Virginia Stapleton - Podcast Details

Shows

2026-01-2239 min

demobrats Keizer's Biggest Cheerleader 💙💙💙Heads up: the transcript for the episode is auto generated. We know it’s spelling Keizer wrong and we’re very sorry! This week, Virginia Stapleton and Chris Hoy welcome Keizer Mayor and longtime pod listener, Cathy Clark, to the pod to talk about all things in Oregon's second youngest city. We talk art, construction, business expansion, sidewalks, and why everything is blue. Enjoy! GET LOUD STAY LOUDJOIN VIRGINIA'S CAMPAIGN FOR STATE SENATE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DONATE TO THE CAMPAIGN - EARLY MONEY IS SO POWERFUL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER, GET A YARD SIGN, OR ENDORSE VIR...

2026-01-0834 min

2026-01-0130 min

Heavy Lifts Podcast On Trauma, Education, and Fighting for Salem with Virginia Stapleton | Episode 24 of Heavy Lifts PodcastWhat does leadership look like when it’s built from lived experience?In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers sits down with Virginia Stapleton, Salem native, former City Councilor, and candidate for Oregon State Senate District 11, for a deeply personal conversation about education, trauma, public service, and the long work of building systems that actually work for people.Virginia shares her story growing up in a large family rooted in service, navigating poverty, dropping out of high school, surviving trauma, and eventually finding her way back to education through her GED and college. That journey didn’t ju...

2025-12-2646 min

demobrats Measure 11 & Restorative Justice Ep. 5A warning: There are references to assault, self hard, and suicide in today's pod. Listener discretion is advised. Our pod this week continues our series on Measure 11 and Restorative Justice. Our guests are Kyle Black from Restorative Justice Coalition of Oregon and Emma Ogden, a local advocate for prison reform. Emma and Kyle both served a considerable amount of time in our criminal justice system at Coffee Creek, Oregon's only women's institution. Their stories are real and we invite you to listen with an open mind. Learn more about the ⁠Restorative Justice Coalition of Oregon...

2025-12-2641 min

demobrats Our Ethically Challenged Mayor & Her Boy BandsChris Hoy joins Virginia in this pod to give an update on all things Salem City Hall and Marion County. We have a brand new business boy band in town who say they want to better inform government about how their policies impact businesses, but it appears their first official act is making a donation of $2500 to Julie Hoy's re-election campaign. Our jaws stayed in place. But don't get too comfortable brats, cause we need to update you on the latest Oregon Government Ethics Commission investigation into Danielle Bethell's actions. We also discuss the boards and commissions appointments that...

2025-12-1953 min

demobrats We Are All Immigrants // Todas Somos Inmigrantes 🤠Cuando la gente te dice cómo son, créeles a la primera.Imagine coming face to face with ICE agents. Our guest this week did just that. Local influencer and advocate, Erika Villa joins us in the studio to give us the first hand story on the video that sent her viral online last month. Erika is a supporter of all things small business and an activist for the immigrant community here in the Willamette Valley. This episode is about her experience dealing with the new political environment we find ourselves in as ICE has taken ov...

2025-12-1157 min

demobrats Citizenship In Oregon 🇺🇸 // Ciudadanía en Oregon 🇲🇽Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free. In the words of Cher Horowitz, "And may I remind you, it does not say RSVP on the Statue of Liberty!" This week on the pod, Francisco Lopez from Citizenship in Oregon joins us to talk all about his work helping the next generation of Americans receive citizenship and register to vote! We also discuss the city council meetings as of late, the incredible work of LUS to advocate for the Hispanic and Latino communities, and the political capital that will be necessary to do the...

2025-12-041h 00

demobrats A Masterclass In Healthcare 🍎🩺🏥💊Legislative Troubadour and Healthcare Policy Expert, Representative Rob Nosse, joins us this week to explain all things healthcare in Oregon and beyond. We discuss the impacts of Trumps Big Ugly Bill, the possibility of Oregon developing a Healthcare For All system, and so much more. Learn more about Healthcare For All Oregon here. Subscribe to Rob Nosse's very interesting weekly newsletter here. For reference to Thin Blue Line Flags being removed from police spaces. Happy Holidays y'all! GET LOUD STAY LOUDJOIN VIRGINIA'S CAMPAIGN FOR STATE SENATE

2025-11-2750 min

demobrats Bonus: Tell Salem City Council To Declare A State of Emergency*sorry the sound is so quiet at the beginning. It gets better* Live from yet another weekend protest, we are calling on our community to give public comment at Salem City Council Monday Night at 6 PM. The Council will be entertaining a motion to reaffirm our status as a sanctuary city, but honestly, WE NEED MORE. Our community needs more. Here are our ideas: 1. Suspend FLOCK camera surveillance programs. Many cities in and around Salem have done this already. 2. Declare a State of Emergency. Follow Woodburn's lead and open up funding to support...

2025-11-2310 min

demobrats Measure 11 & Restorative Justice Ep. 4Note: Stories in this pod are true as remembered by the hosts and guests. Our pod this week continues our series on Measure 11 and Restorative Justice. Our guest is Victor Gonzales. Victor entered the criminal justice system when he was a young teenager, serving time in many institutions across the Valley. At the age of 22, Victor was sentenced to 15 years in prison for his involvement in the murder of a childhood friend. Victor shares with us the choices he made that led to an early life of crime and the personal transformation he experienced while incarcerated for...

2025-11-201h 11

demobrats Press Play! ▶️This week on the pod we have Salem's own Carlee Wright, creator of Press Play Salem (the magazine), the city’s go-to guide for arts, entertainment, and culture, where storytelling meets community and curiosity fuels discovery.We discuss all things Salem culture, arts, politics, roller derby, and the hopes we have for the Salem ahead of us. McKay Holiday Market Vendor InfoInfo on donating to Coral House: 2550 Coral Ave NE (it runs parallel with Lancaster). People can drop off foods between 8 AM and 5 PM. Text Five Zero Tw...

2025-11-1333 min

demobrats Measure 11 & Restorative Justice Ep. 3Representative Willy Chotzen (Portland), joins us in the studio to talk all about his work as a public defender, legislator, and generally awesome human. The Oregon prison system is imperfect and we know there is room for improvement. We talk more about how Measure 11 has disproportionally impacted people of color and how we might use practices of restorative justice to improve our society and prison system as a whole. Learn more about Measure 11 Learn more about the Oregon State Penitentiary GET LOUD STAY LOUDJOIN VIRGINIA'S CAMPAIGN FOR STATE SENATE

2025-11-0649 min

demobrats Measure 11 & Restorative Justice Ep. 2Kyle Hedquist received clemency in 2022 for a life sentence he was given for a crime he committed when he was 18. In this episode Kyle tells us all about the work he did while serving his time in the Oregon Department of Corrections, the horrible conditions many prisoners find themselves living under, and the important work of restorative justice he has done as a policy advocate since his release. Interestingly enough, Kyle's redemption and lived experience is not enough for our mayor's office and they are seeking to remove him as a volunteer from the Police Accountability Review B...

2025-11-0355 min

demobrats Measure 11 & Restorative Justice Ep. 1Kyle Hedquist served 28 years of a life in prison, without parole, sentence for a murder he committed when he was 18 years old. So how is he in our podcast studio talking about the very problematic ballot Measure 11 (a bill crafted by Representative Kevin Mannix in the 90s) and our broken prison system? You'll just have to stay tuned for part 2 to find out. In this first part, Kyle shares with us what his time in prison was like, some of the work he did while inside, and helps us understand the legislation that got us here in the first...

2025-11-0356 min

demobrats The Mayor, In The Office, With The Ballot MeasureHopefully this is the last time we have to talk about this (fingers crossed). In this episode, Brian Hines, an avid writer and community member who filed the official ethics complaint against Mayor Julie Hoy with the Oregon Government Ethics Commission, joins us to discuss his take aways from this six month process. Brian truly exhibited some hero behavior in his efforts to hold the mayor accountable. We also touch on this last Monday's City Council meeting, where Salem Soup Squad turned out in numbers to raise their deep concerns about the mayor's new ballot petition and...

2025-10-3054 min

demobrats Bonus: Virginia's Campaign Kick-Off SpeechIn case you missed it! Heads up--transcript might be auto detect her language perfectly. JOIN VIRGINIA'S CAMPAIGN FOR STATE SENATE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DONATE TO THE CAMPAIGN - EARLY MONEY IS SO POWERFUL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER, GET A YARD SIGN, OR ENDORSE VIRGINIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠VISIT THE CAMPAIGN WEBSITE ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Bluesky: Demobrats Instagram: VoteVirginiaStapleton Facebook: Elect Virginia Stapletonemail us: electvirginiastapleton@gmail.comBe sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

2025-10-2908 min

demobrats Bonus: LIVE from Virginia's Campaign Kick Off Party!Just a little yapping about the issues with guests at Virginia's kick off party for State Senate District 11 this last Friday night. Special shoutout to the more than 100 people who attended! JOIN VIRGINIA'S CAMPAIGN FOR STATE SENATE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DONATE TO THE CAMPAIGN - EARLY MONEY IS SO POWERFUL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER, GET A YARD SIGN, OR ENDORSE VIRGINIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠VISIT THE CAMPAIGN WEBSITE ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Bluesky: Demobrats Instagram: VoteVirginiaStapleton Facebook: Elect Virginia Stapletonemail us: electvirginiastapleton@gmail.comBe sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

2025-10-2707 min

demobrats Bonus: Julie Hoy's War On The UnhousedIn this extended bonus we cover last weeks very long City Council meeting as well as a deep dive into the laws around enforcing camping on Oregon's public properties. Our mayor has a long history of speaking ill of the unhoused (see City Council public comments over the last few years) and we are not surprised she has now made herself a chief petitioner on a prospective ballot measure filed last week that seeks to give cities more authority to enforce anti-camping laws. Learn all about it and what you can do if you disagree. Some sources...

2025-10-2434 min

demobrats CouplaGoofs, Salem Soup Squad, & Circular Salem 🍲👕🪡Felix from CouplaGoofs and Holly from Salem Soup Squad join us to share about their work and their new combined endeavor, Circular Salem. Mutual aid might just be the thing that gets us through the next three years. For more info on their work: Circular Salem Library of Things + Kids Clothing Exchange https://circularsalem.myturn.com/library/inventory/browseJ.B. MacKinnon | The Day the World Stops Shopping https://share.google/M1P8mI6HNX73vxvmzSalem Soup Squad Salemssquad@gmail.com@salemsoupsquadhttps://signup.com/go/XPsaJfo

2025-10-2339 min

demobrats Rep. Cyrus Javadi, Leaving the GOP, & The Future 🫏🐘🔮In this much anticipated interview, Representative Cyrus Javadi (HD 32 - Tillamook & Clatsop Counties) joins Vik and Virginia on the pod to share all about his journey home to the Democratic Party. We talk healthcare, taxes, climate change, abortion, free speech, Taylor Swift, reality television, RINOs, and the future of the Republican Party now and post-Trump. If you want to learn more about fake pregnancy clinics, there are plenty of resources out there. Here's a few articles we've read recently: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/dec/15/us-anti-abortion-pregnancy-centershttps://auchincloss.house.gov/media/in-the-news/massachusetts-warns-patients-over-unconscionable-crisis-pregnancy-centers

2025-10-161h 04

demobrats Bonus: Live From Campaign School 🐸🐸🐸JOIN VIRGINIA'S CAMPAIGN FOR STATE SENATE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DONATE TO THE CAMPAIGN - EARLY MONEY IS SO POWERFUL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER, GET A YARD SIGN, OR ENDORSE VIRGINIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠VISIT THE CAMPAIGN WEBSITE ⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Bluesky: Demobrats Instagram: VoteVirginiaStapleton Facebook: Elect Virginia Stapletonemail us: electvirginiastapleton@gmail.comBe sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

2025-10-1305 min

demobrats Everything That Holds Is HollowA warning, Virginia mentions events of sexual assault and abuse in this pod. Listener discretion is advised. That potato guy Zack Surmacz is back to interview Virginia about HOW, WHAT, and WHY she ever chose to open herself up to public scrutiny and run for office. But PLOT TWIST, if you know Virginia and Vik, you already know this episode gets into the WHO. We promise you will absolutely love this episode and we hope it encourages you to join the bench, hop off the bench, or join us in our work! Play Map By...

2025-10-091h 04

demobrats An Unhinged Meeting, A Big Lie, & An Unsigned LetterThis podcast was recorded on Thursday, October 2. Some developments may have taken place since then. Chris Hoy joins Virginia to give us all an update on the State of Downtown Meeting that occurred last week which was hosted by the Salem Mainstreet group. Things got a little bizarre at 8 AM. Chris also gives us a follow up on the investigation into the ethics of our Salem Mayor and City Council and asks the question, why didn't the mayor sign a letter alongside the mayors of Oregon's other major cities to oppose the President's deployment of the National...

2025-10-0953 min

demobrats Representative Kevin Mannix's Session 💡💡💡Welp, brats, the 2025 Legislative long session has ended and we're here to report on our first Salem area Representative's performance. Representative Kevin Mannix gets a D+ for effort and lightbulbs this session. Yes, lightbulbs. We didn't get the payment in lieu of taxes we needed or that Capitol District, but we did get some astroturf (a parking lot) in Keizer. Want to make sure we have better elected officials representing us? Join us below. JOIN VIRGINIA'S CAMPAIGN FOR STATE SENATE⁠⁠⁠DONATE TO THE CAMPAIGN - EARLY MONEY IS SO POWERFUL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER, GET A Y...

2025-10-0213 min

demobrats Throwback Thursday: Blessings, Cursings & The Salem Payroll TaxThis episode was originally published December 5, 2024. It's also one of Vik's favorites. Trigger warning: Virginia does mention assault, neglect, and abuse in this episode. In this bonus episode, Virginia let's us all in on a bit of her deconstruction, personal healing, and why she advocated so hard for Salem in the process of getting the payroll tax across the finish line at council. Thanks for being here with us! JOIN VIRGINIA'S CAMPAIGN FOR STATE SENATE⁠⁠⁠DONATE TO THE CAMPAIGN - EARLY MONEY IS SO POWERFUL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER, GET A YARD SIGN, O...

2025-09-2610 min

demobrats whatshappeningsalem x demobrats ✨🍏What's happening, brats! This episode is the collaboration you never knew you needed. Jacob from whatshappeningsalem joins us on the pod this week to talk all things we love in Salem, local media, maximalism, grief, and an in depth discussion into understanding that equitable payroll tax (and the often omitted sunset date) the former City Council tried to get across the finish line at the 11th hour to save emergency services in Salem. Remember, it's easy to be against something. We hope you all have the courage to be FOR something. Upcoming Events: ...

2025-09-2554 min

demobrats Moms Who Demand Action (And Deliver) 👩‍🍼🗳️This week Representative Sarah Finger McDonald joins us all the way from Corvallis to talk about how she got her start in politics--and trust us--its not what you think. We know you'll come to love her as much as we do! Now, onto actionable items: TAKE THE OPPOSITION RESEARCH SURVEY AND LET THEM KNOW YOU VALUE CHERRIOTS AND PUBLIC TRANSITSIGN UP FOR WORKING FAMILIES PARTY CAMPAIGN SCHOOLWeekend FREE Events: Friday Sept 19, Stefani Gallery Downtown Salem, 5 PM, Jesus Escobar Art ShowSaturday September 20, PRIDE in the Park, 11 AM...

2025-09-1945 min

demobrats VIRGINIA IS RUNNING FOR STATE SENATE - FOR ALL OF USThe rumors are true! Virginia is running for Senate District 11 (Salem, Keizer, Woodburn, Gervais). Hear a little bit about her campaign priorities and how to get involved. We need your help to make this campaign a success! We believe in the strength of our community. We know that together, we can build a future of opportunity for all of us. Para todos. JOIN THE CAMPAIGN DONATE TO THE CAMPAIGN - EARLY MONEY IS SO POWERFULSIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER, GET A YARD SIGN, OR ENDORSE VIRGINIATiktok: VirginiaStapleton Bluesky...

2025-09-1714 min

demobrats Marion County Commissioners, ICE & The Trump Doom Loop 🧊Representative Lesly Muñoz is back to speak with us about all the impacts on residents in her district from federal immigration policies as well as the Marion County Commissioners lawsuit concerning Oregon's sanctuary law. We also discuss upcoming 2026 elections, bikes, and more. You don't want to miss this one! To read Representative Javadi's Substack, CLICK HEREGet out there and stay loud. If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise on the pod, contact us:BUY MERCH: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://demobrats.printify.me/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton / TellYourFriendsVBluesky: Demobrats Instagram:VoteVirginiaStapleton // TellyourfriendsoregonFaceboo...

2025-09-1537 min

demobrats 300 Things With Vik and Virginia 🐻🍿🍂🗳️📬🛒We've missed y'all! 👯 We're back and we're catching you up on all the things. In our lives, pop culture, Salem happenings, and what's to come this month. And we're serious about that free leaf haul and a downtown grocery store. Please contact your city councilors here. Las Jarochitas - 3282 Silverton Rd NELocals Donuts - Check instagram for locations Get out there and stay loud. If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise on the pod, contact us:BUY MERCH: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://demobrats.printify.me/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton / TellYourFriendsVBluesky: Demobrats Instagram:VoteVirgin...

2025-09-0431 min

demobrats Ticket To Ride & A Seven Year Old Agreement 🚎🚌🚏More than a handshake was offered when a legal agreement was made by multiple parties to expand transit service in Salem seven years ago--or so we thought. Sara Duncan and Maria Hinojos Pressey join us from Salem's Mass Transit District Board of Directors (Cherriots) to explain what all the brouhaha in the news was about our local business community making an investment in our transit system. Transportation is freedom and Salem's residents are demanding an expanded service network. If we want to have the thriving, bustling city we all dream of, then yes, even the business community is going...

2025-09-0450 min

demobrats Being Homeless In America Is Not A CrimeVirginia and Vik are on a break for the month, but sometimes the show must go on. On this very special episode, Chris Hoy (your favorite mayor ever) joins Jimmy Jones, Executive Director of Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action to discuss all the latest happenings around our unhoused crisis locally and beyond. One thing about Jimmy is he knows his stuff! Jimmy knows ALLLLLL about the homeless crisis nationwide and how we got here. And Jimmy doesn't like the language our mayor, city council, commissioners, and business leaders are using to talk about our unhoused neighbors. Truly, nobody here at...

2025-08-2153 min

demobrats Legislative Yap Lap 🥵💸🥩This podcast was recorded July 15. Some details may have changed since. Our friend Zack Surmacz is back to give us an end of session legislative update on bills that got passed. But first, we're all over the place in three things. And just for kicks and giggles, we continue to try to help people understand that our tax system has two legs on it's stool and needs a third leg. Don't worry, we made you a little jingle to explain this and how we can get there in a fair way.Please support our friends...

2025-08-0746 min

demobrats Virginia Geeks Out On Transportation 🛻🤓🚲This podcast was recorded July 11. Some details may have changed since. A special legislative session has been scheduled for August 29th. In this very special episode, Virginia gives us the rundown on the history of ODOT. If you know V, you know this is her favorite subject. But first, we give you a little update on the Keizer never ending saga. We also help you understand the transportation package as it last existed in the long legislative session. We look forward to the legislature getting back to work to pass a transportation package. The governor...

2025-07-311h 12

demobrats A Veteran Experience🎖️💰🗳️RJ Navarro, local veteran and public transportation champion joins Virginia to discuss the challenges veterans are facing in Oregon today. They also discuss what it was like to run for office in Keizer and Salem. Fun fact: they both ran against Kevin Mannix. If you're unaware, Kevin Mannix has some problematic history with a certain veterans organization that is no longer in existence. If you're unaware, two prominent local Republican figures, Tim Knopp and Gregory Warnock, co-founded a veterans organization that was investigated by the Oregon Department of Justice. This organization once honored Kevin Mannix. Kevin Mannix was allegedly...

2025-07-2431 min

demobrats Putting Fruit Back On Your Table 🍏🍊🍓This week on the pod, State Representative for HD 22 (Woodburn) and Labor Champion, Lesly Muñoz joins us to talk about her run for office (it was a close one) and her first session as a State Representative. Lesly is a fighter, a local legend, and one of our favorite humans. We are so excited to share her with all of you! Get out there and stay loud. If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise on the pod, contact us:BUY MERCH: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://demobrats.printify.me/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton / TellYourFriendsVBluesky: Demobrats ...

2025-07-1740 min

demobrats (Astro)Turf Wars ⚾💸🎁*Note: The Christmas Tree Bill HB 5006 has not yet been signed into law by the governor.* The Keizer Times has reported the funding in the Christmas Tree bill is for infrastructure at the fields, not the fields itself. Regardless...we need money for emergency services. We've been a bit behind on the local news, but we're here to catch you up. What's been happening in Keizer and Salem and why is it problematic as ever?! Enjoy this update on Christmas Tree Bill gifts, Proclamations, City Council Norms, and the new gatekeeper to downtown Salem. Oh, and we...

2025-07-1029 min

demobrats Zoey For Office 🐱🎵📚I don't know what you were doing at 8, but it probably wasn't organizing to save critical city services. This week we have Salem's favorite tiny community organizer, Zoey, with us on the pod to talk about her experience working tirelessly to get the most recent Livability Levy across the finish line. We can't wait to see what Zoey does next in local politics, but no doubt, she will be in the room where it happens. Zoey for Mayor! 💚🩷💚Get out there and stay loud. If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise...

2025-07-0332 min

demobrats Bonus: One Star Review For Keizer Politicians ⭐★★★★*a note, the flag Councilor Day mentioned was a Confederate flag. Sorry our audio dropped out*Hey Brat Pack! In this bonus episode, we can't wait to share the recent round up and long term history of political antics in Keizer. From the recent citing of a current councilor, to the cancellation of the community-led Pride event, to the problematic history of other local officials, it's a lot. We'd say enjoy...but none of us are enjoying this. Sources: https://www.keizertimes.com/2024/03/14/ethics-investigation-into-juran-underway/https://leftcoastrightwatch.org/articles/keizer-or-pride-fair-canceled-after-doxxing-harassment-citys-support-of-far-right/...

2025-06-3021 min

demobrats Vik Is Back & Maybe Funnier Than Ever 💙🗳️💙Vik is back y'all! We know, you forgot she existed...but she's here. And we're joined by Zack Surmacz today to talk about rising up the next generation of Democrats to lead the party across the country! What is it going to take to win young voters to our side and how do we share our values through our messaging and policy creation? We also tackle other important conundrums like are you for or against using a top sheet and do you embrace watching videos in 2x speed? Season 2 of demobrats will make your dreams come true. Stay brat.

2025-06-2945 min

demobrats Put A Bird On it, Call It Public Art 👩🏽‍🎨🎨🫟Today our new friends Susan and Brian join us to discuss why it's so hard to have public art happen in Salem (and how Brian might be fixing this problem all by himself). Paint by Bureaucratic Numbers with us. And don't forget to check out Make Music Day this weekend! (AND YES--we're VERY sorry we used AI to make the theme song. It was before we knew how much water it wasted!) Salem's public art collection: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/e086aebd172149cfb38c4a3d1e69d796 Get out there and...

2025-06-2038 min

demobrats Bonus: Another Ethical Dilemma At City Council 🛞🏠🏢This bonus episode is available for free, because you should all know what's up. The Mayor and the entire Salem City Council is being investigated by the Ethics Commission over possibly unethical communications. Our jaws stayed in place. Something felt off to us about this situation from the jump and thanks to the complaints of more than one community member, the Ethics Commission has decided to run a full investigation. Our mayor has a troubling track record. Three ethics issues in as many years and spending nearly $300,000 to call yourself a volunteer is...

2025-06-1835 min

demobrats A Couplagoofs, Vampire Babies, & Alleged Phantom City Councilors 🤣🧛‍♀️👻Morgan and Felix from CouplaGoofs join Virginia this week to discuss making content full time, being new parents (not to a Vampire's baby), creating authentic community, living fully as your best self, and the absolute CHAOS that erupted at Salem City Council on Monday night concerning the Avelo Airlines contract and the use of cell phones during City Council meetings. We promise you will LAUGH....like a lot. This Saturday: No Kings Rally, Capitol Mall, 12-3 PM Get out there and stay loud. If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want...

2025-06-1241 min

demobrats Bonus: Three Other Things With Virginia & Couplagoofs 🍏🍏🍏Hey Brat Pack! Enjoy this bonus episode from Virginia giving you a life update on some hard stuff she's dealing with. Don't forget: we can do hard things. And you don't have to pull yourselves up by your bootstraps every time. That's what brats are for.

2025-06-1221 min

demobrats Oregon School Board Seats Are Not For Sale 🚌🚫💸It may be advisable at this point for the far right to stop trying to buy local elections in Oregon. The voters aren't buying it and neither are we. Brittney Mast from MomsForOregon joins Jane from GirlyPopPolitics to discuss school board elections across the state, results, wins, losses, and everything in between. The girlies yap about the political podcasts the GOP is investing in, in Oregon to preach to...tens of listeners in the already present choir. If this is their long game, we'll keep doing what we do best--winning. Organized people beat organized money every time. Stay brat.

2025-06-0534 min

demobrats Why Did A State Wide Realtors PAC Try To Buy The Salem City Council Race? 🏠💰🧐Organized people beat organized money EVERY TIME. And we love watching rich special interest groups waste money. $34K was spent by realtors and developers across Oregon to try to buy the Ward 6 City Council Seat. It didn't work. Ward 6 showed up to vote for their own interests and for the representation they want and need in Council Chambers. But we have to ask; why would realtors be so interested in clinching the swing vote on City Council? Elections have consequences and for now, the agenda of the realtors is at bay. The same goes for...

2025-05-2944 min

demobrats Why Did The Chicken Cross The Road? 🐔🚲💜This week on the pod, Beth Schmidt from every Why did the Chicken Cross the Road? joke and Safe Routes to Schools joins us to talk about all things bicycle and pedestrian safety. Salem is one of the last cities to get this critical program (nobody is surprised we are last). We're super grateful to have Beth making this program happen. It will surely save lives, one bike bus and walk to school at a time. Obviously if Beth had a walk on song, it would be The Chicken Dance. Get out there and stay loud.

2025-05-2242 min

demobrats A Wheelie Important Episode 🌸🚲👓This week our friend Sara Duncan helps you get to know the bike-powered brains behind Salem Bike Vision: Dylan, Ian, and Virginia, a trio of transportation good troublemakers on a mission to make Salem more two-wheeled. Dylan brings the science, policy, and smooth Smithsonian swagger; Ian’s got more board appointments than a lumber yard; and Virginia keeps the wheels turning with political savvy and a shoulder sling for a newly broken collarbone. Tune in as we discuss climate action, community organizing, near-death experiences, and why biking in Salem is and can be for everyone. 🌸🚲👓 Get out there and s...

2025-05-1553 min

demobrats Virginia Was In A Bike AccidentWhat happens when the co-founder of Salem Bike Vision is nearly hit by an SUV in the very family-friendly buffered bike lane she worked to get installed? Turns out she breaks her collarbone and gets a concussion. We did the math and she was 68.2 milliseconds from a very different ending. It is very likely that the BUFFERED aspect of the bike lane saved her life. Call it crazy timing, but we already had Salem Bike Vision scheduled to come on the pod this week and we're looking forward to that conversation, more conversations about how to improve the bike...

2025-05-1112 min

demobrats ICE ICE Baby & The Good DoctorThe Good Doctor Trevor Phillips is with us today alongside Former Mayor that got away Chris Hoy and Virginia. Trevor is here to talk to us about all things medicine, federal cuts, healthcare for all, and getting your flu shot. And don't worry, we spend some time going down memory lane of our work on city council together and some of the nonsense that took place. You don't want to miss it. Besides...Trevor is a DELIGHT and even better when he gets a little angry. Enjoy the show. And don't forget to get your vaccines, people!

2025-05-0850 min

demobrats Bonus: The Boys Are Back In Town-Politics and SexismHey Brats! In this bonus episode, Chris Hoy and Trevor Phillips join Virginia for a little City Council Alumni Reunion to discuss sexism and politics and public perception. The mayor took a solid 20 seconds on Monday night to vote on a motion brought forward. She appeared to be looking at her phone the entire time prior. Whose council was she seeking before placing her vote? Did she know she'd be called last in the roll to vote? And was she surprised her usual allies on council had not voted no? We'll probably never know how or why she was...

2025-05-0231 min

demobrats Meet M & M: Mai Vang & Mel Fuller Are On The BallotMel Fuller and Mai Vang join Virginia to talk up who they are, how they landed in Salem, and why they are running for office in this May's special election. We love to remind people that candidates and politicians are real people with real stories. Get to know M & M and we're certain you will love them! And don't forget to vote people! Get out there and stay loud. If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise on the pod, contact us:BUY MERCH: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://demobrats.printify.me/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton...

2025-05-0136 min

demobrats Salem Rolls Out The Welcome MatTrump ended the refugee resettlement programs that so many have come to rely on seeking safety and a new life in a new land. Trivina and Luke from Salem For Refugees join us this week to talk about the effort to continue to provide services for families resettling into Salem and Corvallis, despite the federal funding coming to an abrupt end. Listen and learn about the immigrant resettlement experience, which can often be a journey that lasts anywhere from 2-20+ years. We believe wholeheartedly that Salem For Refugees is one of the organizations that makes Salem home for so...

2025-04-2439 min

demobrats A Conversation With Our Theme Song's Biggest FanHave you heard of Kyle Dickinson? He's the new Executive Director of Salem Leadership Foundation...wa wa wee whoaaa the brats just brought SLF on the pod? Yuh...we did. Everyone calm down. Kyle is next up to the plate batting for SLF, but more importantly, he's one of Virginia's oldest friends--he loves the demobrats theme song and is obviously a Swiftie. Kyle is here to share about the path forward for SLF. It may surprise you. Get out there and stay loud. If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise...

2025-04-191h 01

demobrats Danielle Bethell Is Running For GovernorDanielle Bethell has set her sights on the highest office in Oregon--Governor. Join Virginia and Miss.Alexandria as they discuss this new development at length, including some very troubling events in the politician's past. Currently serving as one of your three all-Republican Marion County Commissioners, Danielle Bethell apparently has higher ambitions. Don't let the blue and green fool you. All stories are true as remembered by the hosts. References: https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/education/2021/12/08/salem-keizer-lus-protesters-call-resignation-danielle-bethell-school-board-county-commission/6426974001/ https://nataliepate.com/2022/03/23/protesters-demand-salem-keizer-board-member-danielle-bethell-resign-after-facebook-post/https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/education/2022/10/12/danielle-bethell-resigns-from-salem-keizer-school-board/69557187007/

2025-04-1333 min

demobrats Recess Duty With Superintendent Andrea CastañedaJoin Virginia and Jane as they welcome Salem Keizer Public Schools Superintendent Andrea Castañeda to discuss all things animals, metal detectors, dropping out of college, and growing up in rural Oregon. Learn all about how Andrea came to lead the helm at SKPS and hear about all the awesome innovative programs our students are being offered! We know when this episode is over, you'll love Andrea as much as we do! Get out there and stay loud.If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise on the pod, contact us:

2025-04-1254 min

demobrats The Archer Departure & City Council Text ThreadsOur very special guest needed to reschedule for next week, but NEVER FEAR...CHRIS HOY is here and he's bringing a lump sum of honesty and commentary on the most recent news happenings at the City of Salem including the Archer Departure (the Deputy City Manager's sudden resignation), the elimination of the Deputy City Manager positions, The 28 page Text Thread investigative report the Salem Reporter put out covering the behind the scenes ousting of City Manger Keith Stahley, and the upcoming Levy Forum discussion (where our Mayor will be sitting this one out....again). You can't stick a doily...

2025-04-0445 min

demobrats Bonus: Three Not Things & FAQ's With Chris HoyPlease note this episode was recorded one week ago; prior to the news dropping in the Salem Reporter yesterday and today concerning Councilor Nishioka and the current mayor and the resignation of the Deputy City Manager for the library, parks and rec, and center 50+ Don't worry, we'll cover that one soon...In this paid bonus we'll learn all about what Chris Hoy is going to do next. And how he feels about the cruise industry, among other things. You're welcome. Get out there and stay loud. If you have questions, topics...

2025-03-2613 min

demobrats Must Be Something In The Water (And It's Cloudy)Please note this episode was recorded one week ago; prior to the news dropping in the Salem Reporter yesterday and today concerning Councilor Nishioka and the current mayor and the resignation of the Deputy City Manager for the library, parks and rec, and center 50+ Don't worry, we'll cover that one soon...But for today we're so excited to have former Mayor Chris Hoy back on the pod this week to discuss the round up of local politics. The topics in this episode are vast: Keizer City Council's DEI update Salem City...

2025-03-2654 min

demobrats Bonus: What Does a Liberal Project 2029 Look Like?In this quick bonus, Virginia asks Seth Cotlar and Paul Tigan a simple question: What does a liberal Project 2029 look like? Let us know what you think it would look like in the comments. Get out there and stay loud.If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise on the pod, contact us:BUY MERCH: ⁠⁠https://demobrats.printify.me/⁠⁠Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Bluesky: Demobrats // SethCotlar Instagram:VoteVirginiaStapletonFacebook: Elect Virginia Stapletonemail us: electvirginiastapleton@gmail.comJoin us Mondays...

2025-03-2003 min

demobrats Project 2025 & The History of Far Right Politics In OregonThis week we have a very special guest in Seth Cotlar, a professor of history at Willamette University. He's currently working on a book about a far right activist in Oregon named Walter Huss, who was active in Oregon from the 1960s into the early 2000s. You'll hear all about Huss' conspiracy obsessed and Christian Nationalist agenda in this episode. We've also got City Councilor for Ward 1, Paul Tigan, joining us to discuss the current dismantling of our federal government by none other than DOGE. If you're academic, you'll love this one. If you want to be academic, you'll...

2025-03-1956 min

demobrats Keizer City Council & A Lesson In LinguisticsThe Keizer City Council is at it again, this time led by Councilors Soraida Cross and Lore Christopher. Their quest? To eliminate the word diversity from the Community Diversity Engagement Committee. Join Virginia and Jane as they discuss some unhinged things that were said at the last Keizer City Council meeting. For the record: The root word of DIVERSITY is diverse. The root word of DIVISIVE is divide. It appears our Keizer City Council needs a lesson in linguistics, not a new name for a committee they don't like. The Keizer City Council meets this...

2025-03-1635 min

demobrats Free For All: The Library & The LevyThe last cradle of our democracy, the library, is on the chopping block. Former Oregon State Librarian and local folk hero, Jim Scheppke, joins Virginia and Jane to give us the hard facts about the financial position of our public library. Learn all about how Salem's library system stacks up (or doesn't) to the rest of the state, and how efficient it truly is with very little funds already! To join the fight in saving the library, join Jim by visiting www.yesforsalem.com -- if it's not up yet, it will be soon. Get...

2025-03-1241 min

demobrats Bonus: Bedtime Stories With Jim ScheppkeIn this subscriber bonus, Jim tells Virginia and Jane a little bedtime story about how the first Salem Public Library ever got started. Spoiler alert: Women got the job done. And the reason the U was a V on the original library is because most buildings that encompass Roman-style architecture use the Latin alphabet, which only had 23 letters at one time, not including the letter U. The “U” sound still existed, but it was represented with the letter V. You're welcome. This may just become a regular bonus segment. We are big Jim Scheppke fans arou...

2025-03-1112 min

demobrats United Against Hate & The City of Salem's Continued Silent TreatmentIn this episode, Levi Herrera-Lopez from Mano a Mano and United Against Hate joins Virginia to discuss their initiatives to break down barriers of hate in the Salem-Keizer community, especially in these (what is beginning to feel like precedented) times. Speaking of precedented, the City of Salem is still staying silent on the situation with the sudden resignation of our City Manager, Keith Stahley. Will the community ever know what happened? And why won't they come on the pod so the community can hear about all the good work they are doing? I guess we'll never know (but we...

2025-03-0645 min

demobrats Bonus: Ashley Dunn, Vice President of Salem Keizer NAACPIn this bonus pod, we had the pleasure of learning from the work and lived experiences of Ashley Dunn, Vice President of the local NAACP chapter. Ashley is a graduate of North High School and Oregon State University, a mother of millions, a lover of people, a social work champion, Game of Thrones fan, and an-all around awesome human! We know you will love Ashley as much as we do and we can't wait to vote for her someday! And if you learned something from this pod, share it with a friend! To join the Salem Keizer...

2025-02-2143 min

demobrats Black History In Oregon Part TwoIn this two part series we are going to be discussing Black history, racism, and systems of oppression in Oregon from the 1800s to today, which have affected all people of color. We want to acknowledge that we are two white women coming to you with this information. Our goal of these foundational episodes is to teach you all the facts you didn't learn in school, but probably should have. Please stay tuned for a special bonus episode where we have the pleasure of hearing from Ashley Dunn, Vice President of the Salem Keizer NAACP. If this pod was...

2025-02-2042 min

demobrats Black History In Oregon Part OneTrigger warning: This episode contains content which listeners may find disturbing, including violence and assault. In this two part series we are going to be discussing Black history, racism, and systems of oppression in Oregon from the 1800s to today, which have affected all people of color. We want to acknowledge that we are two white women coming to you with this information. Our goal of these foundational episodes is to teach you all the facts you didn't learn in school, but probably should have. Please stay tuned for a special bonus episode where we have the...

2025-02-2042 min

demobrats Bonus: Marion County's Sudden Interest in Working with Salem City CouncilIn this subscriber bonus episode we talk about the recent joint session between our Marion County Commissioners and Salem City Council. Why is this meeting finally happening the moment we have a conservative Mayor? What is the real intent behind this new effort? We think we know. Get out there and stay loud.If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise on the pod, contact us:BUY MERCH: https://demobrats.printify.me/Tiktok: VirginiaStapletonBluesky: DemobratsInstagram:VoteVirginiaStapleton // TellYourFriendsOregonFacebook: Elect...

2025-02-1532 min

demobrats Homelessness Is Everyone's Problem To SolvePolk County Commissioner and former mayor of Fall City, Oregon, Jeremy Gordon, joins us today to talk about the Continuum of Care (COC) in Marion and Polk Counties which has helped address and solve our homelessness crisis. We hope this episode will give you a behind the scenes look at how tax dollars are being spent to serve the needs of our most vulnerable residents and get thousands into shelter and long term housing. We think you will really love Jeremy and understand why he's an amazing Commissioner and human being! Get out there and stay loud.

2025-02-141h 06

demobrats Bonus: Something Still Isn't Adding Up At City CouncilWe still don't have any answers, but we deserve them.A Mayor and City Council which ran on transparency and communication is notably silent in the most critical time in Salem's history. We have some questions and we need you to reach out to your councilors and urge them to speak up and make a statement.Who is your City Councilor? Look it up:https://www.cityofsalem.net/government/city-council-mayor/about-city-council/find-a-ward-maphttps://www.cityofsalem.net/government/city-council-mayorMake public comment at the February 24th City Council Meeting at 6 PM.

2025-02-1321 min

demobrats Bonus: Happy Groundhog Day From The Old Boys DOGE ClubWe hope you're hungry...for nothing.This is precisely the amount of new information that came out of the 75 hours of work the Salem Chamber of Commerce and Home Builders Association hand-picked Efficiencies Committee put together. Validating for former councilors and mayors? Absolutely. Groundhog Day for all of us? Also yes. We have reached what may not even be half-time in this challenge to find revenue for the City of Salem and all of Oregon. Will the voters do anything about it when a levy hits the ballot in May? That awaits to be seen....

2025-02-1321 min

demobrats Bonus: A Demobrats Yap Session With Miss.AlexandriaTiktok influencer and creator Miss.Alexandria joins us for a yap session focused in on local organizing, campaign strategy, taxation, creating community, showing up, podcasting, and the absolute necessity for an online strategy to long-term voter communication.Get out there and stay loud.Also, we just launched subscriptions! Subscribe and support the pod for $4.99 a month and get access to all future bonus content!If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise on the pod, contact us:Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton // Miss.AlexandriaBluesky: Demobrats // duncanpnw

2025-02-1332 min

demobrats Bonus: Did The City Manager Resign?Keith Stahley resigned at the City of Salem and the council accepted this tonight with very little discussion. The executive session ran 15 minutes late tonight. While we'll never know what was said in executive session, something feels very off with this one. It is a dark night for the voters and residents of Salem as we look to find revenue for essential city services without Keith's steady leadership. We wish Keith Stahley all the best and thank him for decades of public service.If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise on the...

2025-02-1118 min

demobrats Bonus: Keizer Honors Black History Month & Attempts to Pause Diversity Committee In Same NightThe power plays in Keizer are still under way. On the same day the Keizer City of Council made a Black History Month proclamation, the conservative majority also tried to vote to pause the Community Diversity Engagement Committee; i.e. the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion community board. And then they tried to join the Salem Chamber of Commerce. Make it make sense.We fear the masterminds and big businesses behind the decisions taking place at the Keizer City Council are just getting started with their shenanigans. We'll be sure to keep you informed. Send this to someone...

2025-02-1125 min

demobrats How To Get Involved In Local Activism and PoliticsToday we have a couple freaking awesome local women joining us who are doing the work to organize, mobilize, educate, and empower everyday people to get involved in the local political process! Paige Barton, Chair of the Marion County Democrats, and Jane Titchenal, Be SMART and Moms Demand Action Volunteer, are here to share everything you need to know about creating local community and resisting the chaos of the next four years. You are the leader you have been looking for, girly pop! Jump in and do something! If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or...

2025-02-0655 min

demobrats Bonus: The Plot To Undermine Keizer's MayorThe power play by the Keizer Chamber of Commerce's pick for mayor is quickly advancing through City Hall in Keizer. In this bonus we'll fill you in on the four-hour City Council work session and the subsequent City Council meeting which resulted in the mayor elected by the people being all but stripped of her power. One by one the council has fallen in line to the new loudest voice in the room driving a new agenda. The people elected Cathy Clark, but who is really acting as mayor? And what is the real reason they want...

2025-01-3112 min

demobrats Keizer City Council: Oligarchy or Nah?The Keizer Chamber of Commerce seems to be just as involved in their local City Council as our friends at the Chamber of Commerce in Salem. Black Joy Founder, Juli Ray Joy, joins us in this episode to tell us all about her bid to fill a vacancy on the Keizer City Council. Spoiler alert: It's juicy! We fear the masterminds and big businesses behind the decisions taking place at the Keizer City Council are just getting started with their shenanigans. We'll be sure to keep you informed. Send this to someone you know in Keizer. If...

2025-01-301h 06

demobrats Bonus: The Old Boys DOGE Club & The Lukewarm MayorIt was a busy Tuesday night at City Hall. The new efficiencies committee (Salem's own DOGE department) has been named and to absolutely nobody's surprise, it is comprised solely of members of the Salem Chamber of Commerce and Home Builders Association. What will be their priorities as they examine the budget and look for efficiencies (AKA, cuts)? And why weren't there any questions asked about equity in creating this committee? An hour later the City Council met for a Work Session to hear about the possible Livability Levy amounts proposed by the City. It seems all the...

2025-01-2445 min

demobrats The Kicker "Refund" & i-5 TollingOregon? Oh her? She flies with her own kicker. In this episode we break down how Oregon's Libertarian roots are working against the state's progress when it comes to previous legislation. Imagine all the cool things we could do if our legislators put forward courageous kicker reform? Imagine having fully funded schools, cities, and infrastructure. Perhaps the wealthiest 1% of Oregonians wouldn't be getting $600,000+ dropped into their bank accounts on what has become a semi-normal basis. The kicker isn't working for all of us, but it very much could! If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or...

2025-01-2339 min

demobrats Bonus: Virginia's People's March SpeechVirginia's remarks from the People's March at the Oregon State Capitol January 18, 2025. We need you to get involved with your local organizers and get ready to help create a different outcome in the coming months and years. In Salem and in Oregon we have the Marion County Democrats, The Working Families Party, Progressive Salem, Keizer Forward, MomsforSalemOregon, and MomsforOregon. If you have questions, topics you'd love discussed, or want to advertise on the pod, contact us: RIP Tiktok Bluesky: Demobrats Instagram:VoteVirginiaStapleton // TellYourFriendsOregon Facebook: Elect...

2025-01-2007 min

demobrats Bonus: We Found Julie Hoy's Plan!It's been a wild year this week at City Council! Five days and two public meetings into her tenure as Mayor and Julie Hoy has been hot and cold with the media when it comes to her plan to address the major budget deficit at the City of Salem. Boards and Commissions appointments are the one power the Mayor has in addition to those held by City Councilors. WHO the mayor appoints to Boards and Commissions will tell you a lot about their plan for the future of the city. It appears there is a very specific agenda woven...

2025-01-1830 min

demobrats New City Council, Same 14 Million Dollar DeficitSalem has a new Mayor and a brand new City Council. While the progressive edge looks to be holding, we can always count on the Chamber of Commerce and the Home Builders to do everything they can to get their way. Join us as we introduce you to your new City Council, your new mayor, and break down the energy in the room for the first gathering in Council Chambers this year. We will be watching the Council closely, especially leading up to the May 2025 election and the looming budget shortfall before all of us.

2025-01-161h 02

Willamette Wake Up 01.14.25 Chris Hoy & Virginia Stapleton Reflect on SalemChris Hoy and Virginia Stapleton recently finished their terms serving as City of Salem Mayor and City Councilor, respectively. They talk about what they "walked into" as a new councilor/mayor, what was accomplished during their terms, and their hopes for Salem's future.

2025-01-1437 min $What\'s Happening Salem$

What's Happening Salem Virginia Stapleton on Making Change Through City CouncilWelcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Salem City Councilor Virginia Stapleton to discuss:The importance of local government engagement.Her journey to becoming a City Councilor.Future plans and projectsAnd much more!Timestamps:02:28 - Virginia's new podcast05:01 - Local government communication07:34 - Initial motivation to run for City Council13:27 - Personal background20:07 - Power and public service23:29 - Major accomplishments25:46 - Community art initiatives28:22 - Future plans...

2025-01-1030 min

demobrats Marion County Commissioners and the Far Right AgendaThis episode is a DOOZY! Give us an hour to try to answer some really important questions including: What happens when public tax dollars are tithed to faith-based pregnancy clinics? Who's fault is it when the incinerator gets shut down? Are our public health officials against birth control, masking, and vaccines? Why does Marion County only have three partisan-based commissioners when Deschutes County has five commissioners for a county ~150K residents smaller? Why do our Commissioners make more money than the Governor? (a correction: the Governor makes $98,600 to the...

2025-01-091h 04

demobrats Ins and Outs for 2025New year, same brats. Join us as we discuss key takeaways from 2024 and what's at the top of our to do lists for 2025. Whats in, what's out, and what you can expect to hear from us on the pod in the new year! A special thank you to Whitney at the Statesman Journal for publishing a story about our pod this week! You can read it at the link below. If you would like to read the book Virginia references on Dark Skies, it is called The End of Night by Paul Bogard and it is available on print...

2025-01-0246 min

demobrats The Mayor That Got AwayA warning: The content of this episode references domestic violence, abuse, racism, violence, and suicidal ideation. Listener discretion is advised. They say you don't know what you've got until it's gone. Join Vik and Virginia for Mayor Chris Hoy's most personal public exit interview. We discuss the third bridge, homelessness, Keiko the Whale, and so much more. Things get really good around minute 48. Trust us when we say we let a really fantastic public servant get away. Period. Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Instagram: VoteVirginiaStapleton // TellYourFriendsOregon Facebook: Elect Virginia Stapleton

2024-12-251h 16

demobrats Brat Summer-The Story of Virginia's Campaign: Part TwoCampaign Manager Caleb is back as we continue to share all about our experiences on the trail this summer including the endorsement process, the millions of dollars spent by our opponent, the victories for our team, the social media trolling that never happened, and the origins of BRAT. Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Instagram: VoteVirginiaStapleton // TellYourFriendsOregon Facebook: Elect Virginia Stapleton email us: electvirginiastapleton@gmail.com Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

2024-12-201h 05

demobrats City Council And The Chamber of SecretsDo private big developers and their friends have any business involving themselves in local politics? The Salem City Council, City Staff, and future electeds received a letter last week from The Salem Chamber of Commerce and the Home Builders Association. They are requesting the formation of a "Blue Ribbon Committee" to take a redundant deep dive into understanding the city's already dwindling resources. Join Vik and Virginia as they examine the distrust these groups have been shepherding in the community since the fall of the payroll tax in 2023 and the potential motivations behind this letter.

2024-12-181h 04

demobrats Brat Summer-The Story of Virginia's Campaign: Part OneSpecial guest and A-1 Campaign Manager, Caleb Hayes joins Virginia and Vik to talk about how we spent the summer trying to fire Kevin Mannix and flip House District 21. We're excited to share the behind the scenes of our campaign, hilarious moments on the trail, a few one-off stories of out of pocket interactions, and how our campaign changed the way campaigns will be run forever (and forced him to spend a million dollars to keep his job!). This is part one in a two part series. Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Instagram: VoteVirginiaStapleton // TellYourFriendsOregon

2024-12-131h 14

demobrats Bonus: Blessings & Cursings & The Salem Payroll TaxTrigger warning: Virginia does mention assault, neglect, and abuse in this episode. In this bonus episode, Virginia let's us all in on a bit of her deconstruction, personal healing, and why she advocated so hard for Salem in the process of getting the payroll tax across the finish line at council. Thanks for being here with us! Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Instagram: VoteVirginiaStapleton // TellYourFriendsOregon Facebook: Elect Virginia Stapleton email us: electvirginiastapleton@gmail.com Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

2024-12-0510 min

demobrats Why Are We So Broke? Part ThreeThis episode is all about the Salem Payroll Tax. After all, Virginia was the "architect" of the whole thing. If you're into the drama, this episode is for you. But seriously, join us as we try to explain WHY the payroll tax happened in the first place, why it was sent to the voters, why it failed, and ultimately, why we're not any better off as a result. We will also touch base on next steps for generating revenue since the payroll tax is now off the table. This is part three of a three episode series.

2024-12-051h 47

demobrats Why Are We So Broke? Part OneHow did the City of Salem get to the point where we're cutting 18 million dollars from our general fund? Join Vik and Virginia as they break down how the city budget even works and how we got here. This is part one of a three episode series. Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Instagram:VoteVirginiaStapleton // TellYourFriendsOregon Facebook: Elect Virginia Stapleton email us: electvirginiastapleton@gmail.com Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

2024-12-0453 min

demobrats Why Are We So Broke? Part TwoThis episode is going to leave you feeling so smart. Join Vik and Virginia as they break down Measures 5 and 50 and their impacts on local schools and our city. We also give a little insight into what Virginia thinks we should do to fix our problem and also what we've tried. Hint: It's controversial. This is part two of a three episode series. Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Instagram:VoteVirginiaStapleton Facebook: Elect Virginia Stapleton email us: electvirginiastapleton@gmail.com Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

2024-12-0446 min

demobrats Truth, Lies, and Local Ties: Part TwoJoin Virginia and Vik as we discuss what we've been up to as the holidays approach and really lay the ground for helping our listeners understand how local Political Action Committees (PACS) and grassroots activist groups work. This is part two of a two part episode. Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Instagram:VoteVirginiaStapleton Facebook: Elect Virginia Stapleton email us: electvirginiastapleton@gmail.com Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

2024-11-2535 min

demobrats Truth, Lies, and Local Ties: Part OneJoin Virginia and Vik as we discuss what we've been up to and really lay the ground for helping our listeners understand how the city of Salem is governed, the power of the City Council and its latest happenings, as well as some of the local players, unions, and neighborhood associations who have influence in our community. This is part one of a two part episode. Tiktok: VirginiaStapleton Instagram:VoteVirginiaStapleton Facebook: Elect Virginia Stapleton email us: electvirginiastapleton@gmail.com *We are sorry for the static feedback on parts of...

2024-11-2553 min

demobrats Welcome To The Demobrats PodJoin Virginia Stapleton and Vik Schaaf, two very entertaining geriatric millennials, as we dive into local politics and educate the public on upcoming policy with plenty of humor along the way. We'll be sharing ways you can get involved in community activism and introducing you to business and civic leaders in our area. Get a behind the scenes look at what is happening in our city and state and get to know us and your local leaders as people. We're excited you're here and hope you'll subscribe and stick around! If you have questions you'd like answered on the...

2024-11-2503 min $What\'s Happening Salem$

What's Happening Salem Virginia Stapleton on Salem's Local Government and Future PlansWelcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Summers are joined by Virginia Stapleton, Salem City Councilor and candidate for House District 21, to discuss: The role of local government and its impact on daily life. Salem's new electric street sweeper and its importance for bike infrastructure. Challenges faced by teachers in unsafe classroom conditions. And much more! Timestamps: 00:51 - Virginia explains the difference between local and state government roles03:13 - Discussion on the importance of local government engagement05:01 - Salem's...

2024-10-0422 min