Inside Rural America: Ben Boardman on the Barn Owl, Local Journalism & Engaging Rural Voters

Описание: Join us for an in-depth conversation with Dr. Ben Boardman, family physician, political writer, and author of the Barn Owl column based in Melrose, Wisconsin. In this powerful interview, Ben and host John W. Peace II explore the shifting political landscape of rural America, the crisis facing local journalism, and why sustained community engagement matters now more than ever.

Dr. Boardman launched Barn Owl to reach the 30–40 % of voters in rural Jackson and Buffalo Counties who feel unheard — especially those who supported Democratic candidates or stayed home in recent elections — and to reconnect progressive ideas with everyday rural concerns.

The Barn Owl isn’t long investigative pieces — it’s short, clear, and delivered weekly right into every mailbox via the local shopper paper, aiming to bridge divides, explain complex issues plainly, and spark local conversation. Ben discusses paying for this space himself and with donor support, the reaction from neighbors across political lines, and his belief that consistent presence in local media is essential to rebuilding trust and representation.

In this full-length interview we cover:

Why Barn Owl was started, and who it’s written for

The role of local journalism in shaping rural political life

How community trust affects healthcare, vaccination attitudes, and political engagement

What rural voters want most from their leaders and media

🔔 Subscribe to the Barn Owl here: https://barnowl57.substack.com/

❤️ Donate to Rural Democrats here: https://www.ruralamericarising.com/

📰 Read & Subscribe to John W. Peace II Rural Route Review here: https://theruralroute.beehiiv.com/

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