🚪 What happens when you make a plan to knock on 5,000 doors in one of Michigan’s reddest districts and actually listen to people? This week on Beyond Resistance, Jennifer and Sarah sit down with Brian Irizarry—Marine veteran, teacher, former mayor, city council member, and Democratic candidate for Michigan’s 110th State House District—to find out.

Brian shares what it’s really like campaigning in the rural Upper Peninsula, where many voters say no one from either party has bothered to show up at their door in years. From fighting to restore emergency healthcare access to advocating for public schools and building trust one conversation at a time, Brian makes the case that winning back rural communities starts with showing up and treating people like neighbors—not voting statistics.

The conversation dives into the challenges of running as a Democrat in a deeply red district, why local candidates need more support, and how investing in rural communities today can create electoral wins tomorrow. Plus, the trio tackles the important issues—like National Tuna Noodle Casserole Day, giant kite festivals, and why every community deserves someone willing to fight for them. 🪁😂

If you're interested in building blue power in places that conventional wisdom says are unwinnable, this episode is packed with practical insights, optimism, and a healthy dose of UP grit.

Learn More

🎙️ Beyond Resistance Podcast

Website: https://www.beyondresistancepod.com

🗳️ Brian Irizarry for Michigan House (110th District)

Website: https://www.voteirizarry.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrianIrizarry

Because democracy doesn't happen from a couch—it happens on front porches, at city council meetings, and sometimes over a plate of tuna noodle casserole. 😉

#RuralOrganizing #Grassroots #Democracy