Lauren Harper and Liam Kerr on Defending Democracy

 

In this week’s special episode, host and NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan talks to Lauren Harper and Liam Kerr, co-founders of the non-profit Welcome Party, about how to broaden the Democratic Party's tent by engaging with Independents and Republicans to protect democracy. Their latest effort, the WelcomePAC, supports candidates in "democracy districts" -- areas where Democrats can be competitive if they identify compelling candidates and communicate effectively with these voters. Lauren and Liam talk about what they have heard from these voters, what it means for the Democratic Party, and why showing empathy towards voters is crucial. Tune in for more on the Welcome Party’s mission, key takeaways from the 2022 midterms, including the important role that ticket splitters will continue to play and the winnable seats Democrats left on the table, and a discussion about whether moderates really exist. Spoiler alert; they do.