A proud graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Ashley Burns joins the Majority Strategies team as Director of Analytics and Audience Insights. A self-described “data Sherpa” who previously serve at the Republican Party of Wisconsin and the Republican National Committee, today Ashley turns data into actionable insights for our elections, advocacy and brand clients.
Learn more about Ashley in today’s #MeetMajority.
What has been your best day on the campaign trail?
Hands down Election Night for Governor Walker’s recall campaign in June of 2012. Our team from the recall was second to none, and I am proud to have worked with such a talented group of operatives. For most of us, Wisconsin was our home state, and we all could name countless loved ones who were able to benefit from the Governor’s reforms, so this was personal. Celebrating victory over Spotted Cow in Waukesha, Wisconsin, was an awesome feeling.
What are your favorite eats from your home state?
Cheeseburger and custard from Kopp’s in Milwaukee and fresh cheese curds from the Madison Farmer’s Market.
Name one of your “weird” hobbies or habits.
I don’t personally think this is weird, but my friends do think I take it to a mild extreme. I’m pretty into Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars – really anything of that nature. I own several collectibles from each universe. I also love bad reality TV – pretty much anything on Bravo – and am always ready to follow the quest for love on the Bachelor/Bachelorette.
When and with whom are you happiest?
My family, hands down. We don’t get together that often as my sister lives in Wisconsin, my mom in Oregon, and my brother in North Carolina, but when we do, there is nothing better.
How many cities have you lived in?
I typically claim three – Milwaukee, Madison and DC – but when I was really little we moved around a lot, so I also lived in Algoma, Wisconsin, and Tulsa, Oklahoma.
What is your favorite song? And what do you do when it comes on in the car?
Anything by Garth Brooks. My sister was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, so we take Garth very seriously in our family.
What’s the best gift/kindest gesture you’ve ever received?
Last year, my fiancé Liam popped the question on Speaker’s Balcony at the Capitol here in DC as we were surrounded by our families.
Thanks, Ashley!
Read more from Ashley on the important role of data: