Front Porch Politics and Tying It Together podcast host Tim Boyum, with photojournalist John Stampf, are on the road. They're talking with everyday Americans and local leaders about the issues that matter to them this election season. 

And they're making the journey in a rented Tesla, reporting as they go on the realities of charging stops and range anxiety while crossing the country in an EV.

Tim recaps this leg of the trip from St. Louis, Mo. after another day packed full of travel and interviews. The two-person crew drove 381 miles from Madison, Wis., charging their car three separate times. Tim said it took them a combined one hour and 18 minutes for a total cost of about $47.

While in Wisconsin, Tim gathered all the information he could about the dairy industry. Experts told him agriculture in Wisconsin is a $100 billion industry, and dairy farming accounts for about 46% of that — which is why the World Dairy Expo is a big deal in Madison.

Farmers told Tim while he was there that there’s a big disconnect between them and consumers, and farmers are feeling neglected. They also added that lawmakers appear to be less connected to the agriculture field. Tim noted that candidates will need those farmers this November, as Wisconsin is a purple state, with less than a percent separating the candidate for president for the last two cycles.

About the Podcast

With the speed of the local news cycle, it's easy to forget that the politicians who represent us and the influencers in our communities are more than just a sound bite. North Carolina’s veteran reporter and anchor, Tim Boyum, loosens his signature bow tie to give listeners a glimpse behind the curtain, showing us who these power players really are and why they do what they do. Through Tim’s candid conversations on “Tying It Together,” his guests reveal their most fascinating life stories, passions, and help all of us get a better grasp on the issues affecting our communities.

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