The Brian Lehrer Show 10-Question Quiz: Numbers in the News
May 12, 2026
A lively 10-question news quiz testing facts about recent policy and politics. Topics include redistricting outcomes, Supreme Court voting rights decisions, and how many justices were appointed by Donald Trump. Other questions cover NYC election numbers, a new tax on pricey second homes, New Jersey local government counts, transit fare changes, speed-camera rules, and rent guideline proposals.
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United States Reaches 250 Years
- The U.S. turned 250 years old in 2026, a fact used as an opening quiz clue.
- Brian Lehrer gave the answer 250 up front to test listener attentiveness and kick off the quiz.
Gerrymander Can Eliminate Democratic Seats
- Tennessee's new congressional map could produce zero Democratic majority districts despite Democrats winning about a third of the vote.
- Brian used this to illustrate how recent legal changes let states draw maps that can shut out a party.
Supreme Court Vote Changed Voting Rights Enforcement
- The Supreme Court's recent decision weakened Voting Rights Act protections, making it easier to avoid creating Black-majority districts.
- The court's vote was 6-3, reflecting the current ideological split and affecting redistricting outcomes.