I Hate Politics Podcast

Will The Washington Post Now Stop Endorsing in Local Races? Nov 01, 2024

Owner Jeff Bezos unexpectedly stopped the editorial board of the newspaper from endorsing Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential race. What happened and what will be the consequences? Sunil Dasgupta talks with former Post columnist and Metro Editor Robert McCartney. Music from Washington DC rock ‘n’ roll band 7 Door Sedan.

I Hate the News Oct 29 Oct 29, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Washington Post’s decision not to endorse a presidential candidate in this year’s election leads to subscription cancellations. But another institution, the Maryland Democratic Party, went the other way, stepping into nonpartisan school board races. The charged political atmosphere looks like it will increase turnout. We have the latest local voting numbers. And more. Music from Washington DC post-punk band Grey Swift.

Delmarva's First Offshore Wind Farm Gets Closer to Approval Oct 25, 2024

The first offshore wind farm on the Delaware-Maryland-Virginia coast, off Ocean City, Maryland, has received FERC approval and has submitted an application to Maryland's public utility regulator. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Jeff Grybowski, CEO of US Wind, the project developer, about what it takes to build infrastructure in the United States. Music from Washington DC rock ‘n’ roll band 7 Door Sedan.

I Hate the News Oct 22 Oct 22, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: If you can’t knock on doors or phonebank, writing political postcards to voters might be helpful and give you purpose. Business associations and labor unions sue Montgomery County over upcoming rule to ban gas appliances in new construction. The company tasked with building a new high-voltage power transmission line from Baltimore to Frederick releases route information to continued opposition. And more. Music from Washington DC post-punk band Grey Swift.

The Fight Against Fake News, Misinformation, and Disinformation in Elections Oct 18, 2024

American elections are run by states where election administrators are recruiting the public to fight against fake news, misinformation, and disinformation while having to reassure the same public that the franchise is secure. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Maryland’s election administrator, Jared Demarinis, about the challenge even in a deep blue state. Music from Washington DC rock ‘n’ roll band 7 Door Sedan.

I Hate the News Oct 15 Oct 15, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: A conflict-of-interest story drops into Maryland’s US Senate race. The Montgomery County Muslim Council releases election recommendations with no choice between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. The first ever UMBC state politics poll. And Maryland Housing Secretary Jake Day weighs in on the meaning of democratic input in housing policy and a new plan to deal with vacant homes in Baltimore City. And more. Music from Washington DC post-punk band Grey Swift.

25 Years After Electricity Deregulation, A Call to Return to State Intervention Oct 11, 2024

With electricity rates expected to go up significantly, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Frederick Hoover, Chair of Maryland’s Public Service Commission, about the consequences of power deregulation and need for the state to step back into the investment planning process now in the hands of an independent entity tasked with managing the 13-state regional grid from New Jersey to Illinois. Music from Finster.

I Hate the News Oct 8 Oct 08, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: A year after the Oct 7 attack on Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza and Lebanon, American institutions struggle to meet the moment. How the incrementalist approach to zoning reform may be holding back the housing affordability agenda. Less than 30 days to the November 5 elections, we have dates and deadlines. And more. Music from Washington DC post-punk band Grey Swift.

Maryland Teacher Uses Comedy to Take on Moms for Liberty Oct 04, 2024

Sunil Dasgupta talks with Baltimore area school teacher and comedian Alexa Sciuto who has become a TikTok star by lampooning Moms for Liberty, the anti-public education group which has been attacking teachers countrywide. Find her on TikTok @scooteredu. Music from Finster.

I Hate the News Oct 1 Oct 01, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Arlington County judge strikes down new zoning law allowing more housing. Gaithersburg approves a new redevelopment plan for Lakeforest Mall. Reform Jews for Justice members from around the country gather in Washington DC to protest the ongoing and expanding Gaza War. Musicians from Washington DC’s own National Symphony Orchestra went on strike last Friday with surprisingly quick results. Unions come to cannabis stores. And more. Music from Washington DC post-punk band Grey Swift.

The Long and Continuing Fight to Save Public Education Sep 27, 2024

With school boards around the country under attack from right-wing extremists, a veteran Silver-Spring based education reporter and author, Karen Chenoweth, has founded a resource to help school board candidates and school board members fight back. Sunil Dasgupta talks to Chenoweth about her website democracy-education.org and her mission. Music from Finster.

I Hate the News Sept 24 Sep 24, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Delmarva beaches reopen after cleaning, but who dumped medical waste and garbage into the ocean? What is the effect of rent stabilization law housing supply? A new paper has startling conclusions. Two-thirds of Maryland 18-year-olds are registered to vote, a report finds. Washington DC area bikeshare service shows sustained growth. MCPS leans into choice programs. Music from Washington DC post-punk band Grey Swift.

Civil Liberties and Drone Policing Sep 20, 2024

In 2023, Montgomery County, Maryland, began using drones to respond to 911 calls for faster response, triaging ability, and cost reduction. But big issues of privacy, mass surveillance, and transparency remain. The courts are redefining old assumptions about privacy in public spaces and a decade ago shut down an aircraft-based mass surveillance program in Baltimore. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Jay Stanley, senior policy analyst in speech, policy, and technology at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) about emerging concerns about drone use in policing. Music from Finster.

I Hate the News Sept 17 Sep 17, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Medical waste and plastic garbage wash up on mid-Atlantic Delmarva shores, closing beaches. The DC Auditor’s Office releases a bombshell report on police officer shortage in the city. Three DCPS fourth-graders join us to talk about their campaign to get the red-backed salamander as Washington DC’s official amphibian. Music from Washington DC post-punk band Grey Swift.

Why Are Delevelopers Not Building More? Sep 13, 2024

One way of solving the problem of housing affordability is to build more, but developers are holding back. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Wooldridge of the NRP Group, a top 10 developer of multifamily housing in the US, and Brian Anleu, of the Apartment and Office Building Association, about their complaints regarding rent stabilization and new building energy standards they argue must be eased to encourage more building. Music from Finster.

I Hate the News Sept 10 Sep 10, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: DC and Maryland Attorneys General sue 3 Rockville gun shops for straw gun sales. Maryland House Environment and Transportation Committee Chair Marc Korman reacts to the state’s capital budget draft for transportation projects. Fairfax County to start a bus route from Tysons to Bethesda. Montgomery County announces partnership with Instacart to deliver groceries to families who fall in the SNAP-gap. MCPS launches girls flag football. Game schedule: https://t.ly/C7Cd6. Music from Washington DC post-punk band Grey Swift.

How Teacher Professional Development Works Sep 06, 2024

To mark the new school year, Sunil Dasgupta dives into professional development with MCPS teachers: Danielle Affinito of Farquhar Middle School, Rehana Ahmed of Hoover MS, and Daniel Ottalini of Redland MS. What is teacher PD? How does it work? What is the latest thinking on pedagogy and how teachers can use and harness AI? Music from Finster.

I Hate the News Sept 3 Sep 03, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Maryland Supreme court blocks the “baby bonus” and tax cap referendum questions from the ballot. Washington Metro reopens Red Line between Glenmont and Takoma Park stations after summer closure. EPA releases stormwater discharge analysis for the Chesapeake Bay and only Washington DC and West Virginia of the 7 jurisdictions in the watershed passed comfortably. And more. Music from Washington DC post-punk band Grey Swift.

The Kamala Switch Aug 30, 2024

The tenth-hour switch to bring in Kamala Harris as the presidential candidate was a breathtaking power play by the Democratic Party. In contrast, the Republican Party has been unable to remove Donald Trump even when party leaders have said that the former president is a threat to the party. Sunil Dasgupta talks with UMBC Political Science Professor Tom Schaller about the role of political parties in this moment. Music for this episode comes from Alexandria, Virginia, alt-rock band, Jackie and The Treehorns.

I Hate the News Aug 27 Aug 27, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Washington Metro and the National Education Association, NEA, the country’s biggest union, reach labor contracts with their own unions. Metro to reopen the Glenmont Red Line section as planned September 1. Three Maryland leaders get primetime speaking roles at the DNC, one of them Angela Alsobrooks is tied in a close race against former state governor Larry Hogan. The MCPS superintendent Thomas Taylor has a music video for the new school year.

The Fiscal Dilemma Facing Maryland Aug 23, 2024

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.

I Hate the News Aug 20 Aug 20, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Falling for COVID-19 for the first time in four years. Maryland Department of Health ends grant program supporting wastewater testing as nation and region experience worst summer Covid wave in two years. Rental commission rules change: Buyers must negotiate fee with their own agents instead of depending on the seller’s offer. Music from Silver Spring band The Airport 77s.

Reforming Maryland's Referendum Process Aug 16, 2024

Aside from president and senator, the most important votes in Maryland this November will be ballot questions. In Montgomery, a ballot question could reduce the possible tenure of the county executive from 3 to 2 terms. In Baltimore, the mayor and city council are suing to keep the “baby bonus” question off the ballot while other petitions want to cap property taxes and reduce the size of the city council. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Andy Ellis, who as a Green Party activist and a Baltimore Charter Commission member, has developed a keen understanding of the politics of referendums in the state. Music for this episode comes from Alexandria, Virginia, alt-rock band, Jackie and The Treehorns.

I Hate the News Aug 13 Aug 13, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Tropical Storm Debby brought needed rain to the DC region which has been on drought watch, but also flooded low-lying areas of Old town Alexandria, by the Kennedy Center and the Watergate Building in Washington; and Dock Street in Annapolis. The NEA, the largest union in the country, has locked out its own staff for six weeks now. Rockville Mayor and Council of end discussion on a new rent stabilization bill prompting one councilmember to pen an oped about how he changed his mind; MCPS welcomes 42 special education teachers from the Philippines, the first big batch hire in the school district. And more. Music from Silver Spring band The Airport 77s.

Where Do Taxes Come From? Aug 09, 2024

No one likes to pay taxes. We do because we must. Governments raise taxes in infinite ways to meet seemingly unending demands from the people. With many states and local governments headed toward a few years of fiscal imbalance, Sunil Dasgupta asks Michael Sanderson, Executive Director of the Maryland Association of Counties, about where local and state taxes come from? Music for this episode comes from Alexandria, Virginia, alt-rock band, Jackie and The Treehorns.

I Hate the News Aug 6 Aug 06, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Persistent dry spell leads to drought watch in the Washington DMV area. Local governments ask residents to conserve water. Fortune Magazine declares Silver Spring In Montgomery County, MD, to be the best place for families to live in all of the United States. Wallet Hub declares Maryland to have the third best public education system in the country. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Laurie Halverson of Potomac, Cara Fletcher of Germantown, and Eric Weissman of Takoma Park about community and community-building from three different perspectives. Music from Silver Spring band The Airport 77s.

Ben The Innocent Aug 02, 2024

In 1988, Benjamine Spencer, a young black man in Dallas, TX, was wrongfully convicted of the murder of Jeffrey young, a young white man, the son of a prominent Ross Perot supporter, by prosecutors trained by Henry Wade, the Wade in Roe v Wade. Washington DC journalist and author Barbara Bradley Hagerty, whose 2018 reporting led to Spencer’s release has now written a book, Bringing Ben Home, (https://a.co/d/6w5uHll) and talks with Sunil Dasgupta about the case and its implications. Music by Alexandria alt-rock band Jackie and the Treehorns.

I Hate the News July 30 Jul 30, 2024

Maryland and Washington DC are reporting high levels of Covid in wastewater but not Pennsylvania and New York. Montgomery County expands a subsidy program for companies renting office space in the county. Frederick City to become the second locality in Maryland to adopt ranked choice voting. Quince Orchard High School to ban smartphones, but how will this be enforced? And more. Music from Silver Spring band The Airport 77s.

Unboxing Government Procurement Jul 26, 2024

The government from city and county to state and federal is one of the biggest buyers of goods and services in any modern economy, but government procurement is often accused of being corrupt and wasteful. Sunil Dasgupta asks former chief procurement officer of Baltimore City, Erin Sher Smyth, to unbox the vast, byzantine, and changing world of government buying from police body cameras to cybersecurity. Music by Alexandria alt-rock band Jackie and the Treehorns.

I Hate the News July 23 Jul 23, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Biden withdraws reelection bid; endorses Harris. What does it mean for Blue State Democrats who would win regardless? Montgomery County school board members work full-time but are paid for part-time work. Former MCPS Superintendent Josh Starr weighs in on the role of the board. UMD pays $500K to settle a federal complaint that it did not disclose foreign grants from Chinese telecom firm Huawei. Baltimore sues progressive group over a ballot question to give parents $1,000 for every newborn/adoption Laid off DCist employees start a new local news website, The 51st. Music from Silver Spring band The Airport 77s.

Balancing Development and Infrastructure Jul 19, 2024

If zoning laws tell you what to build where, the Adequate Public Facilities Ordnance tells you when you can build. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Montgomery County Planning Department’s Lisa Govoni, who is leading the county’s 2024 reevaluation of adequacy measures of school and transportation needs and capacity. Lots of impact taxes, exemptions for impact taxes, and the impact on housing affordability. Music by Alexandria alt-rock band Jackie and the Treehorns.

I Hate the News July 16 Jul 16, 2024

Washington Metro rationalizes its bus network, but at what tradeoff? MD looks at holding back third graders who don’t read at grade level. VA Governor Youngkin orders new rules in place to remove cell phones from classrooms by Jan 2025. NEA, the country’s largest union, locks out its own staff union. Music from Silver Spring band The Airport 77s.

New Teachers Union Prez Says Budget Transparency Can Blunt Cuts Jul 12, 2024

After a tumultuous few years, Montgomery County Public Schools is going through big leadership changes and the general elections in November may bring more. Among them is the new president of the teachers’ union, MCEA: David Stein, a veteran math and statistics teacher in Montgomery Blair High School’s famed STEM program. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Stein about how he sees the challenges ahead for MCPS and for public education. Music by Alexandria alt-rock band Jackie and the Treehorns.

I Hate the News July 9 Jul 09, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: What do the responses to a new community survey from MCPS tell us? Harford County, MD, withdraws an AP African American studies course. A crowded field of candidates seeks to replace former Prince George’s County Councilmember Mel Franklin; illegal fireworks destroys Aspen Hill home; he really short water boil advisory in DC and Arlington; a glut on pianos on local listservs and Buy Nothing groups. And more. Music from Silver Spring band Airport 77s.

Finding DC's Lost Streams Jul 05, 2024

As Washington DC developed and grew, the many streams and water bodies that made up and fed the marshes around the Potomac River, became hidden, buried, and even regraded. Sunil Dasgupta talks with cartographer, historian, and graphic designer David Ramos about his project to identify lost streams and how this information can help daylight streams, direct urban planning, and revive the memories of water. See maps at https://imaginaryterrain.com. Music by Alexandria alt-rock band Jackie and the Treehorns.

I Hate the News July 2 Jul 02, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: 18 yo transgender former MCPS student, Alex Ye, charged with threatening mass violence at school, is denied bond. New poll finds Alsobrooks 10 points ahead of Hogan in MD’s US Senate race. MD Governor Moore finally ends debate over Baltimore’s Red Line: will it be light rail or buses. Minimum wages go up in Maryland and Washington DC. Montgomery County has really low unemployment, high office space vacancy, and dramatically rising home values. And more. Music from Silver Spring band Airport 77s.

Should the County Executive be Limited to Two Terms? Jun 28, 2024

Term limits are a voter favorite. In 2016, a successful ballot question led by Robin Ficker led to council members and the county executive being limited to three consecutive terms. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Reardon Sullivan, former Republican county executive candidate from 2022, about his signature petition for a ballot question reducing the current term limit period to two terms. Music by Alexandria band Jackie and the Treehorns.

I Hate the News June 25 Jun 25, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: MD Senator Jeff Waldstreicher on his 2023 criminal record expungement bill following the Governor’s mass marijuana pardon. Baltimore sues soda and snack giants for plastic pollution. Prince George’s County opposes VDOT’s plan to turn unused transit space on Wilson Bridge into express lanes. DC Public Service Commission turns down a new $700 million gas pipeline proposal. Montgomery County Animal Shelter reopens for adoption after 6 weeks of canine flu. And more. Music from Silver Spring band Airport 77s.

Sami Saeed’s Frustrations with School Safety in MCPS Jun 21, 2024

In November 2023 the Montgomery County Board of Education passed a School Safety Resolution sponsored by the Student Member of the Board Sami Saeed. But MCPS had not made any progress by April 2024. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Saeed about his frustrations over getting MCPS to act. Music from Silver Spring musician and writer Jon Brayton who performs as Myster Treefrog.

I Hate the News June 18 Jun 18, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: MD Governor Wes Moore pardons 175,000 criminal convictions for marijuana possession. MCPS appoints new superintendent. Montgomery County and Washington DC find money in existing education budgets to avoid the worst cuts. New noise pollution signs go up in downtown Silver Spring but enforcement remains unclear. Drought conditions temper the impact of the summer’s first heat wave. Music by Rockville singer-songwriter Andrew Glor and Drew Pictures.

What Should the State Do on Housing? Jun 14, 2024

This year the Maryland state government waded into housing affordability policy with three bills, one of which controversially sought to preempt local zoning authority. What can and should the state really do on housing? Sunil Dasgupta asked Maryland House Majority Leader David Moon and former Montgomery County Planning Board Chair Casey Anderson. Music from Silver Spring musician and writer Jon Brayton who performs as Myster Treefrog.

I Hate the News June 11 Jun 11, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Montgomery County Public Schools may furlough instead of laying off staff; Prince George’s County introduces permanent rent control; Baltimore County passes new law to stop developments if schools are overcrowded; commuter reports from the first week of Metro Red Line; and what’s it like inside a tornado. Music for this episode comes from Rockville singer-songwriter Andrew Glor and his band Drew Pictures.

The County Sells Your Tax Debt Jun 07, 2024

What happens when you don’t pay your property taxes? Sunil Dasgupta talks with Montgomery County’s Finance Director Micahel Coveyou, the organizer of the upcoming June 10 delinquent tax sale, about the law, the process, and the outcomes of dealing with property tax debt. Music from Silver Spring musician and writer Jon Brayton who performs as Myster Treefrog.

I Hate the News June 4 Jun 04, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Montgomery County Public Schools announces school-specific cuts; a new grant seeks to bring back driver’s ed to public schools in Maryland after 30 years; a plan to cut 1,200 trees to allow upgrading an old golf course in Rock Creek National Park sparks outrage; and much more. Music for this episode comes from Rockville singer-songwriter Andrew Glor and his band Drew Pictures.

Inside David Trone's $60m Senate Campaign May 31, 2024

Congressman David Trone’s campaign for Maryland’s US Senate seat was one of the most expensive races in the country and yet his rival Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks won. Sunil Dasgupta talks with the Trone campaign political director Michelle Ngwafon about the twists and turns and the lessons from a lost race. Music from Silver Spring musician and writer Jon Brayton who performs as Myster Treefrog.

I Hate the News May 28 May 28, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Montgomery County, MD, Board of Education and County Council play hot potato over the 2024-25 school budget as the teacher’s union and program beneficiaries mount protests. Federal court in Baltimore allows the estate of Henrietta Lacks to sue a company that used her stem cells without consent. City of Rockville looks at moving its big annual Memorial Day music festival back to its downtown. And shutting down a high school greenhouse for the summer. Music from SoulTet and Capital Effect playing at Rockville’s Home Town Holidays.

Did you Miss the GIS Revolution in Local Government? May 24, 2024

Electronic mapping and the databases that drive it–together known as Geographic Information System or GIS–have revolutionized how local government works from street repair to summer camps. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Yeon Kim, the founding manager of the GIS unit for the City of Gaithersburg, about the impact on municipal services, public information, and decision-making in city hall. Music from Damascus, MD,-based rapper and music producer Cataclizm: youtube.com/@thereckoning301.

I Hate the News May 21 May 21, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Montgomery County Council President Andrew Friedson on criticism of the new 2024-25 budget passed last week. Maryland Public Service Commission Chair Fred Hoover on getting tough with retail energy suppliers. Primary election numbers with Gilberto Zelaya of the County Board of Elections. Canine flu outbreak continues in the local animal shelter. Music from Doogie Whittaker and the Lonesome Mile.

We Love Consequential Primaries May 17, 2024

Maryland’s 2024 primary election featured never before money, some wide open races, political establishment reassertion, and scandals looming over local races. I Hate Politics Assistant Producer Daniel Gelillo talks with UMBC history professor Andrew Nolan and UMBC political science professor and regular host Sunil Dasgupta to draw out lessons from the recent polls. Music by Washington DC post-punk band, Grey Swift.

I Hate the News May 14 May 14, 2024

Maryland Primary Day 2024; what early voting yielded for turnout. Student protests in the Washington DC region die down and Congress holds hearings on antisemtism in schools including in Montgomery County. City of Rockville asks the regional Transportation Planning Board to remove the I-270 toll lane project from the list for studying air quality impacts while Virginia seeks to add toll lanes on Woodrow Wilson Bridge in space designated for transit. Music from Doogie Whittaker and the Lonesome Mile.

Brenda Diaz for Board of Education: Candidate Interview May 10, 2024

2024 Primary Election Candidate Interview with former MCPS teacher Brenda Diaz, now a challenger running for the Montgomery County Board of Education in District 2. All eligible voters can cast their choice for all school board races. You can find interviews with other candidates in the I Hate Politics library on all major streaming platforms. Music for the episode are two piano compositions from Kensington resident Adam Bobrow.

I Hate the News May 7 May 07, 2024

The problem of web-ballots in elections; what happens when a candidate using public campaign funds decides to quit; Northwood High School students come together to protest the school board’s decision to leave them without an auditorium and athletic fields; and the Washington Metro workers union protests discussions about wage freezes in their management’s talks with government officials. Music from Doogie Whittaker and the Lonesome Mile.

Sarah Elfreth for Congress: Candidate Interview May 03, 2024

2024 Primary Election Candidate Interview with State Senator Sarah Elfreth from District 30 now running for Congress in Maryland’s Third District, which is centered on Howard and Anne Arundel counties. The MD3 race is a crowded field. You can find interviews with other candidates in the I Hate Politics library on all major streaming platforms. Music for the episode are two piano compositions from Kensington resident Adam Bobrow.

Terri Hill for Congress: Candidate Interview May 02, 2024

2024 Primary Election Candidate Interview with State Delegate Terri Hill from District 12A now running for Congress in Maryland’s Third District, which is centered on Howard and Anne Arundel counties. The MD3 race is a crowded field. You can find interviews with other candidates in the I Hate Politics library on all major streaming platforms. Music for the episode are two piano compositions from Kensington resident Adam Bobrow.

Natalie Zimmerman for Board of Education: Candidate Interview May 02, 2024

2024 Primary Election Candidate Interview with MCPS second-grade teacher Natalie Zimmerman, now a challenger running for the Montgomery County Board of Education in District 2. All eligible voters can cast their choice for all school board races. You can find interviews with other candidates in the I Hate Politics library on all major streaming platforms. Music for the episode are two short original piano compositions from Kensington resident Adam Bobrow.

Clarence Lam for Congress: Candidate Interview May 01, 2024

2024 Primary Election Candidate Interview with State Senator Clarence Lam from District 12 now running for Congress in Maryland’s Third District, which is centered on Howard and Anne Arundel counties. The MD3 race is a crowded field. You can find interviews with other candidates in the I Hate Politics library on all major streaming platforms. Music for the episode are two piano compositions from Kensington resident Adam Bobrow.

I Hate the News Apr 30 Apr 30, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Student protests at George Washington University shows evolving demands; underlying the DC budget certification drama is the age-old tension between fiscal prudence and popular spending; a new report calls for expanding tree canopy around schools; and more. Music from the GWU protests.

Rita Montoya for Board of Education: Candidate Interview Apr 29, 2024

2024 Primary Election Candidate Interview with PTA leader, lawyer, and public school mom Rita Montoya who is a challenger for the at-large seat on the Montgomery County Board of Education. All eligible voters can cast their choice for all school board races. You can find interviews with other candidates in the I Hate Politics library on all major streaming platforms. Music for the episode are two original piano compositions by Kensington resident Adam Bobrow.

Lynne Harris for Board of Education: Candidate Interview Apr 29, 2024

2024 Primary Election Candidate Interview with first-term Montgomery County Board of Education member Lynne Harris who is now running for reelection. All eligible voters can cast their choice for all school board races. You can find interviews with other candidates in the I Hate Politics library on all major streaming platforms. Music for the episode are two original piano compositions by Kensington resident Adam Bobrow.

Lesley Lopez for Congress: Candidate Interview Apr 26, 2024

2024 Primary Election Candidate Interview with two-term State Delegate Lesley Lopez from District 39 now running for Congress in Maryland’s Sixth District, which goes from Montgomery in the south all the way to Western Maryland. The Sixth District is probably the most competitive US House race in the state this election season. You can find interviews with other candidates in the I Hate Politics library on all major streaming platforms. Music for the episode are two short original piano compositions from Kensington resident Adam Bobrow.

Joe Vogel for Congress: Candidate Interview Apr 26, 2024

2024 Primary Election Candidate Interview with first-term State Delegate Joe Vogel from District 17 now running for Congress in Maryland’s Sixth District, which goes from Montgomery in the south all the way to Western Maryland. The Sixth District is probably the most competitive US House race in the state this election season. You can find interviews with other candidates in the I Hate Politics library on all major streaming platforms. Music for the episode are two short original piano compositions from Kensington resident Adam Bobrow.

I Hate the News Apr 23 Apr 23, 2024

Montgomery County Congressman Jamie Raskin votes against bill to provide military aid to Israel; MCPS faces lawsuits from Jewish and Muslim groups; White’s Ferry owner says he will donate the ferry in an effort to restart it, but what’s going to happen to the per vehicle fee that was holding things up? New shuttle bus service and bus-only lanes on Georgia Ave connecting Redline stations from Glenmont to Takoma Park this summer; and much more. Music from Baltimore jazzman Seth Kibel: sethkibel.com.

Shebra Evans for Board of Education: Candidate Interview Apr 19, 2024

2024 Primary Election Candidate Interview with two-term Board of Education member from District 4 Shebra Evans now running to be reelected for a third time. All eligible voters can cast their choice for all school board races. You can find interviews with other candidates in the I Hate Politics library on all major streaming platforms. Music for the episode are two short original piano compositions from Kensington resident Adam Bobrow.

Laura Stewart for Board of Education: Candidate Interview Apr 19, 2024

2024 Primary Election Candidate Interview with long-time county and state PTA leader Laura Stewart who is running for the Montgomery County Board of Education in District 4. All eligible voters can cast their choice for all school board races. You can find interviews with other candidates in the I Hate Politics library on all major streaming platforms. Music for the episode are two short original piano compositions from Kensington resident Adam Bobrow.

I Hate the News Apr 16 Apr 16, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Picking lawyers to file lawsuits in the Key Bridge collapse case; MCPS introduces tougher safety measures but at what cost; analyses of new tree canopy report for the DMV; and University of Maryland scientists develop an invisibility cloak for AI tracking. Music from Baltimore jazzman Seth Kibel: sethkibel.com. MD 90-Day report: https://t.ly/HxQM6. Tree canopy report: https://t.ly/VrEoF.

Even the Key Bridge Collapse Did Not Alter Maryland's Priorities Apr 12, 2024

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.

I Hate the News Apr 9 Apr 09, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: The Maryland General Assembly ends 2024 session with a budget increasing vehicle fees; Washington DC’s proposed budget pivots to policing and away from services; colleges and universities further delay financial aid decisions because of data problems on the new federal financial aid platform; Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman upbraids UMBC for Title IX violations, and more. Music from Baltimore jazzman Seth Kibel: sethkibel.com.

Double-header: Praneel Suvarna for MCPS SMOB Apr 05, 2024

Sunil Dasgupta talks with Clarksburg High School junior Praneel Suvarna, one of two finalists for the Student Member of the Montgomery County Board of Education in 2024-25. The SMOB is one of eight on the county school board, nearly co-equal with other generally elected members, but voted in by MCPS secondary school students only. Music for this episode comes from Adam Bobrow. Suvarna Insta: @praneel4smob.

Double-header: Sam Ross for MCPS SMOB Apr 05, 2024

Sunil Dasgupta talks with Montgomery Blair High School junior Samantha Ross, one of two finalists for the Student Member of the Montgomery County Board of Education in 2024-25. The SMOB is one of eight on the county school board, nearly co-equal with other generally elected members, but voted in by MCPS secondary school students only. Music for this episode comes from Adam Bobrow. Ross Insta: @sam.for.smob.

I Hate the News Apr 2 Apr 02, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: The collapse of the Key Bridge in Baltimore; the governor’s housing supply expansion bill falters; protestors heckle Congressman Jamie Raskin over the Gaza War; and how good is school testing data really? Music from Baltimore jazzman Seth Kibel: sethkibel.com. Port of Baltimore live cam: youtu.be/83a7h3kkgPg Solar eclipse watch info: transportationops.org/eclipse

The Rise of Drone Reporting Mar 29, 2024

In a week when we saw video of Baltimore's Key Bridge crumple from the impact of a colliding container ship, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Montgomery County drone reporter Tim Pruss whose aerial video footage of crashes, first response teams, lines of traffic, and the serenity of nature are just as stunning in the emerging field of drone news reporting. Music from Damascus, MD,-based rapper and music producer Cataclizm: youtube.com/@thereckoning301. Follow Pruss: https://twitter.com/MyDronePro.

I Hate the News Mar 26 Mar 26, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Maryland House Majority Leader David Moon on a revenue plan impasse with other Democrats; new revenge porn bill; four elementary schools thrown off the Title 1 list fight back; and Montgomery County Chief Health Officer Kisha Davis on how different it is now from four years ago. Uninsured Covid treatment: test2treat.org. Music from Baltimore jazzman Seth Kibel: sethkibel.com.

The Book of White Rural Rage Mar 22, 2024

Sunil Dasgupta talks with UMBC political scientist Tom Schaller and Washington DC journalist Paul Waldman about their bestselling new book examining the threat to American democracy from the paradox of the power and impotence of 15 percent of the US population living in rural America. Music from Damascus, MD,-based rapper and music producer Cataclizm: youtube.com/@thereckoning301. White Rural Rage: https://a.co/d/0YmkWJ7.

I Hate the News Mar 19 Mar 19, 2024

A legal settlement could upend the custom of home sellers paying 6 percent commission to brokers. Maryland House considers new tax proposal opposed by Governor Wes Moore and the state Senate leadership. The Governor breaks with his climate allies over building data centers in the state. State retirees object to being moved to Medicare Part D prescription coverage, and Takoma Park passes a ceasefire resolution. Music from Baltimore jazzman Seth Kibel: https://sethkibel.com.

Brooke Lierman on Maryland's Slow Economy Mar 15, 2024

In the face of population loss and sluggish economic growth in the state, Maryland’s Comptroller Brooke Lierman commissioned a State of the Economy Report. Lierman talks with Sunil Dasgupta about the central findings and implications of the report including women’s participation in the state labor market, housing affordability, childcare, and more. Music from Washington DC garage punk band, Apollo 66: apollo66rock.com.

I Hate the News Mar 12 Mar 12, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Washington DC and Maryland pass controversial public safety bills that respectively relaxes restrictions on chokeholds and lowers the age of those who can be charged for non-violent crimes to include fifth graders. New report looks at how DC schools did in 2022-23; and the Supreme Court refuses to hear a case of Asian discrimination in Thomas Jefferson High School in Northern Virginia. Music from Baltimore jazzman Seth Kibel: https://sethkibel.com.

Martin Austermuhle on WAMU Layoffs Mar 08, 2024

In yet another setback to news reporting, Washington DC public radio station WAMU closes its local news website, DCist, and lays off 16 staffers. Sunil Dasgupta talks with longtime WAMU and DCist reporter Martin Austermuhle about how mismanagement killed a popular news source. Austermuhle left the station on his own a few months before the layoffs and is not bound by a non-disparagement agreement. Music from DC garage punk band, Apollo 66: apollo66rock.com.

I Hate the News Mar 5 Mar 05, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: Montgomery County, MD, reverses stand on cooperating with ICE when releasing undocumented criminals in their custody. Has the tide turned on new rent stabilization? Proposed bills to allow religious institutions to build affordable housing on their land, state woes with the transportation trust fund, and a bizarre case of abuse of judicial process involving a midnight door knock. Music from DC songwriter and composer Oren Levine and the band Lucky So & So: https://ohljazz.com. New rent rules: https://t.ly/ZyUpl. Religious org zoning: https://t.ly/N_Gwd

Stopping a Stadium in Your Backyard Mar 01, 2024

When owner Ted Leonsis and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin announced their plan last December to move the Capitals and Wizards from Washington DC to Alexandria in Northern Virginia, they caused the rise of local opposition to their $2 billion proposal for a new sports and entertainment arena, which would be largely supported through public finance. Sunil Dasgupta talks with former Alexandria city councilmember Andrew Macdonald, one of the leaders of the opposition, about their plans to stop the stadium. Music from DC garage punk band, Apollo 66: apollo66rock.com.

I Hate the News Feb 27 Feb 27, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics: DC NPR radio station shuts down news website, lays off 15. MCPS changes how it calculates eligibility for Title 1 dollars and kicks four schools off the list; but keeps the online academy and extended school year for two schools. A new state bill pushes adoption of phonetic learning; state bill prioritizes how gas companies invest in infrastructure; and Pepco allows indefinite credits for net metering of rooftop solar power. Music from DC songwriter and composer Oren Levine and the band Lucky So & So: https://ohljazz.com.

What is Jake Day Thinking? Feb 23, 2024

The Moore Administration’s housing bills tie density and affordability, open the door to state preemption of local zoning law, and provide gap financing for projects that may be stuck. With the General Assembly weighing the proposals and local opposition building, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Maryland Housing Secretary Jake Day about the logic and expectations of housing reform. Previously as mayor of Salisbury, Day expanded housing starts in his city. Key bill: https://t.ly/99LgN. Music from DC garage punk band, Apollo 66: apollo66rock.com

I Hate the News Feb 20 Feb 20, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics. This week: Raskin endorses Alsobrooks in the MD US Senate race. Community voices speak on the possibility of closing down three MCPS programs: the Montgomery Virtual Academy, extended school year pilot, and the social-emotional learning curriculum Leader in Me; MCPS orders a spending freeze because of surprising cost increase; teachers of year candidates and SMOB finalists for 2024-25. Music from DC songwriter and composer Oren Levine and the band Lucky So & So: https://ohljazz.com.

Buy Nothing Love Letter Feb 16, 2024

Neighborhood gift exchange groups are wildly popular and satisfying and offer many lessons in community building, conservation, and bridge the digital and in-person worlds. For this Valentine’s Day weekend episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with local Buy Nothing group admins Lisa Silverman and SJ Ikle-Khalsa to learn about the most wholesome corner of Facebook. Music from DC garage punk band, Apollo 66: apollo66rock.com

I Hate the News Feb 13 Feb 13, 2024

The weekly news analysis from I Hate Politics. This week: The sale of the biggest media company in Montgomery County raises the specter of yet another decline in local news. Will county governments gain more direct control over school districts because of Maryland's Blueprint education reform legislation? No new taxes says the governor, but some legislators are trying to fix the revenue problem, says the MD Legislative Coalition. The lowdown on local and state primary races and what it means when Democrats want to run against Trump in solidly blue districts. Music from DC songwriter and composer Oren Levine playing with the band Lucky So & Sos: https://ohljazz.com.

Can Maryland Preempt Local Zoning? Feb 09, 2024

To address worsening housing unaffordability, the Moore Administration in Maryland has proposed a set of housing bills, opening the possibility of preempting land-use and zoning law long seen in the assembly and in the counties as the preserve of local government. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Delegate Vaughn Stewart, Chair of the Land-Use and Ethics Subcommittee in the state house, about whether the “Housing Session” of the General Assembly will deliver. Local news about the aftermath of the Beidleman scandal in MCPS and an update on state bills from MD Legislative Coalition. Housing Bills: https://t.ly/tX-VV, https://t.ly/FUyYO, https://t.ly/3Co_Y. Music from Washington DC power pop band, Dear Daria’s brand new EP, Solastalgia: deardariaband.com.

Will Takoma Park Finally Build Affordable Housing? Feb 02, 2024

For 50 years, the famously liberal City of Takoma Park has not built multifamily housing and remained unchanged in population even as the region has grown dramatically. Could a new plan to redevelop a former hospital site be the lever which finally ends the block on affordable housing in the Washington DC suburb? Sunil Dasgupta talks with Takoma Park Mayor Talisha Searcy about the Minor Master Plan passed by the city and now up for vote in the Montgomery County Council: https://t.ly/23V4F. Local news: MCPS, firefighter/EMS short staffing woes, state bills update from MD Legislative Coalition. Music from Washington DC power pop band, Dear Daria’s brand new EP, Solastalgia: deardariaband.com.

New FAFSA Form Delays College Aid Decisions Jan 26, 2024

Confused about the new changes to FAFSA–Free Application for Federal Student Aid–which is undergoing its biggest overhaul in four decades? Sunil Dasgupta spoke with UMBC’s Financial Aid Director Andrea Cipolla to find out about the changes and their impact on financial aid decisions. Local news Montgomery County school board seeks to oust superintendent for mishandling sexual harassment scandal. State bills update from MD Legislative Coalition. Music from Washington DC power pop band, Dear Daria’s brand new EP, Solastalgia: deardariaband.com.

Can Government Alone Create Housing Affordability? Jan 19, 2024

Montgomery County, MD, has fashioned a $100 million housing production fund to intervene in the local housing market with low-cost capital to rescue market-rate projects that are stuck and then using the equity to extract more low-income units. Sunil Dasgupta finds out how Zach Marks, who manages the fund on behalf of the county’s Housing Opportunities Commission, cracked the affordability problem. State news: budget drop and upcoming bills with MD Legislative Coalition. Music for this episode comes from 1923; sound recordings from that year just entered the public domain. National Jukebox: https://t.ly/DDGgx.

Local Scientist Takes Disability Claim to Court Jan 12, 2024

In December 2023, a Montgomery County jury heard a disability discrimination case against one of the world’s largest medical science philanthropies, the Chevy Chase-based Howard Hughes Medical Institute, in a lawsuit brought by one of its former research scientists, Vivian Cheung. Sunil Dasgupta asked Cheung about the case and its implications for scientific rigor, peer review, and disability accommodation. Local news: new statewide housing legislation shapes up. Music for this episode comes from 1923; sound recordings from that year just entered the public domain. National Jukebox: https://t.ly/DDGgx.

90 Days, 800 Bills, and A Budget Jan 05, 2024

The 2024 session of the Maryland General Assembly starts January 10 with a difficult revenue situation, big spending needs in education and transportation, and a reticent governor. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Aileen Alex and Jimmy Tarlau of the Maryland Legislative Coalition and Monica O’Connor of the Climate Justice Wing for a preview of what is coming up in the state legislature. Music for this episode comes from 1923; sound recordings from that year just entered the public domain. National Jukebox: https://t.ly/DDGgx MD Legislative Coalition signup: https://t.ly/HSeB4 Climate Justice Wing Summit Jan 6-7: https://t.ly/gCEV1.

Story of the Year: Muslim Book Protests Revisited Dec 29, 2023

One of the biggest local stories of 2023 were the Muslim protests demanding the right to opt out students from reading LGBTQ-themed books in public elementary schools. In Montgomery County, this was not just a fight between conservatives and liberals. The controversy frayed the Democratic coalition itself. Sunil Dasgupta’s interview with protest leader Wael Elkoshairi was the most downloaded episode (#121) of the year. We rerun the interview and update the story with the latest news. Music from Arlington roots music singer-songwriter Valeria Stewart and her band Crooked Sparrow: youtube.com/@valeriastewartmusic. Episodes 141 looked at coverage of the coverage and several shows between #130 and #141 carried student reviews of the controversial books. Don’t forget to check them out.

2023 Holiday Yule Log with Local Music and Nonprofits Dec 22, 2023

2023 Holiday Weekend Special with local music featured on the podcast and local nonprofit stories: Artists and bands in order of appearance: Shanika Freeman, Adam Bobrow, Finster, Kara Levchenko, Reggie Right-Eye, Gabrielle Zwi, Ammonite, Catscan!, Jackie and the Treehorns, Grey Swift, Collide, Drew Pictures, Steven Gellman, Oren Levine, Valeria Stewart and the Crooked Sparrow, Seth Kibel, Rockambo. Nonprofit orgs: Martha’s Table, Community Farmshare, Asian American LEAD, MoCoPAAN, Friendship Place, Montgomery County Special Olympics, The Civic Circle, and Urban Adventure Squad. Links at ihppod.org.

Can a Long-Awaited Data Dashboard Deliver Equity in MCPS? Dec 15, 2023

Following ten years of advocacy, Montgomery County Public Schools’ have launched a new web-based district-wide school-profile data dashboard (https://t.ly/Bsbi1) with information on enrollment, demographics, class size, learning, assessment, and more. Sunil Dasgupta talks with local education activists Laura Stewart, Audra Dove, Cathy Stocker, and Jill Ortman Fouse (Board of Education member 2014-18) to find out if they got what they wanted. Data dashboard feedback: https://t.ly/z6gB3. 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:

Montgomery County Special Olympics

MoCoPAAN

Urban Adventure Squad

The Divided House of Democratic Politics Dec 08, 2023

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:

Montgomery County Special Olympics

MoCoPAAN

Urban Adventure Squad

The Plot to Stop Junk Fees Dec 01, 2023

Resorts and hotels have long been accused of charging hidden fees, but since the pandemic restaurants have used them to meet rising operating and labor costs while seeming to keep menu prices down. Sunil Dasgupta talks to attorney Lauren Wolfe of the Washington DC public interest group Travelers United who has helped file price deception lawsuits against local restaurant group Clyde’s, and hotel chains Hyatt, Hilton, and Sonesta. Clyde’s case: https://t.ly/XbvHj; Hotels cases: https://t.ly/YL2cT. 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:

Montgomery County Special Olympics

MoCoPAAN

Urban Adventure Squad

MoCoShow Makes the News Nov 24, 2023

In the general despair over the decline of local news, a homegrown, social media-driven, local news company, The MoCoShow, is not only commercially profitable but also turning on its head some central principles of journalism. Sunil Dasgupta talked to MoCoShowe founder Alex Tsironis about his vision and how he turned a snow reporting social media handle to over hundred thousand followers and millions of unique hits across his various platforms. Music from Oren Levine: https://ohljazz.com. Local area nonprofits tell their stories and pitch for your support:

Community FarmShare

Friendship Place

MoCo Pride Prom

Montgomery County Special Olympics

MoCoPAAN

Urban Adventure Squad

Life in the HOTTER Lane Nov 17, 2023

As the Moore Administration in Maryland wrestles with its plan to toll highways in the Washington DC suburbs, Sunil Dasgupta talks with transportation planner Patrick Decorla-Souza about the history of congestion pricing and his new idea, HOTTER Lanes, which gives carpoolers cash rewards from the revenue generated by tolls. Local news re dedicated bus lanes, security camera program, MCPS hires a former councilmember, counties want a hand in shaping school budgets. Music from Oren Levine: https://ohljazz.com. HOTTER Lanes: https://t.ly/hj7rv. Bus Lanes: https://t.ly/CgsjR Camera Rebate: https://t.ly/DUAt_

The Doughnut Hole of Political Accountability Nov 10, 2023

How we hold politicians accountable is an enduring challenge in democratic societies, but a new book, Accountability in State Legislatures, argues that voters are uniquely unable to punish state legislators. Sunil Dasgupta talks with author and political scientist Steven Rogers about the connections of his research to political polarization, one-party rule, gerrymandering, barriers to challenger entry, and the decline of local and state news coverage. Local news about Rockville and Gaithersburg city elections and the continuing local fallout of the War in Gaza: immigrant rights group CASA missteps and a rally in Rockville is met with nasty rhetoric. Music from Oren Levine: https://ohljazz.com Accountability in State Legislatures: https://a.co/d/87aZZM6

Uber Tears Through the Public Square Nov 03, 2023

Washington DC was the sixth city where Uber began operations, but it is here that the Big Tech firm was best able to mold the regulatory environment to its needs. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Katie Wells and Kafui Attoh, two authors of the local fall book to read, Disrupting DC: The Rise of Uber and the Fall of the City. Local news: Rabbi Yosef Goldman of Shaare Torah on antisemitic vandalism, DC’s AG sues landlords and tech firm Real Page for price-fixing (https://t.ly/5sUvF); Gaithersburg council elections, amicus briefs in the LGBTQ books opt-out lawsuit (https://t.ly/kbun1; https://t.ly/GX2UK). Music from Oren Levine: https://ohljazz.com/ Disrupting DC: https://a.co/d/3sKbFzH

Candidate Interviews Rockville City Council Oct 27, 2023

Double-header on Rockville City Mayor and Council election scheduled for November 7. This episode includes 5 City Council candidate interviews: Marissa Valeri (2:55), Adam Van Grack (18:47), Izola Shaw (35:46), Paul Scott (50:45), and Kate Fulton (1:08:30). See links on Twitter @ihppod. Accompanying episode (#142) features mayoral candidates. The 2023 Rockville City election ushers in a new era for the Rockville government. The Mayor and Council is expanding to 7 members. A minimum of 5 but as many as all 6 seats on the council may be filled by candidates who have never held elected office before. Music from Rockambo: rockambo.com, Pete Chauvette, Dara Blecher, and Collide: collideduo.com.

Candidate Interviews Mark Pierzchala and Monique Ashton for Rockville Mayor Oct 27, 2023

Double-header on Rockville City Mayor and Council election scheduled for November 7. This episode features candidate interviews with the two mayoral candidates Mark Pierzchala (3:26) and Monique Ashton (24:50). Both currently serve on the Rockville City Council. See links on Twitter @ihppod. Accompanying episode (#143) features City Council candidates. The 2023 Rockville City election ushers in a new era for the Rockville government. The Mayor and Council is expanding to 7 members. A minimum of 5 but as many as all 6 seats on the council may be filled by candidates who have never held elected office before. Music from Adam Bobrow.

How Do You Report on a Movement Denying Your Existence? Oct 20, 2023

In 2023, the normally deep blue Montgomery County, Md, saw conservative religious groups demanding the right to opt their children out of LGBTQ+ themed books in the public school curriculum. This wasn’t a call for banning books, but adjacent. The county’s only full-time education reporter at that time was Em Espey, who is nonbinary. After six months of remarkable coverage, Espey left their reporter job for MoCo360 Media for a new one, away from journalism. Sunil Dasgupta asked Espey what it was like covering a movement that threatened their identity and existence. Local news re MCPS departs from its electric bus adoption plan. Student review of Cattywampus by Ash Van Otterloo. Music from folk singer-songwriter Steven Gellman’s new album, All You Need: hiddenpoet.com.

The Unraveling of a $1.1 bn State-Run College Fund Oct 13, 2023

The Maryland Prepaid College Trust, a state-run tax-protected 529 college savings plan, unraveled over the last few years despite having more than enough money to meet its obligations. A series of bad decisions made by its independent and high-powered Board led to the loss of account values, accusations of mismanagement, and halting of disbursements to families on the verge of sending their children to college. Sunil Dasgupta talks with parents and account holders Lisa Getter Peterson and Brian Savoie to get the full story. Local news: how Jewish comedian Carmiya Weinraub, founder of a local interfaith comedy group, is carrying on: interfaithcomedy.com. Music from folk singer-songwriter Steven Gellman’s new album, All You Need: hiddenpoet.com. MD Prepaid College Trust: https://t.ly/qTT7V.

Why Does Wes Moore's Transportation Plan Look Like Hogan's? Oct 06, 2023

The Maryland Department of Transportation released its capital budget plan with key projects missing and explicitly stating that the document reflects the priorities of the previous governor. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Marc Korman, Chair of the House of Delegates Environment and Transportation Committee, to find out what’s going on. Local news re why MoCo Councilmember Gabe Albornoz opposed the new ban on gas-powered leaf blowers, preliminary analysis of local sporting event fights, MoCo allows tunnel type greenhouses in all backyards. Music from folk singer-songwriter Steven Gellman’s new album, All You Need: hiddenpoet.com; Gas leaf blower ban: https://t.ly/Y9sXO; MoCo tunnel greenhouse: https://t.ly/bsGCB; MD transportation plan: https://t.ly/bL3Uk.

Can Deep Pockets Revive Local Media? Sep 29, 2023

Two and a half years after he bought the Bethesda Magazine and Bethesda Beat, Rockville-based real-estate developer Scott Copeland speaks with Sunil Dasgupta about the media business, rebranding Bethesda Beat as MoCo360, his own political education, and the troubles with housing and public education in the county. Local news re Safe Streets Act, the ban on gas-powered leaf blowers, a possible new housing moratorium in Frederick County, and the growing prospect of a strike at Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic. Music from local Southern soul band, King Soul: kingsoulband.com. Safe Streets Act: https://t.ly/pZeL5. Gas leaf blower ban: https://t.ly/Y9sXO.

When the Pandemic Broke Maryland's Unemployment Insurance Sep 22, 2023

In spring 2020, when millions had to apply for unemployment insurance, government systems became overwhelmed and broke down. In the midst of all that, in May 2020, the state of Maryland went ahead with a scheduled change to its unemployment insurance computer system to a new platform called Beacon, which failed spectacularly. We know this generally, but attorney Rachel Harris, who worked for Maryland Legal Aid helping residents secure benefits during the meltdown, explains exactly how the system failed and what problems continue three years later. Local news: a looming federal government shutdown, not understanding school truancy, and new MoCo tipped minimum wage bill. Music from Washington DC post-punk band, Grey Swift: https://t.ly/cu_jx. MCPS Attendance Action Plan: https://t.ly/O7FAz.

The Messy Equilibrium of Local Governance Sep 15, 2023

Why does local governance constitute an alphabet soup of overlapping organizations? Sunil Dasgupta talks with Tracy Hadden Loh, Brookings Institution scholar and one of the authors of the book, Hyperlocal: Place Governance in a Fragmented World, about local democracy practice going beyond formal government. Local news re office building to home conversions, a first-ever pedestrian master plan and its discontents, and ongoing culture wars. Student book review of LGBTQ book, Uncle Bobby’s Wedding, written by Sarah S. Brannen, and illustrated by Lucia Soto: https://a.co/d/gVaGW4l. Music from Washington DC post-punk band, Grey Swift: https://t.ly/cu_jx. Hyperlocal book: https://t.ly/Y2LmF. Discount Code: 4LOCAL23. Pedestrian Master Plan: https://t.ly/cQqJf

Jill Carter, Martin O'Malley, and Political Trauma in Baltimore Sep 08, 2023

When President Biden nominated former Maryland governor Martin O’Malley to be director of the Social Security Administration, Democratic State Senator Jill Carter from Baltimore said she couldn’t support the president anymore, opening a view into the traumatic history of hundreds of thousands of illegal arrests during O’Malley’s tenure as mayor of the city. Jill Carter talks to Sunil Dasgupta about what happened and how she was silenced and marginalized when she protested. Local news: Alexandria planners recommend end to single-family zoning, shakeout among MoCo craft breweries, student review of LGBTQ book, Born Ready by Jodie Patterson and Charnelle Pinkney Barlow: https://a.co/d/cHN87lP. Music for the episode comes from DC post-punk band Grey Swift: https://t.ly/cu_jx. Baltimore Police Consent Decree: https://t.ly/bwY2g.

The Fight for Stable Wages in DC Sep 01, 2023

One of the great weaknesses of minimum wage laws is that it excludes tipped workers. In 2018, Washington DC voters passed Initiative 77 to level minimum wage across the board but the DC Council killed it. In 2022, the DC voters passed Initiative 82 with even bigger numbers and the measure is once more in front of the DC Council. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Washington DC bartender and labor activist Max Hawla and National Women’s Law Center labor organizer Diana Ramirez about how the fight to raise the minimum wage for tipped workers. Local news re Maryland US Senate seat, MCPS’ Biedleman scandal, and court decision on LGBTQ+ books. Music for the episode comes from DC post-punk band Grey Swift: https://t.ly/cu_jx Mahmoud v McKnight decision: https://t.ly/OxhRv WRAP Act: https://t.ly/Dvmubhttps://t.ly/Dvmubhttps://t.ly/Dvmubhttps://t.ly/Dvmub

When a 32-Vote Victory Becomes a Mandate on Housing Aug 25, 2023

When political leaders win narrow victories, how do they govern? From the middle or hammer home the consequences of their election? Sunil Dasgupta talks with political analyst and housing activist Jonathan Robinson about structure and dynamics of Montgomery County’s housing politics where County Executive Marc Elrich's 32-vote victory has become a coalition that passed three housing-tax increases and a new rent stabilization law. Local news re MCPS absenteeism data, 495/270 toll lanes. Episode includes student review #4 of MCPS LGBTQ+ books: My Rainbow by Trinity and DeShanna Neal; illustrations by Art Twink: youtu.be/3MAiz9olE2U. Music from Baltimore clarinetist and composer Seth Kibel’s new album, Clown with a Stick: https://t.ly/uR9hp.

Get Ready For A Big Bailout Of MD Gas Utilities Aug 18, 2023

Maryland’s natural gas utilities are spending billions in building out and strengthening distribution networks at a time when the state has set ambitious goals to reduce fossil fuel use. When gas consumption falls, ratepayers and maybe taxpayers remain on the hook for these capital investments. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Maryland People’s Counsel, David Lapp, about a petition his office made to the state Public Service Commission asking gas policy be rationalized with climate action goals: https://t.ly/eR4bS. Episode includes student book review #3 of MCPS LGBTQ+ books list: Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World by Ashley Herring Blake: https://a.co/d/2aHIlSk. Music from Baltimore clarinetist and composer Seth Kibel’s new album, Clown with a Stick: https://t.ly/uR9hp.

Companies Can Vote in Delaware?! Aug 11, 2023

Three Delaware municipalities—Fenwick Island, Henlopen Acres and Dagsboro—allow corporations, trusts, and LLCs to vote in municipal elections. And the state almost allowed a fourth this spring. Sunil Dasgupta talks to Claire Snyder-Hall of Common Cause Delaware about artificial person voting and the state’s political culture. Episode includes student book review #2, this time of a contested picture book on MCPS LGBTQ+ curriculum list. Music from Baltimore clarinetist and composer Seth Kibel’s new album, Clown with a Stick: https://t.ly/uR9hp. John McCarthy 03/20/2023 testimony on police gun seizures: https://t.ly/LpJUH Love, Violet read-aloud: youtu.be/BcyRMgHgoAQ

Reckoning with Redevelopment in Rockville Aug 04, 2023

The City of Rockville adopted a comprehensive land-use plan in 2021 envisioning increased housing density in certain locations and the city is now working to bring its zoning law into compliance. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Rockville Planning Commission member Suzan Pitman about development issues likely to inform the upcoming mayor and council elections. Local news about a newly-disclosed 2022 MCPS memo questioning the school district’s handling of new LGBTQ+ books. This episode also starts a new podcast segment featuring student reviews of books under political fire. Music from Baltimore clarinetist and composer Seth Kibel’s new album, Clown with a Stick: https://t.ly/uR9hp. Rockville Comprehensive Plan: https://t.ly/H2LVM Michael Bayewitz letter: https://t.ly/fVSUj Best At it: https://a.co/d/a30aqPlhttps://t.ly/fVSUjhttps://t.ly/fVSUjhttps://t.ly/iBQGf https://t.ly/fVSUj

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Will Fewer Traffic Stops Make Us Safer? Jul 28, 2023

Traffic stops are the most common police-public interaction in America, and in many cases they have gone horribly wrong. Traffic stops are also used as an excuse for searches that would otherwise be illegal. The police have used traffic stops to target minority drivers disproportionately. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando who has proposed a bill to shrink the reasons police officers can use to make traffic stops in an effort to improve public safety. Backgrounder and forecast on 2024 elections in Maryland. Music from Baltimore clarinetist and composer Seth Kibel’s new album, Clown with a Stick: https://t.ly/uR9hp. STEP Act: https://t.ly/6A8aK Legislative traffic stops report: https://t.ly/fqZZq.

Housing Crisis: MoCo Bets on Rent Control Jul 21, 2023

Like many close-in suburbs, Montgomery County, Md, is faced with a housing affordability crisis. Change in the make-up of the county council and organizing by social justice groups leads to the adoption of a new rent law that seeks to stem rising living costs without killing new housing production. Sunil Dasgupta talks with local housing activist Mike English about what’s in the law, how it came about, and what it means for the county’s housing shortage. Local news re the removal of 300-year-old #LindenOak tree. Music from the band Finster. Their 2023 album, Crosswinds, now on vinyl: https://t.ly/-bAF. MoCo ReCo bill: https://t.ly/Yfsdh Linden Oak:https://shorturl.at/bvJKY

Can Incremental Change Fix Road Safety? Jul 14, 2023

Montgomery County is about to pass a Safe Streets Bill. Traffic deaths and collisions are up. Distracted driving is rampant. Everyone wants safer roads but the only way to get there, it seems, is through small steps taken in the face of institutional and cultural barriers. Sunil Dasgupta talks with pedestrian and bike safety activist Miriam Schoenbaum about the bill and its implications. Local news re DC’s tough crime bill expanding pretrial detention for adults and juveniles. Music from the band Finster. Their 2023 album, Crosswinds, now on vinyl: https://t.ly/-bAF. DC’s crime bill: https://t.ly/SUJ8X. MoCo Safe Streets Bill: https://t.ly/nF4TL. Legislative report: https://t.ly/Gd1CX.

Voice of @ihppod Kara Levchenko Releases Debut Album Jul 07, 2023

Kara Levchekno’s voice has counterbalanced many a heated political conversation on this podcast. Now after three years of work, the voice of #IHP Candidate Interviews and high school choir teacher releases her debut album, Letters to Myself. A lot of her music and a portrait of the artist in this episode. Stream on Spotify. Buy here: https://t.ly/frla. Listening Advisory: explicit song lyrics. Local news re new rent law coming to Montgomery County showing that money does not always prevail in politics. MoCo’s Home Act: https://t.ly/R-NYj

The Case Against Localism Jun 30, 2023

This year’s Fourth of July episode explores the ideology of localism, a foundational tenet of American political philosophy. Sunil Dasgupta talks with political theorist and author Trevor Latimer about his new book. Small Isn’t Beautiful, where he takes on the widespread presumption that the government closest to us is necessarily the best. Local news re LGBTQ+ book protests, Maryland opens to marijuana, and the Anacostia River opens to swimming after a half-century. Music from the band Finster. Their 2023 album, Crosswinds, now on vinyl: https://t.ly/-bAF. Latimer’s book: https://t.ly/YRjS. MD marijuana FAQ: https://t.ly/-CI6. Anacostia swim event: https://t.ly/KBDf.

Ten Things to do Outdoors in DC Jun 23, 2023

Summertime. Christy Brock of DC-based outdoor education nonprofit, Urban Adventure Squad, offers a list of her favorite outdoor things to do. This is not your typical DC list. News from Delaware, where the state allows artificial persons (LLCs, trusts) to vote in local elections and is now considering new law for the city of Seaford to do so. Music from the band Finster. Their 2023 album, Crosswinds, now on vinyl: https://t.ly/-bAF. Brock’s list: https://t.ly/UKkx. Seaford artificial persons voting bill: https://t.ly/cRCN.

The Absolute Disaster of Retail Energy Choice Jun 16, 2023

The two promises of utility deregulation in Maryland and several other states–lower prices and green energy–have not come to fruition. How energy trading firms can exploit competitive advantage to lower prices is hard to see and they have used Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), not necessarily new generation, to claim they are selling green energy. Instead, energy trading firms have been accused of deceptive marketing and overcharging customers especially low-income and minority households. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Baltimore-based energy activist Laurel Peltier to find out how things went this wrong. Music from Arlington-based roots music singer-songwriter Valeria Stewart and her band Crooked Sparrow: youtube.com/@valeriastewartmusic. Peltier’s Help Desk: https://t.ly/6QtrL MD Public Service Commission complaint link: https://t.ly/c_da

Muslims Protest LGBTQ+ Books in MoCo; DC Pilots Flex Teacher Schedules Jun 09, 2023

Thirteen books with gay and trans themes or characters introduced by MCPS into elementary and middle school curriculum have mobilized conservative Muslims groups in deep blue Montgomery County alongside the national right-wing parents group Moms 4 Liberty. Meanwhile in DC, the Council passes a budget that pilots flexible schedules for teachers. Sunil Dasgupta talks with local Muslim leader Wael Elkoshairi and DC education activist Scott Goldstein. Music from Arlington-based roots music singer-songwriter Valeria Stewart and her band Crooked Sparrow: youtube.com/@valeriastewartmusic. Goldstein’s org: https://t.ly/_wAq Elkoshairi’s org: https://t.ly/-yts SPLC report: https://t.ly/VwcYT

Militias Find Allies in Local Government Jun 02, 2023

Four South-central Virginia county governments consider resolutions recognizing their local militia following over 100 local jurisdictions in the state declaring themselves Second Amendment sanctuaries. Sunil Dasgupta talks with American University’s Carolyn Gallaher about the evolution of militias from anti-government rage to paramilitary alliance with Republican governments. Local and state news where Maryland and Montgomery County come in first. Music from Arlington-based roots music singer-songwriter Valeria Stewart and her band Crooked Sparrow: youtube.com/@valeriastewartmusic Sharing economy info: https://tinyurl.com/52bz37xp Virginia 2A Sanctuaries: https://tinyurl.com/mu7y3asj

Reinventing Community Supported Agriculture May 26, 2023

A Richmond, Va-based, produce delivery company, Seasonal Roots, reinvents community supported agriculture (CSAs) by gigging out the last-mile delivery to an army of part-time workers and other insights from the fresh food business. Sunil Dasgupta talks with founder Duane Slyder as his company targets growth in suburban Maryland. Local news re three tax hikes in Montgomery County. Music from Arlington-based roots music singer-songwriter Valeria Stewart and her band Crooked Sparrow: youtube.com/@valeriastewartmusic Seasonal Roots: https://www.seasonalroots.com/ MoCo tax hikes: https://rb.gy/42t53

Comparing Rent Increases Along the Purple Line May 19, 2023

Building the Purple Line light rail connecting Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties raised concerns that the resulting increase in housing costs will force out current residents and businesses while a new wealthier population moved in. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Nicholas Finio, one of the authors of a new study of rent increases near proposed Purple Line stations, about their findings and what they mean for public policy including rent control. Local news re Montgomery County Democratic Party and public schools struggling with absenteeism. Music from Alexandria, Va, alt-rock band, Jackie and The Treehorns: jackieandthetreehorns.com MCDCC Handbook: https://bit.ly/3pz5nMh Silver Chips story: https://bit.ly/3MkhxjK Peng, Knaap, & Finio paper: https://bit.ly/3MDaxj5

Two Families Rethink Their Housing Choices May 12, 2023

Housing is a highly individual choice, but how does it relate to larger trends in the market, loosening commutes due to work from home, interest rates, and politics? Sunil Dasgupta speaks with recently former College Park-resident Alaina Pitt and soon to be ex-Silver Spring resident Paul Meyer about how they rethought their family housing choices. Local news about the teacher’s union disrupting Montgomery County Council proceedings and a recusal motion in the Montgomery County Democratic Party. Music from Alexandria, Va, alt-rock band, Jackie and The Treehorns: jackieandthetreehorns.com MCDCC Handbook: https://bit.ly/3pz5nMh

Why Are There 20 Coffee Shops in Downtown Silver Spring? May 05, 2023

Downtown Silver Spring is a half square mile area and it has 20 coffee shops. It has had roughly 20 coffee shops since 2017, but the list keeps changing with closings and openings. Why do new coffee shop owners believe they can make this difficult business work for them? Sunil Dasgupta talks with David Fogel, owner of longtime DTSS coffeeshop, Bump ‘n’ Grind, about the economics of coffeeshops in Silver Spring. Music from Alexandria, Va, alt-rock band, Jackie and The Treehorns: jackieandthetreehorns.com Dan Reed’s DTSS Coffeeshop Roll Call: https://bit.ly/3NCuOX2 MCAP info: https://bit.ly/3LV91IT

Does Ag Land Preservation Work? Apr 28, 2023

Agricultural land preservation is a longstanding policy tool against the threat of sprawl and a particular issue in Frederick County, Maryland’s fastest-growing jurisdiction. Sunil Dasgupta talks about how things are going in Frederick with Anne Bradley, the county’s land preservation programs manager, and with Katie Stevens, who runs the county’s agriculture business support. Local news about machine gun access, 529 reform, and Maryland’s new workforce shortage student grants. Music from Alexandria, Va, alt-rock band, Jackie and The Treehorns: jackieandthetreehorns.com Frederick Ag Land Preservation: https://bit.ly/3oPMrID Frederick Ag Business Support: https://bit.ly/3oSfmvt MD Workforce Shortage Student Grants: https://bit.ly/41KPArR

How Corruption Built Trash Collection Apr 21, 2023

We take trash collection for granted today, but like housing and climate action today, garbage collection was once a controversial idea and tough ask. Sunil Dasgupta talks with political scientists Patricia Strach of the University of Albany and Kathleen Sullivan of Ohio University about their new book, The Politics of Trash, where they write about how corruption rather than good governance motivated 19th century American city leaders to set up municipal garbage collection. The implications of their work apply to modern problems of pandemic and climate policymaking. Music for this episode comes from Catscan! a Washington DC band who play art pop music with satirical lyrics: https://bit.ly/3KEpfFF The Politics of Trash: https://amzn.to/3N5RXAK Strach: https://bit.ly/3mMj1KK Sullivan: https://bit.ly/41oAN5N

De Tokeville: Maryland Rolls Out Legal Weed Apr 14, 2023

The 445th session of the Maryland General Assembly was billed as the cannabis session. Based on a referendum that was supported overwhelmingly by Maryland voters, the body had to build an entire framework for growing, processing, and selling recreational marijuana in the state before July 2023. What came of it? Sunil Dasgupta talks to Maryland Delegate David Moon, vice chair of the House Judiciary Committee and a longtime advocate for legalized marijuana. Music from Catscan! a Washington DC band who play art pop music with satirical lyrics: https://bit.ly/3KEpfFF. More info on adult-use recreational marijuana in MD: https://bit.ly/3nZfDML Legislation: https://bit.ly/3KXv0yw

Former MCPS Superintendent Josh Starr: "In a Race to be Second" Apr 07, 2023

With school budget politics heating up, Sunil Dasgupta talks with former MCPS superintendent, continuing MCPS parent, and education consultant Josh Starr about losing his contract, his book on school leadership, and education challenges in a post-pandemic world. Music for this episode comes from Catscan! a Washington DC band who play art pop music with satirical lyrics: https://bit.ly/3KEpfFF. MCPS operating budget: https://bit.ly/3nTwYH7 Montgomery County budget document: https://bit.ly/2IGNnod Mink/Jawando tax bill: https://bit.ly/3KF7lmk.

Yoseph Zerihun and Sami Saeed for SMOB: IHP Candidate Interviews Mar 31, 2023

Sunil Dasgupta talks with MCPS juniors Yoseph Zerihun of Springbrook High School and Sami Saeed of Richard Montgomery High School, the two finalists for the Student Member of the Montgomery County Board of Education in 2023. The SMOB is one of the eight members of the county school board, nearly co-equal with other generally elected members of the Board, but voted in by MCPS secondary school students only. Music for this episode are two debut piano compositions by Kensington resident Adam Bobrow. Sami Saeed website: sami4smob.com. Yoseph Zerihun website: yoseph4smob.com.

To Look for America Mar 24, 2023

Former Wall Street Journal reporter Neil King Jr. walked 26 days covering 330 miles from his home on Capitol Hill in Washington DC to Manhattan and chronicled the journey in a new book, American Ramble: A Walk of Memory and Renewal. Sunil Dasgupta talks with King about his walk, what made him go, and what he learned. Local news re Arlington’s new zoning law and corruption, as a former aide to the previous Maryland governor, Larry Hogan, skips a court date and becomes a fugitive. Music for this episode comes from DC area rock trio Ammonite at ammoniteband.bandcamp.com. American Ramble available at https://a.co/d/7pvc723. Arlington’s new zoning law: https://bit.ly/409VqSR.

The Rise and Rise of Pickleball Mar 17, 2023

America’s fastest-growing sport comes not from the youth but from the aging. The rapid spread of pickleball has reinvigorated underused neighborhood rec centers and parks but also brought to the fore conflicts with tennis and complaints about noise and travelers crowding local streets. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Emer Daly, local pickleball coach and a founder of MoCo Pickleball Facebook group, and Chuck Kines, pickleball planner for Montgomery County, MD, Parks Department. Local news re highway and transit options. Music for this episode comes from DC area rock trio Ammonite. MoCo Pickleball: https://bit.ly/3Fwk4EL Pickleball in Montgomery Parks: https://bit.ly/3llp6NG Montgomery County Rec Pickleball: https://bit.ly/3ZQoApX

Hard to Grow Agriculture Education Mar 10, 2023

Nearly all 25 high schools in Montgomery County, MD, have greenhouses, but there is only one agriculture program and two programs on agriculture, sustainability, and the environment. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Lori Mayhew of Damascus High School and Glenn Miller of Sherwood High School about the rhetoric and reality of agriculture education programs, which are themselves part of the larger push outward career and technical education (CTE) in the school district and the state. CTE programs must generate their own money for materials and their courses generally count as electives. Music for this episode comes from DC area rock trio Ammonite. Other links: Damascus High School Ag Program, Sherwood High School C.A.S.E Program, MTA Progress Report on Purple Line 2023-03.

How to Build ADUs and Why We Are Not Building More Mar 03, 2023

In early 2020, Montgomery County, MD, passed a new law which allowed owners of residential properties zoned for single-family homes to build Accessory Dwelling Units, ADUs, which are separate or adjacent structures designed for independent living, a way of allowing greater housing density. But few homeowners have taken the county up on it. To find out why, Sunil Dasgupta talks with architect Eric Saul who designed the county’s first newly permitted free-standing tiny home ADU and with former HOA board member and lawyer Erik Herron on how county law on ADUs and state law on HOAs conflict. Music for this episode comes from Baltimore-based electronic music composer Shanika Freeman: neekofreeman.bandcamp.com. MoCo ADU Guidelines: https://bit.ly/3kxMuXX

Car Culture and Bike Lanes Feb 24, 2023

After the Maryland State Highway Administration took away two driving lanes to install new bike lanes following the deaths of two teenaged bicyclists on Old Georgetown Road, communities along the street have been up in arms. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Montgomery County Council Member Andrew Friedson and local resident Laura Chasen about rebalancing road safety and driving efficiency. Local news: apartment fire, bus shooting, and the Proud Boys hit Silver Spring. Music for this episode comes from Baltimore-based electronic music composer Shanika Freeman: neekofreeman.bandcamp.com. State Highway Analysis: https://bit.ly/3YXbdDE WABA petition: https://bit.ly/3IqOR6L #bikelanes #pedestriansafety #roaddiet #sharetheroad

Can Maryland Reduce Gun Violence? Feb 17, 2023

With the Maryland General Assembly weighing several new gun-related bills, Sunil Dasgupta talks with State Senator Jeff Waldstreicher, vice-chair of the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee, about how Maryland can beat back the Bruen case, respond to a right-wing Supreme Court, and reduce gun violence. Local news on cannabis infrastructure. Music for this episode comes from Baltimore-based electronic music composer Shanika Freeman: neekofreeman.bandcamp.com Maryland state legislation search: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Search/Legislation. State Cannabis Workgroup materials: https://bit.ly/3I6J2Lj. #gunsense #momsdemandaction #guncontrolnow

MCPS Calls Fentanyl a Societal Crisis Feb 10, 2023

Following an increase in fentanyl poisoning and deaths, MCPS and Montgomery County launch a full court press to try to stem the crisis. Sunil Dasgupta speaks with MCPS Medical Officer Patricia Kapunan and county anti-drug use actiovist and PTA leader Laura Mitchell to try to understand the scope of the problem and what MCPS is doing to bring it under control. Music for this episode comes from Rockville singer-songwriter Gabrielle Zwi. Check them out: https://www.gabriellezwi.com/music. Montgomery Goes Purple: https://montgomerygoespurple.org/ Montgomery County Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Advisory Council: https://bit.ly/3DU95nR Community message from Dr. Kapunan: https://bit.ly/3RJ7IOx

How Working From Home is Reshaping the Economy Feb 03, 2023

The successful demonstration of work from home during the pandemic has led urban cores losing population and transit ridership plummet. In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Nicholas Ramfos of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments’ Transportation Planning Board about their “2022 State of the Commute” survey, and to Jordan Rappaport of Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City about his paper predicting a housing boom in the exurbs. Guests’ views are their’s alone, not their employer’s. Music for this episode comes from Rockville singer-songwriter Gabrielle Zwi. Check them out: https://www.gabriellezwi.com/music. Rappaport paper: https://bit.ly/3HxhCOm State of the Commute: https://bit.ly/3jyhiad

A Low-Salt Diet for Our Roads Jan 27, 2023

The arrival of winter snow and ice is met with millions of tons of road salt across the county, which corrodes infrastructure and automobiles goes into waterways, raising salinity levels even in drinking water and destroying plants and animals. Sunil Dasgupta walks with Abby Hileman of Izaak Walton League’s Salt Watch Program and Karl Van Neste, a local salt advocate, about the problem and what to do about it. If you feel the crunch underfoot, that’s too much salt. Music for this episode comes from Rockville singer-songwriter Gabrielle Zwi. Check them out: https://www.gabriellezwi.com/music. Montgomery County Salt Petition: https://forms.gle/mhNdVcJzBH15Jpys6

Disruptive Politics Jan 20, 2023

Last October, the climate group Declare Emergency blocked traffic on the Capital Beltway in an effort to force President Biden to announce a climate emergency. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Will Regan and Nora Swisher, who were arrested and jailed for that action, and Paul Severance, the group’s spokesperson to find out about their theory of victory. The episode includes a second interview Maryland state senator Ben Kramer about his claim to disruptive politics in proposing big changes to the agency responsible for land-use planning in Montgomery County. Music from Takoma Park bluesman Reggie Right-Eye and the Missing Pieces Band.

Bringing the Band Back Together Jan 13, 2023

Twenty-five years after releasing their first album, Finster, a band originally formed in 1990s in State College, PA, release their second album, Crosswinds, on this episode. Listen to their music, how they came back together during the pandemic, and about the tough economics of local music. Kate Johnson on vocals and guitar, Doogie Whittaker on guitars, Howard Rabach on bass, and Matt Zelenz on drums. Streaming at https://finster96.bandcamp.com/ and your favorite music platform. Local news on bike lanes and Washington DC’s plan to bring back residents after the pandemic.

Overcoming Polarization in Frederick, MD Jan 06, 2023

In the 100th episode of the show, Sunil Dasgupta talks with narrowly-elected Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater about her campaign, her coalition, and how she intends to govern, offering a case study in managing political polarization. Frederick is living through contestation between newcomers interested in mainline pocketbook politics preferred by Democrats and Trump-inspired right-wing politics pushed by, among others, former Republican nominee for governor Dan Cox, who organized buses to take rebels to the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. Music from Takoma Park bluesman Reggie Right-Eye and his Missing Pieces Band.

Previewing the 2023 Maryland State Legislative Agenda Dec 30, 2022

With the 2023 Maryland General Assembly session starting in less than two weeks, the new governor and the new assembly not only will have to figure out which issues to focus on but also how to balance between them, all the while developing new marijuana legislation. Sunil Dasgupta talks with UMBC political science professor Roy Meyers and Maryland Association of Counties (MaCo) Legislative Director Kevin Kinnally to find out how they see the Assembly’s priorities shaping up. Music from Takoma Park bluesman Reggie Right-Eye and his Missing Pieces Band. Happy New Year and for the last couple of days for 2022 giving:

Woman to Woman Mentoring

The Civic Circle

Project Linus Montgomery County Chapter

Action Committee for Transit

Urban Adventure Squad

The Senior Connection of Montgomery County

Miriam’s Kitchen

UpCounty Prevention Network

Washington Independent Review of Books

VisArts Art Lab

Bethesda Chevy Chase Rescue Squad

Poolesville Green

MoCoPAAN

Sustainable Earth Eating

Repair the World

Montgomery County Special Olympics

Holiday Yule Log with Local Music and Nonprofits Dec 22, 2022

Holiday Weekend Special with local music featured on the podcast and local nonprofit stories: Artists and bands in order of appearance: Ruben Dasgupta, The Sunshiners, The Airport 77s, Eddie Boxxer, The Treading Lemmings, A Shrewdness of Apes, Pete Chauvette, Emily Hall, Dara Blecher, and Kara Levchenko. Nonprofit orgs: Woman to Woman Mentoring, The Civic Circle, Linus Project Montgomery County Chapter, Action Committee for Transit, Urban Adventure Squad, The Senior Connection of Montgomery County, Miriam’s Kitchen, UpCounty Prevention Network, Washington Independent Review of Books, VisArts Art Lab, Bethesda Chevy Chase Rescue Squad, Poolesville Green, MoCoPAAN, Sustainable Earth Eating, Repair the World Baltimore, and Montgomery County Special Olympics. All links at ihppod.org.

What Does the State Windfall Mean for Counties? Dec 16, 2022

New Year. New General Assembly session. New Governor. But most important of all, Maryland is looking at unprecedented budget surpluses for the next 5 years. In the counties, however, there isn’t a feeling of flush. Sunil Dasgupta asks Delegate Marc Korman, the Maryland House Chair for the state’s Spending Affordability Committee, how the state windfall is likely to reshape public finance in the state and in counties? Music from Silver Spring’s own power pop band, The Airport 77s. Local area nonprofits tell their stories and pitch for your support:

Poolesville Green

MoCoPAAN

Sustainable Earth Eating

Repair the World

Previous weeks’ community organizations

Washington Independent Review of Books

VisArts Art Lab

Bethesda Chevy Chase Rescue Squad

Miriam’s Kitchen

UpCounty Prevention Network

Woman to Woman Mentoring

The Civic Circle

Linus Project Montgomery County Chapter

Action Committee for Transit

Urban Adventure Squad

Where the Sidewalk Meets the Tree Dec 09, 2022

Sidewalks v trees is a common 21st century battleline in American suburbs pitting neighbor against neighbor in a struggle between two public goods, road safety and tree conservation. Politicians naturally promise both, but government agencies often fuel the conflict to justify inaction. In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks to one local government official, City of Takoma Park public works director Daryl Braithwaite, who found a way to build a much-needed sidewalk and save trees and much more. Music from Silver Spring’s own power pop band, The Airport 77s. Local area nonprofits tell their stories and pitch for your support:

Washington Independent Review of Books

VisArts Art Lab

Bethesda Chevy Chase Rescue Squad

Previous weeks’ community organizations

Miriam’s Kitchen

UpCounty Prevention Network

Woman to Woman Mentoring

The Civic Circle

Linus Project Montgomery County Chapter

Action Committee for Transit

Urban Adventure Squad

Are School Ratings Meaningful? Dec 02, 2022

With Washington DC’s education leadership working to revise the city government’s School Report Card, Sunil Dasgupta talks with DC Board of Education member Ruth Wattenberg who has been fighting a long battle against test score-driven school evaluations. As the conversation dug deeper, Wattenberg opened up about charter schools, private foundation money, and mayoral control of DC’s public schools. Music from Silver Spring’s own power pop band, The Airport 77s. Local area nonprofits tell their stories and pitch for your support:

Miriam’s Kitchen

UpCounty Prevention Network

Last week’s community organizations

Woman to Woman Mentoring

The Civic Circle

Linus Project Montgomery County Chapter

Action Committee for Transit

Urban Adventure Squad

The Senior Connection of Montgomery County

Inside College Financial Aid Nov 25, 2022

Thanksgiving and the holiday season is also the college admission season. As families struggle with college decisions, Sunil Dasgupta talks with UMBC’s Director of Financial Aid Andrea Cipolla to break down the primary instrument colleges use to determine financial aid, the FAFSA, and about the consequences of the college financing system we have created. And local area nonprofits tell you what they do and pitch for your support. Music from Silver Spring’s own power pop band, The Airport 77s.

What's Wrong with Montgomery County's School Bus Cameras Nov 18, 2022

Traffic cameras take out discretionary officer involvement and create strong incentives for drivers to follow the rules, but Maryland State Delegate David Moon tells Sunil Dagupta that Montgomery County’s school bus camera program, which generates millions in fines, does not make streets safer and talks about what can be done. He was finally able to get data and analyze the top-grossing locations for bus camera tickets. Local news about pedestrian safety and comparison of the Silver and Purple Lines. Music from Silver Spring’s own power pop band, The Airport 77s.

Inside Campaign Work Nov 11, 2022

As Maryland ends a historic election, choosing Wes Moore as the first black governor of the state and Aruna Miller as the first Indian-American to hold statewide office, Sunil Dasgupta talks with veteran campaign worker Abi Green about the joys and the challenges of campaign work. News analysis of coming one-party rule in Annapolis, the rise of MAGA politics in local politics, and legalizing recreational marijuana use. Music from DC area progressive rock band A Shrewdness of Apes.

We Know Less about Politics than We Think Nov 04, 2022

Days before the 2022 midterm elections, Sunil Dasgupta talks with UMBC political scientist Ian Anson about his research into our beliefs about political knowledge and its consequences for polarization and democracy. Local news about a new county antisemitism resolution, surprising increases in project costs in capital budget for public schools, and how college financial aid really works. Music from DC area progressive rock band A Shrewdness of Apes.

Karla Silvestre and Valerie Coll for Montgomery County Board of Education Oct 28, 2022

In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with local school board candidates in the upcoming elections, incumbent Karla Silvestre (3:10) about MCPS’ teacher and staff recruitment efforts and with former elementary school teacher Valerie Coll (24:26) about the role of the board in active governance of the school system. Look back at Episode #65 for interviews with two other candidates Scott Joftus and Julie Yang. Original music from 9th-grade singer-songwriter from Bethesda Dara Blecher.

Will School Project Delays Persist Despite Revenue Growth? Oct 21, 2022

Despite higher revenue projections, Montgomery County government has curtailed borrowing limits to manage its debt-service burden. With a new capital budget coming soon, Sunil Dasgupta talks with county PTA leader Laura Stewart about spending affordability guidelines, swapping out county support for state funding, and delays in school projects including HVAC upgrades. Music from DC area progresive rock band A Shrewdness of Apes.

Michael Peroutka and Anthony Brown for Maryland AG and Brooke Lierman for MD Comptroller Oct 14, 2022

With general elections coming up Nov 8, Sunil Dasgupta interviews three statewide candidates: for the Maryland Attorney General’s race, Republican Michael Peroutka (02:30) talks about the state’s constitutional crises and Democrat Anthony Brown (24:08) talks about equity in the criminal justice system including the treatment of juveniles. For the Maryland Comptroller’s race: Brooke Lierman (43:45) talks about the state's floundering Minority Business Enterprise Program. Original music from 9th-grade singer-songwriter from Bethesda Dara Blecher.

How a Bill Really Becomes Law -- The Local Government Edition Oct 07, 2022

Thirty-five people have died on roads in Montgomery County, MD, in 2022; not one related to escooters, but that is the bill the County Council passed recently. An omnibus road safety bill, which is desperately needed, isn't even an idea despite unanimity on the council that road deaths are the bigger problem. Sunil Dasgupta talks with County Council member Sidney Katz about the justification for and provisions in the escooters law he sponsored. Music from DC area progresive rock band A Shrewdness of Apes.

Fall Eating Guide with Local Influencer Michelle Katz Sep 30, 2022

The fall is not only apple and pumpkin picking season, but also time for Oktoberfests and cool dining choices. Sunil Dasgupta talks with local food maven Michelle Katz, whose Instagram account @pikeandrozay is one of the most influential food and food photography accounts in Montgomery County. She talks about Oktoberfests, Happy Hours, and food trends. Music from Montgomery County musician Eddie Boxxer.

When Do Problems Become Political? Sep 23, 2022

Not everything in human life–neighborhoods, schools, businesses–is political, but any issue can become political when we disagree with each other. In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Silver Spring civic activist and urbanist Dan Reed about the politics of his neighborhood association, and with physician and businessman Joe Zammit-Lucia, who has written a book called The New Political Capitalism arguing that businesspeople don’t understand politics. Music by Eddie Boxxer.

The Fragile Economics of the Ag Reserve Sep 16, 2022

Montgomery County set aside roughly a third of its land area as an agricultural reserve to protect it from development and save local farms. Bike rides, apple-picking trips, CSAs, and farmers’ markets leave a romantic impression of organic food production in a verdant landscape. In reality, the economics of the ag reserve are surprising and precarious. What a farm owner gets for land is shocking. Sunil Dasgupta talks with ag reserve farm-owner and agricultural scientist Douglas Boucher about the fragile economics of Montgomery Country’s Agricultural Reserve. Music by Eddie Boxxer.

How to Pay for Public Goods: Carbon Sequestration Sep 09, 2022

Sunil Dasgupta talks with long-time Montgomery County resident Bill Conway, who is putting together a billion-dollar carbon sequestration project in central Louisiana on behalf of the local electric utility, CLECO, which requires significant federal support to be financially viable and serves as a case study in how governments promote new technology using tax credits and tax credit markets and choose winners and losers. Local news about youth curfews and public outreach. Music by Eddie Boxxer.

The Trouble with Youth Mental Health Sep 02, 2022

Providing mental health support to students has been a challenge even before Covid. As the stigma of mental health has lifted, the demand for services has grown often beyond the capacity of school districts and even the mental health profession to provide. Sunil Dasgupta talks with child psychiatrist and Institute of Juvenile Research Director Niranjan Karnik about the history and evolution of youth mental health and ways to overcome challenges to helping young people with mental health concerns. Music by Montgomery County climate band, The Sunshiners.

The Hazard of Walking to School Aug 26, 2022

As millions of children return for the new school year, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Casey Anderson, chair of the Montgomery County Planning Board, and Eli Glazier, the lead author of a new Pedestrian Master Plan, about walking and biking to school. Only 12 percent of MCPS students walk to school. The rest are driven, ride the bus, or drive themselves. Anderson and Glazier propose improving the situation with better school site planning, design, and infrastructure development. Music by Montgomery County climate band, The Sunshiners.

Legal Win Won’t Fix MCPS Magnet Admissions Aug 19, 2022

The US District Court in Maryland dismissed a lawsuit against Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) for violating equal protection in magnet admission rules. MCPS has struggled for years to bring in more Black and Latino students to its most prestigious programs, but an Asian-American parent group, backed by the conservative Pacific Legal Foundation, argued that even a facially-neutral lottery system was intentionally discriminatory against Asian students. Sunil Dasgupta talked with University of Maryland professor and Asian-American activist Janelle Wong about the controversy and its implications. Music by Montgomery County climate band, The Sunshiners.

What We Learned from Primary 2022 Aug 12, 2022

With the first count of votes in the July 2022 Democratic Primary in Montgomery County, MD, now available, Sunil Dasgupta talks with veteran journalist Louis Peck about the implications of another razor-thin margin in the county executive race between incumbent Marc Elrich and challenger David Blair. A recount is coming, independent expenditure in local elections is here to stay, and low turnout remains a structural problem in "one-party" jurisdictions where primary victory is tantamount to winning in the general. Music by Montgomery County climate band, The Sunshiners.

Fixing the Teacher Shortage Aug 05, 2022

As a nationwide teacher and staff shortage threatens to disrupt fall school reopening, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Maryland State Education Association president Cheryl Bost about steps to address teacher recruitment and retention in the state and to MCPS instructional specialist Miriam Plotinsky about her new book, “Teach More, Hover Less,” which offers a pedagogical approach that could allow teachers to be more effective following the pandemic disruption. Music by Montgomery County climate band, The Sunshiners.

Get Outdoors, Maryland! Jul 29, 2022

Sunil Dasgupta talks with Nishant Trivedi and Pallav Thakkar, members of a local Indian-American fitness group, about their 184.5 mile bike ride from Cumberland, in Western Maryland, to Washington DC; and to Maryland state house majority leader Eric Luedtke about a new law expanding and revitalizing state parks. Listen to the end for Luedtke’s top 10 list. This is a how-to-get-outdoors episode. Music by Rockville-based rock and roll band, The Treading Lemmings.

A PAC Rides into Town Jul 22, 2022

The 2022 Maryland primary elections are over and the state is waiting for results. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Adam Jentleson, a former staffer for Senator Harry Reid, who together with like-minded friends created a PAC that spent close to a million dollars on television ads attacking incumbent Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich’s housing record. Whether they succeed or not, the entry of PAC-spending in local elections has been a big bone of contention and brings to the suburbs a hardball national political style on behalf of pro-housing policies. Music by Rockville-based rock and roll band, The Treading Lemmings.

Maryland Prepares to be Abortion Safe Haven Jul 15, 2022

With 26 US states set to impose degrees of abortion bans following the Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v Wade, Maryland is likely to become the southern-most state on the Eastern seaboard to offer fully legal abortions and the state’s providers are expecting women from abortion-banned states to travel to Maryland for services. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Maryland Delegate Ariana Kelly about how the state is preparing. Kelly has been one of the leading voices pushing to expand reproductive health services for Marylanders and out-of-state patients. Music by Rockville-based rock and roll band, The Treading Lemmings.

Can Government Become Business-Friendly? Jul 08, 2022

Montgomery County, Md, has long had a reputation for being tough for business and compared unfavorably with Northern Virginia. In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Julie Verrati, co-founder of Denizens Brewing Company in Silver Spring, about the business climate in the county and neighboring jurisdictions. Verrati also served in the federal Small Business Administration during the Biden presidency and, in the episode, announces her choice in the County Executive race. Music by Rockville-based rock and roll band, The Treading Lemmings.

The Case for Ending Judicial Review Jul 01, 2022

As the country deals with the upending of the landmark abortion rights case, Roe v Wade, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Julie Statland of Riveting Women about the importance of having more women in local and state political positions and to Maryland Delegate Vaughn Stewart and UMBC History Professor Andrew Nolan about a moment in time when protections against the tyranny of the majority, including the venerated judicial review, look like anti-democratic measures that need to be jettisoned if the American experiment is to survive. Music by Rockville-based rock and roll band, The Treading Lemmings.

How Carroll County Schools Banned Pride Flags Jun 24, 2022

In June 2022, Carroll County Board of Education (in Maryland) banned Pride flags from schools. Carroll is a conservative jurisdiction whose changing demographics have put it at the forefront of the culture war over education policy. Sunil Dasgupta speaks with county resident Stephanie Brown, who found herself in the middle of a political fight as she sought to defend the rights of her 13-year-old who goes to a county public school. Music by Montgomery County percussionist Pete Chauvette.

Montgomery County Council District 5 IHP Candidate Interview Jun 17, 2022

Montgomery County Council District 5 is a newly created seat in the eastern part of the county covering Burtonsville, White Oak, and Four Corners. Sunil Dasgupta spoke with five candidates running for the seat: Planning Department employee Brian Anleu (3:45), county business liaison officer Daniel Koroma (26:46), political operative Jeremiah Pope (49:13), immigration lawyer Fatmata Barrie (1:10:40), and community organizer Kristin Mink (1:34:09) about housing, economic development, education, and healthcare. Music for this episode comes from DC-based singer-songwriter Emily Hall.

Montgomery County Council Districts 2 and 4 IHP Candidate Interviews Jun 10, 2022

In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Montgomery County Council District 2 candidates community activist Lorna Forde (4:28) and former Jamie Raskin-staffer Will Roberts (23:46). A belated addition is former Maryland delegate Al Carr (52:32) who is now running for Council District 4. Look back in the archives for interviews with other D2 and D4 candidates: Marilyn Balcombe, Kate Stewart, Amy Ginsburg, and John Zittrauer. Links on Twitter @ihppod. Music by Emily Hall.

Montgomery County Council At-Large Race IHP Candidate Interview Jun 03, 2022

The Montgomery County Council is expanding to 7 members elected from demarcated districts and keeping 4 members who are elected countywide or at-large. In this episode Sunil Dasgupta talks with four at-large candidates, former Gaithersburg city council member Laurie-Anne Sayles (4:27), past council president Tom Hucker (26:27), Montgomery County Democratic Party leader Scott Goldberg (52:51), and incumbent at-large council member Evan Glass (1:12:10) about education, climate action, housing, and transportation. Look back in the archives for interviews with other at-large candidates: Brandy Brooks, Will Jawando, and Gabe Albornoz. See links on Twitter @ihppod. Music by Emily Hall.

Max Socol for Maryland Senate District 18 IHP Candidate Interview May 27, 2022

Maryland State District 18 seat is one of the few contested state legislative offices in Montgomery County. Viable challenges to state legislative incumbents are rare, but in the 2022 community organizer and social activist Max Socol is challenging longtime senator Jeff Waldstreicher. Sunil Dasgupta talked to Socol about affordable housing. Waldstriecher did not respond to interview requests. Music for this episode comes from DC-based singer-songwriter Emily Hall.

Marc Elrich for Montgomery County Executive IHP Candidate Interview May 20, 2022

The Montgomery County Executive race is one of the most closely watched and contested elections in the 2022 primary. Sunil Dasgupta talks with incumbent Marc Elrich about housing and jobs. Elrich is in a three-way race with businessman David Blair and Councilmember Hans Riemer. Prior to becoming county executive, Elrich sat on the Montgomery County Council for 12 years. IHP candidate interviews with Blair and Riemer appeared earlier in February 2022. Music for this episode comes from DC-based singer-songwriter Emily Hall.

Montgomery County Council District 4 IHP Candidate Interview May 13, 2022

Montgomery County Council District 4 is a newly created seat in the southern part of the county starting in Takoma Park and going all the way over Kensington and to North Bethesda on Rockville Pike. Sunil Dasgupta spoke with three candidates running for the seat: bartender John Zittrauer (timestamp 4:44) about safe injection sites for drug users, Takoma Park mayor Kate Stewart (22:33) about housing, and nonprofit executive Amy Ginsburg (49:26) about economic development. Music for this episode comes from DC-based singer-songwriter Emily Hall.

Montgomery County Board of Education District 3 IHP Candidate Interview May 06, 2022

Montgomery County Board of Education District 3 used to be held for a long time by Pat O’Neill, who died in fall 2021. The Board chose education consultant Scott Joftus to replace her. Joftus is now running to keep his seat and Julie Yang, a former MCSPS career and college counselor, is running against him. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Joftus (timestamp 4:11) about how he will bring to bear his education consulting experience, and with Yang (31:22) about student mental health. Yang’s interview is truncated because of lost audio. Music for this episode comes from DC-based singer-songwriter Emily Hall.

The House of the Apple Ballot Apr 29, 2022

The Apple Ballot is the voter guide issued by the teacher’s union in Maryland that has been one of the most powerful endorsements for public office in the state. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Jennifer Martin, president of the Montgomery County Education Association, the county teachers’ union, about education politics. Very local news as police return to schools in Montgomery County and anger erupts over the local Sierra Club’s political endorsements. Music for the episode comes from Montgomery County vibes and drums player, Pete Chauvette.

Earth Day with the Sunshiners Apr 22, 2022

IHP 64 Earth Day with the Sunshiners

Earth Day episode with The Sunshiners, a local band of climate activists debuting on the show their first album, Endangered Species. Kipyn Martin, Rick Sullivan, and Jeffrey Weisner bring their talents to the cause in the hope that music speaks louder than words alone. We play the full album. News update about political candidate shuffling and a war update from faraway Ukraine.

Montgomery County Council District 7 IHP Candidate Interview Apr 15, 2022

Montgomery County Council District 7 is a newly created seat eastern upcounty centered on Olney, Damascus and Montgomery Village. Sunil Dasgupta spoke with three candidates running for the seat: Dawn Luedtke (timestamp 3:34) about public safety, Jacqueline Manger (27:13) about jobs, and Ben Wikner (46:58) about the Montgomery Village Equity Center. Music for this episode comes from DC-based singer-songwriter Emily Hall.

Anthony Brown and Katie O’Malley for MD Attorney General IHP Candidate Interview Apr 08, 2022

The Maryland Attorney General’s race in 2022 features two heavyweights on the Democratic side. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Congressman Anthony Brown, who served as lieutenant governor before and ran to be governor; and with Judge Katie Curran O’Malley, former first lady of the state and longtime circuit court judge in Baltimore. They talk about public safety, civil rights, and rethinking the office. Music for this episode comes from DC-based singer-songwriter Emily Hall.

Baba Cissé and Arvin Kim for SMOB IHP Candidate Interview Mar 31, 2022

Sunil Dasgupta speaks with Albert Einstein High School junior Baba Cissé and Walt Whitman High School junior Arvin Kim, the two finalists for the Student Member of the Montgomery County Board of Education in 2022. The SMOB is one of the eight members of the county school board, nearly co-equal with other generally elected members of the Board, but voted for only by secondary school students in the county. Music for this episode comes from DC-based singer-songwriter Emily Hall.

Three Voices Behind the News Mar 25, 2022

An exhausted Ukrainian medic talks about life and war in her country, a Maryland Delegate finds unexpected celebrity support for his bill on court transparency, and a mayor ponders on voter turnout and election management. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Maria Nazarova and David Moon, and Andtew Saundry talks with Jud Ashman in an episode that goes from global to national to local news. Music for this episode comes from Washington DC area band Bad Robot Jones. Zach Parkman vocals and guitar; Doogie Whittaker bass and vocals, and Joey Jenkins drums.

Washington Post Misses Local News Mar 18, 2022

In December 2021, the Washington Post Sunday Magazine had a story about the decline of local news around the country, but left out any discussion of the Post’s own local coverage. In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with former Washington Post Metro Editor and columnist Robert McCartney about how local coverage in the newspaper declined even in the robust media market of the DC metropolitan area. Music for this episode comes from Washington DC area band Bad Robot Jones. Zach Parkman vocals and guitar; Doogie Whittaker bass and vocals, and Joey Jenkins drums.

The Politics of Disability Rights Mar 11, 2022

The Americans with Disabilities Act was a landmark piece of legislation that made institutions responsible for accommodating persons with disability, but the burden of proof remained with disabled persons. Sunil Dasgupta explores the politics and evolution of disability rights with Annie Tulkin and Katherine Lucas McKay, two Montgomery County disability rights advocates. Music for this episode comes from Washington DC area band Bad Robot Jones. Zach Parkman vocals and guitar; Doogie Whittaker bass and vocals, and Joey Jenkins drums.

Montgomery County Council District 6 IHP Candidate Interview Mar 04, 2022

Montgomery County Council District 6 is a newly created Latino-plurality seat in mid-county centered on Wheaton and Aspen Hill. Sunil Dasgupta spoke with Natali Fani-González (timestamp 3:12), Omar Lazo (22:52), and Maricé Morales (49:32), all three of them Spanish-speaking candidates with family roots in Latin America. Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centreville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

State’s Attorney Race Montgomery County IHP Candidate Interview Feb 25, 2022

In this mega-episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with four candidates running for Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office in the June 2022 primary. The State’s Attorney race is a down ballot contest often ignored by voters but one of the most important independently-elected offices in local politics. The candidates appear in order of my interviews with them: Tom DeGonia (timestamp 2:56), Bernice Mireku-North (30:52), John McCarthy (1:00:00), and Perry Paylor (1:37:28). Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centreville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

Hans Riemer for Montgomery County Executive IHP Candidate Interview Feb 18, 2022

Sunil Dasgupta speaks to three-term and term-limited councilmember Hans Riemer who is now running for Montgomery County Executive in a four-way race with incumbent Marc Elrich, fellow councilmember Tom Hucker, and Rockville businessman David Blair. Riemer talks about the county’s pandemic response. Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centreville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

The Living Organ Donation Love Letter Feb 11, 2022

There are over 100,000 people on the US transplant list, and on average 17 die each day from the lack of organs. For this episode going into Valentine's Day, Sunil Dasgupta talks to local residents Ashley Waters, organizer of City of Frederick’s Oktoberfest, and Eric Saul, publisher of The Takoma Torch, about their experience donating their kidney.

Tim Adams for Maryland Comptroller IHP Candidate Interview Feb 04, 2022

Sunil Dasgupta speaks to Tim Adams, mayor of the City of Bowie, in Maryland. Adams is a businessman who built a large federal contracting firm starting out from the trunk of his car and continued to lead and grow his business even after he became wheelchair-bound almost two decades ago following a spinal cord injury. In his race to be comptroller of Maryland, Adams lent his campaign $1.8 million to draw abreast in fundraising with his Democratic primary opponent Delegate Brooke Lierman.

David Blair for Montgomery County Executive IHP Candidate Interview Jan 28, 2022

I Hate Politics Candidate Interview with David Blair for Montgomery County Executive. Blair is a Rockville businessman who ran a self-financed campaign for county executive in 2018 and lost the Democratic primary to current incumbent Marc Elrich by 77 votes. He talks to Sunil Dasgupta about how to attract corporations and high-paying jobs to the county. Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centreville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

Montgomery County is NOT Alright Jan 21, 2022

Taking stock of a tumultuous few weeks that includes a student walkout, a teachers’ vote of no-confidence, a call from principals for a pause to plan, local education reporter Caitlynn Peetz talks with Sunil Dasgupta about Montgomery County Public Schools not having metrics for when schools stay in person or go virtual, lacking clarity about who is making decisions; and displaying an overall unwillingness to see mistakes resulting in doubling down on policies that are not working. Local news and music from The Airport 77s, a power pop band from Silver Spring.

When Republicans Challenge Redistricting Jan 14, 2022

Fair Maps Maryland and Judicial Watch have filed lawsuits challenging the Democratic majority’s Congressional and redistricting plan. Dominique Bonessi talks with Doug Mayer of Fair Maps Maryland, and Sunil Dasgupta talks with Walter Olson, Chair of the Hogan-appointed Citizens Redistricting Commission. Local news and music from The Airport 77s, a power pop band from Silver Spring.

Marilyn Balcombe for Montgomery County Council District 2 IHP Candidate Interview Jan 07, 2022

I Hate Politics Candidate Interview with Marilyn Balcombe for Montgomery County Council District 2. Balcombe is the president of the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce and talks with Sunil Dasgupta about how to bring more jobs to the county. Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centreville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

The Politics of Budget Surplus Dec 31, 2021

In the middle of a pandemic that threatened to devastate the economy and squeeze government budgets, Maryland is reporting higher than expected tax collection, more than $2 billion of it. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Maryland House Majority Leader Eric Luedtke and UMBC budget expert Roy Meyers about the politics of plenty. Very local news, including a poorly designed public survey. Music from DC area band King Soul.

All Local Music Yule Log Dec 24, 2021

Christmas Special with all local music from the Washington DC region: In order of appearance, Kara Levchenko, Sic ‘Em Buster, Bad Robot Jones, Doogie Whittaker, Two Truths, Soul Witness, Premila Mistry and Laura Guli, Emily Hall, Seth Kibel, Damon Foreman, King Soul, The Treading Lemmings, and The Airport 77s, Arlington Presbyterian Church Choir and Abby Madden.

Private Property, Public Good, and Eminent Domain Dec 17, 2021

A year ago in January 2020, White’s Ferry, a car barge connecting Poolesville in Montgomery County, MD, to Loudoun County, VA, closed down. Much has happened since but no quick resolution seems likely. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Libby Devlin, part-owner of Rockland Farm, the ferry landing site on the Virginia riverfront to get to the bottom of a long-running commercial dispute with implications for public transportation. Local nonprofits pitch for your support. Music from DC area Southern soul band King Soul.

Special Elections v Vacancy Appointments Dec 10, 2021

When Maryland State Delegate Kathleen Dumais left her District 15 seat in Montgomery County recently to join the circuit court as judge, the County Democratic Party appointed its chair, Linda Foley, to fill the position. This led to questions about whether the appointment process is truly open and democratic. Sunil Dasgupta talks to Delegate David Moon from District 20 in Montgomery County about his push to reform vacancy appointments. Very local news. Music from DC area Southern soul band King Soul.

Sports Ain’t Politics, Right? Dec 03, 2021

Sunil Dasgupta talks with UMBC political scientist Tom Schaller about his new book, Common Enemies: Georgetown BasketBall, Miami Football, and the Racial Transformation of College Sports, and with Rahul Khanna, who co-founded the Maryland Badminton Premier League, bringing an immigrant sport to a changing land. Music from the incomparable Washington area horn player and composer, Seth Kibel. Very local news including on redistricting.

The Thanksgiving Labor Politics Episode Nov 26, 2021

This week for the Thanksgiving holiday, we bring you the history and politics of the labor movement in the Washington DC region. Sunil Dasgupta talks with journalist Louis Peck about labor politics in Montgomery County and labor leader David Rodich about organizing adjunct faculty in the DMV area, a big win for the labor movement after decades of losses in membership and influence. Music from this Rockville-based Brit-pop band, The Treading Lemmings.

Will Jawando for Montgomery County Council at-Large IHP Candidate Interview Nov 19, 2021

I Hate Politics Candidate Interview with Will Jawando for Montgomery County Council at-Large. Jawando is an incumbent MoCo, MD, councilmember, running for reelection. He talks to Sunil Dasgupta about the problem of inequality in the county. Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centreville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

The American Dream Nov 12, 2021

This week we bring you a special voice-acted episode with unfiltered words and arguments from the frontlines of the zoning wars. These are real excerpts from thousands of social media posts across several platforms including Nextdoor, Facebook, Twitter, and neighborhood listservs. The language is not always appropriate for young children. Guest produced by Mike English. Voice actors: Adam Bobrow, Biz Duval, Mike English, Elana Mintz, Eric Saul, and Lisa Winston.

So You Want Affordable Housing Nov 05, 2021

As the Washington DC metro area struggles with housing affordability, Sunil Dasgupta talks with James Hedrick, Chair of the Board of Rockville Housing Enterprises, the city’s public housing authority, about the challenges they face in bringing truly affordable housing to residents. Very local news. Music from this Rockville-based Brit-pop band, The Treading lemmings.

Gabe Albornoz for Montgomery County Council at-Large IHP Candidate Interview Oct 29, 2021

I Hate Politics Candidate Interview with Gabe Albornoz for Montgomery County Council at Large. Albornoz is an incumbent MoCo, MD, councilmember, running for reelection. He talks to Sunil Dasgupta about health disparities in the county. Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centreville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

Church Doctrine and Covid Response Oct 22, 2021

In this episode Sunil Dasgupta interviews Abhi Janamanchi, Cedar Lane Unitarian-Universalist Church in Bethesda and Steven Cenname, Sunday school teacher in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Rockville, to find surprising differences in how they Covid-19 challenges. Very local redistricting and other news. Music from Two Truths, an electronic Americana band from Rochester, NY, with DMV roots.

Gaithersburg City Council Race IHP Candidate Interview Oct 15, 2021

In a mega-episode, I Hate Politics Upcounty Reporter Andrew Saundry interviews Gaithersburg City Council candidates Dave Delgard (03:20), Philip Cook (23:50), Lisa Henderson (38:15), Yamil Hernandez (56:00), Jim McNulty (1:15:00). Note timestamps for each candidate. Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centreville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

Jud Ashman and Stephen Escobar for Gaithersburg Mayor IHP Candidate Interview Oct 08, 2021

I Hate Politics Upcounty Reporter Andrew Saundry interviews Gaithersburg mayoral candidates incumbent Jud Ashman and challenger Stephen Escobar. IHP Candidate Interviews focus on one issue. Ashman chose development in east Gaithersburg. Escobar chose support for veterans. Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centreville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

The Case of the Missing MoU Oct 01, 2021

For 18 months since the start of the pandemic, Heather Dublisnke has been the COVID-19 coordinator for Montgomery County Public Schools. Sunil Dasgupta talks with Dublinske about her role and the challenges and the frustrations of working in a large school system. Very local news about zoning wars and staff shortage in schools. Music from Two Truths, an electronic Americana band from Rochester, NY, with DMV roots.

Where the Grassroots Grow Sep 24, 2021

What does grassroots organizing really mean? How is it done? Sunil Dasgupta talks to Tino Fragale of Everyday Canvassing and Anika Manzoor of Youth Activism Project about how they recruit and operate their grassroots organizations. News about local schools, test scores, real-estate project starts, and from faraway Texas. Music from local rock/metal band, Sic 'Em Buster.

Montgomery County is Alright! Sep 17, 2021

After a rocky start to the new school year and grim news on the climate crisis, Sunil Dasgupta talks with local education reporter Caitlynn Peetz and local green bank president Tom Deyo for a change in perspective. Very local news about Montgomery County Police Department. Music from local rock/metal band, Sic 'Em Buster.

Managing Stormwater in the Climate Crisis Sep 10, 2021

Following the death of 19-year-old Melkin Cedillo in flash flooding in Rockville, Sunil Dasgupta talks to Eliza Cava of the Audubon Naturalist Society about the challenges of stormwater management in Montgomery County. Very local news on schools, the pandemic, and closure of Metro stations. Music from Washington area rock and metal band, Sic ‘Em Buster.

Brooke Lierman for Maryland Comptroller IHP Candidate Interview Sep 03, 2021

I Hate Politics Candidate Interview with Brooke Lierman for Maryland Comptroller. Lierman, who presents District 46 (Baltimore City) in Maryland General Assembly, talks to Sunil Dasgupta about her expansive view of the job of the state comptroller. Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centreville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

Resilience Over Prevention in Climate Action Plan Aug 27, 2021

In the hottest recorded summer in the Washington DC region, Sunil Dasgupta talks to Adriana Hochberg, the Montgomery County, MD, official who led the writing of the county’s Climate Action Plan. Very local news including reopening woes in MCPS. Music from Baltimore-Washington musician and arranger Seth Kibel.

Incentives for Growth or Corporate Welfare? Aug 20, 2021

As Montgomery County wrestles with attracting new businesses to the county, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Jacob Sesker, a former county budget analyst who has proposed a $275 million jobs fund to incentivize businesses to bring high-paying jobs to the county. Music from Baltimore-Washington musician Seth Kibel.

IHP Candidate Interview: Kristin Mink for Montgomery County Council At-Large Aug 13, 2021

I Hate Politics Candidate Interview with organizer and activist Kristin Mink, who is running at-large for Montgomery County, MD, County Council. Mink talks with Sunil Dasgupta about public safety and how the national movement to defund the police applies to Montgomery County. Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centreville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

Brandy Brooks for Montgomery County Council At-Large IHP Candidate Interview Aug 06, 2021

I Hate Politics Candidate Interview with organizer and activist Brandy Brooks, who is running at-large for Montgomery County, MD, County Council. Brooks talks with Sunil Dasgupta about participatory policymaking, emphasizing groups and individuals historically excluded from policymaking and power-sharing. Music for this episode comes from Kara Levchenko, an Arlington singer-songwriter, who is the choir director in Centerville High School in Fairfax County Virginia.

Delegate Korman Wants to Bypass Hogan's Toll Lanes Jul 30, 2021

As Maryland Governor Larry Hogan steps up pressure on his plan to add privately-built and operated toll lanes to I-270 in suburban Maryland, State House Delegate Marc Korman offers a different vision to solve the region's traffic woes. Andrew Saundry's Upcounty Report on what happens when manmade lakes drain out (Maryland has no major natural lakes). Very local news. Music from Baltimore-Washington musician Seth Kibel.

Exit, Voice, and Loyalty Jul 23, 2021

Inspired by political economist Albert O. Hirschman’s groundbreaking work, Sunil Dasgupta talks with epidemiologist Katie Schenk and recently retired schoolteacher Valerie Coll about the decline in public health and education as public institutions and as professions. Very local news including on I-270 toll lanes. Music from Washington DC and Baltimore area woodwind player and music producer Seth Kibel.

John King for Maryland Governor IHP Candidate Interview Jul 16, 2021

The first I Hate Politics Candidate Interview with former U.S. Education Secretary John King, who is now running for the governor of Maryland in a crowded field of Democrats. Rather than playing 20 questions usual for candidate forums, Sunil Dasgupta and John King talk in depth about education and equity in education. Music from Arlington singer-songwriter Kara Levchenko.

IHP Promo "From Not Engaged to Running for Office" with County Council Candidate Brandy Brooks Jul 13, 2021

Should We Allow Gardens in the Right of Way? Jul 09, 2021

In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Montgomery County resident Will Taylor and the county's right of way manager about more permissive use of the public space that sits in front of most single-family homes. Right of way gardens seem like a small concern but speaks to several contemporary problems of political philosophy including the nature of law-making, policing, pollution, and how we treat neighbors. Very local news. Music from the 1921 Buster Keaton movie, The Goat.

Small Town Urbanism Jul 02, 2021

In this July 4 episode, Sunil Dasgupta interviews urbanist blogger, Addison Del Mastro, about his road trips to North Virginia's small towns and lessons for urbanism. Local advocacy group presents pedestrian and bicycle safety demands. Andrew Saundry introduces candidates for the Gaithersburg City Council elections. Very local news: minimum wage goes up when a hot labor market doesn't push wages rates at the bottom; new county climate plan is out. Music from 1921 Buster Keaton movie soundtrack, The Goat.

Schools: Leadership First, Then Budgets Jun 25, 2021

In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with education author Karin Chenoweth about her new book, Districts that Succeed, where she looks at five successful school districts that beat severe challenges, and with Richard Montgomery High School (MCPS) history teacher Jerome Price about how schools need to practice what they preach on anti-racism. Very local news. Music from The Airport 77s.

IHP Promo: "You Don't Hate Politics!" With education activist Jill Ortman-Fouse Jun 25, 2021

Podcast promo with Jill Ortman-Fouse, former member of the Montgomery County Board of Education and currently senior policy advisor to Montgomery County Council President Tom Hucker.

The Persistence of School Segregation Jun 18, 2021

In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with school equity firebrand Jill Ortman-Fouse about the inability of the local school board to change school boundaries, allowing inequalities to persist across the 207-strong school system. Andrew Saundry on how no Upcounty transportation project made the Biden infrastructure draft bill. Music from Silver Spring band, the Airport 77s. Very local news and much more.

Transit v Tolls Jun 11, 2021

Maryland Governor Larry Hogan's plan to widen and add tolls lanes to I-270 comes up against protest. Sunil Dasgupta goes to a "Don't Widen 270" rally and talks with transit advocate Ben Ross. New music from Silver Spring band The Airport 77s. Very local news and much more.

"Is Every Kid Accounted For?" Jun 04, 2021

As the pandemic school year comes to an end, Sunil Dasgupta talks to Wheaton Woods Elementary School Principal Daman Harris about accounting for every student in a difficult year and to Montgomery County Board of Education Member Karla Silvestre about the coming surge of unaccompanied minor refugees in county public schools. Original music from DC area band Bad Robot Jones. Local election races heat up and other very local news and more.

Can Outdoor Learning Save Education? May 28, 2021

In time for Memorial Day 2021, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Elana Mintz, founder and executive director of Washington DC nonprofit Urban Adventure Squad, about learning outdoors safely, equitably, and inexpensively. Insect and plant expert Carol Allen of Washington Gardener Magazine on variations in cicada densities. Music from Washington DC area band, Bad Robot Jones. Very local news and more.

Expanding the Safety Net: COVID Food Distribution May 21, 2021

In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with Jackie De Carlo, president of Manna Food Center; Oscar Alvarenga of Epworth United Methodist Church of Gaithersburg; and I Hate Politics Upcounty Reporter Andrew Saundry about organizing and running pandemic food distribution and the lessons they drew from it. New music from Washington DC area band, Bad Robot Jones.

Is Bethesda Magazine a Local Media Unicorn? May 14, 2021

Local media giant Bethesda Magazine (and accompanying Bethesda Beat) was sold to new owners in April 2021. Sunil Dasgupta talks to founder, editor, and publisher Steve Hull about the challenges of building a commercially viable local media outlet at a time when local news has been in decline. Andrew Saundry returns with his Upcounty Report on things to up north. Music by local singer-songwriter Emily Hall.

Budgeting! Redistricting! Exciting! May 07, 2021

Sunil Dasgupta talks with UMBC budget expert Roy Meyers as Maryland and its counties find their coffers surprisingly full from unexpectedly strong tax revenues and federal pandemic recovery funds. Montgomery Blair High School statistics teacher David Stein on lessons from his classroom for electoral redistricting, now waiting for census data to be released. DC singer-songwriter Emily Hall with new music.

The Politics of Public Art and Culture Apr 30, 2021

Sunil Dasgupta talks to Gaithersburg Mayor and Book Festival Founder Jud Ashman about suburban Washington's only--and publicly-supported--book event which starts May 1 and a deep dive into the controversy over the design for a proposed 88-ft mural on the Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning Commission's new headquarters in Wheaton. New music from Wheaton and DC singer-songwriter Emily Hall.

Maryland Legislators Step Out Ahead on Police Reforms Apr 23, 2021

Sunil Dasgupta talks to Maryland State House Delegate Gabriel Acevero, one of the leaders of the police reform and accountability movement, about new public safety legislation passed by the state that creates a new standard for use of force and brings transparency to investigations on officer misconduct. Student voices on returning to school buildings and music from locally-composed musical Sunflower: The Story of Amalie and Vincent.

The Moral Standoff between Conservation and Climate Action Apr 16, 2021

Earth Day 2021 episode. Sunil Dasgupta talks to Montgomery County, MD, Council Member Hans Riemer about the failure of his proposal to change zoning rules to allow ground-based solar panels in the protected agricultural reserve. Andrew Saundry talks with Will Roberts about the eviction crisis. Music from new locally-composed musical Sunflower: The Story of Amalie and Vincent.

Who Do Neighborhood Associations Serve? Apr 09, 2021

In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta talks with urban planner, blogger, and community activist Dan Reed about the role, evolution, and character of neighborhood associations, HOAs, and PTAs. In the Upcounty Report, Andrew Saundry offers placemaking as a way for greater social solidarity in the burgeoning northern part of Montgomery County.

The Muddy Lines of Education Accountability Apr 02, 2021

Sunil Dasgupta talks with Lori Morrow, of the Maryland State Board of Education, about a particularly tough year for education including on the question of closing and reopening schools. The discussion turns to reveal blurry lines of accountability that makes it hard to determine who is ultimately responsible for public education. And A Tragedy of the Commons in Sycamore Creek, Aspen Hill.

Forging the Asian-American Political Identity Mar 23, 2021

Following the mass shooting of six women of Asian descent outside Atlanta, Sunil Dasgupta talks to civil rights attorney and Asian-American activist Aryani Ong about the making of the Asian-American political identity and the challenges involved. The Upcounty Reports takes on the political impact of cost of living differences in Montgomery County.

Why is it So Hard to Remove Police from Schools Mar 19, 2021

Montgomery County, MD, removes police officers from public schools. Student activist Lauren Payne and teacher Neha Singhal talk with Sunil Dasgupta about the movement for social and racial justice in the county. Andrew Saundry on getting an Upcounty transportation project included in the federal infrastructure bill. Timestamps 5:30 News Roundup 8:35 Lauren Payne and Neha Singhal Interview 34:50 Lessons from the Interview 38:12 Andrew Saundry’s Upcounty Report

Vaccine Equity Needs More than Supply Mar 12, 2021

Montgomery County, MD, teachers Becky Taylor and Tanya Aguilar share lessons from Covid vaccine hunting for people unable to find appointments on their own. They find that pre-existing disparities in public health and puzzling lack of coordination between levels of government and different agencies of government. And our report on Montgomery County's only—unauthorized—Covid Memorial.

The Political Economy of Suburban Housing Shortage Mar 05, 2021

Like many other growing jurisdictions, Montgomery County, Maryland, has a housing shortage and a housing mismatch on its hands that are rooted in exclusive single-family zoning going back decades. Sunil Dasgupta talks to County Planning Board Chair Casey Anderson about the problem and possible solutions. Plus Andrew Saundry's Upcounty Report.

Why the Name? Promo with Casey Anderson, MoCo Planning Board Chair Mar 02, 2021

What White's Ferry debacle says about the Purple Line Feb 26, 2021

In this episode, we connect lessons from the stoppage of White's Ferry to public-private partnerships including the Purple Line light rail project in suburban Maryland, the largest public-private transit partnership in the US. New Upcounty Report on sports teams leaving communities.

Choosing Your Advocacy Style Feb 19, 2021

In this episode, Sunil Dasgupta explores two contrasting styles of local government advocacy with pedestrian safety activist Miriam Schoenbaum and former Winston Churchill High School President Bruce Adelson.

A small street resdesign project promises big dividends Feb 08, 2021

Georgia Avenue in the southeastern end of Montgomery County, Maryland, is looking at a redesign of its streetscape to improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists and to bring the communities separated by the Capital Beltway back together. Can they do it? We talk to community activists and planners.

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