The epicenter of political news coverage in New York—Room 9 in City Hall—is no bigger than a studio apartment. At least 17 reporters from a dozen media outlets cram into the fabled space, which first served as a press center in the 1860s. Room 9 usually evokes an intense study hall; reporters share desks, facing a wall or each other, and often all you can hear are fingers feverishly tapping on computers. At less busy times, a politician or spokesperson may drop by to discuss, or spin, the story of the day.
Elizabeth Williams is co-author of The Illustrated Courtroom: 50 Years of Court Art.