22 episodes

Hi, I am Ashley Crosby and I am a politically-minded gal who believes that words matter. And none matter more than those spoken or used by the individuals we elect to a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. So, in this podcast, I strive to take an unbiased approach to examine the meaning of the words used by modern-day and historical political influencers. So, when it is our turn to vote, to govern, and to lead, we are better educated and informed than the generations before us who have left us with a mess. Subscribe and join me on this journey to better understand the impact the words of our leaders have on our future. And what we can do about it.

Politically Minded Gal Ashley

    • News

Hi, I am Ashley Crosby and I am a politically-minded gal who believes that words matter. And none matter more than those spoken or used by the individuals we elect to a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. So, in this podcast, I strive to take an unbiased approach to examine the meaning of the words used by modern-day and historical political influencers. So, when it is our turn to vote, to govern, and to lead, we are better educated and informed than the generations before us who have left us with a mess. Subscribe and join me on this journey to better understand the impact the words of our leaders have on our future. And what we can do about it.

    Drama in the House

    Drama in the House

    2023 isn't ending without more drama in the House of Representatives.

    In this episode, I talk about former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy's decision to leave Congress and how New York Representative George Santos became only the 6th person EVER expelled from Congress. All in the first seven days of December! 

    And lastly, I examine the Republican Conference's recent decision to push for a vote to formally begin an Impeachment Inquiry into President Joe Biden.     

    As always, make sure to subscribe to the Politically Minded Gal podcast!

    - Ashley   


    Sources:
    -Ex-US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy will leave Congress, raising Republican worries | Reuters
    -McCarthy's exit and the ripple effects back home - POLITICO 
    -New York Republican George Santos expelled from Congress
    -George Santos has been expelled from Congress. What happens next? - CBS New York 
    -Republican-majority US House takes step toward vote on Biden impeachment inquiry | Reuters   

    • 5 min
    Welcome to the 2024 Presidential Election Primary Season

    Welcome to the 2024 Presidential Election Primary Season

    It's begun.

    The mud-slinging. The what-aboutism and the division of neighbors, friends, and families. Yes, it's primary season!

    In this episode, I introduce you to all the candidates vying for the nomination of both major political parties. And even those who have decided to run as independents.

    Of course, we have to talk about President Biden at 80 years old and former President Trump (and all that means with >90 felony indictments). But, you will also get to know about the full field and where you can find more information about each.

    So, as our generation gets ready to head to the ballot box in 2024, most of us for the first time, let's get to know who our choices are.

    - Ashley

    Sources:
    -2024 US presidential election: Who are the candidates? | Reuters 
    -Seven issues that will define the 2024 election | The Hill 
    -How Popular Is Joe Biden? | FiveThirtyEight 
    -The Working Economy | Marianne 2024 
    -RFK Jr. is building a presidential campaign around conspiracy theories 
    -How America Changed During Donald Trump's Presidency
    -Donald Trump : Favorability Polls | FiveThirtyEight 
    -Where Ron DeSantis stands on key issues - BBC News
    -How to register to vote | USAGov   
       

    • 7 min
    The Life of Dianne Feinstein

    The Life of Dianne Feinstein

    In this first episode of Season 2, we pay tribute to the late Senator from California, the honorable Dianne Feinstein. 

    Who passed away on September 29th at the age of 90. 

    At the time, she was the longest-serving female in US Senate history. Having won her first Senate election in 1993. 

    This episode not only pays tribute to a pioneer but also highlights some of Senator Feinstein's biggest accomplishments, positions, and little-known facts. 

    Join me in celebrating the life of Dianne Feinstein. 

    - Ashley

    Sources: 

    -Gun control, assault weapons ban a major part of Sen. Dianne Feinstein's legacy - CBS San Francisco
    -A look at the life of Dianne Feinstein - POLITICO
    -Dianne Feinstein on CIA torture report: 'A stain on America's values' – video | US news | The Guardian   

    • 6 min
    Season One Wrap Up

    Season One Wrap Up

    Happy 1st Birthday to the Politically Minded Gal!

    What a fantastic first year it's been for us both. We witnessed (and talked about) the overturning of a historic law, the sad death of a Queen, the indictment of a former President, and so much more. 

    Along the way, we learned about how democracies die, the difference between hearing and listening, and the importance of not only knowing but writing to your local representative.

    Through all that we have experienced, I could not be more proud of the journey we have been on together. To all my listeners from around the world, THANK YOU for allowing me a voice and a platform to speak about what I am most passionate about. And for a safe place to learn to better citizens (and voters) together. 

    Now, let's get ready for Season 2! 

    - Ashley

    • 4 min
    How Democracies Die and How to Keep Them Alive

    How Democracies Die and How to Keep Them Alive

    In this episode, we do something different together. We explore what defines democracy, examine what history has taught us about how they die, and what can be done to keep them alive. 

    Given the current polarization in American politics, is there a more important subject as we head into the 2024 election cycle? 

    The information shared in this episode was gathered during a two-week summer seminar I participated in at Northwestern University. 

    - Ashley

    • 8 min
    Happy Fourth of July

    Happy Fourth of July

    Happy Birthday, America!

    It is time we pause to reflect on why we gather for BBQs, go to the beach, and enjoy fireworks on this day each year.

    In this episode, I take you through two historical speeches on the importance of signing the Declaration of Independence and how the words written nearly 250 years ago 'Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness' are still a dream we are chasing. 

    Hear from President Ronald Regan and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on why they think these words still hold true today.

    Make sure to subscribe and join me, the Politically Minded Gal, as we work towards a better tomorrow.

    - Ashley

    Sources:
    -https://dc.hillsdale.edu/News-and-Events/News/15-Great-Speeches-to-Remind-America-what-Independe/ 
    -The American Dream
    -President Reagan's Address to the Nation on Independence Day on July 4, 1986 
       

    • 9 min

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