Over his five-decade long career in politics Congressman Earl Blumenauer has been a staunch support of transit and livable cities. Paul sat down with Rep. Blumenauer after a chance meeting at the Impact Conference in Phoenix last fall to talk about his life, career, passions, and what's next after he leaves Congress at the end of his term.

In their wide-ranging discussion, Paul and Rep. Blumenauer talk about what got him into politics, and more importantly, his lifelong passion for streetcars, transit, livable communities, and bikes. It's not often you get to hear from someone who has had his hand on the wheel of transit policy for so long. From his early work in Portland to create the first modern streetcar line in the U.S. to his continued passion for livable communities that will keep him busy when he retires from Congress at the end of his term this year, you get a true sense of passion and insight into what really moves people.

As we come into an election year in the U.S. strong advocacy for transit, sustainability, and more livable cities will be more important than ever.

Coming up next week on the show we have Ken Divers and Flora Castillo talking about the SEPTA SCOPE program that's aimed at helping vulnerable populations get the help they need while also making transit safer for everyone.

If you have a question, comment, or want to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:25 Interview with Congressman Earl Blumenauer

05:47 Discussion on Streetcars and Public Transit

09:52 Congressman's Career and Achievements

24:13 Future Plans and Final Thoughts

26:31 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged