The stories that captured New Yorkers' attention in 2025 reveal what truly mattered to them this year. But here’s where it gets controversial—their interests mirror both their hopes and frustrations, often highlighting issues that sparked debate and divided opinions.
In 2025, New York City faced its most challenging summer for subway service in seven years, with numerous delays and disruptions that frustrated millions of commuters. It’s no wonder that residents eagerly consumed updates about any signs of improvement—whether it was a new subway map or the introduction of sleek, modern train cars on their favorite lines. These viewing habits reinforce the popular saying that “everyone takes the train,” showing just how central the subway system is to city life.
Equally unavoidable in the city’s daily routine is dealing with trash. Before Mayor Eric Adams launched what he called the “trash revolution,” many residents questioned whether they were disposing of their waste correctly. Naturally, people became curious about innovative waste management tactics in action, eager to see if the city’s new strategies would actually work.
And speaking of leadership and politics, another major theme was the city’s unusual and consequential election. The public showed significant interest in videos featuring the candidates, reflecting a broader engagement with the future of their leadership.
Below are the top 11 most watched videos of 2025—and each one offers a fascinating glimpse into city life, politics, or ongoing issues:
The MTA’s Introduction of Open Gangway Subway Trains
Transit reporter Ramsey Khalifeh captured the debut of the MTA’s groundbreaking “open gangway” trains—train cars that are connected without doors in between, creating a continuous walkway. One rider described the new design as “refreshing,” emphasizing how it changes the commuting experience. These trains aim to improve safety, capacity, and passenger flow—a bold step forward in transit design.The Launch of a New Subway Map
The subway map, first redesigned since 1979, marked a significant milestone in the city’s transit evolution. Transit reporter Stephen Nessen documented this major update, which aims to simplify navigation and enhance accessibility for riders navigating the complex network.A Tragic Accident in Brooklyn
In a heartbreaking incident, Brooklyn wigmaker Miriam Yarimi pleaded guilty to reckless manslaughter after a crash that resulted in the death of a mother and her two children. The event drew widespread attention, with Gothamist reporter Brittany Kriegstein present to capture Yarimi’s emotional apology in court—a stark reminder of how personal tragedies intersect with public safety issues.A Bold Political Commentary
In April, education reporter Jessica Gould shared a blunt opinion from former Mayor Bill de Blasio, who publicly stated that former Governor Andrew Cuomo should not become the city’s next mayor. This statement fueled discussions about political rivalries and leadership qualities, highlighting the city’s often contentious political scene.Modernizing Trash Collection in Harlem
Mayor Adams unveiled a new fleet of high-tech, $500,000 garbage trucks in Harlem as part of his “trash revolution.” These trucks are designed to improve sanitation and reduce street clutter. Reporter Liam Quigley detailed how these new vehicles are reshaping waste management in the city.The Impact of Zohran Mamdani’s Spanish-Language Campaign Video
Candidate Zohran Mamdani released a Spanish-language ad that received widespread praise for its authenticity—particularly from native Spanish speakers. Unlike previous campaigns that often featured halting or awkward Spanish, this video was celebrated as a genuine effort to connect with a diverse electorate. Political analyst Elizabeth Kim and NPR’s Sean Carlson analyzed what made this video a game-changer.Testing New Subway Gates
The MTA began experimenting with redesigned subway gates aimed at reducing fare evasion. However, these new entries sparked a wave of creative attempts by riders eager to beat the system. Ramsey Khalifeh spoke with New Yorkers already planning tricks to outsmart the new technology—a reminder of the ongoing battle between security and ingenuity.Federal Immigration Raid in Chinatown
In October, federal agents detained multiple individuals on Chinatown’s Canal Street, prompting outrage and confusion among residents. Gothamist reporter Giulia Heyward was on scene to document the raid, shedding light on immigration enforcement’s complex and often contentious role in the community.New Trash Bins in Brooklyn
Mayor Adams’ campaign against rats and street garbage continued with the installation of new trash bins in Brooklyn parking spots. The goal was clear: eliminate piles of garbage bags left on sidewalks and improve sanitation citywide. Gothamist covered how these bins could change neighborhood cleanliness.The 'Friend' AI Necklace and a Tired CEO
Subway posters advertising ‘Friend,’ a wearable AI necklace designed to listen and advise, have become ubiquitous. But in a twist, the creator of these ads, Avi Schiffmann, has publicly expressed exhaustion from talking to New Yorkers about it. Gothamist’s Ryan Kailath explored this quirky dichotomy—a symbol of tech fascination versus the human fatigue it can cause.The Incident with Congressional Aide at Nadler’s Office
Surveillance footage released by Rep. Jerry Nadler’s team revealed the tense confrontation between his staff and federal officers in June, culminating in the handcuffing of a congressional aide. Gothamist’s Arya Sundaram reported on the incident, which has prompted calls for congressional oversight and raised questions about law enforcement’s conduct.
Looking ahead to 2026, we remain committed to tracking the stories that shape New York City—whether they’re about transit improvements, political battles, or community struggles. Stay connected with us through our videos and discussions on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. There’s always more beneath the surface—what’s your take on these stories? Do you think some issues are overlooked or misunderstood? Drop your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation. Because in this city, the stories never end.
