Hypothetical: A Rapper Seat on Newsnight

Rachel and Van start the show with a conversation on the Virginia election and intercommunity politics concerning Black Republicans. Then they are joined by Abby Phillip, anchor of 'NewsNight' on CNN, to talk about her latest book, 'A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power.' They end the show by giving their thoughts on the Billboard Hot 100's top 40 not having any rap songs for the first time since 1990.

00:00 - Welcome!

01:27 - Virginia Election Day approaches

16:12 - NYC mayoral race

38:50 - California’s Prop 50

51:58 - Abby Phillip joins us!

1:53:31 - The attack on SNAP benefits and resources

1:56:09 - Billboard Hot 100’s top 40: no rap songs

2:13:31 - Thanks for watching!

Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay

Guest: Abby Phillip

Producers: Donnie Beacham and Ashleigh Smith

Video Supervision: Chris Thomas

RESOURCES :

Detroit Farmers Giving Away Food

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQa5L7jDRa3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

LA County Mobilizes Food Assistance as Federal Government Shutdown Continues

https://lacounty.gov/2025/10/28/la-county-mobilizes-food-assistance-as-federal-government-shutdown-continues/

SNAP benefits ending: Here's where you can get emergency assistance in Southern California

https://www.foxla.com/news/snap-benefits-ending-november-government-shutdown

SNAP runs out of money Nov. 1. Here's what that means in your state

https://www.npr.org/2025/10/28/g-s1-95189/snap-food-stamps-government-shutdown-november

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