Freakonomics Radio 639. “This Country Kicks My Ass All the Time”
232 snips
Jul 4, 2025 
Cory Booker, the Senior United States Senator from New Jersey, dives deep into the politics of hope and fear. He shares his experiences engaging with polarized constituents and emphasizes the need for common ground in democracy. The discussion touches on controversial bills affecting healthcare and the vital importance of reforms like the child tax credit. Booker also reflects on activism's resilience in the face of political challenges, urging public engagement and civil dialogue to navigate today's chaotic landscape.
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Plane Ride Bridge Building
- Cory Booker shared a story of bonding with a Republican mother and daughter on a plane despite political differences.
- He emphasized the common ground and personal stories connecting Americans beyond partisan lines.
The 25-Hour Senate Speech
- Cory Booker's 25-hour Senate speech blended protest and presidential aspirations.
- It was a moral call rooted in defending democracy and warning against threats of fear and cruelty.
Trump Tax Bill’s Hidden Harms
- The 2017 Trump tax bill included hidden Medicaid and food assistance cuts harming millions.
- It raised costs for average Americans while benefiting billionaires and increasing the federal deficit.
