Capital city of New York and county seat of Albany County
A wave of local and state actions is driving a pause in new data-center approvals as officials weigh electricity demand, water use, and community impact. Governors and legislators are considering temporary bans or moratoria while studies assess environmental and economic effects. Industry groups warn against overreach while residents push for local control and benefits.
Los Angeles Unified has halted device issuance to the youngest students as a broader move to curb screen time. The district is rolling out a fall policy to limit device use, with benchmarks on higher grades, strict lunch/recess rules, and a review of ed-tech contracts. Critics and parents say the step reflects a national reckoning on classroom screens.
DC candidates and officials are pushing ambitious housing agendas focused on reforming zoning and expanding affordable housing. Campaigns link zoning changes to cost of living, homelessness, and budget gaps as new data and political dynamics shape implementation.
Progressive candidates endorsed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani have won three key Democratic primaries in New York, expanding the left’s influence in Congress. Brad Lander, Darializa Avila Chevalier and Claire Valdez have defeated establishment-backed rivals in the 10th, 13th and 7th districts, with open seats in play and a broader shift underway.
Whitman College has begun offering a transparent “you will pay” figure, following Brandeis’ similar move, in response to upper-middle-class families exceeding aid eligibility while facing steep sticker prices. Applications from affluent families have fallen as a result, prompting more colleges to disclose pricing.
The pied-à-terre tax in New York City has taken effect, with rates up to 6.5% for non-primary luxury residences. Authorities anticipate $340 million to $500 million in annual revenue from roughly 10,000 units, while brokers report continued strength in luxury sales as market liquidity remains high.
A socialist-led slate backed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani has swept several New York Democratic primaries, defeating incumbents and signaling shifts within the party. The results prompt questions about titles like House speaker and the future of the caucus as 2026developments unfold.
New York has filed a lawsuit in Albany against 3M, DuPont de Nemours, The Chemours Company, Corteva and others over PFAS, alleging they knew these “forever chemicals” were toxic and polluted air, water and soil. The suit seeks funding for cleanup, consumer warnings, damages and other penalties..
Governor Kathy Hochul has signed an executive order imposing a one-year statewide moratorium on new hyperscale data centres that use 50 megawatts or more, directing regulators to complete an environmental impact review and consider rules to make developers pay for power, contribute to grid upgrades and lose tax breaks. The move has drawn praise from community and environmental groups and rebuke from industry and national conservatives.
The female marmoset found on a 302 bus in Kensal Rise has been named Oyster. Following April’s licensing law for primates, the RSPCA says abandonment may rise and urges licensing help. Oyster is healthy in sanctuary care after a stressful rescue.
A round-up of fresh car reviews shows hybrids and crossovers remain dominant, with new models testing affordability and performance amid high gas prices. Multiple outlets assess mid-size SUVs and compact pickups, highlighting value plays and evolving tech. The coverage underscores ongoing consumer recalibration as costs and efficiency drive buying decisions.
Ariana Grande’s eighth studio album Petal has sparked conversation about her artistic direction and handling of fame. Critics note a more restrained vocal approach and darker production, while Grande faces ongoing questions about identity, media scrutiny and fan relationship as she navigates post-Wicked press tours and personal challenges.
New York City’s pied-à-terre tax is under court challenge after a Staten Island judge temporarily halted its rollout. Mayor Mamdani defends the policy as a revenue tool while President Trump has called for federal intervention. The city plans an appeal, arguing the pause threatens time-sensitive implementation.
New York officials are weighing participation in a federal Education Freedom Tax Credit program. Pro- and anti-school-choice coalitions are mounting campaigns as the state evaluates whether to opt in. The program would provide a 100% federal tax credit for donations to scholarship-granting organizations, potentially funding private and religious schooling while public schools defend their budgets.
Officials across major states are tightening rules on e-bikes, e-scooters and similar devices after a spate of injuries and high-profile incidents. The move comes amid a patchwork of local laws and new age, registration and helmet requirements, with critics warning about broad strokes that risk sidelining safe riders.
Jessica Bowie has been arrested in Albany after an FBI counterterrorism operation foiled her plan to bomb the New York State Capitol using an inert explosive in a DoorDash bag. She has pledged allegiance to ISIS and is under heavy investigation for radicalization online.
Federal prosecutors have charged Jessica Bowie, 35, with attempting to provide material support to a designated terrorist organisation after she told an FBI informant she planned to bomb the New York State Capitol, kill senators and flee to Syria. Bowie has been accused of conducting reconnaissance, buying bomb materials and discussing disguises with undercover operatives before her arrest on Aug. 19.
Chief Justice John Roberts has issued a temporary order allowing construction on the White House ballroom to continue while the Supreme Court considers an emergency appeal. Lower courts had ordered a halt, finding the project requires congressional approval. The administration argues the work is vital to national security; preservationists say Trump acted without legal authority.