A candidate’s ability to communicate effectively and master policy matter are critical to their success at the ballot box.

Sean Davis is a co-founder of The Federalist. He previously worked as an economic policy adviser to Gov. Rick Perry, as CFO of Daily Caller, and as chief investigator for Sen. Tom Coburn. He was named by The Hill as one of the top congressional staffers under the age of 35 for his role in spearheading the enactment of the law that created USASpending.gov. Sean received a BBA in finance from Texas Tech University and an MBA in finance and entrepreneurial management from the Wharton School.

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Connect with Sean Davis on Twitter, LinkedIn! Email Sean: sean@thefederalist.com

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Important Time Stamps and Notes:

[00:00] Episode Introduction

[01:03] Sean Davis Biography

[02:00] Sean’s background in politics

[12:28] What does a Policy Advisor do on a campaign? Sean’s experience on the Rick Perry for President 2012 campaign.

[26:06] What can campaigns that don’t have the budget for full time policy advisors do to improve issue education?

[25:18] How should candidates prepare to communicate their message to voters and the media?

[32:54] Personnel is Policy. Make WHAT you believe clear by WHO you hire.

[38:00] Sen. Tom Coburn’s Hiring Matrix

[39:12] What are some of the key lessons you’ve learned as a campaign observer and covering campaigns in the media?

[50:21] What are y’all up to at The Federalist and where can folks find you online?

[52:18] Final words of wisdom for candidates running for office: Know why you’re running and knock doors!

[52:39] Conclusion and Podcast Outro