Ep254 Melissa Bird for Congress (Oregon - 4th District)

Guest is congressional candidate Melissa Bird, who is running to represent Oregon’s 4th District is available now on all streaming platforms and @ strpod.comThis seat was held for 36 years by Peter DeFazio before being passed to current incumbent Val Hoyle in 2022. Now, Bird is stepping forward with a platform rooted in social work, Indigenous identity, and advocacy for working-class communities.In this episode, we talk about:How her background as a social worker shaped her path to politicsRepresenting marginalized voices and tribal communitiesWhat separates her vision from the current leadershipPublic safety, transparency, and trust in governmentRural vs. urban priorities in Oregon’s 4th DistrictHer “Rural New Deal” and “Food as Medicine” approachBuilding bridges across political dividesThe realities of running a grassroots campaignWe also reflect on progressive campaigns in Oregon, including figures like Doyle Canning, and what it takes to challenge the political status quo.If you're trying to understand where the district is headed and who’s stepping up to lead it, this is a conversation worth hearing.