March 03, 2025

Rep. Ritchie Torres on Israel, Trump, and Political Extremism: A Congressman's Fight for Moral Clarity

31 minutes

In this episode we sit down with Congressman Ritchie Torres, a fighter from the Bronx who has spent his life advocating for his community. We discuss pressing issues such as the social safety net, housing inequality, mental health, bipartisanship, and Rep. Torres’ personal journey from public housing to Congress. We also touch on Israel, antisemitism, and the future of American democracy.

What We Discuss:

How Congressman Torres’ personal experiences with poverty and public housing shaped his political career.

His perspective on the Republican budget resolution and its impact on working-class Americans.

Why mental health advocacy is deeply personal to him and the tools he uses to maintain his well-being.

His unwavering support for Israel and the backlash he has faced because of it.

Insights on the current political landscape, Donald Trump’s influence, and the need for bipartisanship.

Whether Rep. Torres is considering a run for governor of New York and what motivates his political aspirations.

How to engage in better political and religious discussions without hostility.

Episode Highlights:

[00:01:00] Introducing Ritchie Torres – His background, legislative achievements, and what drives him.

[00:02:00] GOP Budget Cuts & Social Safety Net – Why the latest proposal is a “frontal assault” on working-class Americans.

[00:04:00] Personal Story & His Greatest Hero – How being raised by a single mother in the Bronx shaped his worldview.

[00:07:00] Mental Health & Politics – How Rep. Torres overcame depression and why he’s open about talking about mental health.

[00:14:00] Facing Backlash for Supporting Israel – The threats and vitriol he has endured for his stance.

[00:20:00] Avoiding Political Distractions – Why he focuses on core economic issues instead of social media trends.

[00:22:00] Trump 2.0 & The Future of Democracy – His concerns about a second Trump presidency.

[00:25:00] Political Future: Running for Governor? – Why he believes New York needs a new generation of leadership.

[00:27:00] How to Talk Politics Without Killin' Each Other – The importance of intellectual humility and pluralism.

Featured Quotes:

“Before I’m a congressman or a councilman, I’m first and foremost the son of my mother...”

“I refuse to live in fear of the extremes. I insist on doing what I think is right, even if it means standing alone.”

“Not only should civil discourse be possible, it’s a necessity for a pluralistic democracy like ours.”

“If you do the same thing over and over and expect a different result, that’s the definition of insanity.”

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Let’s continue the conversation with gentleness and respect—and have a great week! 🎙️

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