IHIP News: Live with Senator Cory Booker
Release Date: February 23, 2025

Hosts: Jennifer Welch & Angie “Pumps” Sullivan
Guest: Senator Cory Booker

Introduction and Current Affairs Discussion

Jennifer Welch and Angie Sullivan kick off the episode by addressing the tumultuous political climate in red states. They discuss recent developments involving Cash Patel's appointment to the FBI and his directive to disregard Elon Musk's communications.

Jennifer Welch [00:16]: “…when you have all of these dysfunctional, broken people with unaddressed inner childhood trauma… it’s going to be interesting to see how all of the chips fall.”

The hosts express concerns about potential power struggles within the administration, highlighting Musk's rising influence even above that of former President Trump.

Angie Sullivan [01:36]: “The fight amongst them, like you said, who's going to be the star, who's going to stand out most, who's going to be the cruelest on Trump's behalf? This narcissism just can't all live together.”

They also touch on the destabilizing effects of current economic policies, attributing inflation and market instability to Trump's administration.

Jennifer Welch [02:37]: “When I think of convicted felon Donald Trump, I can think of a lot of things to say. And one of the top would be unstable, right?”

Senator Cory Booker Joins the Conversation

In the midst of their discussion, Senator Cory Booker joins the live session. The hosts warmly welcome him, transitioning the conversation to broader geopolitical concerns.

Jennifer Welch [04:15]: “…let's talk to you about something I've been thinking about a lot lately… Trudeau said under oath that Vladimir Putin pays Tucker Carlson.”

The Decline of World Order and Authoritarianism

Senator Booker delves into the erosion of the post-World War II world order, emphasizing the rise of authoritarianism under leaders like Trump and Putin. He outlines how Trump's admiration for strongmen undermines democratic institutions and global stability.

Senator Cory Booker [05:48]: “…what Trump is doing is creating a world that makes Xi and Putin very happy… It's a complete rejection of what we have seen since the 1940s…”

He critiques Trump's transactional approach to international relations, contrasting it with the collaborative efforts that previously strengthened global alliances.

Senator Booker [09:42]: “…the Republicans, you’re right, there are things that they would do through their propaganda platforms. Fox News is like a state-owned propaganda machine at times…”

The Role of Activism and Democratic Response

Senator Booker shares his insights on the necessity of renewed activism within the Democratic Party. Drawing parallels to historical civil rights movements, he urges for a unified and courageous response against the current administration's policies.

Senator Cory Booker [10:13]: “…we have to fight, we have to use every tactic available to us. But one of the things I said all the time when I was back in those days is, but we can never become that which we are against.”

He emphasizes the importance of grassroots movements and community engagement to reclaim democratic values and counteract authoritarian tendencies.

Senator Booker [16:37]: “…this is a moment where Democrats need to do so much more than we're doing now…”

Personal Stories and Call to Action

The hosts and Senator Booker share deeply personal narratives highlighting the real-world impacts of political turmoil and violence. Jennifer Welch recounts the tragic loss of a young employee to gun violence, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive gun reform.

Jennifer Welch [49:01]: “…if you live in America long enough, somebody you love is going to get shot. And I've been thinking a lot… how we as a nation haven't stopped these injustices quick enough…”

Senator Booker responds with his own harrowing experience witnessing a teenager's death by gun violence, illustrating the emotional toll of such events and the imperative for collective action.

Senator Cory Booker [43:13]: “…this was my most broken moment of my life… I felt rage like I had never felt before… but this woman… she held me and said two words… stay faithful.”

He calls upon listeners to remain resilient and proactive, drawing inspiration from historic leaders and emphasizing unity across all demographics.

Senator Cory Booker [49:01]: “…you all with this podcast are just not being silent. And you're good people who are acting and inspiring that within the community you've created. So thank you for that.”

Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with heartfelt acknowledgments from both the hosts and Senator Booker. They reiterate the importance of community, activism, and maintaining integrity in the face of adversity. The hosts express their gratitude towards Senator Booker for his time and impactful insights, committing to continue fostering a space for meaningful political discourse.

Jennifer Welch [53:23]: “…we plan to come to D.C. soon, in April to do some in-person interviews. And you're the top of my list.”

Senator Cory Booker [53:57]: “…you’re welcome back anytime. Giving you a hug in person.”

The episode serves as a powerful call to action, urging listeners to engage actively in political processes, support democratic values, and stand united against authoritarianism and systemic injustices.

Notable Quotes:

• Jennifer Welch [00:16]: “…have a lot of trouble when you have all of these dysfunctional, broken people with unaddressed inner childhood trauma…”

• Angie Sullivan [01:36]: “This narcissism just can't all live together.”

• Senator Cory Booker [05:48]: “…what Trump is doing is creating a world that makes Xi and Putin very happy…”

• Jennifer Welch [49:01]: “…somebody you love is going to get shot. And I've been thinking a lot… how we as a nation haven't stopped these injustices quick enough…”

• Senator Cory Booker [43:13]: “…this was my most broken moment of my life… I felt rage like I had never felt before… but this woman… she held me and said two words… stay faithful.”

• Senator Cory Booker [49:01]: “…you all with this podcast are just not being silent… you’re good people who are acting and inspiring that within the community you've created.”

This episode of IHIP News not only addresses pressing political issues but also intertwines personal narratives to underline the human cost of political instability and violence. Senator Cory Booker's participation provides a poignant perspective on the necessity of activism and unity in overcoming contemporary challenges.