The Politics Hour: Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins talks Old Town tourism and Washington Post's Marc Fisher on Ovechkin cover art

The Politics Hour: Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins talks Old Town tourism and Washington Post's Marc Fisher on Ovechkin

The Politics Hour: Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins talks Old Town tourism and Washington Post's Marc Fisher on Ovechkin

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Alexandria is dealing with the impacts of a shrinking federal workforce on its economy, tax base, and ability to fund even some basic services. Mayor Alyia Gaskins sat down with Kojo and Tom to discuss the local challenges that come with cutting thousands of federal positions. Plus, Mayor Gaskins explained why Alexandria is not a sanctuary city.

Washington Capitals legend Alexander Ovechkin broke the long-held NHL scoring record this past weekend. The hockey superstar has played his entire 20-year career in the District, and local fans have bonded with the Russian-born athlete. Washington Post columnist Marc Fisher got behind the mic to talk about the city's special relationship with "Ovi," despite the superstar's uncomfortable relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

And the Maryland General Assembly wrapped its 90-day session earlier this week with compromises on the budget, immigrant protections, and cuts to the state's massive education reform plan. Maryland Matters' reporter Will Ford broke down what passed - and what didn't - during the General Assembly's final chaotic days of its 2025 session.

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