Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Austin Davis on the Importance of Representation

In this week’s episode, host Ryan Coonery talks with Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis. They discuss his impressive career as Pennsylvania’s youngest and first Black Lieutenant Governor, and why a lack of representation in his hometown inspired him to serve in elected office. Davis also talks about how he is using his office to fight gun violence, support early learning programs, and give his residents the economic opportunities they deserve. Lt. Gov. Davis also shares what messages do and don’t resonate with swing-state voters and how the 2024 election is fundamentally all about freedom. Tune in to hear his keys for a successful Governor - Lieutenant Governor relationship and about Pennsylvania’s pivotal role this November. 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [01:00] An introduction to our guest, Lt. Gov. Austin Daivs.

• [02:10] Being “in the center of the storm” and the pressure of Pennsylvania politics.

• [03:30] Where the microcosm that is Pennsylvania headed in November.

• [04:50] His thoughts on what messages are resonating and which aren’t.

• [06:00] Lt. Gov. Davis shares his journey to public office.

• [09:20] His experience being a voice at the table and its impact on shifting policies.

• [10:50] Interventions, policies, and programs that he’s seen have the biggest impact on gun violence.

• [12:15] Shifting the budget to give the people more opportunities.

• [14:10] How his role as Lt. Gov. differs from being in the Legislature.

• [15:30] What people might not know about the job of Lieutenant Governor.

• [16:40] Lt. Gov. Davis recounts his experience during the vetting process of Josh Shapiro.

• [18:40] What he means by saying, “In politics, power seeds nothing without a demand.”

• [20:50] How he manages the “threat” from the other side.