New York Watch

New York City (All 5 Boroughs)

  • Manhattan (New York County)
  • Brooklyn (Kings County)
  • Queens (Queens County)
  • The Bronx (Bronx County)
  • Staten Island (Richmond County)

Downstate / Metro NYC Counties

  • Nassau
  • Suffolk
  • Westchester
  • Rockland

Hudson Valley

  • Orange
  • Dutchess
  • Ulster
  • Putnam
  • Columbia

Capital Region

  • Albany
  • Rensselaer
  • Schenectady
  • Saratoga

Central NY

  • Onondaga
  • Oneida
  • Cayuga
  • Oswego

Western NY

  • Erie
  • Niagara
  • Monroe
  • Chautauqua

North Country

  • Clinton
  • Franklin
  • St. Lawrence
  • Jefferson

Former NYC Housing Liaison Charged in Bribery and PPP Fraud Case

Federal prosecutors have charged Anthony Herbert, a former New York City official, with bribery and fraud, alleging he exploited his position for personal gain. He faces six federal counts related to pay-to-play schemes totaling $16,000 and a fraudulent PPP loan application for over $20,000. Herbert, who pleaded not guilty, was released on bond.

Who Is Running for Governor of New York in 2026?

The 2026 New York gubernatorial election is scheduled for November 3, with party primaries on June 23. Incumbent Democrat Kathy Hochul seeks reelection against Antonio Delgado, while Republican Bruce Blakeman is the frontrunner. Despite New York’s Democratic leaning, key issues like affordability and safety will shape the race dynamics.

New York Wakes Up to a Socialist Mayor—and the Shock Is the Story

New York City’s youngest and first Muslim mayor, Zohran Mamdani, began his term with a focus on democratic socialism, sparking intense media and public reactions. While supporters see a chance for change, critics voice concerns over economic viability and policies. The backlash reflects deeper anxieties about socialism’s implications amid the city’s challenges.

Brooklyn Family Court Ends Compulsion — But an Autistic Child Remains Missing

A Brooklyn Family Court ruling has relieved Jacqueline Pritchett of further obligations regarding her missing son, Jacob, an autistic boy last seen in 2025. Despite constitutional protections upheld, child safety remains at risk, and authorities lack information or leads in a case raising concerns about parental accountability and systemic failures in child welfare.

New York Cracks Down on Toll Cheats as “Ghost Plate” Evasion Grows

New York officials report success in combating toll evasion, resulting in 170 impounded vehicles and over 1,000 tickets during recent operations. The crackdown targets fraudulent license plates and reinforces the importance of fairness in toll compliance. However, debates linger on balancing enforcement with affordability amidst significant revenue losses from unpaid tolls.

Staten Island Talks Secession—Again—After a Mayor the Borough Didn’t Choose

Following Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s election in 2025, Staten Island’s call for secession from New York City has resurfaced due to feelings of neglect and misrepresentation. While past attempts have failed, a renewed push for independence highlights local frustrations over governance, safety, and services, challenging citywide decisions that differ from Staten Island’s values.

Brooklyn Court Turmoil Raises Alarming Questions About Political Influence and Judicial Integrity

A legal dispute in Brooklyn Supreme Court involves $2 million in missing escrow funds linked to former Democratic power broker Frank Seddio. The case has seen multiple judicial recusals, raising concerns about political influence and accountability in the justice system. Transparency and timely rulings are essential for restoring public trust.

NYC Council’s $24K Raise Is More Than Tone-Deaf — It’s a Warning Sign of a Government That Won’t Police Itself

The New York City Council’s proposed 16% pay raise for its members amidst an affordability crisis reveals a pattern of self-interest. While the city faces rising costs and budget gaps, council members enjoy substantial benefits without contributing to their health care. This disconnect undermines public trust and highlights the need for structural reforms in compensation.

Westchester’s New Hate Crimes Advisory Board Is a Wake-Up Call — But Will It Actually Make Communities Safer?

Westchester County is establishing a Hate Crimes Advisory Board amid rising hate incidents, raising concerns about transparency and the potential politicization of speech and policing. Residents seek clarity on the board’s membership, powers, and objectives, preferring improved public safety measures over additional committees. Transparency and accountability are crucial moving forward.

NYC’s Crime Decline Is Real — But It’s Hanging by a Thread

New York City’s crime numbers are finally falling after years of chaos — thanks to the Adams–Tisch crackdown. But without stronger laws, mental-health interventions, and continued NYPD support under the new administration, these gains could vanish overnight. Here’s why NYC’s safety turnaround is real, but fragile.