In this episode, Dr. Nelly Burdette, Psy D, shares her journey from healthcare professional to political candidate, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, health equity, and addressing local issues like housing and public trust. Her approach highlights how expertise in public health can reshape legislative priorities at the state level, especially in a diverse district.

Key Topics:

Nelly Burdette’s background in healthcare and what motivated her to run for State Senate
The significance of running at the community level versus higher office
How her public health experience informs her legislative priorities
The pressing issues in her district: healthcare access, affordable housing, and aging
Strategies for rebuilding trust and engagement within the community
The importance of creative solutions to housing shortages, avoiding green space development
The role of small businesses and local economic health
The dynamic district of Lincoln, North Smithfield, and North Providence
Her stance on local legislative support and recent political debates
The challenge of infrastructure and resource sustainability for new housing projects
Her motivation for challenging the incumbent and the potential impact on local politics
The importance of party involvement and tactical campaigning in local races

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction / background and political campaign

02:03 - Why focus on local community engagement over higher offices

04:46 - Support from Democratic groups and her community-based approach

08:25 - Major gaps in healthcare access and affordability in Rhode Island

10:21 - Vision for a better Rhode Island: Health, Aging, and Small Business

13:10 - Creative housing solutions: repurposing abandoned buildings and green space preservation

15:21 - Trust issues in Lincoln and rebuilding community ties

17:46 - The importance of local legislation and community responsiveness

20:06 - Immediate legislative priorities: healthcare and affordable housing initiatives

21:02 - Support for local policies and her stance on key political issues

22:41 - Challenges with housing development on Wilbur Road and sustainability concerns

24:28 - The broader significance of community-level leadership and expertise in governance

26:08 - Final thoughts on running to create meaningful change and the role of political strategy

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