Broadcasting live from The States Forum Convening in New York City, Patti Vasquez is joined by Pennsylvania State Sen. Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny). 

The interview focused on Pennsylvania’s energy affordability, grid modernization, data-center growth, and the political path to addressing these issues. Here are a few key points from the conversation:
- Sen. Pisciottano said Pennsylvania families are facing higher electric bills alongside rising housing and utility costs.
- He identified grid modernization, additional generation, and battery capacity as important to improving affordability, reliability, and sustainability across the PJM network.
- Data centers, he said, should be developed responsibly, with local input and environmental protections, without subsidizing large technology companies at residents’ expense.
- Wind, solar, natural gas, nuclear power, and batteries can collectively help meet rising demand.
- Democrats are seeking to win a Pennsylvania Senate majority after decades of Republican control; Pisciottano spoke about incremental bipartisan progress while Democrats have been in the minority.

Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).

 

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Broadcasting live from The States Forum Convening in New York City, Patti Vasquez is joined by Pennsylvania State&nbsp;<a href="https://www.palegis.us/senate/members/bio/1900/sen-pisciottano">Sen. Nick Pisciottano</a> (D-Allegheny).&nbsp;
The interview focused on Pennsylvania&rsquo;s energy affordability, grid modernization, data-center growth, and the political path to addressing these issues. Here are a few key points from the conversation: - Sen. Pisciottano said Pennsylvania families are facing higher electric bills alongside rising housing and utility costs. - He identified grid modernization, additional generation, and battery capacity as important to improving affordability, reliability, and sustainability across the PJM network. - Data centers, he said, should be developed responsibly, with local input and environmental protections, without subsidizing large technology companies at residents&rsquo; expense. - Wind, solar, natural gas, nuclear power, and batteries can collectively help meet rising demand. - Democrats are seeking to win a Pennsylvania Senate majority after decades of Republican control; Pisciottano spoke about incremental bipartisan progress while Democrats have been in the minority.
Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home">heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home</a>).
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From Heartland Signal and WCPT AM 820 in Chicago, here are featured interviews from "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" (weeknights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.), a radio talk show devoted to covering the news of the day and connecting listeners with local leaders. 

Patti Vasquez is a Chicago comedian, writer, actor, talk show host, consultant, advocate, and policy adviser. After achieving a degree in history from the University of Illinois, she set out to share her hilarious observations about how people behave, and stories about her second-generation Irish dad and Mexican immigrant mom. Patti has headlined in comedy clubs and colleges all over the U.S., Canada, and Europe, appeared on Nickelodeon, TBS, ABC, The Oprah Winfrey Network, and has a recurring role on NBC’s “Chicago Fire.” When her son Declan was born with a rare neurological disorder, Patti decided to take her communication and performance experience to launch her company “With Kind Words,” in which she helps medical professionals and educators communicate with compassion. For six years, Patti was the first Latina to host her own talk show on WGN Radio 720. In addition to her work as a performer and consultant, Patti began advocating for children and families throughout Illinois and helped restore funding for vital support services after massive cuts were made by former Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2020 she ran to be the state representative of the 19th District.  She is now the health care and human services liaison and assistant policy adviser for Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza.  Patti lives with her family on the Northwest Side of Chicago and continues to advocate for her community.  

From Heartland Signal and <a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/wcpt820/">WCPT AM 820</a> in Chicago, here are featured interviews from "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" (weeknights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.), a radio talk show devoted to covering the news of the day and connecting listeners with local leaders.&nbsp;
Patti Vasquez is a Chicago comedian, writer, actor, talk show host, consultant, advocate, and policy adviser. After achieving a degree in history from the University of Illinois, she set out to share her hilarious observations about how people behave, and stories about her second-generation Irish dad and Mexican immigrant mom. Patti has headlined in comedy clubs and colleges all over the U.S., Canada, and Europe, appeared on Nickelodeon, TBS, ABC, The Oprah Winfrey Network, and has a recurring role on NBC&rsquo;s &ldquo;Chicago Fire.&rdquo; When her son Declan was born with a rare neurological disorder, Patti decided to take her communication and performance experience to launch her company &ldquo;With Kind Words,&rdquo; in which she helps medical professionals and educators communicate with compassion. For six years, Patti was the first Latina to host her own talk show on WGN Radio 720. In addition to her work as a performer and consultant, Patti began advocating for children and families throughout Illinois and helped restore funding for vital support services after massive cuts were made by former Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2020 she ran to be the state representative of the 19th District.&nbsp; She is now the health care and human services liaison and assistant policy adviser for Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza.&nbsp; Patti lives with her family on the Northwest Side of Chicago and continues to advocate for her community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez (Featured Interviews)

From Heartland Signal and WCPT AM 820 in Chicago, here are full episodes of "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" (weeknights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.), a radio talk show devoted to covering the news of the day and connecting listeners with local leaders. 

Patti Vasquez is a Chicago comedian, writer, actor, talk show host, consultant, advocate, and policy adviser. After achieving a degree in history from the University of Illinois, she set out to share her hilarious observations about how people behave, and stories about her second-generation Irish dad and Mexican immigrant mom. Patti has headlined in comedy clubs and colleges all over the U.S., Canada, and Europe, appeared on Nickelodeon, TBS, ABC, The Oprah Winfrey Network, and has a recurring role on NBC’s “Chicago Fire.” When her son Declan was born with a rare neurological disorder, Patti decided to take her communication and performance experience to launch her company “With Kind Words,” in which she helps medical professionals and educators communicate with compassion. For six years, Patti was the first Latina to host her own talk show on WGN Radio 720. In addition to her work as a performer and consultant, Patti began advocating for children and families throughout Illinois and helped restore funding for vital support services after massive cuts were made by former Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2020 she ran to be the state representative of the 19th District.  She is now the health care and human services liaison and assistant policy adviser for Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza.  Patti lives with her family on the Northwest Side of Chicago and continues to advocate for her community.  

From Heartland Signal and <a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/wcpt820/">WCPT AM 820</a> in Chicago, here are full episodes of "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" (weeknights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.), a radio talk show devoted to covering the news of the day and connecting listeners with local leaders.&nbsp;
Patti Vasquez is a Chicago comedian, writer, actor, talk show host, consultant, advocate, and policy adviser. After achieving a degree in history from the University of Illinois, she set out to share her hilarious observations about how people behave, and stories about her second-generation Irish dad and Mexican immigrant mom. Patti has headlined in comedy clubs and colleges all over the U.S., Canada, and Europe, appeared on Nickelodeon, TBS, ABC, The Oprah Winfrey Network, and has a recurring role on NBC&rsquo;s &ldquo;Chicago Fire.&rdquo; When her son Declan was born with a rare neurological disorder, Patti decided to take her communication and performance experience to launch her company &ldquo;With Kind Words,&rdquo; in which she helps medical professionals and educators communicate with compassion. For six years, Patti was the first Latina to host her own talk show on WGN Radio 720. In addition to her work as a performer and consultant, Patti began advocating for children and families throughout Illinois and helped restore funding for vital support services after massive cuts were made by former Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2020 she ran to be the state representative of the 19th District.&nbsp; She is now the health care and human services liaison and assistant policy adviser for Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza.&nbsp; Patti lives with her family on the Northwest Side of Chicago and continues to advocate for her community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez (Full Episodes)

From Heartland Signal and WCPT AM 820 in Chicago, "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" (weeknights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central) is a radio talk show devoted to covering the news of the day and connecting listeners with local leaders. 

Patti Vasquez is a Chicago comedian, writer, actor, talk show host, consultant, advocate, and policy adviser. After achieving a degree in history from the University of Illinois, she set out to share her hilarious observations about how people behave, and stories about her second-generation Irish dad and Mexican immigrant mom. Patti has headlined in comedy clubs and colleges all over the U.S., Canada, and Europe, appeared on Nickelodeon, TBS, ABC, The Oprah Winfrey Network, and has a recurring role on NBC’s “Chicago Fire.” When her son Declan was born with a rare neurological disorder, Patti decided to take her communication and performance experience to launch her company “With Kind Words,” in which she helps medical professionals and educators communicate with compassion.

For six years, Patti was the first Latina to host her own talk show on WGN Radio 720. In addition to her work as a performer and consultant, Patti began advocating for children and families throughout Illinois and helped restore funding for vital support services after massive cuts were made by former Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2020 she ran to be the state representative of the 19th District.  She is now the health care and human services liaison and assistant policy adviser for Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza.  Patti lives with her family on the Northwest Side of Chicago and continues to advocate for her community.  

From Heartland Signal and <a href="https://heartlandsignal.com/wcpt820/">WCPT AM 820</a> in Chicago, "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" (weeknights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central) is a radio talk show devoted to covering the news of the day and connecting listeners with local leaders.&nbsp;
Patti Vasquez is a Chicago comedian, writer, actor, talk show host, consultant, advocate, and policy adviser. After achieving a degree in history from the University of Illinois, she set out to share her hilarious observations about how people behave, and stories about her second-generation Irish dad and Mexican immigrant mom. Patti has headlined in comedy clubs and colleges all over the U.S., Canada, and Europe, appeared on Nickelodeon, TBS, ABC, The Oprah Winfrey Network, and has a recurring role on NBC&rsquo;s &ldquo;Chicago Fire.&rdquo; When her son Declan was born with a rare neurological disorder, Patti decided to take her communication and performance experience to launch her company &ldquo;With Kind Words,&rdquo; in which she helps medical professionals and educators communicate with compassion.
For six years, Patti was the first Latina to host her own talk show on WGN Radio 720. In addition to her work as a performer and consultant, Patti began advocating for children and families throughout Illinois and helped restore funding for vital support services after massive cuts were made by former Governor Bruce Rauner. In 2020 she ran to be the state representative of the 19th District.&nbsp; She is now the health care and human services liaison and assistant policy adviser for Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza.&nbsp; Patti lives with her family on the Northwest Side of Chicago and continues to advocate for her community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez

Pennsylvania State Sen. Nick Pisciottano (D): WCPT 820 Interview

Patti Vasquez is joined by Chris Ford, Democratic candidate for Minnesota State Senate District 32. The interview focused on Ford’s campaign and his priorities for the district.

Here are a few key points from the conversation: 
- Ford emphasized lowering costs for working families and small businesses, and said his union negotiating experience would help him represent constituents across party lines.
- He described affordability pressures from health care, child care, housing, and other expenses as major concerns among residents.
- He argued that federal Medicaid cuts would shift costs to counties and municipalities, reducing services and increasing local burdens.

Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).

 

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Patti Vasquez is joined by <a href="https://www.chrisfordformn.com/">Chris Ford</a>, Democratic candidate for Minnesota State Senate District 32.&nbsp;The interview focused on Ford&rsquo;s campaign and his priorities for the district. Here are a few key points from the conversation: - Ford emphasized lowering costs for working families and small businesses, and said his union negotiating experience would help him represent constituents across party lines. - He described affordability pressures from health care, child care, housing, and other expenses as major concerns among residents. - He argued that federal Medicaid cuts would shift costs to counties and municipalities, reducing services and increasing local burdens.
Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home">heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home</a>).
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Chris Ford: WCPT 820 Candidate Interview 

Broadcasting live from Brewpoint Coffee in Elmhurst, Illinois, Patti Vasquez is joined by Melissa Villanueva, candidate for DuPage County District 1.

The discussion focused on Villanueva's campaign and connected it to her small-business and community work.
- Villanueva, the owner of Brewpoint, grew the business from one coffee shop acquired through Craigslist into three shops, a coffee manufacturing operation, and nationwide shipping.
- Brewpoint also serves as a community gathering place and event venue, including LGBTQ-friendly weddings.
- She described the county board role as managing public budgets and identifying community needs; she emphasized sustainable development, affordability, and ensuring residents are not left behind.
- Villanueva is running as a Democrat for an open DuPage County Board seat in a competitive district.
- She said the campaign is focused on reaching voters with final mailers and digital ads; campaign information is available at melissafordupage.com.

Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).

 

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Broadcasting live from <a href="https://brewpointcoffee.com/">Brewpoint Coffee</a> in Elmhurst, Illinois, Patti Vasquez is joined by <a href="https://www.melissafordupage.com/">Melissa Villanueva</a>, candidate for DuPage County District 1.
The discussion focused on Villanueva's campaign and connected it to her small-business and community work. - Villanueva, the owner of Brewpoint, grew the business from one coffee shop acquired through Craigslist into three shops, a coffee manufacturing operation, and nationwide shipping. - Brewpoint also serves as a community gathering place and event venue, including LGBTQ-friendly weddings. - She described the county board role as managing public budgets and identifying community needs; she emphasized sustainable development, affordability, and ensuring residents are not left behind. - Villanueva is running as a Democrat for an open DuPage County Board seat in a competitive district. - She said the campaign is focused on reaching voters with final mailers and digital ads; campaign information is available at <a href="melissafordupage.com">melissafordupage.com</a>.
Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home">heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home</a>).
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Melissa Villanueva: WCPT 820 Candidate Interview 

Broadcasting from Brewpoint Coffee in Elmhurst, Illinois, Patti Vasquez is joined by Leah Greenberg, co-founder and co-executive director of the Indivisible Project, and Lynne, group leader of Indivisible Elk Grove Township.

The discussion focused on the nonpartisan No Kings Vote Early event and the role of early voting in protecting access to elections.
- Leah described No Kings as a broad, nonpartisan effort to defend democracy and bring people together across the country.
- Lynne said the Arlington Heights event is designed as both a celebration of voting and an opportunity to help people make a plan to vote early.
- The event, which takes place at North School Park, will include a rally, a democracy fair, family activities, and a possible march to a nearby ballot drop box for eligible attendees.
- Leah said elections are safe, federal authorities do not administer them, and early voting helps counter attempts to make voting feel confusing or intimidating.
- Lynne shared that volunteers can get involved through Indivisible Elk Grove Township; event and group information is available at indivisibleegt.com and nokings.org.
Action Items

Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).

 

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Broadcasting from <a href="https://brewpointcoffee.com/">Brewpoint Coffee</a> in Elmhurst, Illinois, Patti Vasquez is joined by <a href="https://indivisible.org/people/leah-greenberg/">Leah Greenberg</a>, co-founder and co-executive director of the <a href="https://indivisible.org/">Indivisible Project</a>, and Lynne, group leader of <a href="https://indivisibleegt.com/">Indivisible Elk Grove Township</a>.
The discussion focused on the nonpartisan No Kings Vote Early event and the role of early voting in protecting access to elections. - Leah described No Kings as a broad, nonpartisan effort to defend democracy and bring people together across the country. - Lynne said the <a href="https://indivisibleegt.com/">Arlington Heights event</a> is designed as both a celebration of voting and an opportunity to help people make a plan to vote early. - The event, which takes place at North School Park, will include a rally, a democracy fair, family activities, and a possible march to a nearby ballot drop box for eligible attendees. - Leah said elections are safe, federal authorities do not administer them, and early voting helps counter attempts to make voting feel confusing or intimidating. - Lynne shared that volunteers can get involved through <a href="https://indivisibleegt.com/">Indivisible Elk Grove Township</a>; event and group information is available at <a href="indivisibleegt.com">indivisibleegt.com</a> and <a href="https://www.nokings.org/">nokings.org</a>. Action Items
Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (<a href="http://heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home">heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home</a>).
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Pennsylvania State Sen. Nick Pisciottano (D): WCPT 820 Interview

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