This week, Gov. Kathy Hochul unveiled her $260 billion state budget, which proposes a major expansion of free child care and does not raise taxes. But that tax decision may mark the first public disagreement between Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the governor. NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross, political reporter Bobby Cuza and statehouse reporter Bernadette Hogan break down the governor's fiscal plan for the year ahead.

Then, a Manhattan State Supreme Court judge ruled that New York's 11th Congressional District on Staten Island is unconstitutional, finding it disenfranchises Black and Latino voters. The district, currently represented by Republican Nicole Malliotakis, could become a key pickup opportunity for Democrats as they work to retake control of the House. The "Off Topic" team examines this potential redrawing of New York's congressional map.

Gov. Kathy Hochul this week delivered her State of the State address, offering a window into her vision and priorities for 2026 — a crucial election year. The speech focused on several major themes, including affordability initiatives, universal childcare and the future of nuclear power in New York. NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross, political reporter Bobby Cuza and political director Bob Hardt break down the address and what it signals for New Yorkers in the year ahead.

After that, former Mayor Eric Adams returned to the spotlight , announcing a new meme cryptocurrency that quickly sparked accusations of fraud. Adams says the NYC Token digital coin will fund efforts to combat anti-Americanism and antisemitism and help educate children about blockchain technology. The crypto community, however, has been quick to label the project a scam. The controversial venture does little to repair Adams' already-damaged reputation. The "Off Topic" team weighs in on the first chapter of Adams' life after City Hall.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani's first week in office brought both major announcements and minor controversies. On Thursday, the mayor unveiled a joint plan with Gov. Kathy Hochul for a statewide push to expand universal pre-K and create new 2-K child care initiatives. On the other side of the ledger, questions arose over the appointment of Cea Weaver to lead the Mayor's Office to Protect Tenants in the wake of past tweets she has made. NY1 investigative reporter Courtney Gross, and political reporters Bobby Cuza and Kelly Mena break down an eventful first week at City Hall.

After that, City Hall officially welcomed a new leader of the City Council. Upper East Side Councilmember Julie Menin was elected speaker unanimously on Wednesday. The "Off Topic" team looks ahead at what her leadership could mean for the Council and the city.