Consider This from NPR Can progressive mayors save the Democratic Party?
31 snips
Nov 23, 2025 Michelle Wu, the inspiring Mayor of Boston, dives into her transformative approaches to affordability, housing, and public transportation. She discusses the power of personal connection with constituents as a tool for effective governance. Wu highlights the challenges of homelessness and innovative solutions like office-to-residential conversions. Emphasizing practical governing over strict ideological labels, she advocates for urgency and community engagement. Wu's insights into reconnecting voters show how progressive leaders can energize the Democratic Party.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Affordability As Local Engine
- Progressive mayors focus on affordability — housing, transportation, childcare — to connect with voters and energize coalitions.
- Small, tangible local wins build trust even when larger structural change is blocked by state or federal limits.
Office Conversions And Encampment Clears
- Michelle Wu pushed to clear a large tent encampment and expand housing conversions to address homelessness.
- An office-to-residence conversion opened downtown, adding 15 apartments though not deeply affordable.
Engage Residents And Act Locally
- Get into the community and hold ongoing conversations to learn what residents need and to build trust.
- Use creative local programs and partnerships to act when state or federal authority is limited.