Political Contessa

In this week’s episode, Jennifer welcomes Brigadier General John Teichert, a highly decorated national security leader, foreign policy expert, and former U.S. Senate candidate. John Teichert’s distinguished thirty-year career in the United States Air Force included command positions at Joint Base Andrews and Edwards Air Force Base, serving as the nation’s senior defense official in Iraq, and leading ...

In this week’s episode, I dive deep into the state of protests in America and the line between peaceful demonstration and lawlessness. Drawing on my family’s immigrant roots and my experience as an attorney and political strategist, I address the complex questions surrounding our First Amendment rights, the actions of elected leaders, and the consequences of current immigration policies. With a focus on developme...

In this week’s episode, Jennifer welcomes Kendall Qualls, a US Army veteran, business executive, and the newly announced candidate for governor of Minnesota. Kendall’s remarkable life journey began in poverty, growing up in Harlem and later in an Oklahoma trailer park. After working his way through college delivering pizzas, he served as an artillery officer in the Army and later earned his MBA from the Un...

In this week's episode, I offer my unfiltered perspective on one of the nation’s most controversial stories. As an attorney, political strategist, and commentator, I’ve devoted my career to grassroots activism, public policy, and challenging conventional wisdom across the political spectrum. My work places me at the center of debates on law, order, and immigration, and today, I’m sharing my direct ta...

In this week's episode, Jennifer welcomes Payton McNabb, a determined advocate for the elimination of biological males participating in women's sports and the protection and fairness of girls’ and women’s sports. Payton is a former three-sport high school athlete from rural North Carolina whose life changed abruptly, due to existing state policy at the time, after she suffered a traumatic brain injury during a vo...

In this week’s episode, Jennifer welcomes Deirdre Sullivan, an emerging author and mother of four daughters based in the Boston area. Deirdre began her writing journey with a passion for storytelling that was sparked in high school and continued through the publication of three children’s books. As her children grew, so did her writing style, leading her to explore adult fiction and ultimately craft a debu...

In this week’s episode of Political Contessa, Jennifer welcomes Scotia Hille, Executive Director of Act on Mass. Scotia’s career began in climate policy, where she worked on national campaigns and later shifted her focus to improving government transparency in Massachusetts. With a background in science and policy, and a dedication to holding elected officials accountable, Scotia now leads advocacy efforts for le...

In this week’s episode of Political Contessa, Jennifer takes center stage for a candid solo discussion on her background as a first-generation college graduate, her dedication to education, and her critique of the current climate in higher education. Drawing on her experience at Stony Brook University and subsequent legal and advocacy work, Jennifer delivers an introspective and forthright perspective on the val...

In this week's episode, I take the mic solo to reflect on the passing of Pope Francis and what his legacy means for faith, culture, and the ever-present world of politics. Raised in a deeply Catholic family, my experience as both a political commentator and a lifelong Catholic gives me a unique lens on how Church leadership ripples into our communities and institutions. My journey through religion, personal loss, and public ...

In this week’s episode, Jennifer is joined by Morgan Vina, Principal at Invariant, a bipartisan government relations and communications firm based in Washington, DC. With extensive experience providing strategic counsel to companies, trade associations, nonprofits, and individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of Washington, Morgan is recognized for her expertise in global economic policy, national security, and defens...

In this week's episode of Political Contessa, Jennifer examines the significant yet often overlooked role of women in the Republican Party's history. Bringing her expertise and passion to the forefront, Jennifer explores women's impactful contributions to the GOP from its inception to the present day.

Jennifer sheds light on the long-standing involvement of women in the GOP, challenging the narrative that the Democrat...

In this week's episode of Political Contessa, Jennifer welcomes Senator Ryan Fattman, a prominent figure in Massachusetts politics who has served as a state senator for the 8th Worcester District since 2015. Ryan’s political journey began as a youthful state representative for the 18th Worcester District, elected during Jennifer's tenure as party chair, marking a shared history of dedication and political growth...

In this week's episode, Jennifer presents an engaging tribute to Mia Love, highlighting the life and legacy of the first black Republican congresswoman who represented Utah's 4th congressional district in the House from 2015 until 2019. Born in New York to Haitian immigrants, Mia Love broke new ground with her remarkable political journey in a predominantly white, conservative district. In addition to being a congresswoman, ...

In this week's episode of Political Contessa, Jennifer explores the nuances of politics, women's history, and the importance of suffrage. As a seasoned political figure and mother of three daughters, Jennifer brings her insights into the challenges and triumphs women face throughout political history. With a focus on empowering women in the political sphere, Jennifer aims to inspire others to become involved, whether as poli...

In this week's episode, Jennifer welcomes her friend, Mindelynn Young Godbout, a former political professional turned travel blogger and literary enthusiast. Mindelynn, who once navigated the grueling world of Massachusetts politics, has shifted her focus to exploring and writing about women's historical contributions, particularly through literature. She is the creator of the blog "Read Far and Wide," where she inspires others to ...

In this week's episode of Political Contessa, Jennifer takes the spotlight to address pressing issues in Massachusetts. Jennifer brings her rich experience in political commentary, advocacy, and public service, highlighting her dynamic approach to dissecting political events and decisions that impact everyday citizens.

Jennifer's target is the recent escalations of utility rates in Massachusetts, scrutinizing the state&r...

In this week's episode of Political Contessa, Jennifer discusses President Trump's recent executive order protecting women's sports. The order states that women's sports should only be for women and that biological males should not be allowed to compete in female sports. Jennifer emphasizes that this is not about transgender rights but fairness and safety for girls in sports.

Jennifer delves into the controversial topic of transgen...

In this week's episode, Jennifer dives into a no-holds-barred discussion on the impact of illegal immigration policies in Massachusetts. Jennifer, a fiscal conservative, brings her expertise as a former Boston City Council candidate to highlight the ongoing issues under the current administration and the looming threats posed by illegal immigration. Jennifer also discusses her stance on executive orders and the importance of...

In this week's episode, Jennifer welcomes Shelton Oakley Hersey. Shelton is an accomplished dialogue specialist with a Master's in Intercultural Studies, dedicated to fostering meaningful conversations and reconciliation. With significant experience in interreligious dialogue and community building through her work at Unite Boston, Shelton is committed to addressing the barriers around Christian unity and being an amb...