days since Governor Mikie Sherrill first took office. It’s a milestone that many first-time Governors use to highlight their early accomplishments AND set the stage for what’s to come.   Plus, the race is on - we talk with CD7 candidate Brian Varela about standing out in a crowded field of candidates in NJ’s most competitive House race.   Also, Trenton’s lead testing in limbo - a new investigation looks at the challenges in one neighborhood to keep residents informed.   And, Jeopardy champ and NJ native Jamie Ding joins us to talk about his epic run on the show.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a significant ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court today dealt a win to anti-abortion crisis pregnancy centers.   Plus, we talk with Congresswoman Analilia Mejia about her first week in Washington and her agenda while in Congress.   Also, falling behind - we look at the concerning results of the state’s first literacy screenings for grades K through 3.   And, Democratic candidate Dr. Tina Shah discusses her push to turn District 7 blue.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the World Cup countdown is on- Joanna Gagis talks with the New York / New Jersey Host Committee CEO about the final preps and pushback on pricing.   Plus, Congresswoman LaMonica McIver talks about the latest on her assault charges as well as why she’s taking on developers building AI data centers in the state.   Also, the final contract to build the Gateway Tunnel has been awarded. It’s a 1.3 billion dollar construction project that’ll design and build one mile of new rail tubes under the Hudson River.   And, is offshore wind dead in New Jersey? We look at the future of renewable energy in the state.