Welcome to Springville spoke to Rachel Barnhart soon after she officially launched her campaign for the NY-25 Congressional District. She faces a field of four Democratic challengers to compete for the seat left empty by Rep. Louise Slaughter's passing.

Barnhart is an author, journalist and community advocate who started Rochester for All. She wrote Broad, Casted after shifting from a career as a broadcast journalist and running as a candidate for the NYS Assembly. 

To purchase Barnhart's book, visit amazon.com or the book's web site.

Rochester for All - nonpartisan organization committed to government transparency and accountability.

Rachel for Congress - campaign web site for Barnhart's 2018 congressional bid.

Rachel Barnhart on Twitter

Barnhart outlined priorities for the 25th district - including fiber internet and the need for access and affordability. Barnhart is used to asking tough questions of elected officials and government agencies, and gave this advice to others who wish to hold their representatives accountable:

- show up for meetings

- file FOIL requests

- start a blog and use social media to voice your opinions.

Much more inside the pod - thanks for listening!

This episode features original music by composer Allan Braman. We sincerely dig it. Support local music.

23 minutes.