The Playbook Podcast How Democrats Can Win Back Trump Country (with Gov. Andy Beshear) | The Conversation
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Mar 29, 2026 
Andy Beshear, Kentucky governor known for bipartisan governing in a deep-red state and DGA chair, discusses why J.D. Vance could be more dangerous than Trump. He lays out a three-part playbook for winning Trump country. He talks about vetoes, focusing on affordability over culture wars, practical problem-solving, faith in politics, and balancing AI and national security concerns.
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Policies Hurt Rural Hospitals And Economies
- Beshear argues J.D. Vance's rhetoric and policies look down on rural America and harm small communities.
- He cites a bill that could close 35 rural hospitals, lay off 20,000 workers, and kick 200,000 Kentuckians off coverage.
Meeting J D Vance Years Before Politics
- Beshear once met J.D. Vance in a room where Vance was an investor and Martha Stewart was present.
- He says that person bears little resemblance to the vice president today, calling Vance a serial self-reinvention.
Govern Well To Win In Trump Country
- Democrats win in red areas by governing practically and focusing on everyday issues that matter to everyone.
- Andy Beshear spends 80% of his time on jobs, health care, infrastructure and safety while holding convictions on civil rights.