Episode 13: Senator Stella Pekarsky on Primarying an Incumbent and Banning Hidden Fees; Plus the Latest on the Heroes and Cowards of the Redistricting Wars

Welcome back to Capitol Courage! We’ve had some vacations recently during the dog days of summer, so bear with us during a spottier schedule. You’ve probably noticed that the redistricting wars around the country are only getting hotter and hotter, with California Democrats’ press conference rolling out their Election Rigging Response Act (learn more here). This is undoubtedly one of the most important fights in the U.S. right now, and with loads of heroes and cowards on all sides, we break down the latest in the fight in Texas, California, New York, and even Virginia. And we’re thrilled to welcome to the pod this week State Senator Stella Pekarsky, who embodies courage serving Virginia’s SD-36. From serving on the Fairfax County School Board, defeating a longtime incumbent in a 2023 primary, and leading the charge on several legislative fights — including this year banning hidden junk fees — hear her break down what courage in politics means to her.