The Brian Lehrer Show Exit Interview for Rep. Nadler
Sep 5, 2025
U.S. Representative Jerrold Nadler, a veteran politician from New York, discusses his imminent retirement after a long career marked by key judicial roles and impeachments. He reflects on generational shifts in political leadership and the balance of youth and experience in the Democratic Party. Nadler also tackles critical topics like budget disputes in Congress and their implications for local politics, shares insights from his early life and student activism, and examines the complexities of accountability in today's political landscape.
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Policy Wins Define His Congressional Legacy
- Nadler lists major legislative achievements including funds after 9/11, the Zadroga Act, Respect for Marriage, Pregnant Workers Fairness, and the USA FREEDOM Act.
- He frames these as long-term protections for victims, civil liberties, infrastructure, and privacy reform.
Regret Over Repealing Glass-Steagall
- Nadler regrets voting to repeal Glass-Steagall in 1999 and links that repeal to the 2008 financial crash.
- He calls that vote a major mistake and a lesson about deregulatory risks.
Impeachment Was A Constitutional Duty
- Nadler defends impeachments of Donald Trump as constitutional necessities to uphold rule of law and punish abuses, despite political consequences.
- He faults Mitch McConnell and later delays by DOJ for failing to prevent Trump from running again after misconduct.