The Brian Lehrer Show Monday Morning Politics With Rep. Torres
Aug 4, 2025
Ritchie Torres, U.S. Representative for New York's 15th congressional district, dials into pressing national issues and the NYC mayoral race. He reflects on his shifting views regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasizing bipartisan support for peace. Torres discusses the challenges facing his Bronx district, particularly the impact of federal policies on essential services. He also tackles the rising costs of prescription drugs and advocates for reforms to limit presidential powers, highlighting the complex interplay of local and federal governance.
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Limits to State and City Compensation
- Torres warns state and city cannot fully offset federal Medicaid and SNAP cuts without raising taxes.
- Even wealthy New York will struggle with a $15 billion budget gap from those cuts.
Opposing Mass Deportation Funding
- Torres opposes Trump's mass deportation agenda targeting all undocumented immigrants regardless of conduct.
- He voted against legislation that massively funds ICE beyond FBI, DEA, and ATF combined.
Due Process Crucial in Deportations
- Torres insists all immigrants, including accused undocumented immigrants, are entitled to due process before deportation.
- He rejects detention or deportation without conviction, upholding American legal principles.