Join Kojo and resident analyst Tom Sherwood on Fridays at noon for our weekly review of the politics, policies and personalities in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. Each week Kojo and Tom help make sense of legislation, hold elected officials accountable and provide in-depth analysis of local issues and elections. The Politics Hour is also a vital forum for Washingtonians to engage directly with their local leaders.

"We have to change our plan. But we can do that... We'll continue to make sure that wherever it is, however it's done, that it's done safely and without any disruption," Manger said.Then,  D.C. Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice Lindsey Appiah got behind the mic to explain the city's preparations and provided advice for those planning to attend the events across the city."We always support people’s right to exercise their first amendment rights, but we can’t tolerate violence or any sort of destruction of property or any of those things. So, we say come down, participate, pack your patience, but also you understand you gotta abide by the law here," Appiah said.Thirty-five hundred police officers from around the country will assist D-C’s police department, the Deputy Mayor noted, supplemented by drones.President-elect Donald Trump vowed during his campaign to drastically reshape the federal workforce, including possibly <a href="https://federalnewsnetwork.com/workforce/2024/11/trump-seeks-to-relocate-100k-federal-employees-doubling-down-on-first-term-playbook/">relocating tens of thousands of employees</a> and making <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/11/07/trump-dc-federal-workforce-cuts/">big cuts</a>. Many local federal workers are concerned about <a href="https://wamu.org/story/24/11/01/dc-second-trump-term-federal-workers/">what the future might hold</a>. Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D) and Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly (D) discussed how a second Trump term could impact the thousands of federal workers in the region.Connolly and other members of the House <a href="https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6189">re-introduced legislation</a> that would guarantee some protections for federal workers. While several Republicans do support the bill, Connolly is pessimistic about it passing through a Republican-controlled House."I think it’s an uphill battle because all too many of my friends on the other side of the aisle, in the House anyway, have swallowed the kool-aid. It’s almost like dealing with a cult," Connolly said.Become a member of WAMU: <a href="https://donate.wamu.org/page/15696/donate/1">wamu.org/donate</a>Send us questions and comments for guests: <a href="mailto:kojo@wamu.org">kojo@wamu.org</a>Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wamu885/">instagram.com/wamu885</a>

"We have to change our plan. But we can do that... We'll continue to make sure that wherever it is, however it's done, that it's done safely and without any disruption," Manger said.
Then,  D.C. Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice Lindsey Appiah got behind the mic to explain the city's preparations and provided advice for those planning to attend the events across the city.
"We always support people’s right to exercise their first amendment rights, but we can’t tolerate violence or any sort of destruction of property or any of those things. So, we say come down, participate, pack your patience, but also you understand you gotta abide by the law here," Appiah said.
Thirty-five hundred police officers from around the country will assist D-C’s police department, the Deputy Mayor noted, supplemented by drones.
President-elect Donald Trump vowed during his campaign to drastically reshape the federal workforce, including possibly relocating tens of thousands of employees and making big cuts. Many local federal workers are concerned about what the future might hold. Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D) and Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly (D) discussed how a second Trump term could impact the thousands of federal workers in the region.
Connolly and other members of the House re-introduced legislation that would guarantee some protections for federal workers. While several Republicans do support the bill, Connolly is pessimistic about it passing through a Republican-controlled House.
"I think it’s an uphill battle because all too many of my friends on the other side of the aisle, in the House anyway, have swallowed the kool-aid. It’s almost like dealing with a cult," Connolly said.
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U.S. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger and D.C. Deputy Mayor of Public Safety Lindsey Appiah on inauguration preparations. Plus, Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly and Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen on what a second Trump term means for local federal workers.

The Politics Hour: Regional leaders weigh in on inauguration security and the future of local federal workers

The Maryland General Assembly <a href="https://www.thebaltimorebanner.com/politics-power/state-government/live-maryland-general-assembly-updates-6VS5WO2Q4JHSXJRFGM25JLAKFE/">reconvened for a 90-day legislative session</a> in Annapolis this week. Dominating debate will be a <a href="https://marylandmatters.org/2025/01/03/everything-on-the-table-as-moore-lawmakers-seek-budget-solutions/">nearly three billion dollar projected budget deficit</a> over the next five years. It's the largest gap the state has faced in two decades, and it threatens investment in transportation, education, and health care. House of Delegates Majority Leader David Moon from Montgomery County joined the show to discuss current negotiations, whether <a href="https://marylandmatters.org/2025/01/03/everything-on-the-table-as-moore-lawmakers-seek-budget-solutions/">tax increases are on the table</a>, and what cuts could be coming.Plus, Moon shared his concern about the impact of a second Trump administration could have on the state’s economy. With cuts to the federal government on the table, there will likely be less federal funding flowing to states for transit,, climate change goals, and education. In addition, Maryland is home to <a href="https://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/economy/html/labor.html">around 160,000 federal employees</a> whose jobs could be at risk. Moon said the state and localities need to prepare.“Maryland and Montgomery County are going to have to try to be a lot more self-reliant in the coming years and do everything we can to broaden and expand our local tax base so that whatever happens at the federal level, we are going to be economically competitive in growing our economy," he said. The Virginia General Assembly also went back into session, though lawmakers were forced to take a short recess due to a <a href="https://virginiamercury.com/2025/01/08/richmond-water-boil-advisory-unlikely-to-lift-before-friday/">water shutoff issue</a> in Richmond. Potential <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2025/01/08/youngkin-virginia-general-assembly-session-starts/">tax cuts</a>, constitutional amendments, and data centers are among the items on lawmakers' docket. State Senate Majority Whip and Arlington's state senator Barbara Favola got behind the mic to preview the 46-day session.One of the hottest topics this session is legislation authored Democratic state senator Scott Surovell that could lead to a <a href="https://www.fox5dc.com/news/casino-tysons-new-proposal-has-critics-supporters-speaking-out">Tysons Corner casino</a>. Favola said the idea currently does not have the local support in her view, noting the handful of casinos already built around the Commonwealth did."All of those jurisdictions had local officials who were completely mobilized and strongly in favor of having the casino," Favola said. "And we know these jurisdictions really did need a different venue to bring in money, to employee people, and to get back on their feet. That's not the case with Fairfax County."If passed, the bill would give voters in Fairfax the chance to decide on whether or not to build a new casino. Similar bills failed to get out of the General Assembly the last two years.Become a member of WAMU: <a href="https://donate.wamu.org/page/15696/donate/1">wamu.org/donate</a>Send us questions and comments for guests: <a href="mailto:kojo@wamu.org">kojo@wamu.org</a>Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wamu885/">instagram.com/wamu885</a>

The Maryland General Assembly reconvened for a 90-day legislative session in Annapolis this week. Dominating debate will be a nearly three billion dollar projected budget deficit over the next five years. It's the largest gap the state has faced in two decades, and it threatens investment in transportation, education, and health care. House of Delegates Majority Leader David Moon from Montgomery County joined the show to discuss current negotiations, whether tax increases are on the table, and what cuts could be coming.
Plus, Moon shared his concern about the impact of a second Trump administration could have on the state’s economy. With cuts to the federal government on the table, there will likely be less federal funding flowing to states for transit,, climate change goals, and education. In addition, Maryland is home to around 160,000 federal employees whose jobs could be at risk. Moon said the state and localities need to prepare.
“Maryland and Montgomery County are going to have to try to be a lot more self-reliant in the coming years and do everything we can to broaden and expand our local tax base so that whatever happens at the federal level, we are going to be economically competitive in growing our economy," he said. 
The Virginia General Assembly also went back into session, though lawmakers were forced to take a short recess due to a water shutoff issue in Richmond. Potential tax cuts, constitutional amendments, and data centers are among the items on lawmakers' docket. State Senate Majority Whip and Arlington's state senator Barbara Favola got behind the mic to preview the 46-day session.
One of the hottest topics this session is legislation authored Democratic state senator Scott Surovell that could lead to a Tysons Corner casino. Favola said the idea currently does not have the local support in her view, noting the handful of casinos already built around the Commonwealth did.
"All of those jurisdictions had local officials who were completely mobilized and strongly in favor of having the casino," Favola said. "And we know these jurisdictions really did need a different venue to bring in money, to employee people, and to get back on their feet. That's not the case with Fairfax County."
If passed, the bill would give voters in Fairfax the chance to decide on whether or not to build a new casino. Similar bills failed to get out of the General Assembly the last two years.
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Maryland House Majority Leader David Moon on the projected $3 billion budget gap. Plus, Virginia Senate Majority Whip Barbara Favola talks tax cuts, a Tysons Corner casino, and constitutional amendments.

The Politics Hour: The latest from Maryland and Virginia’s legislative sessions

The country is facing the <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/12/19/government-shutdown-congress-deadline-johnson">threat of a government shutdown</a> just as the holidays are approaching. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Virginia) talked with Kojo and Tom about what it would mean for federal workers in Virginia and the region.“I did get a bill passed in 2019 that guarantees everyone back pay in the event of any shutdown, now or  in the future,” Kaine said. “So, back pay is forthcoming. But that’s not the same as getting your paycheck on payday.”He did note back pay does not apply to federal contractors… some of whom can be laid off in the event of a shutdown. Plus, Sen. Kaine explained why he pushed for <a href="https://www.govexec.com/workforce/2024/12/last-ditch-effort-block-schedule-fs-return-thwarted-senate-republicans/401738/">a plan to protect civil servants</a>.A D.C. Council committee <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/12/16/dc-trayon-white-council-committee-expulsion/?itid=sf_local_dc-politics_article_list">recommended expelling Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White</a> this week, who is also facing federal bribery charges. The unanimous vote comes after an independent investigation found “substantial evidence” White violated ethics rules by accepting tens of thousands of dollars in order to influence the granting of contracts. The committee’s chair, Kenyan McDuffie, joined the show to give his thoughts.Plus, Congress appears to have <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/12/19/dc-rfk-bill-spending-package-maryland-bridge-funding/">sidelined a provision</a> giving D.C. greater control over the RFK Stadium site. We asked Councilmember McDuffie what’s next for the District’s continued pursuit of the land and <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6002619/2024/12/17/commanders-rfk-site-control-update-dc/">convincing the Washington Commanders to return to the city</a>.And with inauguration now a month away  city leaders, including Councilmember McDuffie, are concerned about what a <a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/heres-what-a-second-trump-presidency-could-mean-for-dc/3762595/">second Trump presidency will mean for the District</a>.Because D.C. is not a state, President Trump and a Republican-controlled Congress can interfere with the city’s autonomy in a number of ways, from blocking local legislation to ending District self-rule. Last year, Congress <a href="https://dcist.com/story/23/03/08/senate-votes-to-block-dc-criminal-code-overhaul/">struck down a major overhaul</a> of the city’s criminal code. Conuncilmember McDuffie said there have been 88 separate attacks on D-C autonomy just in the last two years..“Any interference in District of Columbia affairs is, frankly, unnecessary,” he said. “And would just serve to disenfranchise the more seven hundred thousand residents who live here and actually call the District of Columbia home.”It’s the last Politics Hour of the year. We were joined by a panel of reporters, including WAMU’s Margaret Barthel, Maryland Matters’ Will Ford, and Washington City Paper’s Alex Koma, to talk about the year’s top stories and what to expect in 2025.Become a member of WAMU: <a href="https://donate.wamu.org/page/15696/donate/1">wamu.org/donate</a>Send us questions and comments for guests: <a href="mailto:kojo@wamu.org">kojo@wamu.org</a>Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wamu885/">instagram.com/wamu885</a>Follow us on Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepoliticshour">facebook.com/thepoliticshour</a>

The country is facing the threat of a government shutdown just as the holidays are approaching. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Virginia) talked with Kojo and Tom about what it would mean for federal workers in Virginia and the region.
“I did get a bill passed in 2019 that guarantees everyone back pay in the event of any shutdown, now or  in the future,” Kaine said. “So, back pay is forthcoming. But that’s not the same as getting your paycheck on payday.”
He did note back pay does not apply to federal contractors… some of whom can be laid off in the event of a shutdown. Plus, Sen. Kaine explained why he pushed for a plan to protect civil servants.
A D.C. Council committee recommended expelling Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White this week, who is also facing federal bribery charges. The unanimous vote comes after an independent investigation found “substantial evidence” White violated ethics rules by accepting tens of thousands of dollars in order to influence the granting of contracts. The committee’s chair, Kenyan McDuffie, joined the show to give his thoughts.
Plus, Congress appears to have sidelined a provision giving D.C. greater control over the RFK Stadium site. We asked Councilmember McDuffie what’s next for the District’s continued pursuit of the land and convincing the Washington Commanders to return to the city.
And with inauguration now a month away  city leaders, including Councilmember McDuffie, are concerned about what a second Trump presidency will mean for the District.
Because D.C. is not a state, President Trump and a Republican-controlled Congress can interfere with the city’s autonomy in a number of ways, from blocking local legislation to ending District self-rule. Last year, Congress struck down a major overhaul of the city’s criminal code. 
Conuncilmember McDuffie said there have been 88 separate attacks on D-C autonomy just in the last two years..
“Any interference in District of Columbia affairs is, frankly, unnecessary,” he said. “And would just serve to disenfranchise the more seven hundred thousand residents who live here and actually call the District of Columbia home.”
It’s the last Politics Hour of the year. We were joined by a panel of reporters, including WAMU’s Margaret Barthel, Maryland Matters’ Will Ford, and Washington City Paper’s Alex Koma, to talk about the year’s top stories and what to expect in 2025.
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D.C. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie on recommending to expel Ward 8 councilmember Trayon White and what's next for the RFK Stadium site. Plus, a panel of local politics reporters talks 2024's top stories and what to expect in 2025.

The Politics Hour: U.S. Senator Tim Kaine and D.C. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie

Metro announced <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/12/10/dc-metro-automation-returns/">a return to automated trains</a> as soon as this coming weekend, a move that will save millions. Metro General Manager Randy Clarke sat down with Kojo and Tom to discuss why the time is now to return to automation <a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/transportation/whole-life-changed-remembering-metros-deadliest-crash-15-years-later/3646825/">15 years after a deadly Red Line crash ended the practice</a>.Clarke explained even with automated trains, an operator remains at the controls, watching the track and managing the doors. He likened the system to cruise control on a car. "It’s helping to reduce some human error with a good information technology solution. Gets us back to a more safer, reliable system. At the same time, it becomes cost efficient so everyone’s trip is faster as well," Clarke said.He said automation will save the system about seven million dollars, which they will use to <a href="https://www.dcnewsnow.com/news/local-news/washington-dc/metro-gm-proposes-extending-weekend-hours-in-new-budget/">extend weekend service</a>.They also discussed his <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/board/meetings/board-pdfs/upload/3A-GM-Proposed-FY2026-Budget-Hearing-Auth.pdf">proposed budget</a> which was released this week and Metro's efforts to <a href="https://www.dcnewsnow.com/news/local-news/washington-dc/metro-to-crack-down-on-unacceptable-bus-fare-evasion/">curb bus fare evasion</a>. WMATA is using plainclothes and uniformed officers as well as video monitoring and special police to issue citations.  More than 70% of bus riders are skipping the fare, which Clarke said is  “unacceptable.” Metro has given out more than 500 citations during the first two weeks of stepped up enforcement, according to the system's general manager. They also talked about what a <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/12/10/bowser-congress-financial-hearing/">return-to-office mandate for federal workers</a> could mean for Metro.Become a member of WAMU: <a href="https://donate.wamu.org/page/15696/donate/1">wamu.org/donate</a>Send us questions and comments for guests: <a href="mailto:kojo@wamu.org">kojo@wamu.org</a>Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wamu885/">instagram.com/wamu885</a>Follow us on Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepoliticshour">facebook.com/thepoliticshour</a>

Metro announced a return to automated trains as soon as this coming weekend, a move that will save millions. Metro General Manager Randy Clarke sat down with Kojo and Tom to discuss why the time is now to return to automation 15 years after a deadly Red Line crash ended the practice.
Clarke explained even with automated trains, an operator remains at the controls, watching the track and managing the doors. He likened the system to cruise control on a car. 
"It’s helping to reduce some human error with a good information technology solution. Gets us back to a more safer, reliable system. At the same time, it becomes cost efficient so everyone’s trip is faster as well," Clarke said.
He said automation will save the system about seven million dollars, which they will use to extend weekend service.
They also discussed his proposed budget which was released this week and Metro's efforts to curb bus fare evasion. WMATA is using plainclothes and uniformed officers as well as video monitoring and special police to issue citations. 
 More than 70% of bus riders are skipping the fare, which Clarke said is  “unacceptable.” Metro has given out more than 500 citations during the first two weeks of stepped up enforcement, according to the system's general manager. They also talked about what a return-to-office mandate for federal workers could mean for Metro.
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Metro General Manager Randy Clarke on the need to expand service, how automating trains saves money, and what a return-to-office mandate for federal workers could mean for Metro.

The Politics Hour: Metro General Manager Randy Clarke on automated trains and increasing ridership

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich is warning residents that a realignment of the federal workforce and cuts to federal agency could have <a href="https://marylandmatters.org/2024/11/06/fears-of-trump-driven-federal-agency-cuts-spur-talk-of-tax-increases-in-montgomery-county/">dire consequences for the county</a>. He joined the show to talk about what a second Trump presidency could mean for the county.Plus, Elrich spoke about how <a href="https://moco360.media/2024/11/21/if-i-dont-have-to-do-something-im-not-doing-it-elrich-says-of-trumps-mass-deportation-proposal/">he is preparing</a> if Trump follows through on his promise of mass deportations of undocumented immigrants. He said while the county can’t stop the federal government from acting, they won’t assist.“We can’t be deputized and it’s not our job to cooperate with immigration, so if they want to do raids, they are going to do raids. But they can’t compel the county government to provide police support," Elrich said.He also talked about what he hopes to accomplish in <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/11/06/montgomery-county-term-limits/">his final two years as county executive</a> and what <a href="https://moco360.media/2024/11/18/elrich-will-reportedly-run-for-county-council/">his political future</a> might be.Justin Wilson's time as mayor of Alexandria ends next month, after nearly two decades serving on the council, as vice mayor, and mayor. Kojo and Tom talked with him about <a href="https://thekojonnamdishow.org/shows/2018-12-06/kojo-roadshow-a-town-hall-on-amazons-arrival-in-crystal-city/">bringing Amazon HQ2 to the region</a>, the <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/03/29/virginia-arena-politics-caps-wizards-alexandria/">collapse of the arena deal</a>, and what the future will look like for the city of Alexandria.He also spoke about the city's efforts to increase housing supply, including by <a href="https://dcist.com/story/23/11/29/alexandria-lawmakers-unanimously-eliminate-single-family-only-zoning/">eliminating single-family-only zoning</a>. Wilson said <a href="https://virginiamercury.com/2024/12/05/why-sen-sturtevant-wants-to-stop-big-investment-firms-from-buying-homes-in-virginia/">proposed legislation</a> from Virginia lawmakers that would prohibit large investment firms from purchasing single-family homes is only "small ball." What the region really needs are more houses. "When you reallocate the same limited supply, that doesn’t lower prices for folks. It doesn’t make housing more accessible. You have to create additional supply," Wilson said.Become a member of WAMU: <a href="https://donate.wamu.org/page/15696/donate/1">wamu.org/donate</a>Send us questions and comments for guests: <a href="mailto:kojo@wamu.org">kojo@wamu.org</a>Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wamu885/">instagram.com/wamu885</a>Follow us on Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepoliticshour">facebook.com/thepoliticshour</a>

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich is warning residents that a realignment of the federal workforce and cuts to federal agency could have dire consequences for the county. He joined the show to talk about what a second Trump presidency could mean for the county.
Plus, Elrich spoke about how he is preparing if Trump follows through on his promise of mass deportations of undocumented immigrants. He said while the county can’t stop the federal government from acting, they won’t assist.
“We can’t be deputized and it’s not our job to cooperate with immigration, so if they want to do raids, they are going to do raids. But they can’t compel the county government to provide police support," Elrich said.
He also talked about what he hopes to accomplish in his final two years as county executive and what his political future might be.
Justin Wilson's time as mayor of Alexandria ends next month, after nearly two decades serving on the council, as vice mayor, and mayor. Kojo and Tom talked with him about bringing Amazon HQ2 to the region, the collapse of the arena deal, and what the future will look like for the city of Alexandria.
He also spoke about the city's efforts to increase housing supply, including by eliminating single-family-only zoning. Wilson said proposed legislation from Virginia lawmakers that would prohibit large investment firms from purchasing single-family homes is only "small ball." What the region really needs are more houses. 
"When you reallocate the same limited supply, that doesn’t lower prices for folks. It doesn’t make housing more accessible. You have to create additional supply," Wilson said.
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Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich on why cutting federal agencies could mean a tax increase for county residents. Plus, Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson talks about what he hopes is his lasting legacy.

The Politics Hour: Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson

President-elect Donald Trump has made it clear he wants the FBI headquarters <a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4651037-trump-new-fbi-headquarters-dc-maryland/">to stay in the District</a>. There's a possibility he could <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/washington/news/2024/11/06/trump-harris-election-fbi-headquarters-greenbelt.html">reverse the decision</a> made last year <a href="https://www.gsa.gov/about-us/gsa-regions/region-11-national-capital/buildings-and-facilities/development-projects/fbi-headquarters-consolidation">to move the FBI to Prince George's County</a>. Prince George's County Council Chair Jolene Ivey joined us to discuss.Plus, a Senate committee moved legislation forward that would give D.C. control of the R-F-K Stadium site at no cost for the use of the land. It’s a step towards building a new football stadium and luring the team back to D.C.from Prince George’s County. That’s concerning for Council Chair Ivey, who’d like to keep the team where it is. She said she's recently talked with the team about staying put, touting the potential for development and noted the team already owns the land where the current stadium sits."But of course, that was before Congress put their thumb on the scale, and right now, it looks possible they could be getting the land for free. And that’s really not fair," Ivey said.Army veteran Eugene Vindman won his race earlier this month to represent Virginia's 7th Congressional District. Congressman-elect Vindman joined the show to talk about his victory, legislative priorities, and navigating a Republican-controlled House. And as someone who had <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press/meetthepressblog/army-vet-reported-phone-call-led-trump-impeachment-runs-congress-rcna125529">run-ins with Trump</a>, does he have concerns about possible retribution?Plus, President-Elect Donald Trump announced that he tapped tech billionaire Elon Musk and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy to head a Department of Government Efficiency.The goal is to cut federal spending, which would leave many federal workers in our region wondering what will become of their  jobs under the incoming Trump administration.Vindman aid he recognizes a need to trim the federal budget but that there are certain areas where he will not compromise."There are gonna be some realities that those appointed to conduct these activities are gonna run into. They're related to national security realties, economic realities, political realities. And so, where we can work together we will and where we can't I'm gonna fight for Virginia families," Vindman said.  Become a member of WAMU: <a href="https://donate.wamu.org/page/15696/donate/1">wamu.org/donate</a>Send us questions and comments for guests: <a href="mailto:kojo@wamu.org">kojo@wamu.org</a>Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wamu885/">instagram.com/wamu885</a>Follow us on Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepoliticshour">facebook.com/thepoliticshour</a>

President-elect Donald Trump has made it clear he wants the FBI headquarters to stay in the District. There's a possibility he could reverse the decision made last year to move the FBI to Prince George's County. Prince George's County Council Chair Jolene Ivey joined us to discuss.
Plus, a Senate committee moved legislation forward that would give D.C. control of the R-F-K Stadium site at no cost for the use of the land. It’s a step towards building a new football stadium and luring the team back to D.C.from Prince George’s County. That’s concerning for Council Chair Ivey, who’d like to keep the team where it is. 
She said she's recently talked with the team about staying put, touting the potential for development and noted the team already owns the land where the current stadium sits.
"But of course, that was before Congress put their thumb on the scale, and right now, it looks possible they could be getting the land for free. And that’s really not fair," Ivey said.
Army veteran Eugene Vindman won his race earlier this month to represent Virginia's 7th Congressional District. Congressman-elect Vindman joined the show to talk about his victory, legislative priorities, and navigating a Republican-controlled House. And as someone who had run-ins with Trump, does he have concerns about possible retribution?
Plus, President-Elect Donald Trump announced that he tapped tech billionaire Elon Musk and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy to head a Department of Government Efficiency.
The goal is to cut federal spending, which would leave many federal workers in our region wondering what will become of their  jobs under the incoming Trump administration.
Vindman aid he recognizes a need to trim the federal budget but that there are certain areas where he will not compromise.
"There are gonna be some realities that those appointed to conduct these activities are gonna run into. They're related to national security realties, economic realities, political realities. And so, where we can work together we will and where we can't I'm gonna fight for Virginia families," Vindman said.  
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Prince George's County Council Chair Jolene Ivey on the future of the new FBI headquarters and the candidates who could replace Senator-elect Angela Alsobrooks as county executive. Plus, Virginia Congressman-elect Eugene Vindman on his victory earlier this month and navigating a Republican-controlled House.

The Politics Hour: Prince George County's Jolene Ivey and Congressman-elect Eugene Vindman

While many District residents are concerned a Republican-led Congress could <a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/heres-what-a-second-trump-presidency-could-mean-for-dc/3762595/">rescind the city's autonomy</a>, not everyone sees doom and gloom. The chair of the Republican Party of D.C. Patrick Mara got behind the mic to explain why a Trump presidency will be good for the District of Columbia.Mara said public safety and concerns over crime could lead the federal government to assert more control of the city. He said he's heard from both Republicans and Democrats who blame the D.C. Council for not taking enough action."The council has to do a much better job on public safety....the Council is not seen in a good light on either side of the Hill," Mara said, who made clear he's a "staunch advocate" of D.C. Home Rule.He also weighed in on why <a href="https://electionresults.dcboe.org/election_results/2024-General-Election">more District residents voted Republican</a> than in 2020 and 2016.Someone <a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/vandalism-of-dc-kosher-restaurant-not-investigated-as-hate-crime/3765984/">vandalized a kosher restaurant</a> in D.C. this week in what may have been a hate crime. We asked Ward 3 Councilmember Matt Frumin to weigh in. Plus, we discussed how city officials are preparing for a second Trump administration.Become a member of WAMU: <a href="https://donate.wamu.org/page/15696/donate/1">wamu.org/donate</a>Send us questions and comments for guests: <a href="mailto:kojo@wamu.org">kojo@wamu.org</a>Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wamu885/">instagram.com/wamu885</a>Follow us on Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepoliticshour">facebook.com/thepoliticshour</a>

While many District residents are concerned a Republican-led Congress could rescind the city's autonomy, not everyone sees doom and gloom. The chair of the Republican Party of D.C. Patrick Mara got behind the mic to explain why a Trump presidency will be good for the District of Columbia.
Mara said public safety and concerns over crime could lead the federal government to assert more control of the city. He said he's heard from both Republicans and Democrats who blame the D.C. Council for not taking enough action.
"The council has to do a much better job on public safety....the Council is not seen in a good light on either side of the Hill," Mara said, who made clear he's a "staunch advocate" of D.C. Home Rule.
He also weighed in on why more District residents voted Republican than in 2020 and 2016.
Someone vandalized a kosher restaurant in D.C. this week in what may have been a hate crime. We asked Ward 3 Councilmember Matt Frumin to weigh in. Plus, we discussed how city officials are preparing for a second Trump administration.
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Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.org
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D.C. GOP Chairman Patrick Mara on why a Trump presidency will be a good thing for the District. Plus, Ward 3 Councilmember Matt Frumin discusses on how city officials are preparing for another Trump adminstration.

The Politics Hour: D.C. GOP Chair Patrick Mara on why Trump will be good for D.C.

The Politics Hour, November 8, 2024

Nov. 8, 2024

11-08-2024

Kojo and Tom Sherwood brought listeners results, analysis, and context from across the region. They were joined by reporters stationed at watch parties across the region to discuss the local races in <a href="https://wamu.org/story/24/10/28/your-voter-guide-for-the-districts-2024-elections/">D.C.</a>, <a href="https://wamu.org/story/24/10/25/maryland-senate-race-2024/">Maryland</a>, and <a href="https://wamu.org/story/24/09/26/meet-the-candidates-in-virginias-most-competitive-congressional-district/">Virginia</a>. Guests:Jahd Khalil, VPM reporterKayla Hewitt, WAMU producer/reporter Ginny Bixby, MoCo 360 reporterAlex Koma, Loose Lips reporter for Washington City PaperSam P.K. Collins, Washington Informer reporterJosh Kurtz, founding editor for Maryland Matters

Kojo and Tom Sherwood brought listeners results, analysis, and context from across the region. They were joined by reporters stationed at watch parties across the region to discuss the local races in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. 
Guests:
Jahd Khalil, VPM reporter
Kayla Hewitt, WAMU producer/reporter 
Ginny Bixby, MoCo 360 reporter
Alex Koma, Loose Lips reporter for Washington City Paper
Sam P.K. Collins, Washington Informer reporter
Josh Kurtz, founding editor for Maryland Matters

Kojo and Tom were joined by by reporters from across the region providing context about the biggest local races

WAMU's Election Night Special

Voters are flocking to the polls to vote early across the region. In the meantime, city leaders are <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/10/29/election-security-dc-police/">preparing ahead of Election Day and the inauguration</a>, aiming to be ready in case of <a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/decision-2024/dc-bracing-for-possible-riots-and-civil-unrest-around-election/3753468/">massive crowds, protests, or unrest</a>. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser joined the show to discuss what measures the District is putting in place to keep residents safe. Plus, we asked Mayor Bowser to weigh in <a href="https://wamu.org/story/24/10/28/your-voter-guide-for-the-districts-2024-elections/">on ranked choice voting</a> and the D.C. Council's <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/10/29/dc-council-protest-bill-residential-first-amendment/">emergency legislation</a> restricting protesting in residential neighborhoods.On Wednesday, the <a href="https://www.vpm.org/elections/2024-10-29/barbara-comstock-glenn-youngkin-us-supreme-court-voter-purge-case">U.S. Supreme Court ruled</a> Virginia could resume purging suspected noncitizens from voter rolls. The decision overturns a <a href="https://www.vpm.org/news/2024-10-25/glenn-youngkin-patricia-giles-jason-miyares-susan-beals-lawsuit">previous ruling</a> made by a federal judge days earlier to reinstate some 1,600 voters. WAMU's Northern Virginia reporter Margaret Barthel explained what exactly is going on, how it could affect election results, and why this is good news for Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin.Become a member of WAMU: <a href="https://donate.wamu.org/page/15696/donate/1">wamu.org/donate</a>Send us questions and comments for guests: <a href="mailto:kojo@wamu.org">kojo@wamu.org</a>Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wamu885/">instagram.com/wamu885</a>

Voters are flocking to the polls to vote early across the region. In the meantime, city leaders are preparing ahead of Election Day and the inauguration, aiming to be ready in case of massive crowds, protests, or unrest. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser joined the show to discuss what measures the District is putting in place to keep residents safe. Plus, we asked Mayor Bowser to weigh in on ranked choice voting and the D.C. Council's emergency legislation restricting protesting in residential neighborhoods.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Virginia could resume purging suspected noncitizens from voter rolls. The decision overturns a previous ruling made by a federal judge days earlier to reinstate some 1,600 voters. WAMU's Northern Virginia reporter Margaret Barthel explained what exactly is going on, how it could affect election results, and why this is good news for Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin.
Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donate
Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.org
Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wamu885

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser on the District's preparations ahead of election day and the inauguration Plus, the U.S. Supreme Court weighs in on Virginia purging suspected noncitizens from the voter rolls.