SPEAK USA Podcast

Dr. Regina Vanburg, a licensed psychologist serving VA patients, was a candidate for U.S. House District 21.  She brings her experience as a doctor, her knowledge of history and government, and her time as a candidate to the conversation.  We talk about why non-partisan professionals serve in government, the role of evidence in serving people, and the underlying principles of our democracy that demand respect and support for professionals who serve the nation. 

Seriously, how many of the Declaration's accusations are happening in our current federal administration?  Hear the SPEAK USA team talk that through, and witness the stress relief!, after we read through the Declaration of Independence.  It's a precious legacy left to us.  It's worth protecting, for ourselves and generations to come.

We share a live reading of the full text of the Declaration of Independence.  As you listen, consider what it means to you, and how it relates to our government as we celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States.

Shannon Dicely is a candidate for Texas Senate District 11.  Shannon and Cliff talk about education and guarantees from the Texas Constitution, voting rights and gerrymandering, healthcare and her cancer health challenge during COVID, and affordability and Texas as #2 in economy but #48 in opportunity across all residents.  She talks about her constant, intentional efforts to create opportunity for and connect with residents in District 11.

Joe Mayes, an Air Force veteran, cyber professional, experienced executive, and candidate for Texas House District 106, shares his thoughts on education funding and policy in Texas, affordability, housing, and our nation's commitment and history of lifting up our personal freedoms.

Marquette Greene-Scott is running for U.S. House District 22.  She brings her experience representing her city, based on facts and her residents' values, to address issues of affordability, education, and voting rights, in a way that honors residents and the values of our country.

A near-life-long resident of Dumas, Texas, Diana shares what it's like to live in the Texas Panhandle, the issues they face--education, health care, and the workforce--and how she will represent the best interests of her constituents and their way of life, in a way that honors the democratic value of our nation.

Bob shares what he learned running for the State House in Texas, in a conversation building on his history as a West Point graduate, military veteran, and practicing lawyer who actively provides pro bono services.  Bob and Cliff talk about his experiences during his campaign ("at the same time ordinary and profound!"), his view on current events through the lens of his experiences, observations about how representatives should relate to those they represent, and advice for prospective candidates and others who want to find a way to engage for the good of the country.

For ten+ years, Bonny has given candidates in elections the opportunity to share their message, and voters the chance to learn about every race on a local ballot.  In a wide-ranging conversation, Phil and Cliff talk with Bonny about the effort, her history of community and political engagement, what motivates her, and how our democratic values are preserved by knowing the candidates, by voting, and by speaking up for our historic values.  Bonny's work is inspiration to speak up for our democracy!

Phil talks about the effort to get every Bexar County democratic candidate on video: How it was done, why it was done, and how to watch before you vote.