Last week, Democrats surprised a lot of people, Virginia turned blue again, New Jersey held strong, and even deep-red corners saw quiet Democratic gains. But after the celebrations fade, the real work begins. Governing is the real test. In this episode, Dr. Irma Paul takes a sideways look at the 2025 election results beyond the victory speeches and headlines to explore what these wins truly mean for policy, governance, and everyday Americans.

From Virginia’s new leadership under Governor Abigail Spanberger to New Jersey’s push for childcare and workforce reforms, and the federal gridlock that might finally be breaking, this episode asks:

• Can Democrats turn momentum into measurable change?

• What happens when campaign promises to meet bureaucratic reality?

• And how can government regain trust in a divided era?

Because in politics, winning is just the beginning — delivering is the challenge.

🎧 Listen to understand the difference between holding office and holding things together.
Follow Sideways Look — Looking Where Others Don’t for more on the overlooked layers of public policy, leadership, and power.