Political Contessa

Jennifer Nassour

Women on the right need a safe space to discuss politics, policy, news, and ownership over the fact that it is ok to agree to disagree. It is our First Amendment right to free speech. Before we can even out the number of women in our local, state, & federal governments, we need to empower women to feel comfortable and confident discussing these and other topics. My name is Jennifer. I’m a single mom of three girls living in Boston. I’m a lawyer with two political science degrees, and I have no problem talking politics with people who disagree with me. I spent three years as the Chairman of the Massachusetts GOP and ran for the very liberal Boston City Council. I’m a frequent analyst on Newsmax, Fox News Radio, and Boston Media. As a Republican in a blue state, I know a few things about how to disagree agreeably. Join me for fascinating conversations that engage and clarify every week. For more information and resources, visit Political Contessa.

  1. 2d ago

    Is a Nazi Tattoo and Creepy Sexting Behavior What Maine Dems Call Progress Now?

    In this week’s episode, Jennifer dives deep into the background and candidacy of Graham Platner, the Democratic Senate candidate facing incumbent Susan Collins, currently the only standing Republican in New England. She explores Platner’s privileged upbringing, lack of political experience, and recent coverage of a Nazi tattoo and online sexting scandals. The episode critiques the normalization of questionable ethics and controversial personal behavior among political figures, particularly focusing on progressive hypocrisy and the response from Democratic leaders and colleagues. Jennifer also questions the standards voters hold candidates to and challenges listeners to reflect on values, morals, and the real-life consequences of whom we elect. “So we're saying a Nazi tattoo is okay? We're saying that behavior that we know is wrong and gross is okay for one of 100 elected people in the United States?” ~Jennifer Nassour   This week on Political Contessa: The background and Senate candidacy of Graham Platner Jennifer’s critique of progressive hypocrisy in politics The issue of a Nazi tattoo and its implications for public office Examination of Platner’s privileged background and lack of experience Discussion about sexting scandals and moral standards for political candidates Reactions from Democratic representatives to Platner’s controversies The impact of candidate character and personal behavior on young women in politics The call for a moral and value check in American political life   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    18 min

  2. May 28

    Democracy Is Fun Until Lawmakers Take Your Ballot and Your Money with Jon Hecht

    In this week's episode, Jennifer welcomes Jon Hecht, a former Massachusetts State Representative and leading advocate for democracy reform. Jon has spent years at the State House gaining firsthand insight into the legislative process and now serves as a key member of the Coalition to Reform Our Legislature. Despite political differences, his bipartisan work through the Legislative Efficiency and Accountability Project (LEAP) and the legislative stipend reform movement has united individuals across the political spectrum who are dedicated to increasing transparency and accountability in state government. This episode explores the controversial failure of the Massachusetts legislature to allow a citizen-led stipend reform question on the ballot, exposing a process that critics claim is riddled with undemocratic maneuvers and a lack of transparency. The conversation delves into the legislature’s alleged misuse of procedural loopholes, including a rare advisory opinion from the Supreme Judicial Court, to block popular reform efforts. Jennifer and Jon highlight the enormous bipartisan volunteer effort that gathered over 95,000 signatures, discuss the impact of legislative stipends on power dynamics and public trust, and question the accountability of leadership bonuses. The discussion challenges entrenched legislative culture, addresses frustration with dismissive attitudes toward voters, and calls out the resistance to openness and reform on Beacon Hill. "We have this crazy system in Massachusetts where our legislators get a large part of their pay from another legislator." ~Jon Hecht   This week on Political Contessa: The legislative stipend reform ballot question and the bipartisan coalition behind it The rare procedural tactics used by the Massachusetts legislature to block reform efforts The overwhelming public support, demonstrated by 95,000 gathered signatures Claims of legislative stipends creating conflicts between serving leadership and serving constituents Critique of dismissive attitudes from Massachusetts legislators toward voter concerns The role of legislative bonuses and travel stipends in state government Efforts to keep the democracy reform movement alive through public engagement and future ballot initiatives Calls for voters to directly ask their representatives about stipend reform and legislative accountability Connect with Jon Hecht and the Coalition to Reform Our Legislature: Stipend Reform Website:com/donate Resources Mentioned: The Legislative Efficiency and Accountability Project (LEAP) Information about signing up for volunteering and donation opportunities available atcom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    33 min
  3. Massachusetts Needs a Public Servant, Not a Politician, and Gubernatorial Candidate Mike Minogue Steps Up

    May 21

    Massachusetts Needs a Public Servant, Not a Politician, and Gubernatorial Candidate Mike Minogue Steps Up

    In this week’s episode, Jennifer welcomes Mike Minogue, Massachusetts’ endorsed nominee for governor. Mike is a decorated Army Ranger, combat veteran, father of five, longtime entrepreneur, and former CEO of a leading public medical device company. He is also deeply committed to public service alongside his wife, Renee, helming a family mission focused on spiritual, physical, and intellectual excellence. Mike’s leadership experience ranges from the battlefield to the boardroom, and he is entering public service with a dedication to problem-solving and a refusal to become a career politician. Jennifer and Mike dive deep into the urgent challenges facing Massachusetts: the exodus of businesses and families, an unsustainable tax burden, mounting state debt, and lagging job growth. The conversation explores the negative impact of one-party rule and delves into educational reform, including the controversy surrounding opt-in federal tax credits for school choice and the role of teachers’ unions in blocking progress. Mike lays out his vision for practical, nonpartisan solutions, highlighting his refusal to take a salary, his intent to match campaign donations, and his commitment to restore accountability and fiscal sanity to the Commonwealth. This episode also spotlights Mike’s critiques of current Governor Maura Healey’s leadership and his strategies for moving beyond party labels to unite Massachusetts residents across the political spectrum. “It really comes down to what people do in their kitchen, what entrepreneurs do in their office, and what corporations do. You can’t overspend your way to prosperity.” ~Mike Minogue This Week on Political Contessa: Mike Minogue is running for governor to restore accountability, fiscal discipline, and opportunity in Massachusetts. Massachusetts faces historic outmigration of families and businesses due to high taxes, overregulation, and debt. Mike opposes the dominance of one-party rule and says it leads to a lack of vision and political infighting. Education reform, including school choice and federal scholarship tax credits, is a central plank of Mike’s platform. Mike refuses to take a salary as governor and matches all campaign donations. The current administration is criticized for prioritizing political alliances above effective management. Mental health, healthcare funding, and general practitioner shortages are identified as Massachusetts crises. Mike promises to serve as a nonpartisan public servant and insists his background uniquely qualifies him to lead complex turnaround efforts. Connect with Mike Minogue:  Minogue for MA WebsiteVolunteer, donate, or host an event directly through the campaign website Resources Mentioned: The Mike and Renee Minogue Foundation (focus on education and veterans’ employment) Scholarship Tax Credit for school choice Organizations: Catholic Schools Foundation, MassINC Think Tank   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    36 min

  4. May 7

    Political Sleaze, Parental Rights, and Protecting Democracy with Liz Kurantowicz

    This week, Jennifer welcomes  back Liz Kurantowicz, a political operative and media commentator based in Connecticut and known for her advocacy for parental choice in education, her frequent appearances on television and radio, and her active involvement in state and federal political discourse. As a Catholic school parent and outspoken conservative, Liz has played a prominent role in mobilizing opposition to state legislature bills that restrict parental education rights. Jennifer and Liz dive into the realities of modern American politics, from controversial Connecticut education legislation requiring parents to register their children with local boards of education if they opt out of public schooling to high-profile congressional scandals, including the recent resignations of Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzalez. The conversation highlights issues of pervasive sexual misconduct in government, lack of transparency with legislative settlements and NDAs, and the violence and escalation in political rhetoric seen nationwide. The episode also touches on the chilling effects these factors have on voter participation, the urgent need for greater protection of political and media institutions, and the impact of social media and constant campaign cycles on civic discourse. “These men are building careers on the backs of these women, and they are doing so knowing they have to remain silent.” ~ Jennifer   This week on Political Contessa: Parental choice legislation and registration requirements for non-public school students The chilling effect of state laws on parental rights in education Congressional resignations tied to scandals and systemic misconduct Pervasiveness of harassment and sexual abuse in government Barriers preventing victims from coming forward and a lack of protection for whistleblowers Calls for transparency regarding congressional NDA settlements and Epstein files Escalation of violent rhetoric and attacks targeting elected officials and journalists The failure of current political leaders to lower the temperature on public discourse   Connect with Liz Kurantowicz: Capital Report, Nexstar (Sundays at 10:30 on ABC Hartford-New Haven, also online via the WTNH app and YouTube) Twitter/X:@MrsKurantowicz Resources mentioned: Capital Report TV show (WTNH, Hartford-New Haven) State legislative transparency and audit initiatives (Massachusetts, Connecticut) Julie Grace’s piece on D.C. experiences Information on registration laws for alternative education in Connecticut Discussions regarding the release of Epstein files and congressional slush fund records   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    48 min

  5. Apr 30

    Mass GOP Convention: Egos, Drama, and the Art of Snatching Defeat from the Jaws of Victory

    In this week's episode, Jennifer dives into a comprehensive analysis of the Massachusetts Republican Convention, painting a provocative portrait of party struggles, logistical chaos, and questioning whether internal egos threaten the party's success. Sharply critical of certain campaign maneuvers, she calls out the support team behind gubernatorial candidate Brian Shortsleeve, suggesting their motivations are rooted in arrogance and self-interest rather than party unity. Jennifer shares her belief in democracy and ballot access, but given the circumstances, unity behind a decisive primary winner is paramount for ousting Governor Maura Healey. The episode explores historical trends, the fractured support problem, the role of unenrolled voters, and why she believes Mike Minogue is the clear choice to unite Republicans and promote affordability, accessibility, and opportunity in Massachusetts. “I want to be on a campaign where the candidate is smart, hardworking, a go getter, a leader, and isn't going to let any man get left behind who believes in him and the mission and what we need to do here.” ~ Jennifer   This week on Political Contessa: Issues with credentials and access at the Massachusetts Republican Convention Review of key speeches and candidates, including John Deaton and Elizabeth Dion Recap of the lieutenant governor race and Ann Brinsley’s historic win Discussion about gubernatorial candidates’ results and thresholds Analysis of why party unity behind Mike Minogue is essential Reflection on the Massachusetts Republican Party’s declining registration numbers Critique of campaign egos and the impact on party effectiveness Emphasis on the importance of affordability, accessibility, and legislative audits in Massachusetts   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    18 min

  6. Apr 23

    Vehicle Miles, Emission Mandates, and Freedom Under Threat in Massachusetts

    In this week's episode, Jennifer dives into parallels between George Orwell’s "1984" and Massachusetts Senate Bill 2246. She explores the newly introduced Senate Bill 2246, which seeks to align Massachusetts’ transportation plan with strict climate mandates by potentially imposing monitored limits on driving miles for residents. She challenges the controversial bill as an infringement on personal freedom and draws unsettling comparisons to Orwellian concepts of mass surveillance, government control, and groupthink. Jennifer takes aim at both the rationale and practicality of basing Massachusetts law on Colorado and Minnesota precedents, sharply criticizing the inefficiency of local public transportation systems and voicing concern over the expanding reach of state authority. This episode is a call for civic action, urging listeners to oppose what she describes as an intrusive and coercive approach to climate policy. “We have some state senator who is acting in a manner and setting up a surveillance commission to monitor how much we drive.” ~Jennifer Nassour This week on Political Contessa: Legislation introduced to monitor and limit driving miles in Massachusetts Comparison of Massachusetts Senate Bill 2246 to George Orwell’s "1984" Basing state laws on Colorado and Minnesota transportation models Concerns over the inadequacy of Massachusetts public transportation Sharp criticism of the state’s management of transportation funds Allegations of groupthink and enforced conformity by the Democratic Party Reflection on the expansion of surveillance technology in daily life Urging civic action to oppose intrusive climate policy initiatives Resources mentioned: Massachusetts Senate Bill 2246 (An Act Aligning the Commonwealth’s transportation plans with its mandates and goals for reducing emissions and vehicle miles traveled) George Orwell’s novel, "1984"   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    11 min

  7. Apr 9

    Surviving Feminism’s New Battle, Now with More Side-Eye with Liz Kurantowicz

    In this week’s episode, Jennifer welcomes Liz Kurantowicz, a seasoned political strategist, attorney, and mother. Liz is known for her extensive experience in Republican politics throughout Connecticut, having served at the Connecticut State GOP and as a frequent commentator on television and digital media. Her work emphasizes strategy, communications, and advocacy, particularly on issues impacting women, families, and the next generation. As a practicing Catholic and active parent, Liz brings a pragmatic and values-based perspective to discussions around family, gender, and policy. Jennifer and Liz dive into the evolving landscape of conservative feminism and the contentious public debate surrounding women’s choices regarding career, marriage, and motherhood. The conversation explores generational differences between Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z, as well as the added pressures and judgments women face from both inside and outside their own ranks. They dissect controversial clips and reactions from personalities such as Isabel Brown, The View hosts, and Caroline Levitt, discussing how media, identity politics, and social media echo chambers amplify division. Jennifer and Liz address the societal obsession with “performative” opinions, the enduring burden of women’s guilt, and the importance of supporting all paths for women—whether in boardrooms, as stay-at-home moms, or blazing new trails after adversity. The episode offers sharp commentary on culture, the intersection of gender and politics, and the need for women to focus on uplifting each other rather than perpetuating unnecessary battles. "We just need to stop judging people for their choices and make sure that everyone has the ability to make the choices that they want." ~Liz Kurantowicz This week on Political Contessa: Reconciling conservative feminism and generational gaps in perspective The impact of provocative media clips and the business of outrage The lived reality of balancing career, family, and self-determination The influence of childhood experiences and family history on political beliefs How women perpetuate divisiveness through judgment and insecurity Why culture drives politics, not the other way around Support for marriage equality and diverse family structures The need to celebrate women’s ability to choose their own paths   Connect with Liz Kurantowicz: Twitter/X: @MrsKurantowicz Capital Report on YouTube and the WTNH app https://www.drurygroupllc.com/leadership https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizkurantowicz/ https://www.pocketbookproject.org/team-member/liz-kurantowicz/   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    59 min

  8. Mar 26

    Celebrate Women’s History Month - Then Google What Iranian Women Are Up Against

    In this week's episode, Jennifer, in honor of Women's History Month, delivers a powerful and thought-provoking episode tracing key milestone in American women’s fight for equality, from property rights and suffrage to workforce participation and educational achievement. She draws sharp contrasts with the situation for women in Iran, highlighting severe legal and cultural restrictions faced there, including mandatory hijab laws, denial of autonomy, and lack of protection against violence. The episode addresses controversial debates on American intervention, the tendency to take freedoms for granted, and urges listeners to educate themselves and others during Women's History Month. Jennifer’s candid remarks, including her pointed criticism of partisan responses to international women’s issues, are certain to provoke reflection and conversation. "Over 30,000 people were killed this winter in Iran because they protested what the Ayatollah was doing. They protested for their freedom, the freedom that we take for granted every single day.” ~Jennifer Nassour This week on Political Contessa: Evolution of women's property and voting rights from 1839 through the 1900s Impact of the Married Women’s Property Acts and the Homestead Act Rise in educational attainment and workforce participation for American women Historic milestones like the first equal gender law school class at St. John’s Contrast between U.S. women’s freedoms and Iranian women’s legal restrictions Current realities of hijab laws, travel limits, and lack of legal protections in Iran Recent Iranian women’s protests and the consequences faced The importance of defending, not taking for granted, American women’s rights   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    15 min
See All (100)

4.8
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Women on the right need a safe space to discuss politics, policy, news, and ownership over the fact that it is ok to agree to disagree. It is our First Amendment right to free speech. Before we can even out the number of women in our local, state, & federal governments, we need to empower women to feel comfortable and confident discussing these and other topics. My name is Jennifer. I’m a single mom of three girls living in Boston. I’m a lawyer with two political science degrees, and I have no problem talking politics with people who disagree with me. I spent three years as the Chairman of the Massachusetts GOP and ran for the very liberal Boston City Council. I’m a frequent analyst on Newsmax, Fox News Radio, and Boston Media. As a Republican in a blue state, I know a few things about how to disagree agreeably. Join me for fascinating conversations that engage and clarify every week. For more information and resources, visit Political Contessa.

Information

  • Creator
    Jennifer Nassour
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 2021 All Rights Reserved Political Contessa and Jennifer Nassour
  • Show Website
    Political Contessa