How to Make Progress in a Super Minority with Representative Joshua Watkins
From An Honorable Profession by The NewDEAL
April 16, 2026 · 33 min · Episode 321
About this episode
Representative Joshua Watkins discusses navigating public service from the super minority and addressing key issues in Kentucky.
In this week's episode, host and NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan speaks with Kentucky State Representative Joshua Watkins about navigating public service from the super minority and building support across divides. They discuss his role as House Minority Whip, what he's hearing from constituents on issues such as housing, healthcare, and the cost of living, and lessons learned from the state budget process. The conversation also covers how to address housing affordability, including increasing supply, supporting renters, and exploring new funding solutions. Tune in to learn more about leading with optimism in a deep red state and what it takes to serve effectively. IN THIS EPISODE: • [01:06] Introduction to Kentucky State Representative Joshua Watkins and his role as Minority Whip. • [02:02] Biggest concerns on the ground in Kentucky: healthcare, housing, wages, cost of living, and democracy. • [03:33] Navigating the budget process from the super minority and its outcomes. • [07:34] Governor Beshear's leadership style, popularity, and influence across Kentucky. • [11:22] Representative Watkins' path to leadership and being elected House Minority Whip. • [15:16] Addressing housing…
People in this episode
Host: Debbie Cox Bultan
Guest: Joshua Watkins
Topics covered
- public service
- super minority
- housing affordability
- healthcare
- cost of living
- budget process
Keywords
- Kentucky
- House Minority Whip
- Governor Beshear
- renters
- tax credits
Mentioned in this episode
Places: Kentucky
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