James Blair
Peter Schorsch hunkers down with James Blair, founder and principal of Rapid Loop Consulting and former deputy chief of staff to Gov. Ron DeSantis. Blair was also a member of the Governor’s transition team, as well as a top advisor to then-House Speaker Richard Corcoran. Blair weighs in on DeSantis’ job performance so far managing the COVID-19 crisis as he faces praise from the right and rebuke from the left. He also sheds some insight into what it’s like to work for DeSantis. Blair describes his former boss as someone who, agree with the outcome or not, makes calculated decisions after consuming massive amounts of information and processing details quickly. Blair said DeSantis doesn’t take any decision lightly and demands access to any available information. As a Republican political strategist, Blair talks about what it’s like to work in politics at a time when coronavirus is dominating platforms. Fundraisers have been grinding to a halt and traditional campaigning activities are on hold as people adhere to social distancing guidelines. The game has shifted more to informational based on various platforms. He highlights the tough line Democrats are walking as they seek to push back against Republican responses to the crisis while trying not to blur the lines between politics and unity during a time of crisis. The two also have a detailed discussion about the hit docuseries Tiger King in all its debaucherous glory. Listen also as Blair talks about the moment the virus first hit home for him as he was greeted at the grocery store with aisles lined with empty shelves and panicked customers. Special Guest: James Blair.