The Brian Lehrer Show

National Politics with Senator Booker: Trump's National Guard, AG Bondi's Testimony and More

Oct 8, 2025
U.S. Senator Cory Booker, former mayor of Newark and a key voice in national politics, dives into pressing issues like the ongoing government shutdown and the Trump administration's controversial actions. He critiques the impact of the shutdown on transportation funding and Newark Airport operations. Booker also highlights the political targeting of the Gateway Tunnel project and the threats to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. He stresses the importance of grassroots activism and shares insights on the challenges facing healthcare and immigration policies.
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INSIGHT

Targeting Local Infrastructure For Political Gain

  • Cory Booker says Trump is deliberately targeting New Jersey infrastructure projects and transportation to inflict political pain.
  • He frames this as political retaliation that undermines regional economy and safety.
INSIGHT

DEI Claim Framed As Pretext

  • Booker calls the administration's DEI claim a lie and political targeting rather than legal concern.
  • He emphasizes the bipartisan regional support and economic necessity of the Gateway project.
INSIGHT

Politics Of The Personal Undermines Institutions

  • Booker argues Trump uses office to punish political enemies and undermine institutions.
  • He links such actions to a broader pattern of corruption, chaos, and cruelty.
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