How to Serve Rural America and Make Bipartisan Progress with Senator Dylan Roberts

In this week’s episode, host and NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan speaks to Colorado State Senator Dylan Roberts. Roberts represents a swing district in the Western part of his state - including ski resort towns, mountain communities, and rural areas. Roberts discusses how he set priorities for this year's legislative session, including what it took to close a $1.2 billion dollar shortfall, as well as his work to pass two bipartisan housing bills to increase supply and bring down costs. He details what he hears from his constituents, as well as what Democrats often misunderstand about rural communities in his state, and emphasizes the need for mutual understanding across party lines. Tune in to learn about Dylan Roberts’ Obama days and what inspired him to run for public office. 

 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [01:47] Welcoming Senator Dylan Roberts to the show.

• [02:16] How Colorado’s 2025 Legislative Session went and the overarching theme.

• [05:44] The major housing concern and what his strategy is to tackle this.

• [10:50] Senator Roberts shares advice for leaders wanting to get legislation passed.

• [13:45] Why the housing problem is basically the same across all areas.

• [16:58] What National Democrats misunderstand about rural areas in Colorado.

• [19:58] Why he believes mutual understanding from all factions of parties is imperative.

• [21:56] The biggest issues Senator Dylan sees coming up at town halls.

• [26:52] How working with President Obama and his brother inspired him to get into politics.