What does it actually take to change policy — and keep showing up when the wins are slow?

In this episode of Great Ships, I sit down with Phil Ford, founding partner of the Ford & Ford Group and one of South Carolina’s most respected voices as a lobbyist inside the State House, to take stock of where we are — and where we’re headed.

As we close out 2025, Phil helps us make sense of what laws passed, what stalled, who benefited, and why. We talk honestly about the growing divisiveness at the State House, the role of pressure and persistence in shaping outcomes, and what it will take to break the supermajority and build more Democratic power as we head into 2026.

We also dig into Phil’s personal story — how he found his way into this work, what sustains him through the slog, and why he believes showing up consistently still matters, even when progress feels painfully slow.

This conversation explores:

• What it actually takes to influence legislation in South Carolina

• How inside strategy and public pressure work together to move power

• Why competing everywhere — even in tough districts — changes the political landscape

• What breaking the supermajority would mean in practice

• How everyday people can find their place in the fight heading into 2026

If you care about dignity, democracy, and meeting people’s basic needs — and want a clear-eyed look at the work required to get there — this episode is for you.