U.S. Representative Lauren Underwood of Illinois joins us to talk about the moment she left a career in health care to run for office—and the fight that’s kept her going. From defending the ACA to confronting America’s maternal health crisis, she brings both policy chops and personal stakes to her work as one of the most effective members of Congress. She breaks down what power really looks like in Washington, how the Congressional Black Caucus uses it, and why the difference between life and death for millions too often comes down to politics. Also: Congress is just like middle school.

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