Jul 9, 2026
In this week’s episode, host and NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan speaks with Cleveland, OH, Mayor Justin Bibb to discuss his recently announced Midline project, which will revitalize long-vacant fields and reconnect ignored neighbors to high-paying jobs and opportunities. Mayor Bibb explains why the project is personal to Cleveland’s history, how the city funded the work, and how his team built support. Debbie and Mayor Bibb also discuss the importance of trust, how mayors can show that government can still deliver results, his path from basketball to running for mayor in 2021, and the lessons he thinks national Democrats should take from mayors. Tune in to hear how Mayor Bibb is approaching economic growth, public trust, and Cleveland’s future.
IN THIS EPISODE:
• [02:29] Learn about the Midline project and why it is so personal for Mayor Bibb.
• [06:10] The trends that caught Mayor Bibb’s attention when he took office.
• [08:23] How Mayor Bibb brought together different stakeholders around the Midline project.
• [11:54] Hear how Mayor Bibb built trust before making major announcements.
• [15:01] Find out how residents are responding to changes being made in Cleveland.
• [17:22] Explore how Mayor Bibb navigates tough conversations regarding improvements.
• [20:00] Understand how Mayor Bibb balances long-term growth with everyday needs.
• [21:00] Discover what got Mayor Bibb interested in public service.
• [25:03] Unpack the lessons national Democrats can learn from Mayor Bibb’s experience.
• [28:13] Uncover why Mayor Bibb focuses on results over ideological debates.
• [31:13] What Mayor Bibb hopes people will say about Cleveland in 10 years.