In this week’s episode, host Ryan Coonerty speaks with Pittsburgh, PA, City Controller Rachael Heisler. Heisler explains the role of the controller, which consists of three core functions: accounting, accounts payable, and auditing. She also discussed her role in making sure that tax dollars are used responsibly and effectively and that they are spent in accordance with legislation that was passed and contracts that were signed. They talk about the challenges of urban budgets as office buildings and downtowns remain empty in the aftermath of the pandemic, as well as how to build trust within y ..read more

Today’s bonus episode kicks off a limited series including interviews with host and NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan to explore what's happening across the country heading into the 2024 Elections. Debbie will be checking in with NewDEALers in swing states about the state of the presidential election, as well traveling to other states to ask about key state legislative races, ballot initiatives, and more. In this episode, Debbie speaks with Senator Rebecca Perkins Kwoka in New Hampshire – a key presidential swing state, a site for Democratic state legislature gains, and the home to the most compet ..read more

In this week’s episode, host Ryan Coonerty speaks with Michigan Senate Assistant Majority Leader Darrin Camilleri, who shares how his upbringing as the son of an immigrant and his early experiences as a teacher shaped his view on policy and public service. He discusses what it takes to make a successful career change into elected office, how he was the only Democrat to flip a seat in 2016, and the lessons Democrats should keep in mind to ensure victory in this year’s election. The Senator also discusses how he is trying to improve school funding policies and his leadership on Michigan’s recent ..read more

In this week’s episode, host Ryan Coonerty speaks with New York Assemblymember Alex Bores, co-chair of the NewDEAL Forum AI Task Force. As one of the few state legislators in the country with a computer science background, Bores explains how artificial intelligence can change our elections, economy, and everyday lives. He also shares his thoughts on how the government should adjust to the rapid development of AI technology, including about how New York integrates AI into government services, the state economy, and the education system. In addition, the episode dives into the biggest stories fr ..read more

In this week’s episode, host Ryan Coonerty speaks with Connecticut Representative Kate Farrar. She talks about her continued efforts to move significant legislation to expand access to quality childcare, support local journalism to strengthen democracy, improve biking and pedestrian infrastructure in her community, and support refugees and immigrants who are moving to Connecticut and engaging in the workforce. Ryan and Representative Farrar also discuss what keeps her motivated and her compelling vision for a healthy community and state. Tune in to learn more from this engaging conversation.&n ..read more

In this week's episode, producer Rachel Walsh joins co-hosts Ryan Coonery and Debbie Cox Bultan to recap the past few months of this exciting election cycle. They discuss last week's Democratic National Convention, highlighting key themes and standout moments from speakers, including many NewDEAL leaders and alumni. They also reflect on our Road to November 2024 Messaging series, which featured insights from political strategists, policy experts, and state and local elected officials. Ryan, Debbie, and Rachel analyze how to address voters' top concerns and strategies for a strong performance u ..read more

In this special DNC mini-sode host Debbie Cox Bultan talks with former Florida Senator Loranne Ausley, WelcomePAC Co-Founder Lauren Harper Pope, and Delaware State Senator and Congressional candidate Sarah McBride. They each reflect on the Convention, talk about their favorite speakers, and share what they’re looking forward to on the last night of the DNC ..read more

In this week's episode, host Ryan Coonerty speaks with Georgia Representative Tanya Miller. Rep. Miller is a prosecutor and civil rights attorney who has consistently worked to ensure justice and defend constitutional rights. She gives us an on-the-ground report about the fight for democracy and the energy presidential candidate Kamala Harris brings to the campaign in Georgia. Miller explains why Kamala Harris is the best pick for America and shares how Democrats can advocate for democracy. She also shares how people are fighting for access to the ballot, the impact the 2016 election had on he ..read more

In this special DNC-mini sode of An Honorable Profession, host Debbie Cox Bultan catches up with four amazing NewDEAL Leaders in Chicago to talk about their experiences so far. You’ll hear from Cedar Rapids, IA, City Councilmember Ashley Vanorny; Albuquerque, NM, Mayor Tim Keller; Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson; and Texas Representative Salman Bhojani as they reflect on their favorite moments so far and what they hope to hear from speakers tonight ..read more

The AHP team is on the ground this week in Chicago for the Democratic National Convention, where host Debbie Cox Bultan is catching up with NewDEAL Leaders from across the country. Today, she talks to two exceptional mayors – Shelby County, TN, Mayor Lee Harris, and New Bedford, MA, Mayor Jon Mitchell – who share their favorite parts from the opening night of the convention and what they look forward to in the coming days ..read more