How to Meet Your Constituents Where They Are With Representative Mai Xiong

In this week's episode, co-host Ryan Coonerty and Michigan State Representative Mai Xiong discuss her journey as the daughter of Hmong refugees, a small business owner, and digital marketer who has built an online following by sharing an unfiltered look at public service. Ryan and Xiong discuss how her background in marketing shaped her approach to communication and reflect key moments in her path into office, including her decision to run for local office during the pandemic and how she won a competitive swing district. Xiong shares how her lived experience informs her work on issues like childcare affordability, data privacy, and economic opportunity, and how she navigates political attacks while working to build trust across divides. Tune in to learn the importance of showing up authentically and staying grounded in the communities you serve.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [01:04] An introduction to today's guest, Michigan Representative Mai Xiong.

• [02:26] How Representative Xiong developed her online presence.

• [05:48] Her advice for how other officials can effectively communicate with their constituents.

• [10:23] How family, identity, and representation shaped her journey into public service.

• [15:54] Staying authentic while representing a swing district and navigating political attacks.

• [21:07] Reaching swing voters by building trust, working across the aisle, and focusing on real issues.

• [23:37] Representative Xiong's legislative priorities: childcare affordability, data privacy, voting rights, and lowering costs for families.

• [27:05] Advice to future leaders and a call for more everyday people to step up and serve in government.