As part of a weeklong series of stories, we’re marking 50 years of Home Rule in the District.  President Richard Nixon signed the Home Rule Act on December 24, 1973 granting D.C and its residents to right to elect its own local government, which they did in November 1974. But Home Rule was and remains limited. For example, D.C. still does not have voting representation in Congress. Historian and co-author of Chocolate City: A History Of Race And Democracy In The Nation’s Capital George Derek Musgrove gets behind the mic to discuss the compromises that led to the passage of the Home Rule Act. He will be joined by Arrington Dixon, who was elected to the very first D.C. Council to talk about what it was like to take on this historic responsibility. Then, WAMU’s criminal justice reporter Jenny Gathright will discuss how today’s political moves to limit D.C.’s autonomy follow an old playbook. Finally, President of the D.C. Young Democrats and co-founder of 51 for 51 Jamal Holtz talks us through the fight for D.C. representation in Congress and what comes next for D.C. self-governance. Could statehood be on the horizon? 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

D.C. Councilmember Brooke Pinto’s hefty Secure DC crime bill is moving forward, after being approved by the Public Safety and Judiciary committee last week. Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White joins the show to discuss his thoughts and critiques of the bill. Plus, Councilmember White discusses a potentially new ticket amnesty program, emergency rental assistance, and a controversial recent appearance at a protest. A report released this week suggests Montgomery County Public Schools did not do an adequate job of investigating claims of sexual harassment by a school principal. This came a day after Superintendent Monifa McKnight said the school board had asked her to resign. Montgomery County Councilmember and Education and Culture Committee chair Will Jawando weighs in. Earlier this month Councilmember Jawando pulled a bill that would have phased out tipped minimum wage by 2028. The councilmember explains why and what comes next. 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

The Virginia General Assembly’s 2024 session is in full swing as lawmakers consider legislation on casinos, cannabis, and data centers. State Senator Adam Ebbin (D-39) joins the show to discuss what’s on the docket in Richmond. Plus, we get his thoughts on the proposal to move the Wizards and Capitals to a new arena in his district in Alexandria. The Prince George’s County Council reconvened this week with a budget shortfall and potential spending cuts at the top of its list. Washington Post reporter Lateshia Beachum gets behind the mic to walk us through what to watch for from the council. Plus, who might be planning a run for County Executive? Metro’s budget crisis has the entire region on edge with big service cuts potentially in store. The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Executive Director Clark Mercer talks with Kojo and Tom about how local leaders are banding together to prevent this from happening. 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

Ward 2 D.C. Councilmember Brooke Pinto introduced a hefty new crime bill this week. The legislation is over 90 pages long and includes provisions pulled from other recently proposed public safety legislation. It’s a direct response to the still-high crime rates in the city. Pinto joins us in the studio to walk us through the bill and explain why she thinks it will help curb crime in the District. Plus, what’s next for Gallery Place and Chinatown with the Wizards and Caps likely leaving Capital One Arena? The Virginia General Assembly went back into session this week. Governor Glenn Youngkin’s budget, Metro funding, and approvals for the new Alexandria arena are all on the docket. WAMU’s Northern Virginia reporter Margaret Barthel breaks it down for us. The Montgomery County Council swore in a new president last month and is already setting sights on a big legislative agenda. MoCo 360 politics reporter Ginny Bixby gets behind the mic to tell us what to expect from the Council this year. Plus, county lawmakers were front and center as Maryland opened its General Assembly session. Bixby was there and shares the sights and sounds from the first day. 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

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser says the city will provide funding for additional SNAP benefits, ending a month-long saga between her administration and D.C. Council. Last month, Mayor Bowser argued the extra revenue from city taxes to increase SNAP benefits was needed for other city services. This decision went against D.C. Council-passed legislation that required her to do so. Then, earlier this week, a resolution supported by several Council members started kicking around that suggested the D.C. Council could sue the Mayor for not adhering to the law. After Legal-Aid D.C. also threatened suit this week, Bowser’s administration changed course. At-large D.C. Councilmember Robert White joins the show to walk us through what happened and why he supported a potential lawsuit against the Mayor. Plus, he explains why the partial reaccreditation of D.C.’s beleaguered crime lab is a big deal. The Maryland General Assembly heads back into session next week and huge transportation cuts, budget concerns, and juvenile justice reforms are all on the docket. Maryland State Senator William Smith, who represents Montgomery County, comes into the studio to discuss his priorities for the upcoming legislative session. 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

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

It’s been a big news week. On Wednesday, Virginia officials and Monumental Sports announced a region-shaking deal to move the Washington Wizards and Capitals from D.C.’s Capital One Arena to a new complex to be built in Alexandria’s Potomac Yard neighborhood by 2028. The announcement left D.C. officials reeling, and some local sports fans happy, others very unhappy. Virginia state Senator and soon-to-be Majority Leader Scott Surovell discusses what the proposed deal could mean for Alexandria and the General Assembly’s role in all of this. Metro unveiled its budget earlier this week, proposing massive service cuts as a budget crisis looms. The closing of Metro stations, eliminating bus routes, layoffs, and fare hikes are all on the table if Metro does not receive the additional subsidies from D.C., Maryland, and Virginia it’s asking for. General Manager Randy Clarke joins the show to lay out what’s needed to avoid the catastrophic cuts. Finally, controversy continues to swirl around the General Services Administration’s decision last month to relocate the FBI headquarters to Maryland. This week, a U.S. House hearing was held where an FBI official again questioned the process in which the Greenbelt was chosen. Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks weighs in and explains why she thinks Prince George’s County is the right place for the FBI headquarters. 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

It’s been a big news week. On Wednesday, Virginia officials and Monumental Sports announced a region-shaking deal to move the Washington Wizards and Capitals from D.C.’s Capital One Arena to a new complex to be built in Alexandria’s Potomac Yard neighborhood by 2028. The announcement left D.C. officials reeling, and some local sports fans happy, others very unhappy. Virginia state Senator and soon-to-be Majority Leader Scott Surovell discusses what the proposed deal could mean for Alexandria and the General Assembly’s role in all of this. Metro unveiled its budget earlier this week, proposing massive service cuts as a budget crisis looms. The closing of Metro stations, eliminating bus routes, layoffs, and fare hikes are all on the table if Metro does not receive the additional subsidies from D.C., Maryland, and Virginia it’s asking for. General Manager Randy Clarke joins the show to lay out what’s needed to avoid the catastrophic cuts. Finally, controversy continues to swirl around the General Services Administration’s decision last month to relocate the FBI headquarters to Maryland. This week, a U.S. House hearing was held where an FBI official again questioned the process in which the Greenbelt was chosen. Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks weighs in and explains why she thinks Prince George’s County is the right place for the FBI headquarters. 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

We are talking land use this week on The Politics Hour. A major vote on a massive data center in Prince William County is set for next week. The issue has split local Democrats and will have huge ramifications on the future of the suburban county. Virginia state Senator-elect (and current Delegate) Danica Roem joins the show to weigh in on data centers and what the Board of Supervisors should be doing with the land. Plus, the Democratic sweep in the Virginia General Assembly elections last month has the local party making big legislative plans. Sen.-elect Roem gives us a preview of the upcoming session. The Alexandria City Council voted to eliminate single-family-only zoning as part of its "Zoning for Housing" plan with the goal of boosting the city's housing supply. City Councilmember John Chapman gets behind the mic to discuss why, despite voting in favor it, he still has some reservations. And Councilmember Chapman tells us what's being done to keep schools and students safe. 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

This week, the public weighed in on D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser's latest crime and policing bill. D.C. Council Chair Phil Mendelson was there for the hours of testimony. He joins us in the studio to give his thoughts about the issue and what comes next. Plus, the Washington Teachers Union is urging the school system to come back to the table for contract negotiations. We ask Chairman Mendelson what the Council can do to get the two sides to agree on new terms. A judge ruled earlier this week that a Montgomery County gun law that bans the concealed carry of a firearm outside of one’s home or business is not allowed under state law.  The judge said he will issue a permanent injunction preventing the county from enforcing the provision. County Executive Marc Elrich joins Kojo and Tom in the studio to weigh in on the ruling. And a new council bill would loosen parking requirements for new housing developments. How might this legislation tackle two pressing problems at once? 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

Late last week, the General Services Administration announced it had selected a site in Prince George's County as the new home for the FBI headquarters. This decision didn't sit well with many Virginia elected officials, who were angling to have Fairfax County be the FBI's new home. U.S. Senator Mark Warner tells us why he's calling for an investigation into the selection process. Plus, the federal government once again narrowly avoided a federal shutdown. We ask Sen. Warner what impact these constant shutdown threats are having on the commonwealth's federal workforce. A new bill introduced in the D.C. Council this week would prevent property owners with histories of housing code violations from renting to tenants. WAMU's Housing and Development reporter Morgan Baskin joins the show to break down the legislation. As thousands this week rallied on the National Mall in support of Israel, Montgomery County officials are responding to an immigrant rights organization's recent statements about the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Montgomery County Council Vice Chair Andrew Friedson is in studio with Kojo and Tom to give his thoughts. Plus, new legislation would require public restrooms in the county to supply free menstrual products. 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

It's a jam-packed week as we dive into the ramifications of this week's Virginia elections and the announcement that the FBI headquarters is planning a move to Prince George's County. This week, word came that federal officials had chosen a site in Greenbelt, Maryland to be the new home of the FBI headquarters. It's a decision that's been years in the making and has sent shockwaves through the local political landscape. Long-time U.S. Representative Steny Hoyer has advocated for years to bring the headquarters to Prince George's County. He joins Kojo and Tom to discuss the news. Virginians went to the polls on Tuesday and voted to give Democrats full control of the General Assembly. The outcome is a major blow to Gov. Glenn Younkin, who campaigned hard for a Republican "trifecta" in Richmond. WAMU's Northern Virginia reporter Margaret Barthel breaks down what it all means. Then, the Chair of the Virginia Democratic Party Susan Swecker is in studio to tell us why she thinks Virginia Democrats had such success at the polls this year. Finally, data centers were at the top of voters' minds this week in Prince William County. Deshundra Jefferson was a big winner there, campaigning against the massive Prince William Digital Gateway project. The Prince William County Board of Supervisors Chair-elect joins the show this week to discuss her victory and the county's future. 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

Control of Virginia’s legislature is up for grabs as residents head to the polls next week. All 140 seats in Virginia’s General Assembly are on the ballot this year. Currently, Republicans hold the House of Delegates, and the Democrats narrowly control the state senate, but that could change after Tuesday’s elections. The outcome could have major implications for abortion rights, tax cuts, statewide educational reforms, and climate policies throughout the commonwealth. WAMU’s Northern Virginia reporter Margaret Barthel gives us a preview of what’s at stake. Plus, how will early voting impact the results? As more cannabis dispensaries open in Maryland, Prince George’s County is weighing whether to restrict where they can operate. The state is paying close attention and deciding if it should intervene. Prince George’s County Council Vice Chair Wala Blegay joins Kojo and Tom to discuss the potential legislation and what it might mean for the cannabis industry in the county. Plus, a new bill will require many apartment buildings to install surveillance cameras as the county looks to curb crime. 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

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has unveiled her latest crime bill to address increasing violent crime in the city. The legislation calls for rolling back some police reforms and reinstating temporary “drug-free zones.” D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb is responsible for prosecuting many of the crimes committed in the District. He joins us to share his thoughts on the proposal and what it would mean for his office. Plus, why D.C. and 41 other states are suing the social media giant Meta and how the largest environmental settlement in the District’s history came to be. A recently published investigation from WAMU’s Criminal Justice reporter Jenny Gathright found that some D.C. police officers worked so much overtime they became the city’s highest-paid employees, even out-earning the Mayor. Gathright sits down with Kojo and Tom to discuss her reporting. And, she also weighs in on the Mayor’s public safety legislation and the chances it will be approved by the D.C. Council next month. 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

It’s now Alexandria’s turn to debate new zoning rules with the goal of building more housing. A proposal on the table would eliminate single-family zoning, much like what Arlington did earlier in the year, among a number of other changes. Mayor Justin Wilson joins the show to discuss his thoughts, why it’s so controversial, and when a proposal could be passed. Plus, what Alexandria is doing to mitigate flooding that’s become so frequent in the city. The debate over eliminating the tipped minimum wage has gotten heated in Montgomery County in recent days. Council President Evan Glass takes a seat behind the mic to talk about why the proposed legislation elicits such strong emotions. And last month, the Montgomery County Council passed the Safe Streets Act. Glass explains why this is a big deal and how it will help keep pedestrians safe on county roads. 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 recent months, Metro has not only increased the frequency of trains, but is now expected to start offering 24-hour bus service on more than a dozen routes starting in December. This comes despite a looming financial crisis as the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) faces a $750 million budget gap. Metro General Manager Randy Clarke joins the show to discuss this balancing act. Plus, what more can be done to stop fare evasion? The terrorist attacks in Israel and the resulting war have emotionally impacted many locals, with vigils and memorial services taking place across the region this week. WAMU's Immigrant Communities reporter Héctor Alejandro Arzate attended one at Meridian Hill Park, where more than a hundred people gathered to say the Mourner's Kaddish, a Jewish prayer for the dead, and mourn for lives lost in Israel and Palestine. He talks with Kojo and Tom about what he saw and heard. Plus, a look at how officials in the region are responding to the events in the Middle East, including added security at local places of worship. 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

It’s an all-Maryland Politics Hour this week. In Montgomery County, councilmembers continue questioning school leaders about an ongoing investigation into a school principal who was promoted despite sexual harassment allegations. At-Large Councilmember Gabe Albornoz sits down with Kojo and Tom to discuss. Plus, a new stricter gun law took effect in Maryland this past weekend, but a federal judge had already struck down parts of it. We ask Councilmember Albornoz his thoughts and how it compares to legislation he introduced last year. Prince George’s County is considering a bill that would increase the minimum wage for tipped workers, following other local jurisdictions. Councilmember Edward Burroughs introduced the legislation and will join the show. And a bill that will allow councilmembers to vote virtually finally passed, but not without some controversy and political debate. We get Councilmember Burroughs‘ take on it all. 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

Acting D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith testified before the D.C. Council’s Judiciary and Public Safety Committee earlier this week, kickstarting the process to confirm her as the next chief. This comes as D.C. hit a tragic milestone, logging its 200th homicide at the earliest point in the year in more than a quarter of a century. Smith joins Kojo and Tom to discuss her plan to address crime in the District. A federal shutdown Oct. 1 is looking more and more likely. It could wreak havoc on the local economy and lead to many lower-wage federal contractors not being paid.  WAMU/DCist Northern Virginia reporter Margaret Barthel discusses the local political ramifications and why Virginia might be most at risk during a federal government shutdown. 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

The D.C. Council is back from summer recess and lawmakers are debating a wide variety of bills. That includes legislation about crime, dangerous drivers, and ebikes. Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen joins the show to discuss a number of his own bills, as well as his thoughts on what his colleagues are proposing. Plus, a bill extending D.C.’s lease on the RFK Stadium site is moving forward in Congress. Does that mean a new home for the Washington Commanders is next? We ask Allen about the possibility of a new football stadium and why it could be years before we see any development on the site. A federal shutdown appears to be looming and the impact on this region could be massive. U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-Virginia) talks with Kojo and Tom about what is being done to prevent it and what locals can expect if a shutdown happens. Virginia Rep. Jennifer Wexton announced her retirement earlier this week because of a recent medical diagnosis. We ask Sen. Kaine his thoughts, including the political ramifications of the open seat. 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

Violent crime in D.C. continues to increase at a rate the city hasn’t seen in decades. It’s left locals shaken and officials looking for answers. Because of the District’s unique status, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Matthew Graves is the one who prosecutes most adult crimes in the city. He joins Kojo and Tom to discuss how his office manages prosecutions, why they chose not to prosecute many who’ve been arrested, and what else can be done. Plus, the D.C. Council is back this month with a hefty legislative session on its docket. WAMU/DCist reporter Colleen Grablick joins the show to break down a number of the major bills the Council is taking up this session. Those include legislation addressing public safety, increasing penalties for dangerous drivers, and improving the availability of affordable housing. 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

The Politics Hour is returning to class as we check in with several local school officials as the new year begins. As enrollment at Arlington public schools continues to increase, there’s pressure to build more schools in the county. Superintendent Francisco Durán joins the show to discuss how he’s managing that. Plus, earlier this summer, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin released guidelines on how to treat transgender and nonbinary students. We ask how the district is responding to the state-issued policies. COVID rates are again ticking up in the region, with positive cases leading some schools to return to mask mandates. Montgomery County Public Schools Superintendent Monifa McKnight sits down with Kojo and Tom to talk about it. Keeping students safe from on-campus violence is also at the top of many locals’ minds, particularly in light of a fight that broke out after a football game at a Montgomery County high school this past weekend. We ask McKnight what the county is doing about that. 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

Multi-million-dollar development along Metro’s Blue Line. The possible arrival of the FBI headquarters. FedEx Field’s future as the home of the Washington Commanders. Prince George’s County could see a lot of change in the coming years. County Executive Angela Alsobrooks joins the show to talk about the future of Prince George’s County, as well as her own. After protracted negotiations, there appears to finally be a deal on Virginia’s budget. Both sides are claiming victory in a process that was somewhat secretive. Virginia Mercury’s Sarah Vogelsong breaks down the deal for us, what we know and don’t know about what’s in the budget, and how it might impact our region. An unusual dry spell may force the District to pull drinking water from backup reservoirs for the first time in over a decade. WAMU’s environment reporter Jacob Fenston talks with Kojo and Tom about what this means, how local government might manage this potential crisis, and how climate change plays into the current situation. Plus, Fenston tells us about what it was like to be one of the first to taste the lab-grown chicken that is currently being served at one local restaurant. 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

Gun violence continues to claim more lives in the District. In 2023, 161 people have been murdered in the city – a 28% increase over this time last year. It’s prompted Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White to call for the National Guard to be potentially brought in. He joins the show to talk about the violence that has wreaked havoc in his ward and why he thinks the National Guard might be the answer. Just three months ago, Representative Gerry Connolly’s staff members were attacked in his office. He talks to Kojo and Tom about how he and his staff are recovering and have dealt with the trauma of that day. Before becoming a Congressman, Connolly was Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. He discusses how a lack of a state budget can severely impact a county’s budget. Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donate Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.org Follow us on Facebook:facebook.com/thepoliticshour

It’s been an eventful first seven months in office for Maryland Governor Wes Moore. Cannabis became legal in the state. The Washington Commanders were finally sold and are exploring the possibility of moving from FedEx Field. A decision appears to be coming soon on where the new FBI headquarters might go. Education reform is being implemented across the state. Governor Wes Moore joins Kojo and Tom to discuss all of that and more. While Moore is early in his political career, Virginia State Senator Dick Saslaw is set to retire at the end of the year from his post as Virginia State Senate majority leader after more than five decades. But before that happens, the long-time state senator remains in the middle of tense state budget negotiations. We talk to Senator Saslaw about those negotiations, reaching across the aisle, and his long career. Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donate Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.org Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thepoliticshour

On Thursday, a new bipartisan bill was introduced in the House that could be the next play in bringing football back to the District. The D.C. Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium Campus Revitalization Act would extend the land lease between D.C. and the federal government for another 99 years while also allowing the construction of a new stadium on the site. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has continued to be a fan of any effort to bring the team back to the District, while Council Chair Phil Mendelson has remained more skeptical. Both will join us on the show to weigh in on this bill and what comes next. The Montgomery County Council has approved a 6% rent cap increase after plenty of debate and compromise. The lead author of the legislation was Councilmember Natali Fani-González. She sits down with Kojo and our guest analyst Morgan Baskin to discuss how this compromise came to be, what it means for residents, and the next steps. Plus, a public hearing was held this week about pedestrian safety in the county. We ask Fani-González what can be done to keep locals safe while walking and biking in their communities. Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donate Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.org Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thepoliticshour

Metro is facing unprecedented challenges. A serious drop in ridership, infrastructure issues, and lack of dedicated funding have pushed the region’s public transportation system toward a fiscal cliff. A $750 million budget gap could lead to dramatic service cuts. Metro General Manager Randy Clarke joins us to discuss potential solutions, what’s needed, and his visions for the future. Plus, there are plans to potentially embark on the biggest rail expansion in decades. What could that mean for the region? It’s a momentous time for many fans: After years of speculation and turmoil, the Washington Commanders finally have new owners. The NFL approved longtime owner Dan Snyder’s sale of the football team to a group led by Montgomery County native Josh Harris for just over $6 billion. Washington Post sports columnist and author John Feinstein comes on the show to talk about what this means for fans, his years writing about the team, and what could come next for the football franchise. Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donate Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.org Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thepoliticshour

The D.C. Council passed an emergency public safety bill this week, legislation some think will help stem the increase in violent crime across the city. Others disagree. Councilmember Zachary Parker voted for the bill, despite some backlash due to his support. He joins Kojo and Tom to explain why he gave his vote to this legislation. Plus, the Council voted unanimously to have the city's inspector general review the recent sexual harassment investigation into former deputy mayor John Falcicchio. We ask Parker what it means and when the review might take place. With marijuana now legal in Maryland, a new bill is circulating in Prince George's County that would restrict where dispensaries can go. We talk to Councilmember Krystal Oriadha about why she introduced the legislation and her concerns about cannabis legalization. Plus, Prince George's County Schools are introducing new safety measures that will take effect when students return in the fall. We get Oriadha's take on the new rules, including requiring clear backpacks and installing metal detectors. Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donate Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.org Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thepoliticshour

Over the weekend, marijuana shops opened across Maryland as recreational sales become legal in the state. Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich joins Kojo and Tom to talk about how it has gone so far in the county, how the extra revenue might be used, and why he still has concerns about regulation. Plus, Montgomery County is contributing more than $190 million to Metro's budget. With the system falling off a fiscal cliff, Metro is asking for more money. We ask Elrich if the county can help pay the bills. One of the biggest upsets of last month's Virginia primaries was Stella Pekarsky defeating long-time State Senator George Barker. She joins us to explain how she did it and her agenda if she were to prevail in November. Plus, as a current Fairfax County School Board member, Pekarsky helps govern the largest school system in the Commonwealth. We ask her about the challenges Fairfax County Public Schools has faced in recent months regarding security, safety, and employee background checks. Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donate Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.org Follow us on Facebook:facebook.com/thepoliticshour

In the wake of recent sexual harassment revelations against a former deputy mayor, D.C. Councilmember Brianne Nadeau is introducing two bills aimed at changing how such cases against senior city officials are investigated. She joins Kojo and Tom to discuss the legislation and why it's needed. Plus, a public hearing was held this week for D.C. Mayor Muriel Bower's crime bill. Nadeau shares her thoughts and concerns about the much-discussed legislation. WAMU and DCist Criminal Justice reporter Jenny Gathright attended those public hearings on Tuesday. She explains what she saw and heard inside the Wilson Building. Does the wide-ranging bill stand a chance of passing? Plus, At-Large Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando tells us why he believes a proposed rent increase cap is still too high. Hundreds gathered outside of Montgomery County Public Schools offices to protest the lack of an opt-out policy for instruction using LGBTQ+ inclusive books. We ask the Councilmember his thoughts on the protests and how to deal with concerns. Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donate Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.org Follow us on Facebook:facebook.com/thepoliticshour

Virginia's primary elections were held this week after a campaign season that was full of drama and emotion. We wrap up everything that happened with WAMU Northern Virginia reporter Margaret Barthel. Plus, we get an update on how ranked choice voting went in the Arlington County Board race and when we might have the final results. One of the most closely-watched races was the one for Commonwealth's Attorney in Arlington and the City of Falls Church. The winner and incumbent Parisa Dehghani-Tafti joins Kojo and Tom to talk about why she thinks residents voted to give her a likely second term. Plus, what will her priorities be over the next four years as the county's top prosecutor? Perhaps the biggest upset on Tuesday was Saddam Salim defeating long-time lawmaker Chap Petersen for the Democratic nomination to vie for a seat in Virginia State Senate representing the 37th District.  We ask him about his unique path to the General Assembly and what locals can expect from him going forward. Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donate Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.org Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thepoliticshour

With a likely change in ownership, the Washington Commanders will soon accelerate their search for a new home. At-Large D.C. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie wants the team to return home to the District and move back to the RFK site. He tells Kojo and Tom why he believes this would be in the best interest of the team and the city. Plus, the Councilmember has again introduced a bill calling for reparations. And for the first time, the D.C. Council held a hearing about it this week. McDuffie explains why this is a big deal and what comes next. The Virginia primaries are next week and the races for all 140 General Assembly seats and local elected offices could determine the future of the Commonwealth. Washington Post reporter Teo Armus joins us with a preview of what to look for on Tuesday. Plus, how redistricting has made this year's elections unique and how Arlington's use of ranked choice voting for the first time could impact the race for County Board. A cherished member of the WAMU and local politics community passed away over the weekend. We remember Bruce Romer with thoughts from Kojo and Tom. Plus, memories from U.S. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger, who worked with Bruce Romer in Montgomery County. Become a member of WAMU: wamu.org/donate Send us questions and comments for guests: kojo@wamu.org Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thepoliticshour