The Perez Notes

On this episode of The Perez Notes, we’re joined by Peter Sterne, editor at City & State, where he leads a team covering the ins and outs of New York state politics. Peter brings deep experience from New York Focus, Politico, and the Freedom of the Press Foundation—where he launched the U.S. Press Freedom Tracker. Together, we break down the week in New York politics, from power plays in Albany to stories flying under the radar. It’s a sharp, insider recap you don’t want to miss.

The Perez Notes: Vanessa Gibson on Her Reelection Campaign and Record as Bronx Borough President

In this episode of The Perez Notes, Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson joins us for an in-depth conversation about her bid for reelection and her time in office. We dive into her accomplishments since taking the helm, including her work on housing, public safety, economic development, and community empowerment. With Council Member Rafael Salamanca challenging her for the seat, Gibson shares why she believes she’s the right choice to continue leading the Bronx. It’s a candid, insightful look at leadership, legacy, and the future of the borough.

The Perez Notes: Michael Blake on His Vision for NYC and 2025 Mayoral Run

In this episode of The Perez Notes, we’re joined by Michael Blake, former Assembly Member and national political strategist, who’s now officially in the race to become New York City’s next mayor. Blake shares what inspired him to run, the challenges he sees facing the city, and the bold ideas he believes will move NYC forward.

We get into his plans for housing, public safety, economic justice, and how his Bronx roots shape his approach to leadership. Blake also opens up about what it takes to win a citywide race and why he believes this is his moment. A must-listen conversation with a candidate looking to shake up City Hall.

The Perez Notes: Rafael Salamanca Jr. on His Run for Bronx Borough President

In this episode of The Perez Notes, we sit down with Bronx Council Member Rafael Salamanca Jr., who has officially launched his campaign for Bronx Borough President. Representing the South Bronx since 2016, Salamanca has been a vocal advocate for housing, public health, and community investment. Now, with his City Council term coming to an end, he’s challenging incumbent Vanessa Gibson in what’s shaping up to be a pivotal race in 2025.

We talk about what pushed him to enter the race, his vision for the Bronx, and how his roots in Longwood have shaped his political journey. Salamanca also reflects on his brief 2021 bid for the borough presidency, why he stepped back then, and why he’s all in now. Don’t miss this conversation with a candidate aiming to lead the Bronx into its next chapter.

Episode Title: Breaking Down the Budget & NY Politics with David Lombardo

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with David Lombardo, host of The Capitol Pressroom and veteran New York State government correspondent. We dive into the latest developments in the New York State budget, explore the dynamics of the NYC mayoral race, and take a closer look at the political legacies and strategies of former Governor Andrew Cuomo and current Governor Kathy Hochul. With years of experience covering Albany for outlets like the Times Union and StateWatch, David brings deep insight and sharp analysis to the conversation.

Tune in for a smart, in-depth look at the inner workings of New York politics from one of the state’s most trusted voices.

The Perez Notes: Interview with Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with Assembly Member Jennifer Rajkumar to discuss her campaign for New York City Public Advocate. We dive into her vision for the office, the key issues driving her campaign, and how she plans to use the role to advocate for New Yorkers. Tune in for an insightful conversation on leadership, policy, and the future of the city.

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with New York Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado to discuss Donald Trump, the state of the Democratic Party, the high-stakes New York City Mayor’s race, and his own political future. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the key issues shaping New York and beyond.

In this episode of The Perez Notes, we sit down with Trip Yang, Founder and CEO of Trip Yang Strategies. With experience on three presidential campaigns—including Obama 2012—and a track record of managing major statewide and citywide races, Trip brings deep insight into political strategy. We discuss the key dynamics shaping the NYC mayor’s race, the comptroller’s race, the public advocate’s race, and the significance of the AAPI vote. With his firm having won dozens of campaigns and earned over 20 awards, Trip shares his expert take on the trends and challenges defining New York City politics. Don’t miss this in-depth conversation!

The Perez Notes: Cuomo Enters the Race – What’s Next for NYC?

In this must-listen episode of The Perez Notes, we dive into the political earthquake shaking New York City: Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has officially announced his run for mayor. What does this mean for Mayor Eric Adams—does he fight for re-election or bow out? And how does City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams’ candidacy reshape the race?

Veteran journalist Juan Manuel Benítez joins the show to break down the political dynamics, the challenges ahead, and the impact Cuomo’s entry could have on the city’s future. With years of experience covering NYC politics, Benítez offers sharp insights into this high-stakes mayoral battle. Tune in for expert analysis on one of the most consequential elections in recent history!

The Perez Notes: Interview with Dana Rubinstein on NYC & NY State Politics

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with Dana Rubinstein, who covers New York City politics and government for The New York Times. We dive deep into the ever-evolving landscape of NYC politics, including the buzz around former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s potential entry into the mayor’s race, the broader dynamics of the 2025 NYC mayoral election, and whether City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams might throw her hat in the ring. Plus, we break down Mayor Eric Adams’ standing, the state of politics in New York, and what’s next for the city and state. A must-listen for political junkies and anyone following the power shifts in the Empire State!