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In this week's episode, host Debbie Cox Bultan sits down with Mindy O'Neall, Mayor of Fairbanks, Alaska. Elected mayor last November, she became the first Democrat to represent Fairbanks in more than a decade. She and Debbie talk about some of what makes Alaska and Alaskans unique, her path into public service, and her vision to revitalize her city. They also talk about what it's like to be in the national political spotlight with Alaska's competitive U.S. Senate seat, and the disconnect between national politics and the politics in Alaska where people need to literally work together to survive. Tune in to hear how Mayor O'Neall is prioritizing bringing people together to solve problems and rebuilding trust in government. IN THIS EPISODE: [00:00] Welcoming Mindy O'Neall to the show. [02:22] Mayor O'Neall tells us about Fairbanks and how the local government works. [05:20] What is top of mind for the people in Fairbanks at the moment. [09:25] A breakdown of the unique political relationships in Fairbanks. [12:24] How politics is changing at the state and local level across the USA. [14:18] Mayor O'Neall tells us about her 'Strong Cities' speech and the Civic Academy. [19:06] What mayors can do to rebuild their people's trust in government. [21:49] Why Mayor O'Neall decided to run for Mayor and why she was elected. [25:37] Mayor O'Neall shares some of the main industries in Fairbanks, Alaska. [27:14] Our guest discusses her vision for the revitalization of her city. LEARN MORE: www.newdealleaders.org

This week, host Ryan Coonerty talks with Kentucky Rep. Adam Moore about why he threw his hat into the ring of elected office. After growing up in a conservative home, his journey to public office began when he saw the government failing to cover the basics—helping folks with healthcare, jobs, and housing. He became a Democrat, and ran for a state legislature seat that hadn't seen a Democratic candidate in years. Since being elected, he's worked hard to protect consumers and ensure transparency when data centers are proposed, help veterans and their families, and lower the price of prescription drugs. Ryan and Rep. Moore talk about how listening to constituents determines his priorities and why having a voice in the room matters, even when passing legislation is difficult. Tune in to hear Rep. Moore's perspective on public service, practical policymaking, and what keeps him working for the people he represents. IN THIS EPISODE: [01:55] Background on Representative Moore and his path to public office. [03:47] Discover how schools, fair pay, and affordable healthcare changed his politics.  [05:12] Learn why giving voters a choice motivated him to challenge a Republican-held seat.  [06:31] Hear how knocking on doors helped him earn voters' trust in a closely contested race.  [07:21] Explore how relationships across the aisle helped him deliver in a superminority.  [08:48] Understand why interstate licensure compacts matter for military spouses' jobs.  [10:08] Uncover why data centers require protection, transparency, and local control.  [12:59] Consider how local votes and tax incentives could shape his next data center bill.  [15:12] Examine how his nuclear readiness program could benefit local communities. [17:16] Find out how his medication and housing proposals turn problems into solutions. [20:08] Assess how trade wars and rising costs are impacting Kentucky voters. [22:29] Representative Moore shares how common values and being in the room keep him motivated. LEARN MORE: www.newdealleaders.org

In this week's episode, hosts Ryan Coonerty and Debbie Cox Bultan sit down with Routt County, CO Commissioner Angelica Salinas, the youngest person and first Latina woman ever elected to her seat. They discuss how she has navigated her first term in office, and how she's already brought her lived experience to issues ranging from housing to transportation to economic development. Ryan and Debbie ask Commissioner Salinas about what is top of mind for her constituents, what rural areas need most, why showing up and caring about constituents as a human being first has helped her build connections. Tune in to hear more about what is giving her hope right now.   IN THIS EPISODE: [00:00] Welcoming Angelica Salinas to the show. [02:04] What is on the minds of her constituents right now. [04:18] Commissioner Salinas explains what she does as Commissioner. [06:24] How she's navigating the chaos in the federal administration. [09:00] Why policy changes always need to consider community capacity.  [11:30] The importance of making the community feel part of decisions. [13:10] Angelica tells us about her professional and political background. [15:28] The challenges of being the first Latina woman in her position.  [17:03] How Commissioner Salinas brings her lived experience to her role as Commissioner.  [19:09] Some examples of the kinds of issues she is tackling and how.  [21:42] How she has built the trust necessary to make meaningful change.  [25:06] What's surprised Commissioner Salinas about serving in a local government.  [27:49] How the youth can get involved in making a change in government.    LEARN MORE: newdealleaders.org

In this week's episode, we continue our Road to November 2026 series with Canton, NC Mayor Zeb Smathers. He and host Debbie Cox Bultan talk about the weariness coursing through communities across the countries as prices and political divisiveness keep rising. They discuss the importance of "listening with both ears" when people share the challenges they are facing, and the necessity of following up with tangible change. Mayor Smathers also underscores the value of mutual respect in these times and shares his thoughts on what Democrats need to do to connect with voters in small towns like his. Tune in to hear more about the kind of leadership people are looking for to meet this moment. IN THIS EPISODE: [01:00] Introducing today's guest, Mayor of Canton, Zeb Smathers. [02:55] What Mayor Smathers is hearing from constituents in Canton, North Carolina. [05:40] How Democrats can deliver on complicated issues. [09:15] His beliefs on what leadership means in tough times. [13:45] Why hopelessness is one of the greatest worries Mayor Smathers has for the country. [19:00] The impact of politicians being honest about what they can and cannot deliver on (and what it looks like when they're not). [21:30] His advice to Democrats on making a difference in rural America. [24:38] Why authenticity is crucial in winning over voters country-wide. [27:20] If Democrats want to win towns like Canton, they should ____? LEARN MORE: newdealleaders.org

In today's episode, host Ryan Coonerty talks with Georgia Rep. Omari Crawford, one of Georgia's Top 10 Most Effective Lawmakers according to Center for Effective Lawmaking. They discuss Georgia's political landscape and how Democrats can bring their message to urban, suburban, and rural communities across the state. Rep. Crawford also shares how he uses both data and firsthand knowledge to inform his policymaking and how he's able to get so much done in a Republican-controlled General Assembly. As a native of DeKalb County, Rep. Crawford shares what it has meant to him to represent the community that raised him. Tune in to hear about how his lived experiences have shaped his approach to public service. IN THIS EPISODE: [02:00] Georgia's shifting political landscape and what Democrats believe is at stake. [03:27] Uncover which messages and policies are resonating with voters. [05:18] Understand how redistricting uncertainty is shaping the party's strategy. [07:47] Discover how Georgia Democrats tailor campaign support across communities. [09:30] Find out what led Representative Crawford from law into public service. [12:39] Learn how his evidence-based messaging shaped his first campaign. [15:10] Explore how his experience advising local government helped his career transition.  [17:22] Hear about the healthcare, justice, and other initiatives behind his legislative record. [21:37] He shares practical advice for developing sickle cell legislation in other states. [25:00] The story behind 'Miles for Mom' and his mission to run a half marathon in 50 states. [29:10] Representative Crawford's answer for what Democrats need to do to win: vote. LEARN MORE: newdealleaders.org

In this week's episode, hosts Debbie Cox Bultan and Ryan Coonerty talk with U.S. Rep. Adam Gray and U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi, the only two Democratic members of Congress to flip Trump districts in 2024. They discuss the importance of building broad coalitions and showing voters that they can get things done. Gray and Suozzi dive into Promise to America, a pledge that they hope can align the Democratic Party around a clear, common-sense set of principles to regain voters' trust and build a sustainable majority. Tune into to hear more about why we leaders should be focusing on the issues that matter most to the most people. IN THIS EPISODE: [00:54] Introducing Congressman Adam Gray and Congressman Tom Suozzi. [01:11] Insights from Congressmen Suozzi and Gray on building a broad coalition. [05:22] What voters are concerned about and why affordability is the top issue. [09:31] How Democrats can stay focused on the issues that matter most to voters. [12:30] The principles and purpose behind the Promise to America. [15:16] Building a grassroots movement around the Promise to America. [18:46] Why elected officials should focus on solving problems, not winning arguments. [20:00] How state and local government shaped both congressmen's focus on delivering results. [23:44] What Democrats should prioritize if they regain control of the House. [27:58] Finding common ground on border security and immigration reform. [29:48] Why winning elections matters only if leaders deliver results. LEARN MORE: newdealleaders.org

Host Debbie Cox Bultan catches up with Maine Speaker of the House Ryan Fecteau in this continuation of our Road to November 2026 series. After an unprecedented summer in Maine politics, Speaker Fecteau shares what is top of mind for voters across the state and how leaders can deliver results for working families. He and Debbie also discuss the horrific ICE shooting that took place in his community of Biddeford, ME, as well as the ways Democrats can respond to protect their residents from the impacts of the Trump administration. Looking ahead to November, Speaker Fecteau gives his advice on what it takes to win in Maine. Tune in to hear more about the value of connecting to voters one-on-one. IN THIS EPISODE: [01:15] Introducing Speaker Ryan Fecteau. [02:30] An insider's view of choosing Troy Jackson as the U.S. Senate nominee for Maine. [05:22] Breaking down Troy Jackson's strategy to defeat Susan Collins. [07:10] What Speaker Fecteau is hearing from Maine voters. [09:13] How Democrats can campaign on delivering real results. [12:20] What kind of leaders voters are looking for. [14:25] How the Democratic Party is viewed in Maine. [16:02] The importance of having candidates who speak to real-life issues. [17:20] Why delivering results should be central to the Democratic message in Maine. [19:50] Speaker Fecteau discusses how immigration is shaping voters' concerns in Maine. [24:05] If Democrats are going to win Maine, they need to ______? LEARN MORE: newdealleaders.org

In this week's episode, host Ryan Coonerty sits down with Bucks County, Pennsylvania Sheriff Danny Ceisler to discuss why Democrats should be making the case that they are the party of effective public safety. They talk about what leadership as an elected sheriff looks like and how building trust is central to his approach to keeping communities safe. Sheriff Ceisler also shares how he ran for office on a promise to end his county's partnership with ICE, and why that message resonated, even in a Trump-won district. Tune in to hear more about how he's making Bucks County safer for everyone and showing voters that pragmatic governance delivers results. IN THIS EPISODE: [01:10] Introducing the new sheriff in town, Danny Ceisler. [02:07] The purpose, role, and responsibilities of an elected sheriff. [05:05] How Danny ended up in the role of Bucks County Sheriff. [07:03] His advice to other community leaders or those aspiring to become one. [11:00] How Democrats can reclaim public safety and better serve their communities. [13:45] What inspired him to run for Sheriff. [16:30] He reflects on the impact in his community and what other communities can learn from it. [17:30] Sheriff Ceisler shares about their 24-hour domestic violence unit. [22:00] He discusses how Democrats can improve public safety while strengthening community trust and protecting civil rights. [24:46] He shares how voters are feeling about the Trump administration and the next election. LEARN MORE: newdealleaders.org

In this week's episode, host Ryan Coonerty speaks with Indiana Representative Victoria Garcia Wilburn to discuss her path from academia and healthcare to public service, as well as what it takes for a latina Democrat to win and govern in a predominantly white suburban swing district. Garcia Wilburn shares how listening and prioritizing human connection has made her an effective candidate and legislator, and how she has turned deeply personal issues into laws that make a difference. Tune in to hear more about how her pragmatic and intentional approach to governing has won over voters from across the political spectrum.  IN THIS EPISODE: [00:00] Welcoming today's guest, Victoria Garcia Wilburn. [02:23] What inspired our guest to get involved in politics. [04:11] Running as a Latina woman in a mainly white suburb. [06:03] Indiana's political climate and how it has evolved. [09:45] How Rep. Garcia Wilburn managed to tell her story authentically. [12:07] Driving legislative change as a minority representative. [15:03] Bringing awareness about mental health safety of public servants. [17:58] Her kid's safety work and how it can be a role model to other states. [21:17] How Rep. Garcia Wilburn is trying to make social media safer for the youth.  [25:47] The power of being part of a community to win votes as a democrat. [28:43] Garcia Wilburn shares some advice for anyone wanting to run for office. LEARN MORE: newdealleaders.org

In this episode, our Road to November 2026 series continues with Colorado Senator and candidate for State Treasurer, Jeff Bridges. He and host Debbie Cox Bultan discuss how voters are feeling about rising costs and the federal government's inability to deliver, and how that anger is fueling a desire for change from all sides of the political spectrum. Bridges shares how this dynamic played out in his primary race and offers his candid advice to Democrats on communicating better. Tune in to learn more about meeting this political moment with voters. IN THIS EPISODE: [01:00] Meet Colorado State Senator and state treasurer nominee Jeff Bridges. [02:08] The general mood Senator Bridges is hearing from voters ahead of the midterms. [03:07] Learn how anti-Washington sentiment reshaped Colorado's recent primaries. [05:20] Hear why the sentiment reflects a rejection of the current political landscape. [10:03] Explore what Democrats must learn from the current voter frustration. [12:30] Find out how Colorado's legislature has been able to deliver results. [15:30] Discover why affordability and the economy remain central to how people vote. [19:17] Uncover how Democrats can respond to voters who want to tear down the system. [23:05] Understand why Democrats must communicate outcomes more effectively. [27:42] The importance of authenticity and treating voters as people rather than votes. [31:48] What Democrats must do to continue winning in Colorado and across the country. LEARN MORE: newdealleaders.org

This week, we bring you the next episode of our Road to November 2026 series, as Debbie Cox Bultan sits down with Mayor of Fargo, ND, Josh Boschee. Having won a five-way mayoral race with 47% of the vote, Mayor Boschee shares which issues are top-of-mind for his constituents and what city leaders can do to address them- especially when it comes to costs. Debbie and Mayor Boschee also discuss how the Democratic brand has changed over time in North Dakota, and why he thinks the most important thing Democrats can do in a state like his is show up. Tune in to hear more about successfully engaging and connecting with voters in 2026.  IN THIS EPISODE: [01:18] Introducing Mayor Josh Boschee and what to expect from today's episode. [02:04] Mayor Boschee shares how his first few months as mayor have been. [02:37] What prompted the position to go full-time. [03:30] He shares how the race for Fargo mayor played out. [04:45] Pragmatic approaches to finding solutions. [06:00] Navigating one of the fastest-growing cities in the upper Midwest. [08:40] Mayor Boschee unpacks the cost of living challenges faced by residents. [11:04] The first items to tackle on his docket with his newly acquired leadership and power. [14:17] Why black and white rules don't work for a grey world. [17:30] How Mayor Boschee is taking people's frustration and turning it into solutions. [20:00] They examine his voter base: the coalition behind his victory. [22:01] What showing up really looks like: through the campaign and now as mayor. [24:30] Mayor Boschee shares how Democrats can do better in a state like North Dakota. [27:35] His thoughts on why some people think they could never be (or become) a Democrat. [30:00] Winning back rural voters. [31:50] If Democrats are going to win, or be successful in my state, they need to ____? [33:15] How often he gets references to Fargo, the movie, when people meet him. LEARN MORE: newdealleaders.org

This week, we bring you another episode of our Road to November 2026 series, as Debbie Cox Bultan speaks with Michigan Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of State Candidate Garlin Gilchrist to discuss what he is hearing on the ground from Michigan voters and the factors he thinks will ultimately determine the competitive U.S. Senate race. They also talk about the lessons Michigan has to teach national Democrats, including what people want from their leaders right now and why showing up is key to building credibility. Tune in to learn more about what Democrats need to do to gain support and win elections in November. IN THIS EPISODE: • [00:00] Welcoming Michigan Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist to the show. • [02:35] The most common questions and concerns Lt. Governor Gilchrist is seeing. • [04:30] How Lt. Governor Gilchrist talks about democracy to emphasize its importance. • [06:44] What people mean when they ask elected officials to 'fight' for them. • [11:50] How AI comes up on the campaign trail and his approach to people's concerns. • [15:32] Lt. Governor Gilchrist explains Michigan's party convention process. • [17:23] The primary issues he believes Michigan voters are most focused on. • [20:18] How Lt. Governor Gilchrist connects with all of the people in his state. • [23:06] Lt. Governor Gilchrist shares his concerns about the upcoming election. • [24:50] What makes Michigan so unique and how that affects its political climate. • [32:37] Lt. Governor Gilchrist tells us what Democrats need to do to win elections.

This episode kicks off our Road to November 2026 series. Over the next few months we'll feature conversations with NewDEAL Leaders running for higher office and others who are on the ground in key states and districts. We'll hear about what's resonating with voters, how to navigate key issues heading into the midterms, and what the Democratic Party can learn from their experiences. For today's conversation, host Debbie Cox Bultan speaks with Nevada Attorney General and Gubernatorial Candidate Aaron Ford to discuss his personal story, what he is hearing on the campaign trail, and lessons from the statewide victories that have led him to this moment. Ford discusses how the cost-of-living crisis is crushing the people of Nevada and how he relates to those struggles, as well as how tourism has been affected by tariffs. They also dig into the way he talks about the differences between how Democrats and Republicans approach public policy and his strategy to appeal to people across the political spectrum. Tune in for insights on what Democrats need to do to be successful in November.  IN THIS EPISODE: • [00:00] Introducing Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford to the show. • [02:03] What is most top-of-mind for people in Nevada at the moment. • [06:23] His plans to help people with the major issues they're facing. • [09:24] Why people always want local politicians to stand up for them. • [11:40] How democrats versus republicans deliver to their people. • [13:09] Nevada as a swing state and how our guest is tackling that. • [16:10] His rural voters' thoughts and the state of tourism in Nevada. • [20:04] The National Democratic brand and what that means for his race. • [21:11] What democrats need to know about Nevada before the next elections. • [22:16] Aaron explains how he got into politics and a bit about his personal life. • [24:11] The number one thing democrats need to do if they want to win elections.

In this week's episode, host Ryan Coonerty speaks with Mississippi State Senator Rod Hickman to discuss Hickman's career, what led him to run for office, how he navigates a majority Republican legislature to pass bipartisan solutions, and his advice to any candidate on door-knocking effectively. Senator Hickman also shares his experience in public office and the joy it has brought him, as well as the challenge of finding balance among his many responsibilities. The conversation delves into the current political climate in his state and what we need to know about Mississippi to understand the policies, opportunities, and challenges of the Deep South. Tune in to learn more from this engaging conversation. IN THIS EPISODE: • [01:24] Introducing Rod Hickman to the show and an overview of his career.  • [05:00] How he builds bipartisan support to implement reforms across his state. • [07:42] What drew Rod into legislature and politics from such a young age. • [09:00] His campaign journey and advice for anyone wanting to run for office. • [15:24] What being in office has been like for Rod and why his purpose is to serve. • [17:58] How he balances his role as senator with his personal and work responsibilities. • [19:39] The state of Mississippi politics and how Rod is trying to make an impact. • [24:25] A breakdown of how the Voting Rights Act has affected the state of Mississippi.  • [26:37] What we need to know about Mississippi's politics, strengths, and challenges.

In this week's episode, host and NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan speaks with Cleveland, OH, Mayor Justin Bibb to discuss his recently announced Midline project, which will revitalize long-vacant fields and reconnect ignored neighbors to high-paying jobs and opportunities. Mayor Bibb explains why the project is personal to Cleveland's history, how the city funded the work, and how his team built support. Debbie and Mayor Bibb also discuss the importance of trust, how mayors can show that government can still deliver results, his path from basketball to running for mayor in 2021, and the lessons he thinks national Democrats should take from mayors. Tune in to hear how Mayor Bibb is approaching economic growth, public trust, and Cleveland's future. IN THIS EPISODE: • [02:29] Learn about the Midline project and why it is so personal for Mayor Bibb. • [06:10] The trends that caught Mayor Bibb's attention when he took office. • [08:23] How Mayor Bibb brought together different stakeholders around the Midline project. • [11:54] Hear how Mayor Bibb built trust before making major announcements.  • [15:01] Find out how residents are responding to changes being made in Cleveland. • [17:22] Explore how Mayor Bibb navigates tough conversations regarding improvements. • [20:00] Understand how Mayor Bibb balances long-term growth with everyday needs. • [21:00] Discover what got Mayor Bibb interested in public service. • [25:03] Unpack the lessons national Democrats can learn from Mayor Bibb's experience. • [28:13] Uncover why Mayor Bibb focuses on results over ideological debates. • [31:13] What Mayor Bibb hopes people will say about Cleveland in 10 years.