Congressman Explains How Veterans and the IRS Are Being Turned Into Culture War Weapons

Representative Gil Cisneros (D-CA 31) and Max Katz discuss what really went down at the Capitol sit-in with Hakeem Jeffries and Cory Booker, and how TikTok helped get people there. We talk about what Republican-led cuts to veterans' programs, DEI, and the IRS actually mean for everyday Americans, especially those trying to serve or get by. Gil shares insider perspective from his time at the Pentagon on how these cuts hit federal workers, military families, and our ability to hold the powerful accountable.Chapters:0:00 - Integrating the military and resisting inclusion2:00 - Youth baseball, parenting, and life lessons from sports7:00 - Capitol Hill sit-in and TikTok organizing11:00 - Veterans and the real impact of Republican budget cuts16:00 - DEI in the military and why it actually matters22:00 - The myth of federal workers “not earning it”26:00 - Why IRS cuts help the rich and hurt everyone else30:00 - Why veterans historically vote Republican35:00 - Military culture, masculinity, and progressive values41:00 - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, LeBron, and athlete-activists47:00 - Barkley, books, and what makes a real intellectual51:00 - Do you approach celebrities in public?56:00 - Is Congress still a noble profession?1:01:00 - Gil’s life before politics: factories, the Navy, and perspective1:06:00 - Advice for 22-year-olds figuring out what’s next1:10:00 - Why military service isn’t just about riskThank you for tuning into the ‘Who Dem?’ Podcast! We bring on Democratic leaders, candidates, personalities, and more with a goal of truly getting to know the person beyond politics. Hosted by Representative Gil Cisneros (D-CA 31) and Mat Katz.New episodes weekly! Subscribe now and never miss a conversation.Connect with us on socials:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whodempod/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whodempod📩 For business inquiries: [email protected]