Charlotte's political landscape is shifting.

Mayor Vi Lyles is preparing to leave office after nearly nine years, a new mayor is stepping in and City Council is wrestling with some of the biggest issues the city has faced in years — from I-77 toll lanes and airport negotiations to data centers and the future direction of city government.

On this week's Charlotte Ledger Podcast episode, Tony Mecia is joined by WSOC-TV reporter Joe Bruno and WFAE reporter Steve Harrison for a wide-ranging conversation about what this moment means for Charlotte. The trio breaks down why City Council selected lawyer Rob Harrington as mayor, what kind of leadership style he is expected to bring and how his relationship with an increasingly independent City Council could shape major decisions over the next 18 months. They also discuss Mayor Vi Lyles' legacy, the possibility of future leadership changes at City Hall and the political dynamics that could define Charlotte's next chapter.

Whether you closely follow local politics or just want to understand what's happening at City Hall, this episode offers an inside look at one of the most consequential moments in recent Charlotte government.

Today’s episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Child Care Search, a service of Child Care Resources Inc. Looking for child care? Our team provides guidance every step of the way! Search online at www.FindChildCareNC.org or call 1-888-600-1685 for live assistance and free, customized referrals.

This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, go to TheCharlotteLedger.com.