From the ER to Congress: Why This Nurse Is Running for Office (With Nancy Mannion)

In this episode of the Love n' Leary Podcast, we sit down with emergency nurse and congressional candidate Nancy Mannion (PA-11). Nancy shares how bedside experiences, seeing the impact of lack of access to care and crushing medical debt, propelled her to run for Congress. She breaks down the nursing skills—communication, negotiation, and teamwork—that translate directly to policymaking, and talks candidly about imposter syndrome, becoming a public figure, and preparing for tough town hall questions. Nancy also offers practical encouragement for nurses considering political engagement at any level, from school boards to federal office, and explains why she believes America is in “critical condition” and needs a nurse to help heal it.>>From the ER to Congress: Why This Nurse Is Running for Office | OpinionJump Ahead to Listen: [00:01:00] Introducing guest: ER nurse Nancy Mannion, running for Congress[00:02:09] What inspired Nancy to run for a congressional seat[00:03:06] ER stories showing impact of poor access to healthcare[00:04:37] Speaking at a local event leads to being asked to run[00:06:09] Exploring how to run and finding Healing Politics[00:07:45] Nursing skills Nancy will use in Congress[00:11:50] Learning every word as a candidate is public[00:14:29] Preparing for town halls and handling wide-ranging questions[00:17:53] Advice to nurses thinking about speaking up or running for office[00:21:33] How nurses can support Nancy’s campaign and get involvedConnect with Rebecca on LinkedInConnect with Marion on social media:Instagram: @marionlearyTikTok: @marionlearyFacebook: Marion Leary