Political Contessa

Jennifer Nassour
  • 4.8 (22)
  • Government
  • Updated Weekly

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. Jul 16

    World Cup Visitors, Target Runs, and the Joy of Ranch Dressing

    In this week’s episode, Jennifer invites listeners into a lighthearted yet insightful summer conversation. Jennifer has served as a prominent voice for empowering women to engage in politics and strengthen their communities. Known for her practical wisdom, humor, and relatable experiences as both a professional and a soccer mom, Jennifer offers a distinctive perspective on how culture, travel, and everyday joys intersect with American political identity.   Jennifer explores the cultural impact of the World Cup’s arrival in the United States, sharing entertaining stories of international soccer fans, especially the Scottish Tartans, bringing humor and life to Boston. She dives into the phenomenon of foreign visitors marveling at America’s massive portion sizes, love of ranch dressing, and abundance of shopping options, from Target to Costco. Jennifer presents a controversial rebuke of mainstream media’s negative portrayal of American culture, emphasizing how in-person experiences transform perceptions and showcase American freedoms and hospitality. The episode examines the power of fun and national pride to reshape the narrative about what it means to live in “the land of the free and the home of the brave,” especially as America approaches its 250th anniversary. “They fall in love with Costco, they fall in love with Target, they fall in love with Walmart. But they also are amazed by the sizes and the portions of our food, which I think is so funny.” ~Jennifer   This week on Political Contessa: Massachusetts needs more fun and spontaneity International fans bring unexpected joy and mischief to Boston Foreign visitors are shocked by American food portions and consumer choices American ranch dressing becomes a coveted souvenir Mainstream media misrepresents Americans and American culture The abundance of freedom and choice in the United States America’s brand as “land of the free and home of the brave” endures Reflection on gratitude and appreciation for American life during the country’s 250th anniversary   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.

  2. Jul 9

    BREAKING!! Vice President’s Wife’s Maternity Dress Wasn’t Gucci - Political Bullsh#t Ensues

    In this week's episode, Jennifer spotlights the recent controversy surrounding Usha Vance, the Second Lady of the United States and a Yale-educated attorney. Usha, pregnant with her fourth child, recently found herself the subject of criticism after wearing an $8.75 Old Navy maternity dress during a public interview alongside Vice President Vance. With extensive professional accomplishments and a growing family, Usha has quickly become a prominent figure in American public life, balancing her legal expertise with her visibility as a political spouse.   The conversation focused on the New York Times' fashion critic’s public disparagement of Usha Vance’s affordable maternity dress, igniting a broader dialogue about sexism, double standards, and societal expectations for women in the public eye. A key theme that emerged was the persistent policing of women’s appearance, particularly when juxtaposed against political narratives or personal choices. The discussion explored the hypocrisy of celebrating similar wardrobe choices for some women but criticizing them for others, especially along partisan lines. Jennifer issued a candid call for mutual respect, challenging listeners to consider the broader implications of the scrutiny women face in the media and public life. Several points were raised, including how affordable personal style can be misinterpreted and the ongoing need for equality and kindness in evaluating women’s choices, regardless of political affiliation.   “Why in 2026, do we have a newspaper that, whether we like the New York Times or not, is a major player in the newspaper world writing anything about a woman's wardrobe, especially a pregnant woman's clothing?” ~Jennifer Nassour   This week on Political Contessa: Scrutiny of Usha Vance’s $8.75 Old Navy maternity dress Impact of media criticism on political spouses Hypocrisy in societal reactions to women’s clothing choices Differences in treatment based on political affiliation The experience of pregnancy and finding affordable maternity clothing Challenge to stop policing women’s appearances Encouragement for respect, equity, and kindness among women Reflection on women attacking other women in the public sphere   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.

  3. Jul 2

    Signature Drives and Grassroots Movements: Christina Delisio’s Fight for Political Choice in Massachusetts

    In this week's episode, Jennifer welcomes Christina Delisio, a seasoned community leader and former Manchester Planning Board member, who is currently running for State Representative in Massachusetts' 5th Essex District. Christina brings nearly a decade of experience championing local issues, a background in law, public service teaching, and environmental consulting. Raised in Pennsylvania with a deep respect for civic duty, Christina has navigated the complexities of local government, environmental regulations, and family life, making her campaign uniquely informed by hands-on experience and a commitment to public advocacy. This episode explores the mechanics and challenges of running for office in Massachusetts, zeroing in on the obstacles facing candidates in special elections, low voter turnout, and the broader implications of one-party dominance. Jennifer and Christina discuss the need to participate in primaries, the frustrations with cookie-cutter policies from Beacon Hill, and the real-world setbacks caused by inaccessible or mishandled electoral systems. Controversial and compelling moments include candid commentary on local and state government overreach, the troubling decline in competitive races, the lack of diversity of thought in Massachusetts politics, and Christina’s creation of the ACE Network, a grassroots initiative to empower new voices and combat barriers to the ballot. The conversation also delves into the often-overlooked importance of signature-gathering, the process's vulnerability to fraud, and the necessity of courage and initiative in civic engagement, especially for women. "Massachusetts is all about diversity. Until it comes to diversity of ideas or thought, and then it's all done."~Christina Delisio This Week on Political Contessa: Special elections often suffer from extremely low voter turnout. Name confusion between candidates can create misunderstandings among voters. Issues with absentee ballots and election administration errors affect participation. One-party dominance leads to cookie-cutter policies that may not fit local communities. Gathering signatures is costly and vulnerable to fraud, discouraging new candidates. The ACE Network initiative aims to recruit and support new candidates at the grassroots level. Many races in Massachusetts are uncontested, leading to predetermined outcomes. Women need to be asked multiple times to run for office, while men are more likely to self-nominate. Connect with Christina Delisio and the ACE Network Website: christinadelisio.com Facebook: D'Alissio5th  ACE Network: Search “ACE Network” or “351 ACE Network” on Facebook   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.

  4. Jun 12

    Blue Barrels, Broken Systems, Food Fraud, and Election Reform in Massachusetts

    In this week's episode, Jennifer is a guest on Jeff Simon's podcast, "Back to Normal," and is a prominent voice in Massachusetts Republican circles, as well as the current finance chair for the Mike Minogue gubernatorial campaign. Jeff, who is well known for hosting the "Back to Normal" show and for his previous role as chair of the Massachusetts Republican Party, joins Jennifer for an in-depth discussion of the state's political and ethical landscape. Jeff has been a driving force in advocating for conservative principles, government accountability, and transparent elections across the Commonwealth. Jennifer and Jeff tackle explosive topics, opening with the controversial top-two primary ballot initiative headed for Massachusetts voters in November. Jennifer explains her support for this unconventional election model, despite pushback from both Democratic and Republican insiders, highlighting the overwhelming percentage of unenrolled voters and the potential to disrupt incumbent protection. Jeff counters with concerns about party system erosion and the risks of open primaries. The conversation pivots to a recently uncovered multimillion-dollar food assistance fraud in Massachusetts. They detail how food obtained via EBT cards, food banks, and charitable organizations is shipped in bulk to the Dominican Republic, where it is sold for profit, fueling bipartisan outrage and finger-pointing at the state’s Democratic leadership for lack of oversight. Jennifer and Jeff engage in a blunt critique of legislative complacency and demand action, calling for systemic reform and increased Republican representation to prevent further abuse of taxpayer funds. “Nothing changes unless you vote in different people. That’s it. This all continues. Another more Healey term, another Andrea Campbell term.”  ~Jeff Simon This Week on Political Contessa: Massachusetts faces a significant fraud issue with food assistance benefits being illegally exported and sold abroad. The top two primary initiatives are highly polarizing among political insiders of both major parties. Unenrolled voters constitute the largest voting bloc in the Commonwealth. Incumbent protection and legislative perks are under scrutiny for perpetuating a lack of accountability. There is fierce debate over whether opening primaries increases or erodes democratic representation. Jennifer argues the top-two system offers better chances for minority parties and increased voter participation. Jeff contends that systemic gaming and open primaries weaken party identities and muddle voter intent. Both agree urgent reforms are needed and see electing more Republicans as pivotal to meaningful change. Connect with Jeff Simon: Follow Jeff Simon on X (Twitter): @Enfernassor Back to Normal show: [Contact via Mass GOP] Mike Minogue for Governor: [Mike Minogue Campaign Site (for upcoming appearances and campaign information)] Resources Mentioned: Muckraker.org (investigative reporting on food assistance fraud) Massachusetts Republican Party: Official website Political Contessa: politicalcontessa.com   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.

  5. Jun 4

    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.

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

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

  8. 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.

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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