CANDID CONVERSATIONS
Trump Administration Policies, their Impact on Rural America and the Democrats' Vision for Engaging Rural Voters
Roundtable Recording June 5, 2025
Episode Drops June 19, 2025
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Join us for a powerful and timely episode of The Rural Impact, where we dive into the real-world consequences of policy decisions on rural America. This candid conversation will unpack the impact of Trump-era policies on rural communities and explore how the Democratic Party is working to reengage and earn the trust of the 60 million rural Americans whose voices often go unheard.
Featured Guests
Russ Carnahan
DNC Midwestern Regional Chair and Chair of the Missouri Democratic Party
Former U.S. Congressman and current Midwestern Regional Chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), Russ Carnahan brings extensive experience in both policy and party strategy. A passionate advocate for infrastructure, healthcare, and democratic engagement, Russ is helping shape the DNC’s vision for reconnecting with rural voters across the Midwest.
Chris Jones
DNC People's Cabinet Member and Co-chair of Dirt Road Dems
Co-chair of the “Dirt Road Democrats” and former gubernatorial candidate in Arkansas, Chris Jones is an engineer, physicist, and faith leader who champions inclusive, equitable systems that empower rural communities. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to ensuring every voice and every vote counts—especially in places too often left behind.
 Jane Kleeb
President of the Association of State Democratic Committees
President of the Association of State Democratic Committees (ASDC) and DNC Vice Chair, Jane Kleeb is a nationally recognized political strategist, grassroots organizer, and rural advocate. As Chair of the Nebraska Democratic Party, she has doubled the number of elected Democrats in the state and pioneered programs that uplift rural voices and advance equity. She is also the founder of Bold Alliance and a recipient of the Climate Breakthrough Award for her innovative Energy Builders model, which ensures rural communities benefit from clean energy development.
William (Will) Westmoreland
DNC People's Cabinet Member and Rural Policy Expert
A fierce advocate for America’s farmers and ranchers, Will Westmoreland brings personal experience and political insight to the table. With a focus on rural economic development, food systems, and agricultural policy, Will is known for bridging the gap between policy decisions and their real-life impacts on rural families and food supply chains.
What We'll Discuss
This conversation will explore:
- The lasting effects of Trump administration policies on rural life
- Democratic strategies for connecting with rural voters
- How federal and state-level decisions shape everyday realities in rural communities
- The importance of facts, data, and lived experience in rebuilding trust
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Your Voice Matters
Have a question for Russ, Chris, Jane or Will?
We want to hear from you. Use the form to submit your question, and it could be featured during the recording on June 5, 2025.
Submit Your Question
All questions must be submitted by
June 5 at 12:00 PM CST.
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