The Gray Area with Sean Illing Rep. Jamie Raskin on living through the unthinkable, twice
Jan 6, 2022
U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin shares his heart-wrenching experiences of losing his son, Tommy, and facing the chaos of the January 6 insurrection. He reflects on Tommy's legacy of compassion and activism, emphasizing the importance of moral integrity in politics. Raskin discusses the challenges to American democracy and the pivotal roles of law and leadership during crises. Through his poignant stories, he underscores the resilience required to uphold democratic values amidst personal and national turmoil.
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Tommy's Early Legal Acumen
- As a child, Tommy Raskin questioned Supreme Court rulings and demonstrated insightful legal thinking.
- He argued that flag desecration should be allowed as everyone can have their own flag, unlike the Lincoln Memorial.
Tommy's Philosophy
- Tommy Raskin championed effective altruism, focusing on maximizing human well-being and minimizing suffering.
- He prioritized addressing basic needs and advocated for government intervention to alleviate poverty and promote human rights.
Tommy's Last Request
- In his farewell note, Tommy asked his family to care for each other, animals, and the global poor.
- This reflects his deep compassion and commitment to those in need.
