With a new administration beginning in Washington this week, the importance of pragmatic and effective state and local officials is clearer than ever. That was the message from former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and NewDEAL alum Pete Buttigieg when he spoke at our 2024 Leaders Conference. His remarks are a vital reminder of the key role state and local policymakers play in delivering results and making everyday life better for the American people. After his opening remarks, Buttigieg, who was then appearing in his official capacity as Secretary of Transportation, joined MSNBC's Symone Sanders Townsend to look towards the future, sharing advice for how the country can move forward into a new, brighter future. This conversation is an excellent reminder of the type of leadership the country so desperately needs at this moment.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [01:04] The former secretary’s insights on the importance of pragmatic and effective state and local officials.

• [01:55] Why our work is not done and some key areas to consider. 

• [03:10] “The Big Deal” from the Biden-Harris Administration.

• [06:50] Why former Secretary Buttigieg believes that local leaders are so important for the present moment.

• [07:30] Staying abreast of the different ways that people get their information.

• [10:30] Understanding the nature of infrastructure work. 

• [14:25] Buttigieg’s posture towards his successor. 

• [17:00] What a new administration might mean for federal infrastructure funds. 

• [19:27] Insight into former Secretary Buttigieg’s journey to the Department of Transportation. 

• [22:35] Why a lot of his work in infrastructure and transportation has been nonpartisan in nature.

• [24:13] The term middle class and why it has become largely meaningless.

• [29:08] What is most important: making the lives of everyday people better.