The budget process has passed the "end of the beginning" threshold, according to Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, following the adoption of one-house budget proposals this week.

In light of this milestone, we're talking about the significance of these latest salvos in budget negotiations with Shontell Smith, head of the New York practice and a partner for Tusk Strategies.

We also discuss what's next on the budget calendar, the impact of planned departures from Planet Albany, and the public retreat of Princess Kate.