The Perez Notes

Jeff Coltin returns to City & State New York — this time as Editor-in-Chief.In this episode of The Perez Notes, Roberto Perez sits down with Jeff Coltin to discuss his full-circle journey from intern in 2014 to leading one of New York’s most influential political publications.Coltin rose through the ranks at City & State, serving as City Hall Bureau Chief before departing in 2023 to write POLITICO’s New York Playbook — where he became one of the most well-sourced and closely read political reporters in the state. Along the way, he authored award-winning magazine cover stories, including a profile of Ingrid Lewis-Martin that became required reading across New York political circles, and helmed the widely respected Campaign Confidential newsletter during the pivotal 2021 city elections.Now back at the helm, Coltin breaks down:• What to expect from his coverage of Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani• How City & State will approach the 2026 midterms• The evolution of New York political media• The inside dynamics of the 2025 mayoral race• Why City & State remains “first read” for New York politicsWith deep relationships across City Hall, Albany, and beyond, Coltin is uniquely positioned to shape the narrative at a defining moment in New York politics.🎙️ A must-listen for anyone serious about NYC & NYS power, policy, and the press.#NYCPolitics #JeffColtin #CityAndState #ZohranMamdani #Albany #CityHall #PoliticalMedia #ThePerezNotes

Samuel A.A. Levine — From FTC Enforcer to NYC’s Top Consumer WatchdogNYC’s new Commissioner of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, Samuel A.A. Levine, joins The Perez Notes for a deep dive into the future of consumer rights and worker protection in America’s largest city.Before taking the helm at DCWP in January 2026, Levine led the Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, overseeing national enforcement and rulemaking across privacy, data security, digital advertising, financial services, algorithmic decision-making, worker protection, and small business financing. Now, he brings that federal firepower to New York City.We discuss:• What aggressive enforcement looks like at the city level• Cracking down on predatory business practices• Worker protections in the gig and AI economy• Data privacy and algorithmic accountability• Protecting small businesses and immigrant communities• How DCWP fits into the broader Mamdani-era political landscapeA Harvard Law graduate and longtime consumer advocate, Levine has spent his career challenging illegal foreclosures, prosecuting predatory colleges, and shaping national consumer protection policy. Now he’s applying that experience to NYC.This is a conversation about power, enforcement, and who government works for.🎙️ From The Perez Notes#NYCPolitics #ConsumerProtection #SamuelLevine #DCWP #FTC #WorkerRights #DataPrivacy #NYC #ThePerezNotes

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with Julie Won, New York City Council Member for District 26, as she makes the leap to Congress in a race to succeed Nydia Velázquez.Julie Won is a trailblazer in New York City politics—the first woman and first immigrant to represent District 26, and the first Korean-American Council Member in the city’s history. A mother of two young children and a caregiver to her aging parents, Julie brings a deeply personal understanding of the realities facing multigenerational families across our city—and she’s built her career fighting to make government work better for them.After immigrating from South Korea at age eight following the 1997 financial crisis, Julie’s family rebuilt their lives in New York. Her mother, once a culinary professor, worked as a nail technician; her father worked in local small businesses. A proud product of New York public schools and a graduate of Syracuse University’s Maxwell School, Julie later spent a decade at IBM advising the federal government on technology modernization. In 2021, she took on a crowded 15-candidate primary and won—running to confront the inequities COVID-19 laid bare.We talk about her journey, her record, and what’s driving her run for Congress—and what kind of representation she believes New York needs next.⸻#JulieWon #NYCPolitics #QueensPolitics #Congress2026 #ImmigrantStory #WomenInPolitics #ThePerezNotes #NYDemocrats #PublicService #MultigenerationalFamilies

Meet Chuck ParkBorn in Flushing and raised by Korean immigrant storeowners, Chuck Park’s story is rooted in the world’s borough. He served our country as a U.S. diplomat under Barack Obama, then came home to serve his community as a grassroots organizer and city government leader.Now, Chuck is running as a Democrat for Congress in NY-6—to defeat Trumpism, kick corporate PAC money out of our politics, and put power back in the hands of working people.A candid conversation about service, organizing, immigrant roots, and what it will take to win real representation for Queens.🎧 Listen & subscribe to The Perez Notes.#ThePerezNotes #NY6 #QueensPolitics #ImmigrantStory #GrassrootsPolitics #NoCorporatePACs #WorkingPeople #Election2026

🎙️ Jibreel joins The Perez Notes for a wide-ranging conversation about community, leadership, and his run for State Assembly.The son of a union nurse and a taxi driver who immigrated to New York in pursuit of the American dream, Jibreel was born and raised in the community he now seeks to serve. Growing up, he watched families, faith institutions, and neighbors hold one another up—often stepping in when government didn’t show up. Those experiences shaped his belief that lasting change must come from the ground up and that public service should honor the people it serves.A community organizer, nonprofit CEO, and Obama Scholar, Jibreel has dedicated his life to improving the lives of those around him. He helped stop a toxic pesticide facility from being built near homes and schools, secured $1.6 million in funding to prevent gun violence, supported workers in winning a union, and built a small business—giving him firsthand experience with meeting payroll, creating opportunity, and navigating red tape.Now, Jibreel is running for State Assembly, bringing a grounded, community-first approach shaped by lived experience, coalition-building, and a deep commitment to public service.

🎙️ Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso joins The Perez Notes for a wide-ranging conversation about his run for Congress, as he seeks to succeed longtime Representative Nydia Velázquez.Reynoso breaks down why he’s entering the race, how he’s approaching the campaign, and what he sees as the stakes for Brooklyn and New York City. We discuss Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s decision not to endorse, the coalition Reynoso is building, key endorsements, fundraising dynamics, and how this contest is shaping up in a crowded and closely watched field.A candid look at ambition, alliances, and the future of Brooklyn’s voice in Washington—straight from one of the borough’s most prominent political figures.

In this episode of The Perez Notes, host Roberto Perez speaks with Bradley Honan, CEO & President of the Honan Strategy Group, about the latest New York City congressional races and what the data says about where the political landscape is headed.Honan breaks down his race-by-race predictions, analyzes the recent Siena College poll, and explains what the numbers mean for Governor Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The conversation also dives into local races, how political polling works, where it succeeds and fails, and how public opinion data shapes campaign and governing strategy.Essential listening for anyone tracking NYC politics, elections, and the data behind the headlines.#ThePerezNotes #NYCPolitics #NewYorkPolitics #CongressionalRaces #Election2025 #PoliticalPolling #SienaPoll #ZohranMamdani #NYElections #DataPolitics #CampaignStrategy

In this episode of The Perez Notes, host Roberto Perez is joined by Harry Siegel, Senior Editor at THE CITY, Moynihan Public Scholar at City College, and host of the FAQ NYC podcast, for a wide-ranging conversation on the shifting power dynamics in New York politics.They break down Mayor Eric Adams’ time capsule moment and what it symbolizes about his exit from City Hall, analyze the latest Siena Poll, and discuss what it means for incoming Mayor Zohran Mamdani as he prepares to govern. The episode also dives into key New York congressional races, the outcome and implications of the New York City Council Speaker’s race, the future of the NYPD, and how DSA’s relationship with the incoming mayor could shape the next administration.A sharp, insightful look at transition, governance, and what comes next for New York City.🔗 Listen, follow, and subscribe: https://linktr.ee/ThePerezNotes#ThePerezNotes #NYCPolitics #HarrySiegel #TheCityNY #FAQNYC #ZohranMamdani #EricAdams #SienaPoll #NYCCouncil #NYPD #DSA #NewYorkPolitics

In this episode, Roberto Perez sits down with Ben Max to break down the key political battles shaping New York City. We dive into the major congressional races, the New York City Council Speaker’s race, Mayor-elect Mamdani’s transition and early appointments, and the other contests redefining the city’s political landscape. Insightful, fast-paced, and essential for anyone following NYC politics.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards joins The Perez Notes for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of New York City’s largest borough and the political shifts reshaping its leadership.We break down the state of affordable housing development in Queens, the projects moving forward, and the obstacles that remain. Richards also reflects on Zohran Mamdani’s groundbreaking win, what it signals for the progressive movement, and how it will influence borough-wide priorities.We take a deep look at the NYC Council Speaker’s Race, the alliances forming behind the scenes, and what Queens stands to gain—or lose—depending on the outcome. And Richards offers a candid assessment of Mayor Eric Adams’ legacy and Speaker Adrienne Adams’ impact, especially on equity, development, and representation in Queens.A must-listen episode for anyone tracking the political direction of New York City and the future of Queens.🔗 linktr.ee/thepereznotes#NYCPolitics #DonovanRichards #Queens #AffordableHousing #ZohranMamdani #SpeakersRace #EricAdams #AdrienneAdams #NYC #QueensPolitics #ThePerezNotes

🎙️ Lorelei Salas joins The Perez Notes for a powerful conversation on why New York City needs an Office of Economic Justice — and how it would function under Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s administration.Salas breaks down how this office could protect low-income New Yorkers, enforce fair-market practices, and reshape the city’s approach to economic equity. We explore how it would coordinate with existing agencies, fill long-standing gaps in oversight, and become a cornerstone of Mamdani’s progressive agenda.Lorelei Salas brings unmatched expertise to the discussion: • Federal Oversight: Former Supervision Director at the CFPB, where she led major examinations of financial institutions. • Consumer Protection: A career spent fighting predatory financial and consumer practices. • NYC Leadership: Commissioner of the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (2016–2021). • Community Advocacy: Senior roles in NY State Government and early legal work with Make the Road NY and Catholic Migration Services.If you want to understand where economic justice fits in the next chapter of NYC policy — this is the episode.🔗 linktr.ee/thepereznotes#ThePerezNotes #NYCPolitics #EconomicJustice #ZohranMamdani #LoreleiSalas #CFPB #ConsumerProtection #NYC #ProgressivePolicy

In this episode of The Perez Notes, Daily News City Hall reporter Chris Sommerfeldt joins Roberto Perez for a deep dive into the shifting landscape of New York City politics.We break down Jesse Tisch staying on as NYPD Commissioner, how the Mamdani administration is taking shape, and what this means for policing, power, and early governing signals. Chris also examines Mayor Eric Adams’ relationship with the press corps, the 2025 congressional races reshaping New York’s political map, the growing weight of the DSA, and the high-stakes battle for the NYC Council Speakership.If you want smart, sharp, inside-the-room analysis of City Hall and the forces defining the next chapter of NYC politics, this is the episode.🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more🔗 linktr.ee/thepereznotes#NYCPolitics #CityHall #ChrisSommerfeldt #DailyNews #NYPD #JesseTisch #ZohranMamdani #MamdaniAdministration #EricAdams #PressCorps #CongressionalRaces #DSA #SpeakerRace #NYCCouncil #ThePerezNotes

Henry A. Garrido, Executive Director of District Council 37, joins Roberto Perez to unpack the NYC Council Speaker’s race, the results of the mayoral election, and the political shift under Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. Garrido also reflects on Mayor Eric Adams, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, and what these changes mean for New York’s workers, unions, and the future of city governance.

🎙️ New York Times reporter Ben Orozco joins The Perez Notes to unpack the Somos el Futuro conference, the political rise of Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani, and the latest maneuvering in the New York City Council speaker’s race.From the Bronx to Albany, we break down the personalities, power plays, and shifting coalitions shaping New York politics today — and what it all means heading into 2025.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.🔗 linktr.ee/thepereznotes

🎙️ In this episode of The Perez Notes, Cea Weaver, Executive Director of Housing Justice for All and the New York State Tenant Bloc, joins Roberto Perez to break down Zohran Mamdani’s victory and what it means for the future of affordable housing in New York.Weaver reflects on Eric Adams’ record on housing, Bill de Blasio’s legacy, and the ongoing fight to secure stronger tenant protections, good cause eviction, and real investments in affordability. With over a decade of experience organizing and shaping housing policy, Weaver offers a clear-eyed look at what’s next for tenants, advocates, and lawmakers across the state.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.🔗 linktr.ee/thepereznotes#CeaWeaver #ThePerezNotes #ZohranMamdani #HousingCrisis #AffordableHousing #EricAdams #BilldeBlasio #NYPolitics #TenantsRights #HousingJusticeForAll

🎙️ In this episode of The Perez Notes, former FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh joins Roberto Perez for a wide-ranging conversation on New York City politics, leadership, and public service.Kavanagh reflects on the mayoral election results, the transition of power, and her groundbreaking tenure as the first woman to lead the FDNY. She discusses the challenges and milestones of diversifying the department — including graduating the largest class of women firefighters in nearly 30 years — and shares her broader thoughts on the intersection of politics, leadership, and civic responsibility in today’s New York.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.🔗 linktr.ee/thepereznotes#LauraKavanagh #ThePerezNotes #NYPolitics #FDNY #NYC #EricAdams #Leadership #WomenInPublicService #FireDepartment #PublicService

🎙️ Amit Singh Bagga, campaign manager for Yes on Affordable Housing and a seasoned Democratic strategist, joins The Perez Notes to unpack New York City’s ballot proposals, the fight for affordable housing, and the City Council’s role in driving reform. Bagga explains how this year’s initiatives could reshape opportunity and housing equity across the five boroughs.#AmitSinghBagga #ThePerezNotes #NYPolitics #AffordableHousing #CityCouncil #BallotProposals #NYC

🎙️ Assembly Member Alex Bores joins The Perez Notes to discuss his campaign for Congress, his vision for New York, and his thoughts on the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. Running to succeed longtime Congress Member Jerry Nadler, Bores shares his path to victory, the issues driving his campaign, and how he plans to bring tech-savvy, forward-thinking leadership to Washington.#NYPolitics #ThePerezNotes #AlexBores #Congress2025 #JerryNadler #AIPolicy #NewYork

🎙️ State Senator Gustavo Rivera joins The Perez Notes to discuss the Somos El Futuro Conference, the mayoral race, his endorsement of Zohran Mamdani, and why he says Eric Adams is a one-term mayor. Rivera also shares his candid thoughts on former Governor Andrew Cuomo and the shifting landscape of New York politics.#NYPolitics #ThePerezNotes #GustavoRivera #ZohranMamdani #EricAdams #AndrewCuomo

🎙️ In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with Brian Romero, who’s filing to run for the open seat in New York State Assembly District 34, aiming to succeed Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas, his former boss now seeking a State Senate seat.A proud member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), Romero discusses his decision to enter the race, his connection to NYC-DSA, and his vision for building a more equitable Queens. We dive into the issues driving his campaign—from housing and labor rights to public safety and progressive governance.🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about politics, policy, and the next generation of leadership in New York.#NewYorkPolitics #Queens #DSA #ThePerezNotes #BrianRomero #NYAssembly #ProgressivePolitics

🎙️ Ligia Guallpa: Fighting for New York’s Immigrant WorkersIn this episode of The Perez Notes, Roberto Perez speaks with Ligia Guallpa, Executive Director of the Workers Justice Project (WJP) — and one of New York City’s most influential voices for immigrant and low-wage workers.The daughter of a former day laborer and garment worker, Ligia shares how her personal story fuels her fight for justice, dignity, and safe working conditions. Under her leadership, WJP has organized construction workers, day laborers, and domestic workers, built two Brooklyn worker centers, and helped form Laborers’ Local 10, a union empowering immigrant workers across the

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with Vilda Vera Mayuga, Commissioner of the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP). We break down the agency’s wide-ranging work — from enforcing labor laws and protecting workers’ rights to ensuring fair business practices across New York City. Commissioner Mayuga sheds light on policy priorities, how the city approaches enforcement, and the complex issues facing street vendors today.From wage theft to vendor licensing, this conversation explores how DCWP balances consumer protection, worker justice, and economic opportunity in one of the most diverse cities in the world.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.🔗 linktr.ee/ThePerezNotes

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams for a wide-ranging conversation. We discuss Mayor Eric Adams’ decision not to seek re-election, the state of the Democratic Party in New York, Zohran Mamdani’s endorsement, the impact of Trump-era policies, and the challenges around housing and governance in the city.

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with Kenny Burgos — former Assemblymember and now CEO of the New York Apartment Association — for a deep dive on housing in New York City. We break down the affordability crisis, the policies that could reshape the city’s future, and how housing will play a decisive role in the upcoming mayoral election. Burgos brings his perspective from the Bronx to the broader citywide conversation on affordability and policy.

The Perez Notes – Interview with Holly PretskyThis week on The Perez Notes, I’m joined by Holly Pretsky, City Editor at City & State NY, to break down the latest in New York politics. We dive into the fast-moving NYC mayoral race, unpack the week’s biggest political news, and take a closer look at the campaigns of Andrew Cuomo, Eric Adams, and Zohran Mamdani.Holly brings her sharp reporting and editorial insight from City & State to help us cut through the noise and examine what’s really shaping the race for City Hall and the broader dynamics of New York power.🎙 Don’t miss this wide-ranging conversation on the candidates, the campaigns, and the stakes for the city’s future.

🎙 The Perez Notes | Richard Carranza: Leading America’s Largest School SystemsIn this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with Richard A. Carranza — former New York City Schools Chancellor, former Superintendent of Houston ISD, and former Superintendent of San Francisco Unified School District.Carranza reflects on his three decades in education leadership, from the challenges of running the nation’s largest school system with 1.1 million students, to his proudest moments and toughest decisions as NYC Chancellor. We dive into his tenure in Houston and San Francisco, the lessons he carried across cities, and his perspective on what it means to lead during times of crisis and change.Now serving as Chief of Strategy and Global Development for IXL Learning and founder of Carranza Educational Consulting, LLC, Carranza looks back on the defining moments of his career and shares what’s next in his journey.📌 Tune in for a candid conversation on education, leadership, equity, and the future of America’s schools.

In this episode of The Perez Notes, Jagpreet Singh of DRUM joins to discuss Zohran Mamdani’s campaign, the growing political power of NYC’s South Asian community, and their fight for immigrant rights, voter registration, and representation ahead of November’s general election.

Dr. Ashwin Vasan: Public Health, Mental Health & NYC’s RecoveryIn this episode of The Perez Notes, former NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan joins Roberto Perez for a deep dive into the state of public health in New York City. We discuss the city’s mental health crisis, its ongoing recovery from COVID-19, and the lessons learned from leading the Department of Health through unprecedented challenges. Dr. Vasan reflects on his career in public service, shares insights on strengthening community health, and offers his perspective on the future of public health in a post-pandemic world.

Dr. Ashwin Vasan, former NYC Health Commissioner, joins The Perez Notes to reflect on his proudest moments leading the city’s public health response, the meaning of Zohran Mamdani’s primary win for South Asians, and how his work as a physician, epidemiologist, and advocate continues to shape public health in NYC and beyond.

🎙️ Bradley Tusk on NYC Politics, Mobile Voting & the Future of the Democratic PartyVenture capitalist and political strategist Bradley Tusk joins The Perez Notes for a wide-ranging conversation on the crossroads of power, tech, and elections.We get into:🗳️ The chaos and stakes of the NYC Democratic primary📱 His bold push for mobile voting and what’s standing in the way🏛️ Reflections on Andrew Cuomo, machine politics, and what’s changed🧭 The rising influence of progressives like Zohran Mamdani🏙️ What the future looks like for city and state politicsTusk doesn’t hold back—and neither do we.📲 Subscribe: linktr.ee/thepereznotes

🎙️ The Perez Notes – Interview with Ethan Stark-Miller, Senior Politics Reporter at amNewYorkIn this episode, I sit down with Ethan Stark-Miller, senior politics reporter for amNewYork, to break down the latest currents shaping New York City politics. From City Hall to Albany, we discuss the behind-the-scenes dynamics driving 2025’s biggest races, the state of local media coverage, and what reporters are watching as the city gears up for its next political chapter. Ethan also shares insights from his time covering Eric Adams, City Council power plays, and the ever-evolving influence of progressive movements across the five boroughs.Whether you’re a political junkie or just trying to make sense of NYC’s shifting landscape, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.🎧 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

On this episode of The Perez Notes, I speak with reporter Peter Sterne, editor at City & State NY, about the growing political influence of the Democratic Socialists of America in New York. We discuss how DSA organizers approached the recent Democratic primary, their impact on key races, and what the results signal for the movement’s future. Peter also breaks down the upcoming general election for New York City mayor and gives us a look ahead at the additional primaries DSA is eyeing across the city and state. It’s an insightful conversation about strategy, momentum, and the evolving left flank of New York politics.

On this episode of The Perez Notes, I’m joined by Council Member Chi Ossé, who represents Brooklyn’s 36th District and is the youngest member of the New York City Council. We talk about the NYC Democratic mayoral primary, the national Democratic race, and the evolving political landscape in Central Brooklyn. Chi reflects on his role as co-chair of the Brooklyn Delegation, discusses his recent legislative wins around housing and affordability, and offers his perspective on the future of progressive politics in New York City.

Ali Najmi on Power, Politics & the South Asian VoteOn this episode of The Perez Notes, I’m joined by NYC attorney and political strategist Ali Najmi—election law expert, civil rights defender, and longtime advisor to Zohran Mamdani. We dive into the critical role South Asian and Muslim voters played in reshaping the Democratic primary, the strategy behind Zohran’s historic win, and what it signals for the future of NYC politics.Ali also shares sharp insights on Eric Adams’ vulnerability, Andrew Cuomo’s attempted comeback, and what to expect heading into the general election. This one’s all about coalitions, community power, and the ground game that made the difference.🎧 Full episode → linktr.ee/thepereznotes

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I’m joined by veteran journalist Laura Nahmias, Senior Reporter at Bloomberg News, former Daily News editorial board member, and POLITICO alum, for a no-holds-barred breakdown of the latest shifts in New York politics.🗳️ Episode Highlights:​ Cuomo vs. Mamdani — Round Two. Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has launched an independent bid to challenge Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani in the November general election — setting the stage for a rematch after losing the primary  . Laura breaks down Cuomo’s strategy, the implications for progressive vs. centrist voters, and what this clash signals for New York politics.​ Mayor Adams Raises the Stakes. Eric Adams is flexing major fundraising muscle in his bid for re-election — and it’s affecting how donors, operatives, and voters are positioning themselves. Laura brings the inside scoop on his latest financial haul and how it plays into a fracturing three-way race.🔗 Tune in to The Perez Notes wherever you get your podcasts for a masterclass in New York political coverage — smart, timely, and essential for anyone following the city’s next chapter.

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with Adam Carlson, veteran pollster and founder of the newly launched Zenith Research. We dive into the 2025 NYC Democratic primary, exploring what the polling got right—and what it missed. Adam walks us through some of the anomalies in the numbers and breaks down how polling really works, from methodology to messaging impact. It’s a candid conversation about the science behind the polls, public trust, and why transparency and rigor matter more than ever in this political moment.

Jasmine Gripper on the Democratic Primary, Cuomo’s Influence, and the Road to NovemberOn this episode, I’m joined by Jasmine Gripper, co-executive director of the Working Families Party. We break down the results of New York’s Democratic primaries, including Zohran Mamdani’s headline-making victory. Jasmine offers sharp insight into Andrew Cuomo’s attempted political comeback, Mayor Eric Adams’ standing within the party, and what the WFP sees as the stakes heading into November’s general election. It’s a wide-ranging conversation about power, accountability, and the progressive path forward.

In this episode, I’m joined by political scientist and commentator Christina Greer for a wide-ranging conversation on the aftermath of the NYC Democratic primary. We unpack Zohran Mamdani’s headline-making victory, what it signals for the city’s progressive movement, and what it all means for Mayor Eric Adams’ reelection prospects. We also discuss the political future of Andrew Cuomo, break down the biggest winners and losers of primary night, and close out with some thoughts on the Knicks’ decision to part ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau. Politics and basketball—this one has it all.

In this episode, I sit down with political strategist Bill Neidhardt to break down Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani’s decisive Democratic primary victory and Bill’s role advising the pro-Zohran independent expenditure effort. We discuss how Mamdani’s win fits into the broader landscape of progressive politics in New York and draw comparisons to the movement in Chicago, where Bill now works closely with Mayor Brandon Johnson. From Queens to Chicago, we explore the strategies, challenges, and momentum behind today’s left-wing victories.

On this episode of The Perez Notes, I’m joined by Edward-Isaac Dovere, senior reporter for CNN and author of the bestselling book Battle for the Soul. We break down the results of the NYC Democratic primary, including Zohran Mamdani’s significant victory and what it signals for the progressive movement.Dovere brings his years of sharp political reporting to the conversation as we also dive into what went wrong with Andrew Cuomo’s attempted political comeback. From City Hall to Capitol Hill, Dovere offers expert analysis on the forces shaping Democratic politics in New York and beyond. A must-listen for anyone tracking the evolving landscape of power in the city. 🎙️ #NYCpolitics #ZohranMamdani #EdwardIsaacDovere #ThePerezNotes

On this episode of The Perez Notes, I’m joined by journalist and political commentator Ross Barkan, a contributing writer for Crain’s New York Business and The New York Times. Ross returns to the show to reflect on his 2020 State Senate campaign—where he was joined by a then-rising political organizer named Zohran Mamdani, who served as his campaign manager.We discuss Zohran’s political ascent since then, his role in New York’s progressive movement, and the stakes in the current NYC Democratic primary. A sharp, thoughtful conversation on where city politics has been—and where it’s heading. 🎙️ #NYCpolitics #ZohranMamdani #RossBarkan #ThePerezNotes

On this episode of The Perez Notes, I’m joined by Amit Singh Bagga, a two-decade veteran of federal, city, and state government and the founder of Public Progress Solutions. We dive into the upcoming NYC Democratic primary, breaking down the key races to watch, the candidates shaping the conversation, and what’s at stake for the future of the city. With his extensive experience in government and policy, Amit offers sharp insight into the political dynamics at play and the progressive strategies that could shape the outcomes.

On this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with Eric McClure, Executive Director of StreetsPAC, a political action committee devoted to making New York City’s streets safer, more accessible, and more vibrant. We discuss the urgent need to rethink how our public spaces—our sidewalks, roadways, and plazas—are used and who they’re designed for. Eric shares StreetsPAC’s vision for a more livable city, their role in local elections, and how street design, policy, and advocacy intersect to shape the future of New York. Whether you’re a cyclist, pedestrian, transit rider, or driver, this conversation offers insight into the fight for safer, fairer streets for all.

Transportation, Equity, and the Future of NYC Streets: A Conversation with Ben FurnasOn this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with Ben Furnas, Executive Director of Transportation Alternatives, to talk about the fight for safer, more sustainable streets in New York City. We dive into the organization’s vision for reducing traffic violence, expanding bike and bus infrastructure, and reclaiming public space for people—not just cars. Ben shares insights from his time in city government, the challenges of shifting transportation policy, and how grassroots advocacy is driving the movement for a more livable city.

Episode Title: Inside NYC Politics with Jacob Kornbluh: Mayoral & Comptroller Races UnpackedIn this episode of The Perez Notes, I’m joined by Jacob Kornbluh, senior political reporter at The Forward, for an in-depth conversation on the high-stakes races shaping New York City politics. We dive into the dynamics of the NYC mayoral race and explore the evolving landscape of the comptroller’s race—who’s running, what’s at stake, and how key communities are influencing the outcomes. With his deep insight and on-the-ground reporting, Jacob breaks down the narratives, power plays, and personalities driving this political season.If you care about NYC’s future, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

The Perez Notes – Episode Title: Amplifying Voices: Justin Sanchez’s Vision for NYC District 17In this episode of The Perez Notes, we sit down with Justin Sanchez, candidate for New York City Council in District 17. As the former Chief of Staff to NYS Senator Nathalia Fernandez and a dedicated leader in the Young Democrats of America and the Stonewall Democrats, Justin brings a passion for service and a commitment to elevating diverse voices in the political arena.Join us as we discuss Justin’s journey in public service, his vision for District 17, and how he plans to address key issues like affordable housing, community safety, and representation for all New Yorkers. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with a rising leader who’s shaping the future of the Bronx and beyond.

Episode Title: Maya Kornberg on Pragmatic Progressivism and the Future of District 39In this episode of The Perez Notes, we sit down with Maya Kornberg—political scientist, author, and now Democratic candidate for New York City Council District 39. Maya shares her journey from academia to activism, discussing her book Inside Congressional Committees and her work at the Brennan Center for Justice. We delve into her vision for District 39, encompassing neighborhoods like Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, Kensington, and Borough Park, and explore her commitment to pragmatic progressivism, affordable housing, sustainable transportation, and responsive local governance. Maya also reflects on her experiences as a working mother and community organizer, emphasizing the importance of constituent engagement and inclusive policymaking. Join us for an insightful conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing Brooklyn and the broader implications for our democracy.

Episode Title: Roots, Resistance, and Resilience – A Conversation with Clarisa AlayetoIn this episode of The Perez Notes, we sit down with Clarisa Alayeto—an Afro-Latina organizer, advocate, and lifelong Bronxite with roots in East Harlem and District 8. Raised in NYCHA housing and a product of the public school system, Clarisa brings a lived understanding of the struggles faced by working-class families. She shares her journey from growing up in public housing to becoming a powerful voice in the fight for justice, equity, and opportunity. From grassroots organizing against gun violence in the Patterson Houses to pushing for public health and educational access, Clarisa talks about what it means to do the work—and why she’s never stopped showing up for her community.

Episode Title: Jess Coleman: Fighting for a Livable Future in Lower ManhattanShow Description:In this episode of The Perez Notes, we’re joined by Jess Coleman, a lifelong Lower Manhattanite and candidate for New York City Council in District 1. Jess is running to bring bold, responsive leadership to a district facing urgent challenges—from soaring rents and rising displacement to gridlocked streets and shuttered storefronts.Grounded in his deep roots in the community, Jess shares his vision for a more livable, affordable, and vibrant Lower Manhattan—where everyday people come before political gridlock and special interests. We talk about what’s at stake in District 1, and how Jess plans to fight for the kind of leadership that meets this moment with urgency and action.Tune in for a powerful conversation about reclaiming our neighborhoods and reimagining local government.

Episode Title: Andrea Gordillo: Culture, Community, and the Fight for a Just NYCShow Description:On this episode of The Perez Notes, we sit down with Andrea Gordillo—a cultural leader, proud daughter of Peruvian immigrants, and longtime resident of the Lower East Side/East Village—who currently serves as Chairperson of Manhattan’s Community Board 3.With nearly a decade of experience advancing racial and economic justice through some of Lower Manhattan’s most vital cultural institutions, including The Clemente, Loisaida Inc., and the Public Theater, Andrea brings a unique blend of grassroots organizing, public service, and cultural advocacy to the conversation. She knows firsthand what it takes to fight for dignified housing, cultural vitality, climate resiliency, and real public safety—and how to deliver for the community.Tune in as we talk about her journey, her vision for a more equitable New York, and the power of art, activism, and organizing to transform our neighborhoods.