Podcasts about maryland matters

Alexandria is dealing with the impacts of a shrinking federal workforce on its economy, tax base, and ability to fund even some basic services. Mayor Alyia Gaskins sat down with Kojo and Tom to discuss the local challenges that come with cutting thousands of federal positions. Plus, Mayor Gaskins explained why Alexandria is not a sanctuary city.Washington Capitals legend Alexander Ovechkin broke the long-held NHL scoring record this past weekend. The hockey superstar has played his entire 20-year career in the District, and local fans have bonded with the Russian-born athlete. Washington Post columnist Marc Fisher got behind the mic to talk about the city's special relationship with "Ovi," despite the superstar's uncomfortable relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.And the Maryland General Assembly wrapped its 90-day session earlier this week with compromises on the budget, immigrant protections, and cuts to the state's massive education reform plan.  Maryland Matters' reporter Will Ford broke down what passed - and what didn't - during the General Assembly's final chaotic days of its 2025 session.Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donateSend us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.orgFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wamu885Follow us on Bluesky: bsky.app/wamu.org

Veteran Maryland political journalist Josh Kurtz, founder of Maryland Matters, joins Conduit Street Podcast host Michael Sanderson to "talk shop.” Kurtz has a decades-long career covering state politics and policy and brings much to the table as they talk about the evolution of Maryland's media landscape, the decline of in-depth State House reporting, and the challenges of sustaining independent political journalism.Don't miss this insightful conversation about the intersection of politics, policy, and the press!Books Mentioned in this Episode: Marathon: The Pursuit of the Presidency 1972-1976 by Jules Witcover Running Mates by John FeinsteinHeart of Darkness by Joseph ConradFollow us on Socials!MACo on TwitterMACo on Facebook

A federal judge paused the Trump administration's "deferred resignation" offer hours before the Thursday deadline. Many of the particulars of the offer remain unclear, including if it is even lawful. U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin (D) joined the show to weigh in on what it means for the region and what lawmakers are doing to help local federal workers.Plus, the Congressman explained why the White House's recent immigration enforcement actions could be illegal and his thoughts on legislation that would repeal D.C.'s self-governance.Debate is raging over a proposal in the Virginia General Assembly to bring a casino to Fairfax County. Supporters believe it will bring economic development and jobs to the county, while detractors argue it does not have the public's backing. Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay got behind the mic to weigh in on the debate.He said he does not favor the legislation that passed the Virginia Senate earlier this week, noting it turns a potential casino into a “ATM” for Richmond with little economic benefit to the county."The way the bill is currently written right now, what passed the Senate, is absolutely not a good deal for Fairfax County," McKay said. "It's a great deal for the Commonwealth of Virginia."Plus, how the Trump administration's push to shrink the federal workforce could affect the county's economy.Maryland Governor Wes Moore delivered his "State of the State" address this week where he focused on the growing financial challenges facing his state. He called on bipartisan compromise and the need to make "tough choices" to address the state's $3 billion budget gap. We asked Maryland Matters' founding editor and reporter Josh Kurtz to break down Governor Moore's remarks and explain Maryland lawmakers' agendas. And we said goodbye to the long-time Maryland politico, who announced this week he's moving on.Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donateSend us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.orgFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wamu885

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.Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donateSend us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.orgFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wamu885Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thepoliticshour

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 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

Four-decade local journalist Josh Kurtz of Maryland Matters joins Nestor to discuss the many issues, campaigns and dollars being worked during Election Week 2024 and the issues that matter most to voters here and all over the United States of America. Democracy dies in darkness. The post Josh Kurtz of Maryland Matters joins Nestor to discuss Election Week and issues that matter to voters first appeared on Baltimore Positive WNST.

More than 1,800 people took advantage of same day registration to register and vote yesterday. Early voting centers are open today, through next Thursday, including on Saturday and Sunday, from 7:00 AM until 8:00 PM. In her race against former Gov. Larry Hogan for the open U.S. Senate seat here in Maryland, Angela Alsobrooks presented control of the Senate as a central issue to voters. Her campaign asserted that a vote for Hogan is a vote for Republican control of the Upper Chamber. Polling indicates that message has been effective. Is it a message that other Democrats are using to similar effect in other states? Josh Kurtz, the founding editor of Maryland Matters, to discuss the races for Maryland's open seats in the U.S. Congress. Plus, POLITICO's Ally Mutnick joins Midday. She covers congressional campaigns in Maryland and beyond.Email us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call us at 410-662-8780.

Kojo and a panel of local reporters took your comments and answered your election-related questions on-air during our primetime call-in special. We discussed races across Maryland, D.C., and Virginia, as well as how the outcome of the presidential race might affect our region.There were questions about the close Maryland Senate race. And how Initiative 83 and ranked choice voting might impact future elections in the District. We also discussed how the presidential race could affect the tens of thousands of federal workers across the region.Teo Armus from the Washington Post, Sam P.K. Collins from the Washington Informer, and Maryland Matters' Will Ford joined Kojo to answer your calls, emails, and messages.Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donateSend us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.orgFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wamu885

Early voting is underway in Virginia, including for a number of tight races in Northern Virginia that could determine congressional control. The chairs of Virginia's Republican and Democratic parties – Rich Anderson and Susan Swecker – joined us to talk about the biggest races, why the Commonwealth could be up for grabs in November's presidential race, and the most important issues facing residents. The Maryland Senate race remains close between Democrat and Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks and former governor Larry Hogan, despite being a deeply blue state. Maryland Matters reporter Will Ford gave us the state of the race, including how Alsobrooks' property tax errors might affect the race. Plus, what might come of a lawsuit Maryland filed against the owners of the ship that smashed into the Key Bridge earlier this year.Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donateSend us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.orgFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wamu885Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thepoliticshour

Josh Kurtz, founding editor of news site Maryland Matters, joins Midday for an update from the campaign trail. A close race between Democrat Angela Alsobrooks and Republican Larry Hogan is drawing millions of dollars from PACs as control of the U.S. Senate hangs in the balance. Abortion remains a contentious subject in this race. One ad, funded by a PAC connected to Democrat Gov. Wes Moore, questions Gov. Larry Hogan support for abortion rights. Hogan countered with two ads on abortion and women's rights.Email us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call us at 410-662-8780.

Maryland Democrats have articulated ambitious goals for education, transportation, and more. Governor Moore announced that the Red Line transit in Baltimore will be light rail, not bus rapid transit, a more expensive option. But state revenues face headwinds. Projected deficits loom large and statewide elections in 2026 means any tax raises become increasingly harder. Sunil Dasgupta talks with veteran statehouse reporter Bryan Sears of Maryland Matters. Music for this episode comes from Alexandria, Virginia, alt-rock band, Jackie and The Treehorns.

Maryland Democrats were on the mainstage at this week's Democratic National Convention with speeches from Governor Wes Moore, Congressman Jamie Raskin and Prince George's County Executive and Senate candidate Angela Alsobrooks. Josh Kurtz, founding editor of Maryland Matters joins Midday to reflect on Maryland's impact in Chicago. Then, Baltimore City recently settled for $152 million with Cardinal Health for their role in the opioid crisis. This large amount follows $45 million settlements with CVS and Allergan earlier this year. WYPR health reporter Scott Maucione joins Midday to explain the details of the settlement and how the funds will be used.Email us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call us at 410-662-8780.

Give us about fifteen minutes daily, and we will give you all the local news, sports, weather, and events you can handle.   SPONSORS: Many thanks to our sponsors… Annapolis Subaru, the SPCA of Anne Arundel County,  Solar Energy Services, and Hospice of the Chesapeake. Today... Another homicide is being investigated in Anne Arundel County. A Severn man was fatally electrocuted when live wires came into contact with a fence. A police change that started on Bestgate Road ended in SE DC with two dead and another injured. Toll hikes are on the horizon as Maryland Matters reports that the lack of the Key Bridge will cost the state $141 million in lost toll revenue. And we have info on our Local Business Spotlight this weekend with Kristi Neidhardt! Link to daily news recap newsletter: https://forms.aweber.com/form/87/493412887.htm Back with her weekly Annapolis After Dark is BeeprBuzz. She'll keep you up to speed on all of the fantastic live music we have in the area! And as usual, George from DCMDVA Weather is here with your local weather forecast! Please download their app to keep on top of the local weather scene! DAILY NEWSLETTER LINK: https://forms.aweber.com/form/87/493412887.htm The Eye On Annapolis Daily News Brief is produced every Monday through Friday at 6:00 am and available wherever you get your podcasts and also on our social media platforms--All Annapolis and Eye On Annapolis (FB) and @eyeonannapolis (TW) NOTE: For hearing-impaired subscribers, a full transcript is available on Eye On Annapolis.

On June 10, in the working-class community of Curtis Bay in South Baltimore, over 50 residents, activists, and supporters from around the city marched through the streets of Curtis Bay to hold CSX Transportation accountable for polluting their community, homes, and bodies with toxic coal dust. Even after an expansive scientific study co-sponsored by the Community of Curtis Bay Association, the South Baltimore Community Land Trust, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Maryland, and the Maryland Department of Environment confirmed the presence of coal dust in the air of the South Baltimore community of Curtis Bay, CSX has denied culpability and called the study “materially flawed.” Residents say they're fed up with the company refusing to take responsibility for the coal dust, and with the city government for ignoring their cries for help for years, and they're not going to stay quiet.    “We got to stand together for Curtis Bay, for South Baltimore,” one resident and youth leader, Carlos Sanchez, told the crowd. “We have to remove CSX for the health of our communities.” With other locals watching from their porches, sidewalks, and storefronts, the crowd marched from the Curtis Bay Rec Center all the way up to the gates of the CSX terminal. There, they signed and delivered a giant “Eviction Notice” to CSX, a company that recorded over $10 billion in gross profits last year. In this on-the-ground edition of Working People, Maximillian Alvarez speaks with Curtis Bay residents on the day of the march and takes you to the heart of the action.    Speakers in this episode (in order of appearance) include: Shashawnda Campbell of Baltimore Community Land Trust; David Jones, a resident who has lived in Curtis Bay for over 35 years; Angie Shaneyfelt, a resident who has lived in Curtis Bay for 17 years; Angela Smothers, a lifelong resident of Mt. Winans in South Baltimore; Carlos Sanchez, a youth leader born and raised in Lakeland, South Baltimore; Roma Gutierrez, a lifelong resident of Brooklyn, South Baltimore, and an environmental organizer and youth leader with South Baltimore Community Land Trust; an unnamed representative of Malaya Movement Baltimore; and Maria Urbina, a South Baltimore resident. Additional links/info below… Coal-Free Curtis Bay Facebook page and Instagram South Baltimore Community Land Trust website, Twitter/X page, Facebook page, and Instagram Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, "South Baltimore residents on the toxic reality of living in a 'sacrifice zone'" Aman Azhar, InsideClimate News, “South Baltimore communities press city, state regulators for stricter pollution controls on coal export operations” Nicole Fabricant, University of California Press, Fighting to Breathe: Race, Toxicity, and the Rise of Youth Activism in Baltimore Nicole Fabricant, The Real News Network, “Opinion | CSX explosion in Curtis Bay should alarm Baltimore City and accelerate real change” Michael Middleton & Dr. Sacoby Wilson, Maryland Matters, “Commentary: Maryland deserves a better environmental justice bill” Chloe Ahmann, Baltimore Sun, “Curtis Bay residents deserve a coal-free future” Christine Condon & Dillon Mullan, Baltimore Sun, “Curtis Bay residents ask state to shut down South Baltimore CSX facility after study documents toll of coal dust” Maryland Department of Environment, "New scientific study confirms airborne coal dust in Curtis Bay community" Adam Willis, The Baltimore Banner, "A state-backed report found coal dust across Curtis Bay. CSX isn't convinced"   Permanent links below... Working People Patreon page Leave us a voicemail and we might play it on the show! Labor Radio / Podcast Network website, Facebook page, and Twitter page In These Times website, Facebook page, and Twitter page The Real News Network website, YouTube channel, podcast feeds, Facebook page, and Twitter page Featured Music... Jules Taylor, "Working People" Theme Song

Read the transcript of this podcast here: On June 10, in the working-class community of Curtis Bay in South Baltimore, over 50 residents, activists, and supporters from around the city marched through the streets of Curtis Bay to hold CSX Transportation accountable for polluting their community, homes, and bodies with toxic coal dust. Even after an expansive scientific study co-sponsored by the Community of Curtis Bay Association, the South Baltimore Community Land Trust, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Maryland, and the Maryland Department of Environment confirmed the presence of coal dust in the air of the South Baltimore community of Curtis Bay, CSX has denied culpability and called the study “materially flawed.” Residents say they're fed up with the company refusing to take responsibility for the coal dust, and with the city government for ignoring their cries for help for years, and they're not going to stay quiet. “We got to stand together for Curtis Bay, for South Baltimore,” one resident and youth leader, Carlos Sanchez, told the crowd. “We have to remove CSX for the health of our communities.” With other locals watching from their porches, sidewalks, and storefronts, the crowd marched from the Curtis Bay Rec Center all the way up to the gates of the CSX terminal. There, they signed and delivered a giant “Eviction Notice” to CSX, a company that recorded over $10 billion in gross profits last year. In this on-the-ground edition of Working People, Maximillian Alvarez speaks with Curtis Bay residents on the day of the march and takes you to the heart of the action.Speakers in this episode (in order of appearance) include: Shashawnda Campbell of Baltimore Community Land Trust; David Jones, a resident who has lived in Curtis Bay for over 35 years; Angie Shaneyfelt, a resident who has lived in Curtis Bay for 17 years; Angela Smothers, a lifelong resident of Mt. Winans in South Baltimore; Carlos Sanchez, a youth leader born and raised in Lakeland, South Baltimore; Roma Gutierrez, a lifelong resident of Brooklyn, South Baltimore, and an environmental organizer and youth leader with South Baltimore Community Land Trust; an unnamed representative of Malaya Movement Baltimore; and Maria Urbina, a South Baltimore resident.Additional links/info below…Coal-Free Curtis Bay Facebook page and InstagramSouth Baltimore Community Land Trust website, Twitter/X page, Facebook page, and InstagramMaximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, "South Baltimore residents on the toxic reality of living in a 'sacrifice zone'"Aman Azhar, InsideClimate News, “South Baltimore communities press city, state regulators for stricter pollution controls on coal export operations”Nicole Fabricant, University of California Press, Fighting to Breathe: Race, Toxicity, and the Rise of Youth Activism in BaltimoreNicole Fabricant, The Real News Network, “Opinion | CSX explosion in Curtis Bay should alarm Baltimore City and accelerate real change”Michael Middleton & Dr. Sacoby Wilson, Maryland Matters, “Commentary: Maryland deserves a better environmental justice bill”Chloe Ahmann, Baltimore Sun, “Curtis Bay residents deserve a coal-free future”Christine Condon & Dillon Mullan, Baltimore Sun, “Curtis Bay residents ask state to shut down South Baltimore CSX facility after study documents toll of coal dust”Maryland Department of Environment, "New scientific study confirms airborne coal dust in Curtis Bay community"Adam Willis, The Baltimore Banner, "A state-backed report found coal dust across Curtis Bay. CSX isn't convinced"Permanent links below...Leave us a voicemail and we might play it on the show!Labor Radio / Podcast Network website, Facebook page, and Twitter pageIn These Times website, Facebook page, and Twitter pageThe Real News Network website, YouTube channel, podcast feeds, Facebook page, and Twitter pageFeatured Music...Jules Taylor, "Working People" Theme SongStudio Production: Maximillian AlvarezPost-Production: Jules Taylor Help us continue producing radically independent news and in-depth analysis by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Sign up for our newsletterLike us on FacebookFollow us on TwitterDonate to support this podcast

It was a big win for Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks in the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate in Maryland. She beat out three-term congressman David Trone, despite being significantly outspent. Now, she moves on to the general election, where she will take on the popular former Maryland governor, Republican Larry Hogan, in a race that's already garnering national attention. Alsobrooks joins the show to discuss how she defied the odds, what she heard from voters on the campaign trail, and how she's preparing for November's face-off against Hogan.There were other important primary races in Maryland as well. Maryland Matters reporter Will Ford gets behind the mic to break down the results in several Congressional District elections, plus more insight into what propelled Alsobrooks to a win.Congress is once again intervening in D.C. affairs. On Wednesday, the U.S. House voted to restrict the D.C. Council from passing any legislation changing sentencing laws in the District. While the bill still needs to pass the Senate and the president has expressed opposition, it has city officials deeply concerned. Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen discusses why he thinks the legislation is a bad idea. Plus, could bike lanes be back in the plans for Connecticut Avenue?Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donateSend us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.orgFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wamu885Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thepoliticshour

“South Baltimore is a sacrifice zone,” Michael Middleton and Dr. Sacoby Wilson wrote in a guest commentary published in Maryland Matters this February. “The six communities that make up South Baltimore—Cherry Hill, Westport, Mt. Winans, Lakeland, Brooklyn, and Curtis Bay—rank in the top 3% of the state for environmental burden using a Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) screening tool. Curtis Bay, the highest in the state, is Maryland's poster child for environmental injustice. Industrial areas near Curtis Bay house oil tanks, a wastewater treatment plant, chemical plants, landfills, the country's largest medical waste incinerator, and more. Heavy diesel trucks frequent residential streets. The Wagner's Point and Fairfield communities that were once Curtis Bay's neighbors to the east are gone. Those residents accepted buyouts to leave between the 1980s and 2011 after a series of chemical spills and accidents.” In this episode, we continue our “Sacrificed” series by focusing on communities in South Baltimore and a story that quite literally hits close to home, less than half an hour from where Max lives. We speak with a panel of residents of South Baltimore about how they have seen their communities change over the years, what it feels like to be “sacrificed” by industry and their government, how they and their neighbors are fighting for change, fighting for justice, and what others in Baltimore and beyond can do to help. Panelists include: David Jones, who has lived in Curtis Bay for over 35 years; Angela Smothers, a lifelong resident of Mt. Winans; Carlos Sanchez, a youth leader born and raised in Lakeland; and Tiffany Thompson, who was born and raised in Cherry Hill and has lived in Curtis Bay for the past three years.Additional links/info below…Coal-Free Curtis Bay Facebook pageNicole Fabricant, University of California Press, Fighting to Breathe: Race, Toxicity, and the Rise of Youth Activism in BaltimoreNicole Fabricant, The Real News Network, “Opinion | CSX explosion in Curtis Bay should alarm Baltimore City and accelerate real change”Michael Middleton & Dr. Sacoby Wilson, Maryland Matters, “Commentary: Maryland deserves a better environmental justice bill”Chloe Ahmann, Baltimore Sun, “Curtis Bay residents deserve a coal-free future”Christine Condon & Dillon Mullan, Baltimore Sun, “Curtis Bay residents ask state to shut down South Baltimore CSX facility after study documents toll of coal dust”Aman Azhar, InsideClimate News, “On a ‘Toxic Tour' of Curtis Bay in South Baltimore, Visiting Academics and Activists See a Hidden Part of the City”Christian Olaniran, Adam Thompson, Caroline Foreback, CBS News, “Residents meet after air quality study reveals presence of coal dust in Curtis Bay”Studio Production: Maximillian AlvarezPost-Production: Jules TaylorHelp us continue producing radically independent news and in-depth analysis by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Sign up for our newsletterLike us on FacebookFollow us on TwitterDonate to support this podcastBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-news-podcast--2952221/support. 

Democrats and Republicans in Maryland now know the nominees for their respective parties in some of November's important elections. Votes cast in last night's primary election are being counted, but the results so far pointed to several clear cut victories. Mayor Brandon Scott trounced challenged Sheila Dixon in Baltimore city's mayor race, while Howard County Executive Angela Alsobrooks is set to face off against Republican former Gov. Larry Hogan for one of Maryland's U.S. Senate seats. Our guests join Midday to analyze the results, and look ahead to the general election. Mary Miller is a former business executive who ran for Baltimore mayor in 2020. She also served in the Obama Administration at the U.S. Treasury. Dean Roger Hartley heads the College of Public Affairs at the University of Baltimore. William J. Ford covers news and Maryland politics for Maryland Matters. Jim Burton Republican strategist and founder of Burton Research and Strategies.Email us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call us at 410-662-8780.

With the primary now only days away, polls show a very tight race for Maryland's Senate seat. The election is capturing national attention as record spending continues to define the campaign for the Democratic nomination. Josh Kurtz of Maryland Matters told us why the stakes are high, how it's become so close, and what we might see happen on Tuesday. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and state lawmakers reportedly agreed on a deal for a new state budget. It's been a long road to this point, but deal was reached that won't include any tax increases. Delegate Mark Sickles was involved in these talks and joined us on the show to break down the deal for us. Early Wednesday morning, D.C. police cleared an encampment of protesters on George Washington University's campus. This came just before a U.S. House Oversight Committee hearing into the city's refusal to clear the encampment earlier. With protests continuing, D.C. Councilmember Robert White got behind the mic to give his take. Plus, D.C. reaches agrees on a settlement with two women who accused former mayoral aide John Falcicchio of sexual harassment. 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 Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thepoliticshour

“South Baltimore is a sacrifice zone,” Michael Middleton and Dr. Sacoby Wilson wrote in a guest commentary published in Maryland Matters this February. “The six communities that make up South Baltimore—Cherry Hill, Westport, Mt. Winans, Lakeland, Brooklyn, and Curtis Bay—rank in the top 3% of the state for environmental burden using a Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) screening tool. Curtis Bay, the highest in the state, is Maryland's poster child for environmental injustice. Industrial areas near Curtis Bay house oil tanks, a wastewater treatment plant, chemical plants, landfills, the country's largest medical waste incinerator, and more. Heavy diesel trucks frequent residential streets. The Wagner's Point and Fairfield communities that were once Curtis Bay's neighbors to the east are gone. Those residents accepted buyouts to leave between the 1980s and 2011 after a series of chemical spills and accidents.” In this episode, we continue our “Sacrificed” series by focusing on communities in South Baltimore and a story that quite literally hits close to home, less than half an hour from where Max lives. We speak with a panel of residents of South Baltimore about how they have seen their communities change over the years, what it feels like to be “sacrificed” by industry and their government, how they and their neighbors are fighting for change, fighting for justice, and what others in Baltimore and beyond can do to help. Panelists include: David Jones, who has lived in Curtis Bay for over 35 years; Angela Smothers, a lifelong resident of Mt. Winans; Carlos Sanchez, a youth leader born and raised in Lakeland; and Tiffany Thompson, who was born and raised in Cherry Hill and has lived in Curtis Bay for the past three years.    Additional links/info below… Coal-Free Curtis Bay Facebook page Nicole Fabricant, University of California Press, Fighting to Breathe: Race, Toxicity, and the Rise of Youth Activism in Baltimore Nicole Fabricant, The Real News Network, “Opinion | CSX explosion in Curtis Bay should alarm Baltimore City and accelerate real change” Michael Middleton & Dr. Sacoby Wilson, Maryland Matters, “Commentary: Maryland deserves a better environmental justice bill” Chloe Ahmann, Baltimore Sun, “Curtis Bay residents deserve a coal-free future” Christine Condon & Dillon Mullan, Baltimore Sun, “Curtis Bay residents ask state to shut down South Baltimore CSX facility after study documents toll of coal dust” Aman Azhar, InsideClimate News, “On a ‘Toxic Tour' of Curtis Bay in South Baltimore, Visiting Academics and Activists See a Hidden Part of the City” Christian Olaniran, Adam Thompson, Caroline Foreback, CBS News, “Residents meet after air quality study reveals presence of coal dust in Curtis Bay” Permanent links below... Working People Patreon page Leave us a voicemail and we might play it on the show! Labor Radio / Podcast Network website, Facebook page, and Twitter page In These Times website, Facebook page, and Twitter page The Real News Network website, YouTube channel, podcast feeds, Facebook page, and Twitter page Featured Music... Jules Taylor, "Working People" Theme Song

The 2024 session of the Maryland General Assembly saw over 800 bills passed of the nearly 3000 filed. Sunil Dasgupta talks with veteran Annapolis reporters Josh Kurtz of Maryland Matters and Pam Wood of The Baltimore Banner about the successes, failures, and surprises from 90 days of legislative work under conditions of one-party rule. Music from Damascus, MD,-based rapper and music producer Cataclizm: youtube.com/@thereckoning301.

The Chesapeake Bay's watermen have long put food on the plates of restaurants and family dinners across the region. An often overlooked but crucial part of the Chesapeake Bay's history are the stories of Black watermen. Now there is discussion among these watermen and their advocates about a memorial and cultural center dedicated to their history. We speak with Vincent Leggett, the founder and president of the Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation. The nonprofit seeks to preserve and document the maritime history of African Americans on the Chesapeake Bay. We also speak to Clayton Mitchell Sr., who lives on the Eastern Shore and contributes commentary to news site Maryland Matters. (Original airdate: February 6, 2024) Photo by Will Parson, Chesapeake Bay Program. CC BY-NC 2.0 DEED.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sbdawes@wypr.org 410-235-1472

On today's Midday News Wrap, a discussion of the latest stories in Maryland's headlines. First, the race for Maryland's open U.S. Senate seat and the house races for congressional districts two, three and six. Tom speaks with Maryland Matters founder and editor Josh Kurtz about these consequential races. Then, Tom talks with WYPR reporter Emily Hofstaedter about a lawsuit the city of Baltimore has just settled with a ghost gun manufacturer and indictments regarding police officer misconduct. Email us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call us at 410-662-8780.

The Chesapeake Bay's watermen have long put food on the plates of restaurants and family dinners across the region. An often overlooked but crucial part of the Chesapeake Bay's history are the stories of Black watermen. Now there's been discussion among these watermen and their advocates about a memorial and cultural center dedicated to their history. We speak with Vincent Leggett, the founder and president of the Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation. The nonprofit seeks to preserve and document the maritime history of African Americans on the Chesapeake Bay. We also speak to Clayton Mitchell Sr., who lives on the Eastern Shore and contributes commentary to news site Maryland Matters. (Photo by Brian Witte, AP)Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sbdawes@wypr.org 410-235-1472

Tom is an experienced attorney and lobbyist with a specific focus on housing and community development. Tom's expertise in real estate and housing matters has been featured in numerous publications, including The Baltimore Sun, Money Magazine, Maryland Matters, and Greater Greater Washington. In 2021, Tom was recognized by The Daily Record as a "VIP: Successful by 40" honoree. His practice involves engagement with the leadership of state and local agencies, county government, and the Maryland General Assembly. Tom received a Juris Doctor from the Georgetown University Law Center and a Bachelor of Arts from Lycoming College. Tom serves on the Board of Trustees for the Maryland Science Center and the Board of Directors for the Baltimore Regional Housing Partnership.

State Senate President Bill Ferguson and House of Delegates Speaker Adrienne Jones sat down with Maryland Matters to give an overview of the session.

Lawmakers are gearing up for the new legislative session in Annapolis. On their minds: how to handle a budget shortfall of three-quarters of a billion dollars, and what spending cuts could mean for transportation and climate plans. We speak with Pamela Wood, who covers government and politics for The Baltimore Banner, and Josh Kurtz, founding editor of Maryland Matters. Read more:Maryland's budget math: $761 million shortfall predictedJuvenile justice among criminal justice reform topics up for discussion in upcoming legislative sessionMaryland offers road map for fighting climate changeMoore: 2024 will be ‘the year for military families'New plan for horse racing focuses on revitalizing Pimlico Race CourseDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sbdawes@wypr.org 410-235-1472

It was quite a year in local politics. Last spring, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser's longtime top aide resigned amid scandal; Congress blocked D.C.'s overhaul of its criminal code; and Arlington eliminated single-family zoning. Then, over the summer, Maryland legalized recreational marijuana, the District got a new police chief, Montgomery County passed rent control legislation, and the D.C. Council approved an emergency crime bill. The fall and winter had the District moving closer to gaining control of the RFK Stadium site, Prince George's County being selected as the new home for the FBI, and, finally, the Wizards and Caps announcing a plan to move to Alexandria. Our panel of reporters provides insight and analysis of the year that was and what might be in store in 2024. Josh Kurtz of Maryland Matters, Washington Post's Teo Armus, and WAMU reporter Jenny Gathright join us. We also sit down with Arlington County Board Chair Christian Dorsey to talk about the vote this week that makes ranked choice voting a permanent fixture in county elections. And we ask what's next for the long-time board member after he steps down from the role at the end of this year. 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 Follow us on Facebook:facebook.com/thepoliticshour

In deep blue Maryland, pro-Palestinian tweets from immigrant rights group CASA led to widespread condemnation from elected leaders and exposed divisions within the state and local Democratic Party. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Josh Kurtz, editor of Maryland Matters, to find out about the progressive-centrist division in Maryland Democrats and what it means state and local politics. Music from Rockville singer-songwriter Andrew Glor and his band Drew Pictures: drewpicturesmusic.com. Local area nonprofits tell their stories and pitch for your support:  Community FarmShare The Civic Circle Friendship Place MoCo Pride Prom Montgomery County Special Olympics MoCoPAAN Urban Adventure Squad

After the Covid-19 public health emergency ended in May, millions of Marylanders have faced challenges with resuming Medicaid eligibility, according to reporting by Maryland Matters. Danielle Brown of Maryland Matters joins Tom to explain in-depth the challenges for Medicaid users and the Maryland Department of Health.Email us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call us at 410-662-8780.

Join the conversation with C4 and Bryan Nehman as they discuss how the first month of school has been going in Baltimore County, how the superintendent is settling into her role, and what her goals are for Baltimore County Schools with new Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers, Baltimore City Schools had their MCAP scores leaked which said that 40% of city High Schools have a 0 percent proficiency in math. Also, a Maryland Matters article suggests the voting age should be lowered so kids younger than 18 can vote. Good Idea or Bad Idea? C4 and Bryan Nehman live every weekday from 5:30-10:00 a.m. ET on WBAL News Radio 1090, FM101.5, and the WBAL Radio App.

Parts of the Blueprint for Maryland's Future are starting to show up in families' lives: like thousands of new slots in pre-K. Tutoring to help pupils read at grade level. We speak with Maryland Matters reporter William J. Ford and to Brit Kirwan, chancellor emeritus of the University System of Maryland, who led the charge for the Blueprint. Links:Blueprint board could approve ‘majority' of school system plans next monthBreaking down the Blueprint: Major changes ahead as Maryland plans dramatic expansion of early childhood educationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

VALUE FOR VALUE Thank you to the Bowl After Bowl Episode 246 Producers: Sharky, harvhat, cbrooklyn112, Seedubs, RevCyberTrucker, piranesi, Boolysteed, Boo-Bury, Wiirdo, Phifer, Anonymous, MakeHeroism, Lavish, Eastside Tony Intro/Outro: Broken Mirror (Nail in the Coffin) - False Finish Millennial Media Offensive x Behind the Sch3m3s Episode 151: Five Bucks A Tit ON CHAIN, OFF CHAIN, COCAINE, SHITSTAIN Mempool Accelerator demo (Nitter) Strike expansion (Bitcoin Magazine) Bitcoin Design / EttaWallet (No BS Bitcoin) Pakistan announces fresh ban on crypto, but adoption as a hedge remains popular (Coin Desk) Bitcoiner.Guide noKYC Only / RoboSats A husband hid $500k in Bitcoin during a divorce, got busted by a crypto hunter (CNBC) YOU CAN GET 50,000 SATS with this Fold card referral link KC Bitcoin and Coffee Beers with Bitcoiners JUNE 24: Kansas City Bitcoin Bloc Party TOP THREE 33 Only 33% of Americans approve of Biden's handling of the economy, new poll finds (Fortune) US Golf Association announces 33 additional US Open exemptions (PGA Tour) Married couple gets 33 months in prison in Tallahassee strip club shooting (Tallahassee Democrat)   BEHIND THE CURTAIN DEA likely to schedule delta-8 (Vicente) based on Terrence Boos slideshow at DEA Supply Chain conference National Institute on Drug Abuse is providing $1.5 million in funding to research psilocybin and ayahuasca as drug addiction treatment (National Institute of Health)  "I was sprayed with boiling Ayahuasca water by Amazonian shaman" - Xiaomanyc (YouTube) American workers testing positive for pot reaches 25-year high (The Wall Street Journal) Outrage grows over video of California officer shooting tethered dog (SF Gate) Illegal grow site cleaned up in Death Valley (National Park Service) Illinois awards Metrc track-and-trace government contract (GlobeNewswire) IL regulators being sued by social equity pot transporters over failure to address unlicensed delivery operations (Illinois News Joint) 42 pounds of pot found at Overton Brooks VA Center (Louisiana) (KTAL News) MD Gov. Wes Moore allowed a bill to prevent police from using the smell of pot as justification for searching people or vehicles to become law without his signature (Maryland Matters) and signed a bill making it so parental pot use will not be construed by state officials as child neglect Minnesota legalization bill lands on Gov. Tim Walz's desk (CBC) Gov. Walz signs omnibus bill including legalizing possession of drug paraphernalia, small amounts of drug residue, syringe services and testing Lawmakers ask for reconsideration of legal opinion on poll override of marijuana revenue bill veto (Daily Montanan) Nebraska activists submit complementary medical bills (Marijuana Moment) New York City's Administration for Children's Services faces federal racial discrimination lawsuit after taking newborn over pot use (The New York Times) Helena, OH approves decriminalization ballot measure to (Marjuana Moment) Suspect caught with 160 pounds of illegal pot because it "pays better" (KFOR) Curaleaf agrees to $100,000 class action payout over THC labeling mix-up (MJ Biz Daily) Oregon lawmakers send Gov. Tina Kotek bill to give lessons on fentanyl, fake pills and good Samaritan laws to middle and high schoolers Federal appeals court dismisses case against deputy who filmed alleged forced baptism of woman caught with a roach (Chattanooga Times Free Press) Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee nominates Cannabis Control Commission members (Governor.RI) Under threat of a $10K-per-day fine, Rhode Island pot company takes down billboards (The Providence Journal) Couple accused of smelling like weed kicked out of Memphis eatery, racial discrimination suit says (NBC) Singapore hangs 2nd citizen in 3 week for trafficking pot despite calls to halt execution (The Associated Press) METAL MOMENT RevCyberTrucker is keeping on with Mandatory Metallica Month with Frayed Ends of Sanity. FIRST TIME I EVER... Bowlers called in to discuss the First Time They Ever went to a bonfire. Next week, we want to hear about the First Time YOU Ever were the oldest person in the room. FUCK IT, DUDE. LET'S GO BOWLING. German surgeon fired after getting janitor to assist amputation (AP) 88 koi fish stolen in Maryland community (FOX) Pet fish fee at Kansas City complex an 'error' (FOX) British couple taking sailing lessons off Moroccan coast attacked by orcas (Fox) Feedbag 'glitch' sends friend requests to profiles visited by users (FOX) Oklahoma man charged with AirDropping nudes to strangers (FOX) Missouri man credits cow with helping him accomplish decade-long fishing goal (FOX) Officials investigate mysterious disappearance of 30-ton shipment of explosive chemicals (FOX) CA man killed helping ducks cross road (KCRA) Patrol officers recover 3 stolen Hyndai vehicles, arrest suspects in Charles County, Maryland (CCSO.US)

The 445th session of the Maryland General Assembly came to a somewhat chaotic close at midnight Monday night. With minutes left until the stroke of midnight, former minority leader Del. Nic Kipke, a Republican from Anne Arundel County, engaged in a heated conversation with Speaker of the House Adrienne Jones. All 10 of the bills put forward by the state's newly elected Governor Wes Moore, passed, although with some changes. The signing ceremony for one of Gov. Moore's signature initiatives, the Fair Wage Act, is taking place at this hour. That's the measure that will accelerate the timetable for the minimum wage to reach $15 an hour.Over the past 90 days, lawmakers considered more than 2,000 bills, passing more than 600 into law. Tom's guests today are two seasoned veterans of the State House press corps: We begin with Josh Kurtz, the founding editor of Maryland Matters, the independent online news journal that covers Maryland politics and government. Josh Kurtz joins us on Zoom.  Later in the hour, Tom talks with WYPR News Director Matt Bush. Matt Bush is at the State House in Annapolis and joins us on our digital line.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Josh Kurtz of Maryland Matters joins Nestor for a discussion about where The Free State goes under Democratic control and Wes Moore

Kelsey Ko is a Korean-American psychology graduate student, former educator, and writer living in Baltimore. The pursuit of collective liberation, healing, and human connection guides her work. During her time as an English teacher in Baltimore City Public Schools, she strove to center social-emotional learning and trauma-informed practices in the classroom and to also help future generations tap into their own creative potential. She has also advocated for policy issues impacting students, such as digital equity, with Baltimoreans for Educational Equity. Kelsey's writing and work has been featured in The Atlantic, Baltimore Magazine, and Maryland Matters.  The Truth In This ArtThe Truth In This Art is a podcast interview series supporting vibrancy and development of Baltimore & beyond's arts and culture. Mentioned in this episode:Kelsey Ko To find more amazing stories from the artist and entrepreneurial scenes in & around Baltimore, check out my episode directory. SPONSORSDoubledutch Boutique: Boutique featuring a curated selection of modern, retro-inspired women's designer clothing. Check out the shop's gifts for holidays for him/her, including items from local makers and new modern lines from abroad and as well as vintage treasures by going to doubledutchboutique.com ★ Support this podcast ★

All four of the victors in statewide races here in Maryland made history last night. Governor-elect Wes Moore became only the third African American to be elected Governor in the United States, and the first Black man to lead our state. His running mate, Lt. Governor elect Aruna Miller, is the first immigrant to be elected statewide. Anthony Brown will be Maryland's first African American Attorney General, and Brooke Lierman will become the state's first woman to be installed as Comptroller in January. None of their victories were unexpected. Election-denying candidates backed by former President Donald Trump in MD fared poorly, as did Trump-backed candidates in Pennsylvania, but other races here and across the country are still too close to call. Today on Midday, recapping and reflecting on the midterms with two keen political observers: Jayne Miller, a veteran reporter who retired this past summer after more than 40 years as an investigative journalist with WBAL-TV. She is with us here in Studio A. And Josh Kurtz, the founding editor of Maryland Matters, a leading online journal covering news across the state. He joins us on Zoom. What's your take on the elections? What issues were most important to you?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a dead heat in the race for Anne Arundel county executive, and on the Eastern Shore, Maryland's lone Republican congressman faces a progressive challenger. Days before early voting starts, we talk politics with Maryland Matters founding editor Josh Kurtz. Then, at the bottom of the Baltimore City ballot - questions about police and an underground conduit system. We break down some ballot questions with Baltimore Sun reporter Emily Opilo. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harford County Executive Barry Glassman, a Republican, has served in public office for 32 years straight. Now he's running for comptroller, the only one of the three Republicans campaigning  statewide who is not a fan of Donald Trump. Glassman is counting on his moderate philosophy and hands-on budget experience to draw voters from the middle, and maybe the left.. We ask about his priorities if elected, his plans to update the comptroller's office  … and where he differs from his progressive Democratic opponent's broad policy agenda: “You'd see me more working on the primary duties of a fiscal manager than a partisan or someone that's going to be a little more active in various issues that I think are outside of the purview of the comptroller.”  Links: Barry Glassman for Comptroller, Maryland Matters article, MDElections2022.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maryland Matters' Bruce DePuyt explains the rifts in Maryland's Republican party. In Montgomery County, Natali Fani-González is the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination for the newly created District 6 seat on the council. She joins us to talk about what a majority-female council could mean for the county. And D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson talks about gun violence, the breakup of a government agency, and monkeypox.

Maryland Matters's Bruce DePuyt joins Kojo and Tom to about the Maryland primary results across the state, as well as in Montgomery and Prince George's counties. Democratic nominee for state comptroller Brooke Lierman talks about her win. Plus: Virginia State Sen. Adam Ebbin (D-Alexandria) talks about the future of marriage equality in Virginia.

One of the longest and weirdest primary election campaign season is over. In this low turnout election, more than a half a million people requested mail-in ballots, and not one of them has been counted. A Maryland law, unique in the country, requires that election officials wait until tomorrow at 10:00 in the morning to start counting the ballots in the form that most voters chose to cast them. So, on this morning after, what do we know, and what do we know that we don't know? We do know that this was an unprecedented election in many respects, and to reflect on that we're delighted to be joined by two great friends who have spent more than a few years observing Maryland politics. Josh Kurtz is the founding editor of Maryland Matters. Jayne Miller is an award-winning investigative reporter at WBAL TV 11. Jayne has announced that she's retiring from WBAL TV at the end of this month, after after more than 40 years at the station. In today's final segment, she talks with Tom about her long career covering Baltimore, and what's next.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2022 Session of the Maryland General Assembly came to a close last night in Annapolis, at midnight, with most of the business of the legislature wrapped-up before Sine Die and the bang of the final gavel. Governor Larry Hogan called this year's session the best he's had in his eight years in office. Senate President Bill Ferguson agreed that it was successful. He described it as “historic.” At this hour, Governor Hogan is holding a bill signing ceremony at the State House in Annapolis in which he will sign 79 bills into law. Several others will become law without his signature, and many will become law as a result of overrides of the Governor's vetoes. Joining Tom first to discuss some of the key legislative achievements of the session is Delegate Luke Clippinger, a Democrat who represents Baltimore City and the 46th District, and who chairs the House Judiciary Committee. Del. Clippingerjoins us on Zoom. Then, Tom turns to Josh Kurtz, the founding editor of Maryland Matters, the online news journal covering Maryland politics and government, for more wide-ranging analysis of the 2022 session. Mr. Kurtz, a veteran journalist and State House-watcher, also joins us on Zoom. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maryland's new map of congressional district boundaries has Governor Hogan's approval, "This is a huge win for democracy and for improvement in the process, and now we're going to have fair maps and fair elections in this election cycle." Governor Hogan signed the new map into law yesterday afternoon. This is lawmakers' second attempt; their first map was rejected by a circuit court judge for giving Democrats an unfair advantage.Josh Kurtz, founding editor of Maryland Matters, gets us up to speed. But first, the legislative session ends Monday. WYPR'sJoel McCord fills us in on what lawmakers have accomplished - a path to legal cannabis, action on climate change - and what's left to tackle. Read more on redistricting:Legal battles over Maryland's redistricting maps endSpecial Magistrate Says Court of Appeals Should Deny Challenges to Maryland's State Legislative Map See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the eve of Giving Tuesday and the holiday season, join The Friday Reporter in making a contribution to a robust media operation -- created by the great Josh Kurtz.  Josh has nearly 35 years journalism experience, and with his experience he built Maryland Matters which is an online news outlet that covers state government and state politics.  As a non-profit news organization they rely on the support of their readers - and advocates like us - to keep their effort advancing.  Join me in making a contribution to Josh and his team to show your support.  Up until December 31, up to $1000 in donations will be doubled!Listen in to learn more.  

On this weeks episode we had the pleasure of being in the presence of one of the Baltimore's own, Alanah Nichole . She is the epitome of all that black women offer the world. The writer, creator, and future philanthropist is one of many faces of Baltimore's art scene that deserve notice. She sat down to talk to us about her fund raising, community outreach, arts & culture, and her career in social design and soo much more. She is truly a woman of the people. Alanah has been featured in everything from Maryland Matters to the Baltimore Sun. She entered the chat and dropped some gems. https://linktr.ee/alanah/ >>> @aight_sooboom Your host: --------->>>> @larutaN_Beauty & @dre2x___ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/aightsooboomthepodcast/support

The world is a much different place than it was last week, when we first started preparing for this episode. On Wednesday, a violent mob breached the U.S. Capitol in a deadly attempt to stop the certification of Joe Biden's election as America's 46th president. The attack occurred one day after two Democrats won runoff elections in Georgia, giving their party a majority in the U.S. Senate. We talked this week with Maryland's junior senator, Chris Van Hollen, about the violence at the capitol, the new congress, the new administration, and the impact of COVID-19 on Maryland. Later this week, the Maryland General Assembly will convene for an extraordinary session ― with desks surrounded by plexiglass, a House chamber annex, empty hallways and virtual bill hearings. Maryland Matters editor Josh Kurtz discusses what can be expected this session – from the logistics to the legislation.

Marylander Tom Perez has been the head of the Democratic National Committee since 2017 and his term will soon expire. After the party united to elect Joe Biden this fall, we talk to Perez about the party's future, its successes during his term – and the ground Democrats lost in the U.S. House and other down-ballot races in 2020. In an interview with Maryland Matters reporter Bennett Leckrone last week, Perez said he's taking a “long view” of how the Democratic Party is doing. And the election of Biden, coupled with the Democratic governors elected during his term, means the party has a bright future. We also talk to Perez about his own future plans once his term at the DNC expires in a couple of months. Later in the podcast, Maryland Matters reporter Elizabeth Shwe ventures out to southern Maryland to catch up with Thomas McLain – “Mac” – Middleton, who represented Charles County in the Maryland Senate for 24 years. Middleton was the only full-time farmer left in the General Assembly when he was upset by Arthur Ellis in the 2018 Democratic primary. During this holiday season, Middleton and his son, Brett, have been swamped with selling Christmas trees and decorations from their farm, Middleton Manor Farms, which has been in the family since the 1660s.

For many politicians, fundraising isn't their favorite part of the job, but its necessary. And during the COVID-19 pandemic, the issue has become more fraught than ever. Instead of crab feasts and soirees, many lawmakers this year turned to virtual events with pay-as-you-can price tags. Maryland Matters reporter Danielle Gaines caught up this week with one lawmaker who's making the most of quarantine with a series of creative online fundraisers. And we like to end our podcast on a bit of a lighter note, and it didn't take long for Maryland Matters editor Josh Kurtz to find a way to bring the Beatles into this mix. He chats with an Eastern Shore lawyer with a familiar name – and they both claim to be the state's biggest Beatles fan.

Brandon Scott is a “son of Baltimore.” Born and raised in Park Heights, Scott says he was drawn to run for public office in the city when he was a child and watched the world descend on his neighborhood for a horse race once a year, when every other day he and his friends and family struggled for basic needs, like heat or AC in their schools. “It changes you,” Scott said. And now, Scott, Baltimore's youngest mayor in more than a century, will helm a city in the midst of great change. Former Mayor Catherine Pugh left city hall in scandal a year-and-a-half ago. In the wake, the city council and Scott proposed a series of governmental reforms, all overwhelmingly approved by voters at the polls. Maryland Matters' Bennett Leckrone caught up with Scott about his win and plans for governing earlier this week. We also check in with Maryland Matters Editor Josh Kurtz about the news of the week, including other election outcomes, Maryland Republicans' attitudes on the presidential race, what the 2021 General Assembly session will look like, the loss of another top public health official in state government, and, on a lighter note on this Friday the 13th, a tally of the fate so-called unlucky bill numbers.