Before you step into the booth, hear from someone who’s seen NYC power from both sides. Grace Rauh —former NY1 City Hall reporter and now executive director at Citizens Union and the 5BORO Institute— joins Juan Manuel Benítez to break down what’s actually on your ballot and why turnout keeps sinking. They get into the even-year election fight, the housing/zoning package, digital mapping, and the Adirondacks measure; Zohran Mamdani’s rise (and the de Blasio echoes), Andrew Cuomo’s comeback attempt, and how local journalism looks from the outside. Plus: a personal lightning round —books, landmarks, and what still gives her hope about New York. Then go vote.

Grace’s picks:

Book

• Gods of New York, by Jonathan Mahler

Podcasts

• FAQ NYC
• The Daily
• Juan Manuel Benítez Wants to Know

New NYC Landmark

• Katz’s Deli

Resources

• Vote info & sample ballot: vote.nyc

Citizens Union & 5BORO Institute (voter guides, reform agenda)