In this episode of Left Out Loud, Seth and Ally sit down with Vance Bostic, who is running in the Democratic primary for New York’s 8th Congressional District.

Vance explains why he decided to challenge longtime incumbent Hakeem Jeffries and what he’s hearing from constituents across the district. The conversation dives into representation, leadership in Washington, and what voters in NY-08 want from their next member of Congress.

We also discuss Vance’s personal journey — including how the COVID pandemic became an opportunity for him to pursue higher education and earn three degrees in five years. From gig worker protections to grassroots organizing, Vance outlines the ideas and policies driving his campaign and why he believes new leadership is needed.

If you care about New York politics, Democratic primaries, and grassroots candidates challenging the status quo, this episode offers a direct look into the race for NY-08.

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (01:24) - Meet Vance Bostic
• (01:46) - Running Against Hakeem Jeffries
• (03:12) - Constituent Feedback on Jeffries
• (05:21) - Why Vance Is Running
• (08:07) - Vance's Background Story
• (10:50) - Education Journey
• (15:20) - Hakeem Jeffries' Leadership Failures
• (20:46) - Vance's Campaign Platform
• (21:32) - Artist & Gig Workers Bill of Rights
• (24:09) - Why Gig Worker Protections Matter
• (26:25) - Inspiration from Zoran Momani
• (29:46) - Grassroots Campaign Strategy
• (30:16) - Political Inspiration: Shirley Chisholm
• (33:24) - How to Support Vance's Campaign
• (37:00) - Post-Interview Discussion