Kris Nelson and Jessica Reynolds join New Rural Virginia Podcast discuss the movement to protect Samuels Public Library, the strength of grassroots organizing in rural communities, and how cross-party partnerships can deliver results. They analyze newly drawn district lines, consider implications for the Commonwealth’s civic future, highlight strategies that keep local advocates aligned and effective, and outline priorities ahead for the DPVA Rural Caucus.

Learn more: Warren County Democratic Committee: https://www.warrencovadems.org/

Rural Caucus of Virginia: https://www.ruralcaucusdpva.org/

Virginia Data Center Reform Coalition: https://pecva.org/datacenters

Beth Macy joins New Rural Virginia Podcast for a discussion recorded amid Virginia’s newly released redistricting maps and a rapidly shifting primary landscape. A journalist from Roanoke and bestselling author, Macy reflects on her decision to run in Virginia’s Sixth District, drawing on decades of reporting on rural America. The episode explores rural prosperity, healthcare and education access, workforce challenges, and why lived experience and community voices matter in Congress. Learn more: www.BethMacyforCongress.com

Tom Perriello joins New Rural Virginia Podcast to discuss his return to Virginia’s Fifth District and the need for strong federal leadership. He reflects on the Affordable Care Act, healthcare costs, wages and affordability, and rebuilding opportunity in rural communities. Drawing on his experience working in countries under authoritarian rule, Perriello discusses threats to democratic norms and Congress’s responsibility to act as a check on executive power.

Learn more at: www.TomPerriello.com

Featured song: “Perriello for the Common Good”

Written by Brendan Gilmore | Performed by The Perriello Pickers

YouTube: Perriello for the Common Good