Power & Politics: Democrats celebrate big wins, eyes turn to governing; Jeffries' historic rise
A blue wave reshaped the political landscape this Election Day, with Democrats not only holding on to the governor's mansion in New York but also making gains in key congressional races across the country.
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A blue wave reshaped the political landscape this Election Day, with Democrats not only holding on to the governor's mansion in New York but also making gains in key congressional races across the country.
Those victories could have major implications in Washington, where Democrats are poised to take control of the House and elevate New York Congressman Hakeem Jeffries to the Speaker's chair, potentially making history in the process.
One of the night's biggest upsets came in the Hudson Valley, where Democrat Cait Conley defeated two-term Republican Congressman Mike Lawler, flipping a closely watched congressional seat. Senior Political Reporter Tara Rosenblum spoke with Conley about her victory, her priorities for Washington, and what comes next as Democrats prepare to wield new power both in Albany and on Capitol Hill.
Conley discusses her upset victory over Mike Lawler, Democratic gains nationwide, the prospect of a Democratic-controlled House under Hakeem Jeffries, and the issues she plans to prioritize as a freshman member of Congress.
As Democrats prepare to take control on Capitol Hill, all eyes are on Brooklyn Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, who is poised to become the nation's first Black Speaker of the House.
Jeffries' historic rise is being celebrated across New York, particularly in the communities that helped shape his political journey. But supporters and elected officials alike say the significance of the moment extends beyond history-making.
They argue the new Democratic majority will now face heightened expectations to address issues ranging from affordability and housing costs to oversight of the Trump administration.
We take a closer look at what Jeffries' potential speakership could mean for New York, Washington, and the priorities Democrats say they hope to advance in the years ahead.
Natalie Hernandez visits Cornerstone Baptist Church in Brooklyn to hear reactions to Hakeem Jeffries' historic path to the House speakership. The piece also features Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Congressman Ritchie Torres, and political expert Chris Malone discussing what Democrats' election victories mean for affordability, housing, and the balance of power in Washington.
