This Week on WURD: Hair Equity, ICE Accountability, Transit Taxes & Global Security

WURD Radio

Isaiah Thomas, Philadelphia councilmember at large, joined Dr. James Peterson on Evening WURDs to discuss pulling back “resign to run” legislation amid confusion and political pushback, while also weighing the proposed $1 Uber and Lyft tax, raising concerns about the impact on working residents and the need for sustainable revenue.

Joanna McClinton, Pennsylvania speaker of the House of Representatives, and State Rep. La’Tasha Mayes joined Solomon Jones on Wake Up With WURD to discuss the passage of the CROWN Act, calling it a major civil rights victory that bans discrimination based on natural hair in schools, workplaces, and public spaces, with enforcement mechanisms now in place statewide.

Larry Krasner, Philadelphia district attorney, joined Wake Up With WURD to discuss ICE operations in the city and at Philadelphia Airport, warning agents must follow state law or face prosecution and emphasizing that any criminal conduct will be investigated locally, while affirming residents’ rights to document enforcement activity.

Maria Pulcinella, WHYY digital news producer, joined the Midday Break Room to discuss dozens of planned “No Kings” protests across Philadelphia and the region, with organizers expecting a large turnout, road closures, and transit disruptions. The protests aim to build momentum ahead of the midterm elections in November.

Alecia Taylor, Capital B News reporter, joined the Midday Break Room to discuss students at Florida A&M University protesting a previously undisclosed agreement allowing campus police to collaborate with ICE. Organizers cite fear, lack of transparency, and broader immigration crackdowns, and say they will continue applying pressure until university leadership responds.

Linn Washington, Temple University journalism professor, joined Wake Up With WURD to discuss federal efforts to restrict press access, particularly at the Pentagon, warning of a broader erosion of democratic norms and saying limits on media access undermine accountability and mirror authoritarian patterns.

Malcolm Nance, national security analyst, joined Wake Up With WURD to discuss escalating U.S. military actions near Iran, warning of prolonged conflict, rising oil prices, and no clear exit strategy, describing the situation as unstable and potentially dangerous for global markets and regional security.