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Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where we'll have a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, another win for the Gateway Tunnel project after an Appeals court sided with New Jersey and New York, rejecting the Trump Administration's request to once again halt payments for the Hudson River tunnel. Plus, as the war in Iran continues, costs are rising here at home. We'll look at what's happening overseas and the global impact it's having. Also, Governor Sherrill announced a record spending plan for the state - driven in part by cuts from the federal government. And, school districts got their allocations today, according to the school funding formula. We'll look at who gained, and who lost.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Governor Mikie Sherrill joins us here in the studio fresh off her first budget address. We'll talk about her plan to put the state on the right fiscal track. Plus, travel has gotten a lot trickier these days, whether you're taking to the roads, the rails or the skies. Gas prices are soaring as the war between the U.S. and Iran continues to expand across the Middle East. Also, we get reaction from business and community leaders on what the Governor's proposed. And, we keep hearing about it - the school funding formula - what is it, how is it calculated, and how should it be reformed? We'll break it all down.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you coverage and analysis of Governor Mikie Sherrill's first Budget Address from the Statehouse in Trenton.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, as the war in Iran continues, unrest is hitting home. Two suspects are under arrest after an IED was thrown near New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's home on Saturday. Also, we get reaction from a University president whose family lives in Iran. Plus, what will Governor Sherrill cut? We'll look at her options as she prepares her first Budget Address. And, we talk with state Senate Republican leader Anthony Bucco about his party's proposals to balance the budget.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable, with a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, colleges across the state are feeling the pinch. Rutgers University's Athletic Department hit a $78 million dollar shortfall in fiscal year 2025. Plus, Congressional and Senate races are heating up - we talk with Alex Zdan the Republican candidate who's vying for U.S. Senator Cory Booker's seat and Jersey City's Mussab Ali who's running to replace Democratic Congressman Rob Menendez in the June primary. And, school districts across the state are strapped for cash - will there be any relief in Gov. Sherrill's upcoming budget?
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Governor Mikie Sherrill is scaling back a controversial Turnpike expansion plan, her administration has recommended that the New Jersey Turnpike Authority Board move forward with a complete rebuild of the bridge, but with two lanes on each, the same number of lanes that exist now. Also, the race to replace retiring Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman heats up in the 12th District- we talk with Democratic candidate Sue Altman. Plus, proposed reforms in the SAVE America Act could impact federal elections here in New Jersey. And, a new report looks at abortion access in the state since Roe v. Wade was overturned.
On this episode we're joined by Jordan Gass-Poore (GOSS-PO-ray). To try to pin down one job for Jordan is hard. She has 116 projects listed under experience on her LinkedIn page. One expertise is in podcast production and reporting on topics such as climate change and public health but she does plenty of written work too. She's a graduate of Texas State University with a Masters in investigative journalism from the University of London.Jordan talked about the path through many different jobs. We spotlighted a podcast about environmental hazards she conceived, narrated, and produced for NJ Spotlight News, a piece she wrote about what TV and movies gets wrong about having a parent in prison, and the journalist networking and media collective she's co-founded, Local Switchboard NYC.She also explained that as a freelancer, there's a lot of things she does beyond just doing the writing, and offered tips on producing and writing for audio. And she highlighted how journalism allows us to find connections with each other that we might not otherwise.Work examples:Hazard NJ Podcasthttps://www.njspotlightnews.org/podcasts/hazard-nj/What Movies And TV Get Wrong About Having A Parent In Prisonhttps://scalawagmagazine.org/2022/06/prison-movies-lies/Jordan's salutes: Michael Sol Warren, her former editor at NJ Spotlight News and now reporter at WNYCJamie Kraft, senior managing editor, NJ Spotlight NewsJoe Lee, NJ PBS general managerVernon Loeb, Inside Climate NewsYou can find all our episode guides for teachers and professors here,Please support your local public radio station: adoptastation.orgThank you for listening. You can e-mail me at journalismsalute@gmail.comVisit our website: thejournalismsalute.org Mark's website (MarkSimonmedia.com)Bluesky at @marksimon.bsky.socialSubscribe to our newsletter– journalismsalute.beehiiv.com
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a federal judge ruled against the Trump Administration in favor of New York's congestion pricing. Plus, as the Trump administration continues to strike Iran, some members of Congress are trying to reign in the President's war powers. Also, tough choices need to be made to balance the state budget, will those decisions impact New Jersey's business community? And, there's a new plan to fund the 988 Suicide and Crisis hotline - but will it pass the legislature?
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New Jersey is responding after President Trump, together with Israeli leaders, carried out major combat operations in Iran this weekend. Also, the state's facing a $3 billion dollar deficit, we talk with the Republican Budget Officer who's been warning of this for years. Plus, the Emergency Department at Heights Hospital is set to close in Jersey City. Local leaders says it's a critical service for the community. And, is your school district using proven methods to teach reading? Many aren't. We'll discuss why.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where I'll have a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, three children were hospitalized after a major car crash in Newark yesterday morning. The crash was the result of a car chase where ICE agents were pursuing a van that they had tried to pull over before the driver tried to escape. Plus, Congressman Rob Menendez is one of several federal lawmakers looking for ways to fight President Trump's immigration policies, he'll share how. Also, Republican state Senator Jon Bramnick holds nothing back on HIS take on the state's budget crisis and more. And, some foster kids in the state are facing a housing crisis, taking their situation from bad to worse, some foster kids in the state are facing a housing crisis… taking their situation from bad to worse, we'll take a look.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New Jersey's stance on ICE is facing blowback from the Trump Administration. This week - the Department of Justice sued the state and Governor Mikie Sherrill over her recent executive order that bars the federal government from using state property for any ICE actions. Plus, Sen. Andy Kim joins us for his take on President Trump's State of the Union address AND ICE's expansion into New Jersey. Also, Roxbury residents and advocates speak out about the warehouse that ICE purchased to convert into detention center - we'll hear from them. And, e-books are in high demand, but hear what local libraries are saying about the true cost of digital books, the numbers may surprise you.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the story of the day is the blizzard that blanketed the state with snow. We hear from Governor Mikie Sherrill on the state's response to the storm. Plus, lawmakers have a snow day today, but that's not why it can sometimes take years to pass a bill. And, New Jersey is facing a nursing shortage, we'll talk with the head of the state's nursing association about what can be done.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable with Joanna Gagis, where we have a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, an ongoing debate over an immigration detention facility in Roxbury has been creating confusion among state and local leaders. Plus, the funding has been restored, but has work started back up at the Gateway Tunnel project? We'll talk to the head of the Gateway Development Commission. Also, we get the latest from the State House on a series of bills aimed at protecting immigrant rights. And, from vaccine rates, to CDC changes and a possible new flu vaccine, we'll get you the latest from a health expert.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the Gateway Development Commission announced that it's received the full $205 million dollars from the federal government for the Gateway Tunnel project, and work is expected to restart as early as next week. Plus, we talk with Assemblyman Ravi Bhalla about his controversial bills responding to recent ICE actions in New Jersey. Also, service disruptions continue for NJ Transit riders as Amtrak switches service from the old Portal bridge, we talk to frustrated rail commuters. And, is the drinking water in Trenton safe? We'll take a look at the ongoing issues at Trenton Water Works.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, NJ Transit commutes were expected to be slower this morning because Amtrak has begun shifting service from the old Portal North Bridge to the new one. Plus, as the funding starts flowing for the Gateway Tunnel project, President Trump calls the project a “boondoggle” and promises to once again withhold it. Also, we get the latest from Washington over the partial government shutdown after a deal failed to fund the Department of Homeland Security. And, social media and youth mental health, we talk with one New Jersey lawmaker pushing a bill to strengthen online protections.
Tonight we're bring you a special edition of NJ Spotlight News, where our digital series "Painting Community" showcases the impact of murals in Jersey City.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable with Joanna Gagis, who has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, taking a close look at the local impact of the Gateway Tunnel Project's sudden work stoppage. Plus, the state's long-promised Stay NJ incentive program for seniors has finally started sending checks to eligible residents. Also, hockey star Elle Hartje of the New York Sirens discusses the growth of women's hockey. And, electric bills are expected to stay relatively flat in the coming year.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, an ICE agent fires a gun during an incident in Roxbury, as local pushback builds against federal immigration enforcement actions in the Garden State. Plus, immigration advocates urge Governor Mikie Sherrill and state lawmakers to take up immigrant protection bills that were vetoed by former Governor Phil Murphy. Also, NJ Transit chief Kris Kolluri apologizes for mass train cancellations this week. And, Republican state Sen. Holly Schepisi gives a GOP take on news around the state.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, progressive Analilia Mejia secures a stunning win over former Rep. Tom Malinowski in the Democratic primary for the race to fill Gov. Mikie Sherrill's former Congressional seat. Mejia will square off against Republican Joe Hathaway, who joined the show to discuss the upcoming special election. Plus, federal funding for the Gateway tunnel project remains frozen despite a recent court order to let the money flow, as a judge gives the Trump administration a chance to appeal. Also, state lawmakers renew debate over how opioid settlement funds should be spent in New Jersey. And, below freezing temperatures turns deadly as state officials report 20 deaths tied to cold weather around the Garden State in recent weeks.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New Jersey notches an early win in its fight with the Trump administration over billions in funding for the Gateway Tunnel Project. Plus, the Democratic primary in the race for New Jersey's 11th Congressional District seat is still too close to call, as progressive Analilia Mejia clings to a lead that could become a historic win. Also, Jersey City Mayor James Solomon sits down to discuss the $250 million deficit facing the state's second-largest city. And, a new push for school bus safety reforms.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable, where Senior Correspondent Joanna Gagis gives a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Senator Andy Kim sits down for a one-on-one conversation about the latest policy fights in Washington, D.C. and what they mean for New Jersey. Plus, breaking down the crowded Democratic primary in the special election to replace Mikie Sherrill in Congress. Also, Jersey City's new mayor raises alarms about a $250 million budget shortfall. And, this weekend's big game promises to be a big day for sports betting.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New Jersey and New York file to sue the federal government over frozen Gateway funds, we'll talk to the Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport about the lawsuit. Plus, President Trump signed the spending bills and ended the partial government shutdown on Tuesday, but the fight to reform DHS isn't over. And, with dozens of candidates running for Congress, we'll look at how the most competitive races are shaping up for 2026.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a new development in the Gateway Tunnel funding controversy, the Gateway Development Commission filed a lawsuit today against the federal government for freezing the Hudson Tunnel project funds. Plus, we talk with Hoboken Mayor Emily Jabbour about her city's response to this weekend's ICE raids. Also, New Jersey state Senator Joe Vitale is calling for a full and complete investigation into allegations made against President Trump that were recently released in the Epstein files. And, a federal judge has blocked a Trump administration rule that prevented members of Congress from making unannounced oversight visits at immigration detention centers.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, federal immigration enforcement over the weekend in Jersey City draws heavy criticism. Plus, the federal government is now in a partial shutdown due to a partisan fight over funding the Department of Homeland Security. Also, Lakewood leaders push back against a proposed state takeover of the town's schools. And, a coalition of wealthy towns asks the U.S. Supreme Court to block state mandates for affordable housing construction.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable with Joanna Gagis, who has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, volunteers brave bitter cold for an annual count of New Jersey's homeless population, and to bring direct help to those in need. Plus, deep division grips local government in Toms River. Also, the state pension faces new pressure to divest from the controversial tech company Palantir. And, Garden State officials take more action pushing back against federal immigration efforts.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the race to replace Gov. Mikie Sherrill in Congress heats up, and gets expensive quickly. Plus, state Sen. Vin Gopal explains why he wants to curtail the governor's clemency powers, after controversial actions by former Gov. Phil Murphy. Also, new laws to boost oversight of Garden State charter schools take effect. And, opposition grows against a proposal to turn a Roxbury warehouse into an ICE detention facility.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the Gateway Tunnel project is on the verging of grinding to a halt as the Trump administration continues to withhold federal funding. Plus, New Jersey's most vulnerable residents are threatened by the bitter cold gripping the state. Also, uncharted territory for Garden State Republicans, with the party still reeling from heavy losses in November's elections. And, the state's largest water utility is seeking to raise rates in order to pay for critical infrastructure improvements.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the Garden State is is recovering after being rocked by a major winter storm. Plus, Rep. Rob Menendez sits down to discuss funding for immigration agencies, as the nation reels from another American citizen shot dead by federal agents in Minneapolis. Also, New Jersey breaks new ground in women's health by requiring insurers to cover menopause care. And, dozens of former inmates sue over alleged inhumane conditions at the Mercer County jail.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable with Joanna Gagis… who has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, recent federal immigration raids across New Jersey are raising tensions and concerns in communities across the Garden State. Plus, taking a look at the budget challenges facing Gov. Mikie Sherrill. Also, Father Ed Leahy reflects on lessons learned in his decades of leading St. Benedict's Prep in Newark. And, bracing for a major weekend winter storm.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, newly sworn in Governor Mikie Sherrill signs a slate of executive orders on day one. We'll tell you what they are and the impact on you. Plus, New Jersey's Senior U.S. Senator Cory Booker is weighing in on how to curb the Trump administration's hardline immigration actions. Also, growing criticism over immigrant protections-or lack of them- in the state. And, Governor Murphy's final hours in office included signing hundreds of bills, with others left on the table. What does it mean as New Jersey turns the page?
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a historic moment in New Jersey as Mikie Sherrill took the oath of office becoming the 57th Governor of the state.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable with Joanna Gagis… who has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Jefferson Township residents sound the alarm as school budget woes raise the specter of possible cuts. Plus, state officials move to takeover Lakewood public schools/ Also, a new report highlights "time bombs" in the state budget that Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill will have to address. And, outgoing NJ Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette sits down to discuss his tenure as the Garden State's top environmental official.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Governor Phil Murphy weighs whether to sign a package of bills aimed at protecting New Jersey's immigrant communities, as President Donald Trump's mass deportation campaign intensifies. Plus, looking back on Murphy's legacy as governor, and the situation that Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill will inherit. Also, a conversation with Assemblywoman Katie Brennan, one of the most high-profile new lawmakers in the State House. And, final approval is granted to a planned merger between Kean University and New Jersey City University.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, reflecting on the legacy of Governor Phil Murphy as he delivers his final State of the State address.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, remembering the legacy of former Governor Richard Codey. Plus, state lawmakers hold marathon votes on the final day of the legislative session. Also, protests against federal immigration action rise up around New Jersey. And, an executive order from Governor Phil Murphy restores jury eligibility for hundreds of thousands of formerly convicted people.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable with Joanna Gagis, who has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the killing of an American citizen in Minnesota by a federal immigration officer sparks outrage in New Jersey and around the nation. Plus, the days are numbered for cell phones in Garden State schools, after Gov. Phil Murphy signs a law directing school districts to crack down on screen time in the classroom. Also, new reporting from NJ Advance Media raises alarms about the soaring salaries for executives of group homes that serve disabled adults. And, Christine Hanlon, the new chair of the New Jersey GOP, sits down to discuss the state of the Republican Party in New Jersey, and her vision for its future.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Sen. Andy Kim sits down to discuss the latest news out of Venezuela, after receiving a classified briefing on the situation from Trump administration officials. Plus, evaluating the impact of New York City's congestion pricing program a year after the tolls took effect. Also, state lawmakers propose new relief for New Jersey's iconic diners, as the cultural touchstones close around the state. And, traffic deaths plummet across the Garden State.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New Jersey hit a historic low for gun violence in 2025. Governor Murphy, Attorney General Matt Platkin and other state leaders today announced the third straight year of record declines since the state began tracking shootings. Plus, chances are you or someone you know has had the flu, we have the latest from experts on what's behind the surge and whether you should still get the flu vaccine. Also, the CDC has revised its recommendations for kids and vaccines, we'll hear from New Jersey's Department of Health on advice for parents. And, major moves being made in Trenton to offer more protections for immigrants – what's next for the bills?
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin sits down for an exit interview as his tenure comes to an end. Plus, local outrage over a reported Trump administration plan to use warehouse space in Roxbury Township as an ICE detention center. Also, Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill announces her pick for the next state treasurer. And, remembering the late Congressman Dick Zimmer.
Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we are bringing you a special edition of the broadcast, showcasing the newest inductees at the New Jersey Hall of Fame.