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.
