Politicians on both sides of the aisle talk about their support for families, so why is it so hard to get major policy and spending initiatives enacted in Planet Albany that demonstrably improve their lives?

Universal child care is still years away at best. The effort to reduce child poverty in half is going in slow motion. And the health care system is in need of an overhaul.

We explore what it's like to lobby on some of these key issues with Jenn O'Connor, founder of Jenn O'Connor Consulting, who has worked in the state legislature and for nonprofit advocacy groups.

And if you enjoy Dispatches from Planet Albany, please leave us a rating and consider becoming a recurring contributor to support the podcast.

We're drafting again at the urging of Assembly members Josh Jensen and Ed Ra.

The Assembly Republicans join Dan Clark, author of the Capitol Confidential newsletter, Raga Justin, a Capitol reporter for the Times Union, and David Lombardo, the host with most, to pick Planet Albany's best dressed, funniest, and best talker, as well as the Capitol reporter who would make the best state lawmaker.

Don't forget to vote on the winner!

And if you enjoy Dispatches from Planet Albany, please consider becoming a recurring contributor to help keep the podcast alive.

Vote - https://us13.list-manage.com/survey?u=e19f4c300e1ee0fb8462cb67b&id=514e75233a&attribution=false

We're handing out "The Dispatches" awards for the 2025 legislative session!

Host David Lombardo, Times Union Capitol reporter Raga Justin, and Capitol Confidential author Dan Clark recognize the environmental movement, smartphone restrictions in school, Medical Aid in Dying, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, "affordability," Sen. James Skoufis and many more at this prestigious event.

And if you enjoy Dispatches from Planet Albany, please consider becoming a recurring contributor to help keep the podcast alive.