This week, Mayor Zohran Mamdani made headlines with a YouTube livestream showing him eating Taco Bell and Dunkin', part of a "mukbang"-style push to spotlight enforcement actions against franchise owners accused of violating New York City labor laws, actions that could put hundreds or even thousands of dollars back into workers' pockets. At the same time, the mayor's plan to close a massive $5 billion budget gap also came into sharper focus. Political reporters Bobby Cuza and Kelly Mena, along with Statehouse reporter Bernadette Hogan, break it all down.

Then, the "Off Topic" team looks ahead to Albany's likely late state budget, where major policy fights over climate law deadlines, ICE-related measures and more are slowing negotiations. They also examine what those delays could mean for New York City funding and the rollout of class-size mandates.

This week, Mayor Zohran Mamdani took a step toward reshaping how the city handles people having mental health crises, creating an Office of Community Safety, aimed at shifting some 911 calls away from the police department. But Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch says the change will be limited, with most calls still handled by officers. Political reporters Bobby Cuza and Dan Rivoli, along with Statehouse reporter Bernadette Hogan, break down the mayor's vision and what it could mean in practice.

After that, St. Patrick's Day turned into a political challenge. City Hall waffled on parade plans, and Mamdani faced backlash for not weighing in about possible Irish reunification and comparing Ireland's struggle to Palestinians. The "Off Topic" team looks at how the annual parade continues to make political waves in New York.

Over the weekend, a far-right provocateur organized an "anti-Islam" protest outside Gracie Mansion, the residence of New York City's first Muslim mayor. During the demonstration, two counter-protesters allegedly threw improvised explosive devices toward the anti-Muslim demonstrators. Two men are now facing federal charges, including providing material support to a terrorist organization. NY1's investigative reporter Courtney Gross, political reporter Bobby Cuza and statehouse reporter Bernadette Hogan break down how Mayor Zohran Mamdani handled the crisis.

After that, the state Assembly and Senate released their big budget proposals this week. The "Off Topic" team explores what's included, what's left out and what it could mean for New Yorkers.