The Brian Lehrer Show Brian Lehrer Weekend: Mamdani's Emerging Opposition and Lander's Congressional Bid; Trump's Effort to Ban State AI Laws; Shop Listener 2025: Under $50
Dec 13, 2025
Elizabeth Kim, a political reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, discusses the emerging opposition to Mamdani and Brad Lander’s congressional bid, emphasizing local political dynamics. Tina Nguyen, a senior tech policy reporter at The Verge, dives into Trump’s effort to ban state AI laws and explains the complexities of federal vs. state regulations in AI politics. The conversation touches on the implications of Mamdani’s housing policies and the bipartisan concerns over AI's impact on society, including environmental issues.
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Episode notes
WFP Endorsement Centers Israel Policy
- The Working Families Party quickly endorsed Brad Lander, highlighting Israel policy as a focal point.
- Endorsement signals the WFP prioritizes responsiveness on Gaza and ceasefire timing in its candidate calculus.
Historical Risks Shape Progressive Strategy
- The 10th District is viewed as a Working Families Party stronghold with high symbolic value.
- Past crowded progressive primaries taught activists the risk of splitting the left and losing winnable seats.
Prioritize Faster Housing Placements
- Mamdani argues sweeps failed because they rarely connected people to permanent housing.
- He urges speeding housing placement timelines rather than simply displacing people.
