Anna Orso
Verified
City Hall reporter at @PhillyInquirer. Send tips and jokes to aorso@inquirer.com.
Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Anna Orso
Philly’s former LGBTQ+ affairs director sued the Parker administration for discrimination
Philadelphia’s former head of LGBTQ+ affairs sued Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s administration in federal court Thursday, saying top officials subjected her to pervasive harassment, discrimination, and retaliation tied to her identity as a transgender woman.
Councilmember Mark Squilla is up for the PPA's top job. Progressives are hoping to win his seat
Longtime City Councilmember Mark Squilla is on the short list to become the new leader of the Philadelphia Parking Authority, Bob Brady, chair of the Democratic City Committee, said Monday. If Squilla, 64, takes the job, it would shake up the race for Council's 1st District, which he has represented for 14 years. It could also give progressives targeting the popular lawmaker's seat an easier path to grow their ranks on Council.
Councilmember Mark Squilla is up for the PPA’s top job. Progressives are hoping to win his seat.
Longtime City Councilmember Mark Squilla is on the short list to become the new leader of the Philadelphia Parking Authority, Bob Brady, chair of the Democratic City Committee said Monday. The potential of Squilla, 64, taking the job would shake up the race for Council’s 1st District, which Squilla has represented for 14 years. It could also give progressives targeting the popular lawmaker’s seat an easier path to grow their ranks on Council.
Mayor Parker’s administration told Congress it doesn’t endorse Krasner and Bilal’s anti-ICE statements
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s administration told a powerful congressional oversight committee earlier this year that it does not endorse statements made by District Attorney Larry Krasner and Sheriff Rochelle Bilal about federal immigration enforcement, according to a report released Thursday. The 18-page interim report was released by the Republican-led U.S. House Judiciary Committee less than three weeks before a midterm election when the GOP may lose its majority in the chamber.
Mayor Parker's administration told Congress it doesn't endorse Krasner and Bilal's anti-ICE statements
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker's administration told a powerful congressional oversight committee earlier this year that it does not endorse statements made by District Attorney Larry Krasner and Sheriff Rochelle Bilal about federal immigration enforcement, according to a report released Thursday. The 18-page interim report was released by the Republican-led U.S. House Judiciary Committee less than three weeks before a midterm election when the GOP may lose its majority in the chamber.
Mayor Parker’s administration told Congress it doesn’t endorse Krasner and Bilal’s anti-ICE statements
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s administration told a powerful congressional oversight committee earlier this year that it does not endorse statements made by District Attorney Larry Krasner and Sheriff Rochelle Bilal about federal immigration enforcement, according to a report released Thursday. The 18-page interim report was released by the Republican-led U.S. House Judiciary Committee less than three weeks before a midterm election when the GOP may lose its majority in the chamber.
Philadelphia looks to dramatically restrict where stores can sell tobacco and vapes | Council roundup
Philadelphia City Council wants to dramatically restrict where new stores that sell tobacco or vaping products can be located in the city, the latest attempt by the legislative body to rein in smoke shops. Democratic Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson on Thursday introduced legislation that would adjust the city's zoning code to prohibit any businesses selling tobacco from opening in much of the city.
Philly City Council is reluctant to abolish the sheriff’s office, even after a $20 million scandal
PHILADELPHIA — After a top aide to Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal confirmed in court last month that her scandal-plagued office had been sitting on nearly $20 million meant for public coffers, reformers renewed calls to abolish her position. But for City Council, which has the power to initiate such a change, eliminating the antiquated sheriff’s office is not on the agenda.
Philly City Council is reluctant to abolish the sheriff's office, even after a $20 million scandal
PHILADELPHIA — After a top aide to Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal confirmed in court last month that her scandal-plagued office had been sitting on nearly $20 million meant for public coffers, reformers renewed calls to abolish her position. But for City Council, which has the power to initiate such a change, eliminating the antiquated sheriff’s office is not on the agenda.
Philly City Council is reluctant to abolish the sheriff’s office, even after a $20 million scandal
PHILADELPHIA — After a top aide to Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal confirmed in court last month that her scandal-plagued office had been sitting on nearly $20 million meant for public coffers, reformers renewed calls to abolish her position. But for City Council, which has the power to initiate such a change, eliminating the antiquated sheriff’s office is not on the agenda.
Philly City Council president criticizes finger-pointing after officer's killing: ‘We haven't even had a funeral'
Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson on Thursday offered a thinly veiled critique of District Attorney Larry Krasner, who earlier this week faulted the police department for botching an earlier murder case against the man accused of ambushing and killing Officer Shane Seiber last weekend. “This is about us coming together and figuring out how we work together to make the city safe,” Johnson told reporters Thursday after Council's weekly meeting.
How the man accused of killing a Philly police officer got a city job despite his criminal history
Eric Lewis, the city employee accused of ambushing Philadelphia police officers with a shotgun on Saturday and fatally shooting Officer Shane Seiber, had a criminal history that included a 2015 gun-related conviction and a homicide charge for which he was acquitted. Despite that, the city hired Lewis in May 2024 to work a $47,000-per-year job with the water department as a trades helper.
Philadelphia looks to dramatically restrict where stores can sell tobacco and vapes | Council roundup
Philadelphia City Council wants to dramatically restrict where new stores that sell tobacco or vaping products can be located in the city, the latest attempt by the legislative body to rein in smoke shops. Democratic Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson on Thursday introduced legislation that would adjust the city’s zoning code to prohibit any business selling tobacco from opening in much of the city.
Philly City Council is reluctant to abolish the sheriff's office, even after a $20 million scandal
After a top aide to Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal confirmed in court last month that her scandal-plagued office had been sitting on nearly $20 million meant for public coffers , reformers renewed calls to abolish her position. But for City Council, which has the power to initiate such a change, eliminating the antiquated sheriff's office isn't on the agenda.
Philly City Council is reluctant to abolish the sheriff’s office, even after a $20 million scandal
After a top aide to Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal confirmed in court last month that her scandal-plagued office had been sitting on nearly $20 million meant for public coffers, reformers renewed calls to abolish her position. But for City Council, which has the power to initiate such a change, eliminating the antiquated sheriff’s office isn’t on the agenda.
How the man accused of killing a Philly police officer got a city job despite his criminal history
Eric Lewis, the city employee accused of ambushing Philadelphia police officers with a shotgun on Saturday and fatally shooting Officer Shane Seiber, had a criminal history that included a 2015 gun-related conviction and a homicide charge for which he was acquitted. Despite that, the city hired Lewis in May 2024 to work a $47,000-per-year job with the water department as a trades helper.
How the man accused of killing a Philly police officer got a city job despite his criminal history
Listen to article • 0:00 min Eric Lewis, the city employee accused of ambushing Philadelphia police officers with a shotgun on Saturday and fatally shooting Officer Shane Seiber, had a criminal history that included a 2015 gun-related conviction and a homicide charge for which he was acquitted. Despite that, the city hired Lewis in May 2024 to work a $47,000-per-year job with the water department as a trades helper.
Former President Joe Biden was in Philly to rally with Gov. Josh Shapiro, city Democrats — and the Eagles' Big Dom
PHILADELPHIA — Only in Philadelphia does a political rally weeks ahead of the midterm election feature the former president, the governor, the mayor and the Eagles' head of security. That was the lineup Monday night at the Democratic City Committee's annual fall fundraiser at Live! Hotel and Casino in South Philly, where hundreds of party members and elected officials mingled and speakers celebrated former U.S. Rep. Bob Brady as he marked 40 years leading the party.
Former President Joe Biden was in town to rally with Gov. Josh Shapiro, Philly Dems — and Big Dom
Only in Philadelphia does a political rally weeks ahead of the midterm election feature the former president, the governor, the mayor, and the Eagles’ head of security. That was the lineup Monday night at the Democratic City Committee’s annual fall fundraiser at Live! Hotel and Casino in South Philly, where hundreds of party members and elected officials mingled and speakers celebrated former U.S. Rep. Bob Brady as he marked 40 years leading the party.
Your guide to Pennsylvania's midterm election. Here's who is on your ballot and what to know.
|
Pennsylvania, can you believe it? It's almost here. Voters across the Keystone State are gearing up to cast their ballots in November's midterm elections, which will decide the balance of power in Harrisburg and Washington. Control of the U.S. House could come down to a few key Pennsylvania congressional districts, including one in the Philly suburbs. And the election will determine whether Democratic Gov.
By Fallon Roth Verified, Gillian McGoldrick Verified, Sam Morris, Michelle Baruchman, Sam Janesch, Anna Orso Verified, Sean Walsh
|
MSN
Verified
Mayor Parker renews call to expand involuntary commitment law following fatal Philly police officer shooting
Hours after a Philadelphia police officer was fatally shot and another was wounded by a man who ambushed them with a shotgun in West Philly, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker stood in front of the hospital and called for a specific policy change. During a news conference outside Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, the mayor asked Gov.
Police shoot and kill armed man on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, officials say
Philadelphia police shot and killed a man who they said fired a handgun on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway Friday morning, just a few blocks from the Philadelphia Art Museum. Police responded to the intersection of 21st Street and the Parkway shortly after 11 a.m. after bystanders reported a man shooting in the area, said Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel. No bystanders were struck.
Police shoot and kill armed man on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, officials say
Philadelphia police shot and killed a man armed with a gun on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway Friday morning, just a few blocks from the Philadelphia Art Museum, officials said. Police responded to the intersection of 21st Street and the Parkway shortly after 11 a.m. after bystanders reported an armed man firing a gun in the area, said Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel. Police secured the scene and attempted to talk to the man through a bullhorn and diffuse the situation, Bethel said.
Progressive ward leader eyes Philly City Council run — and a potential showdown with Mark Squilla
Will Gross, a progressive activist and the Democratic leader of a South Philadelphia ward, said Thursday that he plans to run for City Council in a race that could pit him against longtime sitting Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Progressive ward leader eyes Philly City Council run — and a potential showdown with Mark Squilla
Will Gross, a progressive activist and the Democratic leader of a South Philadelphia ward, said Thursday that he plans to run for City Council in a race that could pit him against longtime sitting Councilmember Mark Squilla.
New Philly police crime lab could open next year as Council committee approves $40M to fund it
The Philadelphia Police Department’s new state-of-the-art forensics lab could be operational as early as next year, the culmination of a yearslong planning effort aimed at modernizing how the force solves crimes. City Treasurer Jacqueline Dunn told a City Council committee on Wednesday that construction began at the new University City site in December 2025 and will extend through April.
New Medicaid rules could disqualify thousands of Philadelphians. City officials are trying to stem the problem
Philadelphia city agencies have launched a multipronged planning and outreach effort to ensure tens of thousands of city residents don't lose healthcare access as changes to Medicaid take effect now and in the coming months, according to top officials in Mayor Cherelle L. Parker's administration.
New Medicaid rules could disqualify thousands of Philadelphians. City officials are trying to stem the problem.
Philadelphia city agencies have launched a multipronged planning and outreach effort to ensure tens of thousands of city residents don’t lose healthcare access as changes to Medicaid take effect now and in the coming months, according to top officials in Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s administration.
A third person was arrested in connection with the I-95 shooting that killed a bystander, officials say
State and federal authorities on Friday arrested a man in North Philadelphia who was wanted in connection with a fatal shooting on I-95 last year that left a 21-year-old bystander dead. The U.S. Marshals Service announced that authorities apprehended Wilfredo Ortiz-Suarez, 47, who is the third person to face charges related to the March 29, 2025, killing of Aiden Zeallor.
Ex-Philly fire department supervisor took bribes to approve $139,000 in bogus overtime, feds say
Federal prosecutors this week charged a former Philadelphia Fire Department supervisor with bribery in connection with what investigators described as a brazen overtime abuse scheme that involved her accepting cash from a colleague in exchange for approving fraudulent time sheets. Marian Farris, 55, a former supervisor in the department’s payroll unit, faces one felony count of bribery and related theft charges.
Philly is one of the first cities in the country to formally support boycotting Starbucks | Council roundup
Just in time for pumpkin spice latte season, Philadelphia City Council members are giving up Starbucks — and they want you to do the same. Council voted unanimously on Thursday to make Philadelphia one of the first cities in the country to explicitly endorse a nationwide boycott of Starbucks amid a unionization drive, and to pledge not to use city funds at the coffee chain until it reaches a contract agreement with its workers.
Philly is one of the first cities in the country to formally support boycotting Starbucks | Council roundup
Just in time for pumpkin spice latte season, Philadelphia City Council members are giving up Starbucks — and they want you to do the same. Council voted unanimously on Thursday to make Philadelphia one of the first cities in the country to explicitly endorse a nationwide boycott of Starbucks amid a unionization drive, and to pledge not to use city funds at the coffee chain until it reaches a contract agreement with its workers.
Philly DEI panel endorses Parker’s contracting overhaul as Black business owners warn of consequences
Nearly a year after Mayor Cherelle L. Parker announced that Philadelphia would move away from using its long-held diversity goals in awarding public contracts, a City Council committee on Monday formally recommended that the city codify the change. However, several corporate leaders who advised the special committee’s work testified during a hearing that the shift away from race- and gender-conscious contracting would set the city back. Craig T.
Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr. is running for reelection. Some Democrats are questioning whether he should.
City Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr. held a campaign fundraiser featuring Mayor Cherelle L. Parker at the Cobbs Creek Golf Course on Thursday night, a show of strength as he gears up to seek a sixth term in next year’s municipal election.
Philly DA Larry Krasner faces an uncertain political future as Democrats weigh what could come next
After a federal judge said last week that Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner may have committed federal crimes, questions quickly emerged about the prosecutor’s political future. Krasner, an outspoken Democrat and one of the nation’s most well-known progressive prosecutors, has recently entertained entreaties to run for higher office, including a possible bid for Philadelphia mayor next year. But in the week since U.S. District Judge Paul S.
Philly DA Larry Krasner faces an uncertain political future as Democrats weigh what could come next
After a federal judge said last week that Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner may have committed federal crimes, questions quickly emerged about the prosecutor’s political future. Krasner, an outspoken Democrat and one of the nation’s most well-known progressive prosecutors, has recently entertained entreaties to run for higher office, including a possible bid for Philadelphia mayor next year. But in the week since U.S. District Judge Paul S.
Chris Rabb's former campaign treasurer pleads guilty to defrauding him and others of $1 million
Philadelphia State Rep. Chris Rabb's former campaign treasurer, whom he accused of draining his campaign account and disappearing in the middle of his run for Congress, pleaded guilty Wednesday to a federal fraud charge. Yolanda Brown, a campaign operative formerly based in Florida who worked for Democratic political candidates and social justice causes across the country, appeared in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia on Wednesday and pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
Chris Rabb’s former campaign treasurer pleads guilty to defrauding him and others of $1 million
Philadelphia State Rep. Chris Rabb’s former campaign treasurer, whom he accused of draining his campaign account and disappearing in the middle of his run for Congress, pleaded guilty Wednesday to a federal fraud charge. Yolanda Brown, a campaign operative formerly based in Florida who worked for Democratic political candidates and social justice causes across the country, appeared in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia Wednesday and pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
Trump-backed Missouri congressional map returns to the Supreme Court for the third time
WASHINGTON — The fight over Missouri’s congressional map returned to the U.S. Supreme Court for a third time late Tuesday, after an appeals court ordered the revival of new districts backed by President Donald Trump. The new map was drawn to help Republicans gain a U.S. House seat in the pivotal midterm elections, which will determine control of Congress. The Supreme Court has twice blocked efforts to use it in November.
DA Larry Krasner faces an uncertain political future as Democrats weigh what could come next
After a federal judge said last week that Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner may have committed federal crimes, questions quickly emerged about the prosecutor’s political future. Krasner, an outspoken Democrat and one of the nation’s most well-known progressive prosecutors, has recently entertained entreaties to run for higher office, including a possible bid for Philadelphia mayor next year. But in the week since U.S. District Judge Paul S.
Philly City Councilmember Kendra Brooks is considering running for mayor, sources say
Kendra Brooks, a progressive who made history as the first third-party candidate to win a seat on Philadelphia City Council in 100 years, is considering challenging Mayor Cherelle L. Parker in the spring Democratic primary election, according to two sources familiar with her thinking. The sources, who were not authorized to speak about the matter publicly and did so on the condition of anonymity, said Brooks is mulling a campaign but has not yet made a decision. She declined to comment Friday.
Philly City Councilmember Kendra Brooks is considering running for mayor, sources say
Kendra Brooks, a progressive who made history as the first third-party candidate to win a seat on Philadelphia City Council in 100 years, is considering challenging Mayor Cherelle L. Parker in the spring Democratic primary election, according to two sources familiar with her thinking. The sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak about the matter publicly, said Brooks is mulling a campaign but has not yet made a decision.
Philly DA Larry Krasner faces legal and political uncertainty after a judge said he may have committed crimes
PHILADELPHIA — A federal judge's statement this week that Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner may have committed crimes while running his office came as part of a lengthy battle in a complex post-conviction case But the fallout is likely just beginning. The stunning remarks by U.S. District Judge Paul S.
City Council returns with dueling plans for Philly’s trash
Skip to content Published Sept. 18, 2026 I create lifestyle and culture videos about what makes Philly a great place to live, work, and play while spotlighting Inquirer reporting across social platforms, helping people see how our work connects to their world. ER I produce video series in partnership with desks across our newsroom that answer key questions about Philadelphia and the region. There are many ways to tell a story — I’m all about finding the one that enhances your daily scroll.
Philly City Council returns with dueling plans for the city’s trash | Council roundup
Philadelphia City Council members are considering dueling proposals over how the city eliminates its garbage, with one lawmaker leading an effort to immediately block the city from shipping its garbage to a trash incinerator and another taking a longer-term approach. Councilmember Mark Squilla on Thursday introduced legislation authorizing Mayor Cherelle L.
Philly City Hall was evacuated for a bomb squad investigation, but no explosive device was found
Philadelphia City Hall was evacuated and City Council was abruptly adjourned on Thursday after sheriff’s deputies alerted officials to a suspicious package in Council, Council President Kenyatta Johnson said. Johnson told The Inquirer that sheriff’s deputies were investigating the package found on the floor where Council members were holding their first meeting of the fall session. A bomb squad was called, and dogs signaled an alert on the package, he said.
Mayor Parker has ordered a task force to study data centers in Philly and report back by June
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker on Wednesday ordered a task force composed of members of her administration to explore whether the city should place new regulations on the construction of data centers — and to present her with its findings in about eight months.
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker has ordered a task force to study data centers in Philly and report back by June
PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker on Wednesday ordered a task force composed of members of her administration to explore whether the city should place new regulations on the construction of data centers — and to present her with its findings in about eight months.
After a messy budget fight, Philly City Council turns to its unfinished business: Trash, taxes, and a new arena
One evening last week, City Council President Kenyatta Johnson stood on South Broad Street and greeted his fellow lawmakers as they arrived at Steak 48. Johnson had invited them to the swanky Center City steakhouse to “reconnect, share conversation, and enjoy each other's company outside of City Hall,” according to an invitation for the Sept. 9 “members only” event obtained by The Inquirer.
Philly DA Larry Krasner faces legal and political uncertainty after a judge said he may have committed crimes
A federal judge’s statement this week that Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner may have committed crimes while running his office came as part of a lengthy battle in a complex post-conviction case. But the fallout is likely just beginning. The stunning remarks by U.S. District Judge Paul S.
Show More
loading
Actions
Get in touch with Anna
Contact Anna, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack