Brian Lehrer: A Daily Politics Podcast Rep. Ritchie Torres Begins To Break With Israel Over Gaza
Aug 4, 2025
U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres, who represents New York's 15th congressional district, shares his evolving views on Israel in light of the Gaza crisis. He discusses the impact of proposed Republican policies on healthcare and food assistance in one of the nation’s poorest districts. Torres addresses the political landscape of NYC, including his decision not to endorse the party's nominee. He engages in a nuanced dialogue about the changing relationship between the Democratic Party and Israel, reflecting on the humanitarian concerns and local implications.
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Focus Shifts To Governing
- Torres accepts Zoran Mamdani's mayoral primary win and shifts focus to governing over campaigning.
- He stresses the need for a working relationship between NYC's congressional delegation and the mayor.
Medicaid Cuts Threaten Bronx
- Rep. Torres calls Trump's Medicaid and SNAP cuts the largest in history, threatening his Bronx district.
- He condemns these cuts as prioritizing billionaires over working families' basic needs.
Capitalism Needs Social Safety Net
- Torres supports capitalism paired with a social safety net to address market failures.
- He highlights that markets cannot meet critical needs like affordable housing and healthcare alone.