Welcome to “Back in Session,” a podcast focused on exploring various state-level policies and legislation shaping our nation, one state at a time. Join our hosts, Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara from Duane Morris Government Strategies, as they engage a diverse range of guests to bring you behind the scenes of the legislative process.
Whether you are a policy wonk looking to dive into recent legislative developments, or a curious citizen interested in getting to learn more about the issues in your state and beyond, “Back in Session” is the podcast for you. Each episode offers fresh perspectives, shedding light on challenges and opportunities that shape policy landscapes in states around the country.
Subscribe now to stay informed on the always- evolving policy landscape in states around the country.
In this episode of Back in Session, Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara welcome New Jersey Assemblyman Mike Inganamort for a wide-ranging and energizing conversation about life in the Garden State and the real challenges facing small-town America. From managing forest fire risks to fighting burdensome state mandates and championing the legendary New Jersey diner culture, Assemblyman Inganamort brings a boots-on-the-ground perspective from both local and state politics. Tune in to hear about his path from Eagle Scout to mayor to the State Assembly—and why he’s staying put to fight for the state he loves. Plus: Taylor Ham vs. Pork Roll, the art of bagels, and why good governance starts on your street.
About Assemblyman Inganamort:
24th District – All of Sussex & Parts of Morris & Warren Counties
Michael Inganamort was sworn into the General Assembly in January 2024.
A communications and public policy professional, Inganamort started his career in politics in 2002 at just 18 years old when he was elected to the Sussex County Republican Committee.
He went on to serve at the U.S. Department of Interior and in the office of U.S. Rep. Scott Garrett before managing several successful political campaigns. Inganamort was the mayor of Chester Township following five years on council, including three years as council president.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in political science in 2006 from American University and a master’s degree in American government from Georgetown University in 2007.
He is an Eagle Scout and volunteer merit badge counselor who often talks to area troops about civic duty.
Inganamort and his wife Lauren met at Sparta Junior High School, graduated from Sparta High School, and were married at Blessed Kateri Church in Sparta. They are the proud parents of three daughters and reside in Chester where they are parishioners at St. Lawrence the Martyr Church.
Learn more: https://www.njassemblygop.com/225/Michael-Inganamort
In this episode of Back in Session, Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara welcome New Jersey Assemblyman Mike Inganamort for a wide-ranging and energizing conversation about life in the Garden State and the real challenges facing small-town America. From managing forest fire risks to fighting burdensome state mandates and championing the legendary New Jersey diner culture, Assemblyman Inganamort brings a boots-on-the-ground perspective from both local and state politics. Tune in to hear about his path from Eagle Scout to mayor to the State Assembly—and why he’s staying put to fight for the state he loves. Plus: Taylor Ham vs. Pork Roll, the art of bagels, and why good governance starts on your street.
Key Takeaways
From Eagle Scout to Statehouse
- Assemblyman Inganamort shares how growing up in Sparta, NJ, and becoming an Eagle Scout sparked a deep-rooted passion for public service.
- His journey took him from Capitol Hill to local government and now to the New Jersey Assembly.
A Unique Political System, A Shared Mission
- New Jersey’s one-senator, two-assemblymember district structure creates a collaborative legislative dynamic.
- Inganamort’s team shares office space and staff.
Wildfires & Forest Management: A Preventable Crisis
- Recent deadly wildfires in North Jersey underscore the need for proactive forest management.
- Inganamort advocates for thinning forests and using prescribed burns to reduce wildfire risks.
New Jersey’s Small Town Rescue Plan
- A 20-bill package aims to restore local control and repeal unnecessary mandates.
- Examples include costly street sweeping requirements and excessive tree removal regulations.
Drone Mysteries in Chester
- Inganamort raised concerns about unexplained drone sightings in his community.
- He criticized the federal government for a lack of transparency and communication.
The Crushing Weight of State Mandates
- With 32 municipalities in his district, Inganamort has seen how Trenton’s micromanagement can harm small towns.
- He is using his legislative platform to push back against overreach.
Diners, Bagels & Taylor Ham Pride
- The episode wraps with a lively defense of New Jersey diners and bagels.
- Inganamort proudly stakes his claim in the Taylor Ham vs. Pork Roll debate.
Latest News
In this insightful episode of the Back In Session podcast, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara chat with Drew Dehoff and Stacey Hanrahan from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC). The conversation covers everything from [...]
In the latest episode of Back in Session, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara talk with Anne Gingerich, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations (PANO), about how budget uncertainty at both the [...]
Inside the Vault: Unclaimed Property, 529 Plans & PA’s Fiscal Health with PA Treasurer Stacy Garrity
In this episode of Back in Session, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara sit down with Pennsylvania State Treasurer Stacey Garrity for a wide-ranging conversation. From her 30-year military service to her rise in the private [...]
In this episode of Back in Session, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara welcome Anne Dudro and Luc Montminy, the newest members of Duane Morris Government Strategies. From policy consulting to working at the White House [...]
Stay In Touch