Debbie Cox Bulltanon 30 Years Working in the Center-Left

Jul 4, 2024

Today, we’re sharing NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan’s recent appearance on the Pro Politics podcast – a political podcast that interviews people who work in and around the political industry. Host Zac McCrary and Debbie talk about growing up in a middle-class family in Sacramento, CA, her active role in her church, and her Capitol Hill internship with the late Congressman Vic Facio. They discuss her experience working for the Democratic Leadership Council for 15 years, what led her to her current role as CEO of NewDEAL, and some of the success stories of the rising leaders with whom she has worked. Debbie goes on to talk about NewDEAL’s “Freedom Agenda,” released in partnership with the New Democrat Coalition, the role that the issue of abortion will play in this year’s election, and much more. Tune in to learn more from this engaging conversation and about Debbie’s most unusual, successful work habit.

IN THIS EPISODE

• [01:04] Growing up in an apolitical, middle-class family in Sacramento.
• [04: 36] A formative DC internship for her local Congressman, Vic Fazio.
• [08:05] Debbie's early experiences working in CA campaign fundraising and managing.
• [09:42] Debbie's 15 years working at the DLC, the Democratic Leadership Council & the impact the DLC had on American politics.
• [17:39] Starting the center-left NewDEAL non-profit to engage and promote young Democratic leaders.
• [22:14] Using Pete Buttigieg as an example to talk through the role NewDEAL can play in the rise of a public figure.
• [25:00] How Debbie has worked to develop to a well-rounded skillset to lead a national organization.
• [31:00] The "Freedom Agenda" NewDEAL has helped develop.
• [33:15]The role Debbie sees the issue of abortion rights playing in the '24 election cycle.
• [35:20]Advice for the next generation of political operatives.
• [37:22] Debbie's most unusual, successful work habit.