The Daily

The Freshmen: Mikie Sherrill

Aug 12, 2019

Mikie Sherrill, a moderate Democrat from New Jersey and former Navy helicopter pilot, discusses her strategies for bridging the political divide. Alongside New York Times reporter Kate Zernike, they explore the tension between progressive ideals and moderate approaches within the party. Sherrill emphasizes the importance of community needs, like healthcare and infrastructure, while advocating for bipartisanship. They also delve into the future of the Democratic Party amidst internal ideological struggles, proposing a vision for restoring faith in government and unifying efforts.

35:39

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Episode guests

Kate Zernike

Mikie Sherrill

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Episode notes

Intro

2min

Navigating Politics and Community Concerns

12min

Navigating Political Identity and Congressional Life

12min

Power in the Delegation and the Importance of Journalism

2min

Navigating Political Identity

3min

Restoring Faith in Government for a Brighter Future

2min

Shifting Ideals: The Democratic Party's Internal Struggles

4min

Since Democrats retook the House last November, the world has come to know the progressive and divisive vision of four freshmen congresswomen known as “the squad.” But it was moderates — less well-known and laser-focused on common ground between Democrats and Republicans — who were responsible for flipping seats and winning back the House. Today, we meet a moderate Democrat who offers a competing vision of the party ahead of the 2020 election.

Guests: Representative Mikie Sherrill, Democrat of New Jersey; Kate Zernike, a political reporter for The New York Times; and Lisa Chow and Rachel Quester, producers for “The Daily.” For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily.

Background reading:

Disconnects between liberal and moderate House Democrats have exploded into public view at critical moments during their seven months in power.
The two rounds of Democratic presidential debates showcased divisions over ideology and identity in a party that appears united only in its desire to defeat President Trump.

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