Newark Mayor To Live On Food Stamps For Week

My kinda guy.

Don Emmert /AFP/Getty Images

Today, New Jersey Mayor, Cory Booker, is putting his money where his mouth is. This week, he will attempt to live off $30 for food, the average weekly  amount allotted to New Jersey families.

That boils down to $4 a day.

He says,

"My goals for the #SNAPChallenge are to raise awareness and understanding of food insecurity; reduce the stigma of SNAP participation; elevate innovative local and national food justice initiatives and food policy; and, amplify compassion for individuals and communities in need of assistance. Over the next seven days, I plan to highlight the voices of people involved in local food policy, the SNAP program, and other related initiatives. ... Throughout this week, I will document my #SNAPChallenge experiences and reflections on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and through video on#waywire."

I would love to see more politicians take a step into the shoes of the people they affect with their policies. We elect individuals who haven't the slightest clue of our (we the voters) day to day issues. Beyond this being an empathetic step to take, it shows character and will definitely influence his remaining days in office.

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