Views From Both Sides of the Aisle, With Reps. Garbarino & Torres

Featured Guests

Richie Torres

(D-NY), 15th Congressional District

Richie Torres represents New York’s 15th Congressional District, one of the nation’s most economically challenged areas. A member of the House Committees on Homeland Security and Financial Services, Torres is an advocate for underserved communities, championing initiatives that reduce poverty and expand access to financial services. As the first openly LGBTQ person elected in the Bronx, Torres brings a fresh and inclusive perspective to federal policymaking. His work includes championing the child tax credit and securing infrastructure funds that are transforming his district. Torres is recognized for his pragmatic approach to governance and commitment to bipartisan solutions.

Andrew Garbarino

(R-NY), 2nd Congressional District

Andrew Garbarino serves New York’s 2nd Congressional District and is a member of the House Committees on Homeland Security and Financial Services. Before Congress, Garbarino was a practicing attorney and a member of the New York State Assembly, working to support small businesses and protect taxpayers. Known for his balanced, bipartisan efforts, he played a key role in advancing large-scale infrastructure projects and championing smart regulatory reforms. Garbarino emphasizes practical governance and cooperation, focusing on economic recovery while advocating for cybersecurity and fintech innovation to drive growth in his district and beyond.

Key Insights From This Episode

Unprecedented Challenges for Freshmen Lawmakers

Torres and Garbarino recount an extraordinary first year marked by historic pandemic response, infrastructure bills, and national crises.

Bipartisanship Is Possible—and Productive

Despite deep polarization, the representatives highlight successful bipartisan efforts and stress the importance of mutual respect in advancing policy.

Focus on Constituents’ Needs

Both prioritize responding to economic inequality, education disparities, and public safety in their communities through targeted investments.

Cybersecurity and Fintech Regulation Urgency

A critical call for increased funding and streamlined regulations underscore the importance of safeguarding digital infrastructure and embracing innovation.

Crypto's Promise and Peril

The discussion emphasizes balanced, federal oversight to unlock cryptocurrency’s potential for financial inclusion while preventing abuse.

Geopolitical Impact on Markets and Security

Insights on the consequences of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the shifting geopolitical landscape highlight bipartisan consensus on national security.