Meet the June 2022 Endorsement Class!
Run for Something is proud to continue this year’s record-setting run by introducing our latest class of endorsees. This month, we’re adding 74* candidates from 30 states — including 14 RFS alumni running for re-election — to a growing slate of leaders who are stepping up to meet this critical moment and fight at the state and local level.
This class is made up of 62% women, 43% people of color, and 23% LGBTQIA+. 61% of them are running for state legislature seats, 22% of them are running for municipal office, 12% of them are running for school board, and 5% of them have their eyes set on seats in legal roles like district attorneys and judges.
Learn more about our June endorsement class below.
CANDIDATES
ALABAMA
Alabama Senate, District 7
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Korey is an Actor & Community Organizer who has spent the last decade on the front lines of the struggle to expand human rights in Alabama. Born and raised in Huntsville, Korey plans to lead with compassion, dedication, and trustworthiness.
The challenges facing Alabama are not unique or new, and they require political will to take the next step — greater public investment in education (from pre-K through high school), expanding Medicaid, establishing a legal recreational cannabis market, and reforming our criminal justice system are Korey’s top priorities.
ARIZONA
Arizona House, District 22
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Natacha was born in Guam and has lived in Phoenix since the age of seven. She has raised her two children in West Phoenix for nearly a decade.
Natacha got involved in politics while attending Phoenix College, and she volunteered for John Kerry’s presidential campaign. From then on, she has either volunteered or worked within the Democratic Party and nonprofits, such as East Valley NAACP, LUCHA, PDA, Moms Clean Air Force, and countless others.
She is running because the district needs an elected official who will boldly stand up to issues facing our community. She believes it is time for elected officials to be as diverse as the district. As a millennial Black woman and mom, she brings her own unique perspective. Some of the issues she will fight for are public education, the economy, housing and food security, voting rights, the environment, and many others.
Washington Elementary School Board
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Tamillia is a fierce poderosa holding space for our community to come together and utilize our power by creating inspirational educational spaces where youth thrive and develop leadership skills. Tamillia is a wife and mother who has lived in Arizona for 12 years. She proudly identifies as part of the Black, Latino, and LGBTQ communities and has worked with these and other underrepresented groups to find and use their voice. She is passionate about education and its ability to uplift individuals and neighborhoods. Tamillia believes that good school leaders demonstrate empathy, create and nurture inclusive environments, and demonstrate a belief that all students can and will succeed!
Arizona House, District 4
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Laura has lived in Arizona nearly all her life. She is a proud product of Arizona public schools, including both University of Arizona and Arizona State University. After earning her master’s degree in education, she taught kindergarten and 2nd grade in a Title I school district. Laura’s years in the classroom showed her just what cuts to education look like for Arizona kids and families.
She is now a community organizer and advocacy consultant who has spent time on local and state legislative campaigns. She serves as the Request to Speak and Testimony Coordinator for Civic Engagement Beyond Voting in addition to working as the Elections Advocacy Organizer for All Voting is Local. Additionally, Laura is the former President of the Phoenix chapter of the National Organization for Women.
She is ready to take her passion for public education and protect the right to vote to the state legislature.
Casa Grande City Council
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Devin is a Pinal County community organizer running for Casa Grande City Council. She is familiar with the unique struggles of growing up in a working class rural community. With her background in political organizing, Devin wants to bring her perspective on affordable housing, community engagement, and sustainable urban development to the city council.
Originally raised in San Tan Valley, Devin moved to Casa Grande to be closer to relatives after her family lost their home during the 2008 financial crisis. Due to this experience, she understands the importance of addressing the rising cost of housing in her community. Devin wants to make sure that the city prioritizes the need for a variety of affordable housing options as it continues to expand and grow. She wants to push for multi-family zoning and rezoning existing areas throughout the city that can support various housing types that fit the needs of the community.
Additionally, through her experience working with her local congressman and a local non-profit, Rural Arizona Engagement (RAZE), she realized the importance of engaging with young voters. She believes that young voices can bring a much needed and fresh perspective to local government. Finally, as Casa Grande continues to grow, she wants to make sure it does so responsibly, following the principles of sustainable development. This would be achieved by supporting water conservation, encouraging public transit development, and maintaining community sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails for easier pedestrian use.
ARKANSAS
Arkansas House, District 15
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Rachel Cox is a nonprofit executive, mom of 7, advocate for fostering/adoption, and multi-generational Rogers resident who has worked with families, citizens, and community members to better the local and regional economy throughout her life. She is running for Arkansas House of Representatives District 15 to further serve her community and be a voice to all citizens.
Washington County Justice of the Peace, District 15
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Ash Lee is a Registered Nurse who works as a nurse educator to address the root cause of the nursing shortage. In 2021, she was proudly awarded Post University’s first Social Justice Advocacy Scholarship for her advocacy for the safety of nurses, teachers, and children with disabilities during the pandemic. During her master’s program, she founded an Arkansas social benefit corporation, Good2Grow Farm Co, based on an assignment that asked for a hypothetical solution to a problem. However, Ash Lee felt compelled to act. The produce grown on her woman-owned farm is donated to fight food insecurity in her community. She has volunteered countless hours vaccinating with the group Nurses Crushing COVID, served as the inaugural Chair for the City of Fayetteville’s Community Development and Assistance Programs Advisory Board, and serves the Northwest Arkansas region on the Arkansas Nurses Association’s Political Action Committee as a Nurse Advocacy Leader. She is now running to serve as a county legislator as Washington County’s District 15 Justice of the Peace against a 20-year incumbent.
Ash Lee believes elected officials should serve the community they represent by creating policies that benefit those that live in that community. Unfortunately, the majority of current JPs are not doing this for the people of Washington County. She is passionate about safety, building local strength, and fact-based decision-making. Nurses can play a prominent role in advancing social justice, improved health, and education for all, and Ash Lee intends to do just that.
Jocelyn Lampkin
Benton County Justice of the Peace, District 9
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Jocelyn is running to represent all people of Benton County. She will ensure the county government is financially responsible and that decisions are made for the greater good. One thing that is absolutely certain about Benton County is its continued growth, and the county needs a Quorum Court that is more representative of District 9 to make decisions that will shape the district’s future.
Sarah Luhtanen
Benton County Justice of the Peace, District 7
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Sarah is a 14-year resident of Bentonville and has worked as an educator in Rogers and Bentonville public schools. She taught English and sponsored student advocacy and service groups, showing the power and importance of amplifying young people’s voices in creating change.
After teaching in-person and virtually during the 2020–2021 school year and knowing how the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated challenges for Northwest Arkansas families, Sarah decided to leave the classroom to explore other opportunities to serve the community. As a Benton County Justice of the Peace, she will work to ensure that all families have access to affordable housing, transportation, and economic opportunities. Sarah enjoys the natural beauty and arts scene of Benton County and shares this love with her husband, Reed, and their two children.
CALIFORNIA
Allyssa Villanueva Victory, Esq.
Mayor of Oakland
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Allyssa was raised in North Oakland. She has lived in every district of Oakland and overcame homelessness as a youth. Allyssa has devoted her career to advocacy on behalf of the public interest and underserved communities, starting with clothing and food distribution with her West Oakland church and as a social justice student organizer with Oakland’s Youth Together.
Allyssa is a civil rights leader, educator, and licensed attorney serving the Bay Area and California. She holds a B.A. with honors in ethnic studies and a minor in Black studies. She also holds a J.D. concentrated in government law. Allyssa currently practices in policing and labor law and is an elected Assembly District Election Meetings (ADEM) Delegate to the CA Democratic Party for Assembly District 18. When elected, Allyssa will be Oakland’s first Black woman mayor.
Pinole City Council
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Cameron Sasai is running for City Council in Pinole, California to fill the need for progressive leadership, change status quo policies that harm marginalized communities, and advocate for the needs of everyday residents. As the son of a proud Filipina immigrant and a Japanese American father, his mission has been shaped by values of advocacy, resilience, equity, and social justice. His father’s side of his family was incarcerated in wartime internment camps, and his mother grew up in the Philippines during the time of the Marcos dictatorship and martial law — his work and community service are rooted in his family’s struggle and sacrifices.
As a recent graduate of the University of California, Davis, Cameron worked as a Housing Data Analyst and earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science — Public Service. In his last years as an undergraduate, he became involved in community organizing and engagement in his city and advocated for law enforcement accountability and hate crime reporting and prevention policies in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. He currently serves as a Board Member of the Contra Costa Young Democrats, and was most recently appointed as an Alternate in the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County Central Committee.
Cameron is committed to fighting for police reform, accountability, and oversight, a Green New Deal for Pinole, truly affordable housing, and effective systems for hate crime reporting and prevention. If elected, Cameron will become the youngest and first Filipino American elected as councilmember in Pinole’s history.
San Ramon City Council, District 2
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Sara is a mechanical engineer, an advocate for global progress, and a candidate for San Ramon City Council. She acknowledges that she has the opportunity to elevate voices and bring to light the issues that deserve representation and a platform. She intends to take advantage of that opportunity. She will use her training as a mechanical engineer alongside her experience volunteering for grassroots political issues to foster a more technical, productive, and solutions-oriented approach to political functions.
Sara is fueled by her desire to see everyone live the most prosperous and liberating lives with maximum opportunity to learn and grow. Sara is a logic-driven and values-driven candidate. She knows that it is possible to conserve and protect the earth, while optimizing our resources to ensure safe and healthy living for all people. We can welcome new homes and humans into communities without increasing crime or traffic. We can minimize inequities without stunting opportunity and personal liberation. Sara also hopes to increase transparency, public knowledge, and participation in the local political process.
Huntington Beach Union High School District Board
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Born and raised in Orange County, Christine always knew she wanted to work in education. After earning her bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fullerton and a master’s degree in education from the University of Pennsylvania, Christine began advising and supporting college students. She served in different capacities, from an academic coordinator to an associate dean of students. With a commitment to educational community building, she has experience cultivating and strengthening relationships between local community organizations and colleges.
As the first in her household to go to college, Christine recognizes the importance of paying it forward and the critical role that mentors played in her educational journey. Now a nonprofit leader, Christine continues to empower youth to find their voice and to make a difference in their local communities. As a parent leader in the community, Christine will bring a unique perspective to the board and advocate for public education.
Costa Mesa City Council, District 3
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Andrea currently serves as the Mayor Pro Tem for the City of Costa Mesa. She is a clean energy engineer who has worked across the U.S. and internationally to combat climate change by transforming the power grid. She is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and spent five years in the U.S. Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer.
Since she was first elected in 2018, she has worked on creating more equitable housing policy, increasing biking and walking opportunities across Costa Mesa, and encouraging environmental sustainability. She lives in Mesa del Mar with her husband and dog.
COLORADO
Colorado Senate, District 9
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Arik is a security engineer, parent, and public education advocate. He’s running to represent Colorado’s newly redistricted State Senate District 9, a rapidly growing mix of suburban and rural population, and he’s fighting to improve Colorado’s public education system, invest in infrastructure (including affordable access to necessary utilities), and fund public services that are necessary for every Coloradan (including healthcare, fire safety, transportation, and so much more). He has spoken out for gun control to keep children and families safe from gun violence. He has spoken for a diverse, equitable, and inclusive education to ensure an excellent education for every child. Arik lives in Colorado Springs with his wife and four young children.
Colorado Senate, District 34
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Julie is a progressive Democrat, and she is the Colorado State Senator for District 34. With roots that stretch back generations in Colorado, Julie has spent her life organizing working people, Latinos, and young people on issues of affordable housing, educational justice, and immigrant rights. In her first three years in office, Julie strengthened protections for immigrant communities from ICE, repealed the death penalty, streamlined Colorado’s marijuana regulations, and allocated millions of dollars towards affordable housing. She currently serves as Chair of the Finance Committee; the Vice Chair of the Judiciary Committee; and a member of the Appropriations and Legislative Audit Committees. She serves as the Colorado Senate Democrats Caucus Chair, Secretary of the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus, and Treasurer for the Board of Latino Legislative Leaders.
Colorado House, District 38
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Representative David Ortiz is a community advocate whose life’s vocation is service to others. His service started with resettling evacuees after hurricane Katrina, creating educational and economic exchanges for the City of Houston, and as a combat aviator in the US Army. Following a crash while deployed to Afghanistan that left him paralyzed from the waist down, David returned home and made it his mission to rebuild his life and continue his mission of service, raising funds for Craig Hospital as well as serving as lead lobbyist for the United Veterans Committee of Colorado (UVC). Following his years of advocating for veterans and all Colorado residents alike, David won his election in 2020 to become the Colorado House Representative for District 38.
Colorado House, District 7
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
As an African American woman, Jennifer recognized from an early age her duty to fight for the success of disenfranchised communities. Despite their zip code, skin color, or aspirations in life, all people deserve the right to be free from oppression and live happy and prosperous lives. Because of this, Jennifer sought to educate in the classroom, build power with students and families as a lawyer and community organizer, and partner with neighbors as a school board member. She is running for re-election to continue serving her community as the Colorado House Representative for District 7.
From education funding and affordable housing to issues in social justice or civil rights, the Colorado State House is where the root of many of these issues can be resolved. Jennifer knows policies typically fail because those impacted by them are not at the table when they are made. Jennifer is a leader that collaborates with stakeholders and listens to their needs and concerns to solve real issues.
Colorado House, District 41
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Iman is the first Muslim and first Palestinian elected to the Colorado State Legislature. A lifelong resident of House District 41, she is proud to represent one of the most diverse districts in Colorado. The daughter of Palestinian immigrants and refugees, she is the product of their American Dream, and she is determined to give everyone their shot to realize their own American Dream.
She has made healthcare, housing, immigrant rights, and education her policy priorities. Her record stands with landmark legislation, passing the Colorado Option (the largest healthcare bill in Colorado history), the establishment of the Office of New Americans, and protecting people from eviction and rent increases — all in her first term. She hopes to continue championing legislation that protects all Coloradans, especially those that have been traditionally marginalized and underrepresented. Iman lives in Aurora, Colorado with her husband and large family.
Colorado House, District 33
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
William is a former community organizer and current Broomfield City Councilmember. He is running to represent District 33 in the Colorado House of Representatives.
William knows what it’s like to struggle and how important it is to create opportunities to succeed. He’s running to make Colorado more affordable, increase funding for our public schools, and to stop the devastating impacts of climate change.
CONNECTICUT
Rebecca Hyland
Connecticut House, District 90
Primary Election Date: August 9, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Rebecca is a former public defender, former high school teacher, Wallingford, CT resident, and most importantly, a mother to her young son, Henry. Rebecca is tired of watching people struggle to thrive, all the while the rich keep getting richer. COVID only widened these disparities, and Rebecca decided now is the time to put her unique skill set to work.
Rebecca believes all people need access to healthcare, education, and economic assistance to thrive. She knows that a reformed juvenile justice system is critical to reducing crime and improving outcomes for children in need. Rebecca will fight for all people so that we can all thrive together!
FLORIDA
Broward County School Board, District 5
Primary Election Date: August 23, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Antonio’s commitment to District 5 started when he was just a school-aged child attending North Fork Elementary School, Parkway Middle School, and Dillard High School.
After graduating high school, he attended Florida A&M University and received a bachelor’s degree in education. Antonio is committed to enriching the lives of young people, and he returned to the very school district that raised him to teach, lead, and give students the same opportunities and quality education that was given to him.
Currently, he leads district-wide mentoring initiatives, where he has gained a better insight and perspective into the internal workings of the school district. His top priorities as a school board member include: expanding support services, improving safety and security, and increasing student achievement, equity, and access.
Antonio has also served his community through various community organizations for 10+ years.
Florida House, District 38
Primary Election Date: August 23, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Sarah is running for the Florida House of Representatives in District 38. She has always been committed to public service, inspired by a grandfather who served in the Navy for 20 years before serving as an elected County Commissioner until his death. Sarah has worked in nonprofits throughout her career, currently working to ensure our drinking water is kept clean and safe.
As a young woman and former abortion clinic escort, Sarah understands how crucial protecting a persons’ right to choose truly is. Right now, reproductive health and gender equity are mere pawns in Tallahassee. Sarah will be an ardent defender of the right to choose, equal pay for equal work, and appropriate parental leave policies. Sarah will also fight for recent graduates and young families working to establish themselves in Seminole County, and she will fight against skyrocketing housing costs and attacks on public schools. Sarah will work to restore housing funds raided by Governor DeSantis and his friends and return them to those who were meant to receive this crucial support.
Tallahassee City Commission
Primary Election Date: August 23, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Shelby is an engineer, researcher, and community advocate running to change the hands of power in Tallahassee. For too long, the people’s needs have gone unmet, causing one of our zip codes to be known as “the poorest in the state.”
Shelby moved to Tallahassee in 2014 to study chemical engineering at Florida State University. Since her arrival, Shelby has dedicated herself to creating a sustainable, equitable, and safe Tallahassee by serving as a Soil and Water Supervisor, a Friend of the Providence Neighborhood, and former staff of Leon County’s Office of Sustainability. During the pandemic, Shelby aggressively advocated for the extension of the utility moratorium and an equitable distribution of funds provided by the American Rescue Plan to prevent utility disconnections and displacement.
Shelby will bring forth people-centered and data-driven policy solutions that alleviate the hardships of poverty, democratize access to clean energy, and reform the housing market to increase the availability of affordable housing.
Shelby has the experience, skills, and drive to deliver bright and bold solutions for the people of Tallahassee. In the face of extreme uncertainty, now is the time to provide equitable solutions to address climate change, to reform systems that perpetuate racial and social inequities, and to move Tallahassee forward for all residents.
Shelby lives in Lafayette Park with her husband, Benji.
GEORGIA
Georgia Senate, District 45
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Matielyn is running for state senate because she wants to see more compassion, courage, and integrity in politics. As a wife, mother, millennial, and woman of faith, she is deeply committed to using her gifts and talents to serve her community. Her policy priorities are health care, housing, and education.
Matielyn is a native of New Orleans, and she graduated from Georgia State University with degrees in political science and social foundations of education. In 2008, Matielyn was a Field Organizer for President Obama’s campaign in North Carolina. Following the historic win, she worked in education and ministry.
Matielyn lives in Buford, Georgia and leads the research department of a global diversity, equity, and inclusion training company. She also recruits candidates to run for office, runs campaign operations, and works diligently to educate, engage, and encourage others to get involved in the political process beyond voting.
HAWAII
Hawaii House, District 44
Primary Election Date: August 13, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Jonathan is a retired military veteran, single father to a special needs child, policy analyst, family law paralegal, award-winning author and filmmaker, and long-time activist for the environment and domestic abuse survivors. Jonathan wrote the Military Anti-Discrimination Act as a graduate student at Harvard University and was integral to helping Congress investigate the Navy’s cover up of the Red Hill Fuel Storage Facility leaks. He was recognized at the 9th Annual Whistleblower Summit in 2019 with the Marven/Shaw Pillar Award and vows to continue to call out corruption in Hawaii. Jonathan’s top priorities include improving infrastructure, income inequality, housing shortage, and reforming the family court and justice system.
Hawaii Senate, District 11
Primary Election Date: August 13, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Ian was born in the district he’s running in. He was raised by a single mother and worked his way through high school and college, so he understands the struggle many families are facing. He got his start in politics at 18 by spearheading the establishment of the Kaulana Bus Pass to provide affordable and reliable transportation for community college students. He has since championed solutions for youth experiencing homelessness by making Hawai‘i a “right to shelter” state, passed legislation supporting people with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers, and presently serves as the Neighborhood Board Chair for his community.
His incredibly diverse district is home to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and is the birthplace of President Barack Obama. As Neighborhood Board Chair, he has a deep understanding of his community. Ian initiated an annual legislative priority report, supported local park improvement, endorsed the establishment of a Korean Community Center, called for action on abandoned homes, and organized a grassroots effort to prevent the closure of a post office. Recently, he led the board to call for a progressive proposal to address the housing crisis, urging governments to diversify Hawaiʻi’s economy and demanding the Navy to defuel Red Hill and shutter the facility that contaminates Honolulu’s drinking water. Ian would be the youngest state senator in Hawaii and would serve as a strong progressive voice.
ILLINOIS
Laura McBurney
McLean County Clerk
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Laura has 10 years of experience in customer service and office administration. She homeschools her three children, one with special needs. As a fifth-generation McLean County resident, she graduated from Heartland Community College and Eureka College as a first- generation graduate. Laura is well suited to represent the county, and she is also poised to actively see and understand the struggles of multiple generations.
Laura is seeking to protect voters’ rights, provide the freedom and liberty of choice, and to serve with equity and respect for differences in mind. Laura wants to improve voter knowledge to raise confidence and engagement, while providing transparency with accountability.
KANSAS
Kansas House, District 17
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Jo Ella is running because she wants to stop the gun violence crisis. She is a champion for the safety and well-being of children and families and will keep pushing for policies that would provide relief for all Kansans, like eliminating the Food Sales Tax. Jo Ella works to advance meaningful legislation to support the best public schools, adopt responsible budgets, make sure that all Kansans have access to health care and affordable prescription drugs, and pass sensible gun laws that save lives.
Jo Ella graduated from Cornell College and completed her Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Kansas. As a stay-at-home-parent to her son, William, she had the opportunity to become a full-time advocate and use her background in professional local government management to benefit a growing gun violence prevention movement: Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. William is now entering the fifth grade and is “proud to have a mom that is making Kansas be a better place by helping in the Kansas House of Representatives.”
KENTUCKY
Fayette County Board of Education, District 2
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Tyler is a National Board Certified high school social studies teacher and a longtime advocate for public education. He was elected in 2018 into the Fayette County Board of Education, the second largest school district in Kentucky and was elected unanimously as the board chair. He helped steer the district through a nationwide superintendent search; developed cohesive board governance protocols to ensure the board can carry out its mission to support students, staff, and families; and has steadfastly focused on engaging the community to support strong public schools. In 2021, Fayette County Public Schools was named by Forbes Magazine as Kentucky’s best employer. Tyler is optimistic about the work ahead and is running for re-election to continue this shared work.
Tyler is a native Kentuckian and graduate of Lexington’s Transylvania University. He teaches AP and honors courses at Boyle County High School, coaches the academic team, and serves as a mentor in Transylvania University’s 100 Doors program. He serves on the Board of Directors for the National Education Association and the Board of the Kentucky Association of Academic Competition. He is a member of the Session of First Presbyterian Church in Lexington, KY.
MARYLAND
Prince George’s County Council, At Large
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Stanford is a Public Defender in Prince George’s County. He graduated from Howard University in 2013, where Stanford volunteered with Amnesty International in their Repeal the Maryland Death Penalty campaign. As a volunteer, Stanford organized college students in DC and led protests and lobby sessions in Annapolis. After graduating from Howard, he attended Harvard Law School. At Harvard, he spent his second and third years representing low-income tenants and homeowners facing eviction in Boston Housing Court.
After graduating law school, Stanford clerked for the Honorable Judge McDonald of the Maryland Court of Appeals. As a law clerk, Stanford helped write and shape Maryland law.
Talbot County Council
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Michele is a passionate activist, deeply involved in local community issues ever since she began speaking at Talbot County Council meetings as a high school student, advocating for increased education funding and support.
Routinely overseeing six to seven figure campaign budgets for her clients, Michele is a detail-oriented expert in planning. A senior marketing planner with a deep love of service, Michele has lent her digital expertise to local organizations in Talbot County, including the Frederick Douglass Honor Society. She is the Vice President of the Talbot Democratic Forum, where she sits on the Communications Board. She has also served as an election judge.
Michele believes in: expanding broadband access to every address in the county; advocating for smart growth policies that preserves the county’s rural character and defends Talbot’s 600 miles of beautiful shorelines from the threats of climate change; supporting teacher-led instruction and increasing funding for education and public safety while also ensuring the tax burden is evenly shared among stakeholders; restoring a sense of economic justice in the county; and finally, providing safe drinking water for all.
As a great granddaughter of immigrants, and the daughter of a fiercely activist mother, she has always known that the work of safe-guarding democracy and elevating the voices of the unheard is of paramount importance. With creativity, competence, and civility, Michele’s vision for Talbot County will see us become a leading innovator and hub for 21st century jobs.
Montgomery County Council, District 1
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Andrew serves as the Montgomery County District 1 Councilmember, representing the community where he was born and raised. His tireless commitment to enhancing quality of life, growing the local economy, modernizing local government, and his pragmatic, data-driven approach have delivered real results during one of the most challenging periods in the county’s history.
The youngest ever councilmember upon taking office in December 2018, Andrew hit the ground running in his first year. He spearheaded successful legislation that supported businesses by requiring an Economic Impact Statement on all county legislation, boosted quality of life by maintaining pedestrian access around construction sites, and strengthened fiscal oversight by instituting regular financial reviews of all county spending. Andrew led the effort to add millions in additional funding for affordable housing, restore proposed funding cuts to the county’s parks, and increase coverage for emergency mental health counseling. As a result, Andrew was named Best County Freshman Legislator and “the economic and fiscal center of the Montgomery County Council.”
MASSACHUSETTS
Massachusetts House, 9th Bristol District
Primary Election Date: September 6, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Cameron was raised in New Bedford and is a product of public higher education. He graduated from Bristol Community College and UMass Dartmouth with degrees in business and history.
In 2021, Cameron was appointed by Governor Charlie Baker to serve on the Board of Higher Education. He advocated for expanding investment in programs that increase equity, close the achievement gap, and increase student economic resources. Cameron also relies on his experiences as a Board Member of the New Bedford Site Advisory Board for the Department of Mental Health, to recognize the lack of access to mental health resources for veterans and community members. Cameron has also advocated for workers’ rights and protections, which is why he was appointed to serve as a trustee for AFSCME Council 93 Local 72.
Cameron is running to fill what many see as a lack of representation in government. He has heard from residents about important community issues: traffic, environmental hazards, a lack of support for small businesses, the lack of access to clean drinking water, and much more.
MICHIGAN
Allegan County Commission, District 5
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Austin is running for County Commissioner in southeastern Allegan County, Michigan — where he was born and raised. Austin is running on the platform that everyone deserves a fair shot. He’s fighting for access to clean drinking water, good-paying jobs, and a reliable internet connection.
As an elected Board of Education Trustee, Austin has a track record of putting people and community first. He has voted to invest in our students, support public health, and increase pay for teachers.
Austin is in this fight because a new generation of progressive leadership is needed in board chambers.
Michigan House, District 32
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Jimmie is a lifelong resident of Ypsilanti, Michigan. He graduated and obtained his airplane mechanic’s license from the Michigan Institute of Aviation and Technology. He later transitioned into renewable energy, building wind turbines. Jimmie currently works at Ford Motor Company as an electrician, where they are building hybrid batteries and all-electric batteries. Jimmie was elected to the executive board of UAW Local 898, where he is now serving his third term. In 2016, he was elected to the Ypsilanti Township Board of Trustees and is currently serving his second term. He also sits on several boards, commissions, and committees.
Jimmie is running for state representative because he wants to make an impact in the Ypsilanti area, where he grew up. He believes that housing, healthcare, and water should be a human right. People should not worry about affordable housing, and where they will raise their families. They should not have to decide whether to eat food or purchase medications. They should not be worried about not having clean water.
Jimmie understands that rights need to be protected, whether it is workers’ rights, women’s reproductive rights, voting rights, or LGBTQ+ rights. Everyone deserves to be treated fairly and live with dignity and respect, and Jimmie will fight for nothing less than that.
Michigan House, District 103
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Michael is running for the Michigan State House because of very real issues on the ballot, from combating gun violence and protecting reproductive choice, to incentivizing the construction of more attainable housing and overcoming political polarization. He has spent his entire career lowering barriers to political entry, working to make public policy more accessible, and empowering neighbors whether or not he agreed with them. Michael knows what it takes to draw young families and professionals back home, and he is committed to building the kind of year-round community that is both sustainable and opportunity-filled.
Currently serving on the Board of Directors of Traverse City’s Downtown Development Authority, Michael is also on the Planning Committee of his local congregation and will soon teach at Northwestern Michigan College. He helped build one of the country’s most successful civic technology companies from the ground up, worked as a community organizer, and researched diplomatic affairs with a foreign policy think tank.
Michael earned his bachelor’s degree summa cum laude from Washington University in St. Louis and masters degree with distinction from the London School of Economics. He lives with his wife in Traverse City and is glad to be building their family here.
Michigan House, District 23
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Jason is a union educator, county commissioner, and LGBTQ+ leader running for state representative in Michigan’s 23rd District. He is running to be a positive and hopeful voice for change, and as a teacher, Jason strives to provide educational opportunities for all. His campaign is focused on building a Michigan that works for everybody, built on the foundation of a strong democracy, environmental and social justice, a well-funded and equitable education system, and economic opportunity for all.
Jason currently serves as a Washtenaw County Commissioner in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He was first elected in 2016 and has been re-elected with overwhelming margins twice. He is the first openly LGBTQ commissioner in the county’s history and the first openly LGBTQ chair of the board of commissioners.
He previously worked alongside Congressman John Dingell, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin, Congresswoman Haley Stevens, and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson as a senior aide and advisor. Jason also serves as a Northern Michigan University Trustee, Vice Chair of the Southeast Council of Governments, and a Flotilla Vice Commander in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. He grew up in rural Michigan and received a bachelor’s degree in political science from Northern Michigan University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Michigan.
Jason is a union educator, county commissioner, and LGBTQ+ leader running for state representative in Michigan’s 23rd District. He is running to be a positive and hopeful voice for change, and as a teacher, Jason strives to provide educational opportunities for all. His campaign is focused on building a Michigan that works for everybody, built on the foundation of a strong democracy, environmental and social justice, a well-funded and equitable education system, and economic opportunity for all.
Jason currently serves as a Washtenaw County Commissioner in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He was first elected in 2016 and has been re-elected with overwhelming margins twice. He is the first openly LGBTQ commissioner in the county’s history and the first openly LGBTQ chair of the board of commissioners.
He previously worked alongside Congressman John Dingell, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin, Congresswoman Haley Stevens, and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson as a senior aide and advisor. Jason also serves as a Northern Michigan University Trustee, Vice Chair of the Southeast Council of Governments, and a Flotilla Vice Commander in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. He grew up in rural Michigan and received a bachelor’s degree in political science from Northern Michigan University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Michigan.
Michigan House, District 32
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Marshall is an educator, coach, and volunteer whose career has been dedicated to empowering marginalized communities through education and fierce advocacy. He is running to fight for progressive policies that will benefit all Michiganders. As an educator, Marshall knows the importance of access to a quality education. That is why he is fighting to make Michigan’s Community Colleges tuition free. As a young Black man, he is keenly aware of the mistreatment that marginalized communities suffer at the hands of law enforcement, and he will fight for common sense policies that will demand police accountability.
Marshall has a bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University in Political Science with a concentration in State and Local Government and a Non-Profit Administration minor. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Public Policy at Michigan State University. In 2017, he was recognized by the 99th Michigan State Legislature for the positive impact his work with AmeriCorps and United Way of Washtenaw County had on the community. Today, he looks forward to creating positive change for his neighbors at home and across Michigan.
Michigan House, District 18
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Jason has spent the better part of his professional career in public service, working for the district for almost a decade as a legislative staffer for two district state legislators. He was elected twice to the Southfield City Council, winning his first election in 2019 by 27 votes. Jason was re-elected in 2021, leading the city through the COVID-19 pandemic. His work focuses on investing in neighborhoods, balancing budgets, expanding housing options, police reform, and centering equity in the city.
Jason is running because he has the proven experience to tackle the issues that are important to the district, like investing in infrastructure, expanding affordable housing, and protecting the environment. A lawyer with a passion for justice, Jason will also fight against voter suppression, make reforms to Michigan’s criminal justice system, and protect reproductive freedom. If elected, Jason will be the first openly gay person of color elected to the Michigan Legislature.
Jason was born and raised in Detroit and has lived in the district for over 10 years. He graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration. He received his law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law.
Washtenaw County Commission, District 6
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Annie is a progressive Democrat running for Washtenaw County Commission in District 6. She is running because she believes access to food, housing, clean water, and healthcare are fundamental human rights.
Her top issues include: expanding housing access, investing in climate adaptation, increasing county-wide re-entry services, investing in youth and community-based violence de-escalation, expanding support for seniors to age in place with dignity, and protecting safe access to abortion care.
Michigan House, District 74
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Carlee is running for State Representative in the newly drawn 74th District to represent the communities of South Lansing and Holt, where she was born and raised. Coming from a working-class background, Carlee attended Holt Public Schools and benefited from the free lunch program. At 16, she started working minimum wage customer service jobs in the library, dining halls, restaurants, and coffee shops. Wishing to better the lives of people in her community through public service, Carlee earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from University of Michigan and attended graduate school at the University of Southern California to earn a master’s degree in Public Policy.
Most recently, Carlee served the Lansing area as the Mid-Michigan Regional Coordinator for U.S. Senator Gary Peters. In this role, Carlee acted as the bridge between the region and Washington D.C., fielding legislative requests and connecting residents with federal agencies. Carlee quickly became frustrated by the slow pace of government legislation. While communities in Michigan continue to face crises in education, economic inequality, climate, gun violence, mental health, and so many others, the policy solutions coming out of the state and federal government have been underwhelming and ineffective. That’s why Carlee is running to represent a new wave of progressive leaders who are ready to act on our most pressing issues by passing effective policy solutions to build a brighter future for people in her district and across Michigan.
Michigan House, District 5
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Natalie is a current city councilmember, a former teacher, and a mom.
When Natalie moved to Berkeley with her husband and two kids under two, she craved support and connection. She needed a village, but she didn’t realize that her village would need her too. Natalie signed up for the local parent-tot class only to learn that there was no teacher, so she decided to step up and teach. Natalie became the Administrative Vice President of the MOMS Club when they needed someone to lead service projects. Natalie heard of plans to build a free play space for children under five, a project that needed an organizer, and became a co-creator of the Backyard Playroom.
When a progressive candidate was needed to represent Berkley residents in the city council, Natalie stepped up to run for office. Since being elected in 2019, Natalie has voted to ban conversion therapy in Berkley, worked to expand Berkley’s non-discrimination policy to include gender identity and expression, served on a subcommittee that secured $100,000 for the installation of EV charging stations throughout the city, and passed a budget that includes a $15/hour or $40,000/year salaries for all city employees.
On the playgrounds, at the library, on the doors and on the phones, Natalie found the deep connection to her community that she was looking for. More importantly, she learned just how much we can accomplish when we value diversity, combine our strengths, and work together.
Oakland County Board, District 4
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Brendan is a proud Michigander who wants to bring a new generation of leadership to his hometown. Born and raised in the greater Rochester area, he is running for Oakland County’s 4th Commissioner District. He has a background in national security, previously working for Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin and the U.S. State Department.
He currently serves as the Chief of Staff and Legislative Director for Michigan State Representative Samantha Steckloff, and he is working hard to pass transformational budgets in transportation and higher education. Brendan has a bachelor’s degree in international relations from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in foreign service from Georgetown University.
MINNESOTA
Maple Grove City Council, At-Large
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Kristy is a solution-oriented servant leader with hometown values. Because of her prior service in the US Army National Guard, and as the proud granddaughter of a WWII veteran, she is driven to advocate for the needs of military families and veterans. She has held various leadership positions at the Osseo Maple Grove American Legion. She cherishes involvement in her faith community, Maple Grove Lutheran Church, where she is the Church Council Vice President. She and her husband Chip, live in one of Maple Grove’s townhouse communities. She is the treasurer of her homeowner’s association board.
She is a 2017 graduate of the Maple Grove Citizens Police Academy course, where she learned about law enforcement policies, training, equipment, and job functions. She enrolled in the course to better understand an immediate family member’s job as a patrol deputy. A nature lover, she has served on the Maple Grove Arbor Committee, advising city leadership on preservation of the urban trees and nature areas. She helped resident groups organize several community events to celebrate diversity, including Maple Grove’s first-ever pride parade, a breast cancer awareness event with the India Association of Minnesota, and a gathering to support Asian Americans after a rise in hate crimes and the mass shooting in Atlanta.
She is the Policy Director for Commissioner Kevin Anderson. Her full time work has an emphasis on transportation infrastructure and veterans’ issues. She earned a Ph.D. in sustainable design from the University of Minnesota.
St. Cloud School Board
Primary Election Date: August 9, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Chantal has lived in the St. Cloud area for 11 years. Her children attend District 742 schools. The programming her daughters receive (both in mainstream and special education) has been life changing.
Chantal joined the Board of Directors for Connectability of Minnesota in December of 2020, and she also sits on the Adaptive Equipment Connection Committee that awards microgrants to the disabled community. Chantal also recently joined the 742 Special Education Advisory Council. She is passionate about creating an accepting and inclusive environment for children of all abilities and life experiences.
She is also a member of SEIU Home Health Care Union, as well as the SEIU representative for the East Central Labor Assembly.
True to her roots in online advocacy (domestic violence and disability programs), Chantal is also a member of a grassroots organizing Facebook group and spent her spare time for two years helping neighbors learn about the political process and empowering them to effectively engage. Together, they have fundraised billboards, coordinated marches, ran community aid drives, and got an honorable mention for an MLK Humanitarian Award.
Minnesota Senate, District 54
Primary Election Date: August 9, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Alicia is a wife, stepmom, clinical social worker, community organizer, and social justice advocate. She is a leader and co-founder of Women’s March Minnesota, bringing 100,000+ Minnesotans together in 2017 when the nation was facing dividing policies. At the march, she saw the power of hope and organizing to create a brighter future.
Elected leaders and policies continue to divide communities. Alicia is running for the Minnesota State Senate because her community is tired of politics as usual, and Minnesotans deserve leaders who are more interested in people than they are in power.
Once elected, Alicia will do what it takes to revitalize the economy — ensuring the working class can pay their bills and put food on the table for their families. She will create a robust educational system that truly meets children’s needs, and she won’t stop until everyone has access to quality, affordable healthcare when they need it most, including reproductive healthcare.
As a master’s level clinical social worker with 18 years of community experience, Alicia has a proven track record of fighting for those marginalized and silenced by society, and she will work in the Minnesota State Senate to build a stronger and thriving Minnesota community.
Minnesota House, District 47A
Primary Election Date: August 9, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Amanda has a passion for advocating, equity, and doing the right thing. She is an active member of the community and builds relationships with her involvement in various community groups. Her strong background in science and public policy allows her to evaluate any policies fully and comprehensively before voting to implement them.
Amanda believes in bringing multiple perspectives together to advocate for working families. She will do this by addressing climate change, investing in education, and championing healthcare. Her work with the Metro Transit Gold Line Community and Business Advisory Committee and MetCouncil Transportation Advisory Board has led her to think about transportation and climate change.
As a union leader, Amanda knows the power of people coming together to bring positive change. Amanda is a member of the Woodbury for Justice and Equality organization to help be a voice for marginalized groups in her city. Finally, as a trained scientist who went back to school for a degree in policy, Amanda understands how to break down technical information that creates smart policy.
MISSOURI
Jackson County Legislature, 3rd District At-Large
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Megan is a 20-year Marine veteran and first African American elected to the Lee’s Summit Board of Education in Missouri. She is running for county legislature because taxpayers deserve engaged and accessible representation from county government. Megan is fighting for taxpayer accountability, fair property tax assessments, expansion of mental health services, and proven strategies to reduce violent crime. Megan is committed to constituent engagement across Jackson County and providing greater access and equity in county government.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
New Hampshire Executive Council, District 5
Primary Election Date: September 13, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Shoshanna is an Alderwoman at-Large and business owner in Nashua. She is a proud, young Nashuan with deep roots in the community. As a parent of two children and a small business owner, Shoshanna is committed to ensuring the strength of Nashua’s public school system, developing downtown to help grow small businesses, and building Nashua into a city that can flourish in the 21st century.
Living and raising a family in Nashua inspired Shoshanna to use her experiences and incredible drive to make an impact in her community. As Southern New Hampshire moves forward in its mission to become a destination for young families and professionals, Shoshanna is ready to be the face of leadership that brings new ideas to the table. Along with serving on the Board of Aldermen, she serves on the board of the Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter and Symphony NH. She lives in Ward 5 with her husband, Dave, and their two children, Elsa and Miles.
Shoshanna grew up in the rural, but beautiful Lakes Region. She went to school in Meredith before moving to Moultonborough. She was one of two people of color in her high school. After graduating, she attended Boston University, where she majored in advertising.
NEW YORK
New York Senate, District 55
Primary Election Date: August 23, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Samra is running for re-election as State Senator in New York’s 55th Senate District because she believes that Western New York deserves real leadership. As an alumna of Peace Corps and several nonprofit startups, Samra knows what it means to serve one’s community, and she looks forward to continuing the work she has started.
In her first term, Samra made a mark as a fierce advocate for working people and underserved communities. She effectively advocated for increased school funding during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as increased protections for workers to help keep essential staff safe from the virus. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Mental Health, she played a critical role in establishing New York’s 9–8–8 crisis hotline for mental health and substance use emergencies, and she has worked to help make it easier to find a provider.
Samra knows that real change takes time and looks forward to building on what she has accomplished once re-elected.
NORTH CAROLINA
Wake County Board of Education, District 9
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Tyler grew up in rural North Carolina and is a proud product of the public school system. He has served as the North Carolina NAACP’s Communication and Policy Director and is also a former high school special education teacher for the Wake County Public School System.
Tyler understands the importance of ensuring educators are in every space where decisions are made about our schools. As a former classroom teacher, he knows what it takes to build meaningful relationships among students, parents, and other stakeholders.
He vows to be the champion our students, teachers, and parents deserve if elected to serve in this capacity.
Guilford County School Board, District 2
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Amanda is a proud veteran teacher. She served 13 years in the Triad before founding a nonprofit to elevate the teaching profession. Even after leaving the classroom in 2021, Amanda subbed 3–5 days per week in classrooms across Guilford County, covering all age groups and subjects! Amanda cares about everyone in the school community and wants to make sure that Guilford County recruits and retains amazing talent, meets student nutritional needs, and communication across stakeholders is clear and consistent. Amanda leads with courage, communication, and a community mindset.
OHIO
Ohio House, District 3
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
DaVon is a native of Ohio, a committed organizer, and a dedicated advocate for underserved and marginalized communities. He attended grade school in the Columbus City School District, the largest Ohio school district but also the most underfunded. He became the first person in his family to attend higher education, and he began his career as a young mentor, educator, and volunteer for multiple organizations that respond to LGBTQIA+ rights, education reform, child protection, and more.
DaVon promises to build out public resources, such as improving access to education at all levels, improving public transportation, advocating for better healthcare solutions, making broadband services more affordable for low-income households, and building out social and physical infrastructure for all Ohioans.
DaVon believes that Ohio is at a crucial time for change, and it’s time to restore power to the people. He will fight for opportunities that elevate communities, not destroy them.
Delaware County Commissioner
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Tiffany is a teacher, nurse advocate, and a proud mom running for Delaware County Commissioner in Ohio. Dedicating her life to serving others, Tiffany believes in building strong communities and investing in equity and inclusion, education, access to good-paying jobs, affordable housing, and county services that improve the lives of all citizens.
Tiffany has lobbied on behalf of over 210,000 registered nurses in the state of Ohio for over nine years and knows firsthand what unbalanced power can provide (or not provide) for the people of Ohio. While Delaware County continues to flourish and grow, she wants to deliver stability, fairness, and informed leadership that comes from her unique, single mom point of view. Tiffany wants to raise her children in a community that values and appreciates everyone’s differences and to build a place where everyone can live, work, and play.
Ohio House, District 43
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Daniel Ortiz is a healthcare worker and Toledo lifer running to represent his home city in the Ohio State House. As a nationally certified technician (CPhT) who has worked in healthcare most of his adult life, Daniel has come face-to-face with the real challenges that working-class families in Ohio struggle through and knows how desperately the healthcare system needs to be reformed.
With deep roots in Toledo, Daniel knows how much this city has to offer, and he’s in this fight to improve the livelihoods of his friends, neighbors, and family. He’s committed to uplifting the community that he loves through bold, progressive solutions that benefit ALL Ohioans.
Ohio House
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Dani is a lifelong Cincinnatian. He was a community organizer for President Obama’s 2012 re-election campaign and has registered new voters and elected Democrats across the country.
After graduating from Yale Law School, Dani moved home to Cincinnati to start Cohear, a community engagement organization that restores civic trust and participation. Cohear elevates the voices of community members and joins local leaders to solve problems and improve local policy. At Cohear, Dani has organized, listened to, and learned from thousands of people across Cincinnati. He works closely with leaders from Cincinnati Public Schools, Children’s Hospital, the Health Department, and other major institutions. He will use these same skills and lessons to change the culture of politics in the statehouse, empowering people to participate in the process and focusing on everyday issues that matter.
Dani serves on a number of non-profit boards, including the Jewish Community Relations Council, Women of Cincy, and the Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project. He is a graduate of Georgetown University and Yale Law School.
Ohio House, District 43
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Dr. Michele Grim is a public health advocate, aiming to strengthen effective responses to public health emergencies and access to medical care. On the city council, Michele is standing up for a healthier and safer community by establishing Toledo City Council’s Health Promotion & Access Committee and currently serves as the chair.
Michele has led preventive healthcare initiatives as an epidemiologist and health educator by increasing funding for community clinics and developing healthcare programs. She has done public policy research and data analysis on health promotion and gun violence prevention. Michele supports funding for healthcare and essential services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, and she promotes trauma-informed crisis intervention training and effective laws that stop domestic gun violence.
She also worked with AIDS organizations and projects, and she volunteered as a rape crisis counselor. She coordinated sexual assault education and prevention programs at the University of Toledo and volunteered as a health educator at Planned Parenthood’s Teen Clinic. She helped organize Toledo’s delegation to the March for Women’s Lives.
Michele is a member of the Toledo Federation of Teachers Local 250 and Guild Freelancers and a past member of United Steelworkers and the Service Employees International Union.
Ohio House, District 79
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Taylor was born and raised in Ohio’s 79th district. As the daughter of a union steel worker and utility worker, she is fighting to restore her region’s prosperity. She believes the district needs a leader who listens, has fresh ideas that will elevate the district into a new era of fiscal and social growth, and is ready to fight for policies that benefit the people in her district.
Taylor earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a master’s degree in Applied Politics from The Ray C. Bliss Institute at The University of Akron. She is currently working as a full-time substitute teacher.
OKLAHOMA
Oklahoma House, District 89
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Arturo is a recent graduate from the University of Oklahoma, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Not one to shy away from his training, Arturo is drawn to fixing what is broken about Oklahoma. He knows how great his home state is and can be if people are willing to put in the work.
Arturo is running for public office because he knows what it’s like to face financial uncertainty and structural challenges. Growing up in south Oklahoma City, Arturo saw how structural inequities have made living the American dream an impossibility for too many. As an engineer, he loves to solve problems. Oklahoma faces many challenges, and he will work hard every day to ensure all Oklahomans have strong public schools, affordable and comprehensive healthcare, a criminal justice system that focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment, economic justice, and safe communities.
*Woohoo! Congratulations to Arturo who won his June 28th election and is now the presumptive Rep.- elect for Oklahoma House, District 89!
PENNSYLVANIA
Anna Thomas
Pennsylvania House, District 137
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Anna is a lifelong Pennsylvania resident, and she is running to represent District 137 in the Pennsylvania State House. She is a proud product of K-12 public schools in her own district. Observing the lack of scientists in government, she earned a B.A. in chemistry from Wellesley College to build her science background and to become a science-literate public servant. She has a master’s in public administration from the University of Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania House, District 18
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
As a child of hard working immigrant parents from Poland, Kris grew up in the City of Brotherly Love. He is an advocate for good governance, equity, and sustainability. Kris has worked in local and state political campaigns and in the nonprofit world for the Globally Minded Leadership Project before joining a real estate startup focused on revitalizing the American Dream by making homeownership more accessible.
Pennsylvania House, District 169
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Isaac is a substitute teacher for South Western. As a senior in high school, he got started as the first junior council person in Millcreek Township. He then pushed for a student representative of his university to be included on the Selinsgrove Borough Council, and he was the student voice for their comprehensive plan. Isaac also had a fellowship in the state house working in the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee under Rep. Mike Carroll, where he wrote legislation and gained valuable state-level experience. He graduated from Susquehanna University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and public policy.
Isaac ran for Hanover Borough Council because local races became uncompetitive, and he believes voters deserve a choice. As he campaigned, he realized many voters were underrepresented. Isaac will listen to people and actively work to improve the lives and conditions of his constituents. His campaign is people-focused, and he is seeking to use the billions in state surplus on infrastructure, raise and index the minimum wage so workers can live a dignified life, and legalize recreational marijuana to increase revenue and fully fund equitable education. Isaac is running to pass legislation that meets the needs of the people and to create a system where people can be their best selves, living dignified and loving lives.
RHODE ISLAND
Rhode Island House, District 6
Primary Election Date: September 13, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Damian is a proud queer, transgender, immigrant, and public health worker. He uses his experiences with housing and food instability to inform his advocacy, and he believes in showing kindness to struggling people and communities. Damian also believes organizing people is the best way to fix our government’s failures.
His work in healthcare, LGBTQ youth advocacy, and immigration advocacy led him to trust the leadership of the communities most affected by an issue. He has also learned that “the voiceless” do not exist, but many people are silenced by big economic interests.
The world is becoming unlivable at an accelerated pace. People earning poverty wages can’t keep up with the rising costs of housing, healthcare, and childcare — all while giant companies make record-breaking profits. But, Damian knows that resources are available to correct many systemic failures. Local government and community are the first line of defense against a system rigged for the ultra rich and powerful. Damian has dedicated his life to fiercely advocating for the rights of LGBTQ people, immigrants, the poor, and other disenfranchised communities.
He is the first in his family to graduate from college, and he recently finished a master’s degree in health equity. He has made Rhode Island his home to build a family with his husband.
SOUTH CAROLINA
South Carolina House, District 61
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Ashlyn is an organizer, a mom of three, and a wife. She is running because kids deserve a better future. They deserve a future that includes a quality, fully funded public education system. They deserve a future where they don’t have to worry about accessing medical care and having their healthcare needs met. They deserve a planet that is inhabitable so this future can actually happen.
Coming from a rural, working class background, Ashlyn knows that all communities really want the same things for their kids. She is running to be the change that actually gets the results that have been missing for far too long.
South Carolina House, District 44
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Katie is a native of Kannapolis, North Carolina, a mill town less than an hour away from South Carolina. She grew up the daughter of a stay-at-home mother and a father that worked in the mill, until the family found out through the evening news that the mill was shutting down. Despite her family’s financial troubles, Katie managed to obtain a full scholarship to UNC Charlotte, where she enrolled in a dual program for elementary and special education. She completed some of her first classroom observations in a poor, urban, Title 1 school. She was appalled by the school’s lack of resources and outdated curriculum, which ignited her passion for advocacy for equal opportunity in the public education system. After graduating from UNCC, Katie taught at two schools in North Carolina before moving to South Carolina with her husband in 2019.
While she is currently out of the classroom, she is pursuing her desire for education and helping kids through tutoring while also completing her course work in real estate. In addition to her out of class instruction, Katie serves on the NAACP Education Committee to ensure that Federal government Covid funding for education was being allocated appropriately in South Carolina schools. She also serves as Chair of the Lancaster County Democratic Party.
Katie is running to represent South Carolina House District 44 because she believes that South Carolina should live up to its motto of hope for all residents of the state.
TENNESSEE
Hamilton County School Board, District 8
General Election Date: August 4, 2022
Katie has the experience and servant approach needed on the school board. Katie has worked as a pre-K teacher and sees the importance of early childhood literacy. She will prioritize early childhood literacy initiatives and creating safe schools. Katie sees that having enough counselors, social workers, and other support workers in schools will help teachers and add a layer of safety for students.
Raised by an educator, Katie watched her mom work far more hours than was expected of her and saw the impact educational opportunities have on the community. She wants to ensure that her children and all children in Hamilton County schools have great opportunities. She is a volunteer teacher at Christ United Methodist Church, an engaged parent on the PTO, and community rec coach.
Tennessee Senate, District 3
Primary Election Date: August 4, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Kate is running because Nashville needs elected officials who understand what it is like to look for a job or housing in today’s market. Nearly 30% of the households in District 3 cannot afford a $400 emergency, and 20% of households are living in poverty. Kate understands that affordable healthcare and jobs that pay a living wage are needed. After living out of state, she returned home to Northeast Tennessee due to a motorcycle accident that caused her to relearn how to walk and to be left-handed. The accident led to job loss, and she had to go on food stamps to survive.
Kate will work to expand Medicaid and get much needed funding into the hands of providers combating the rising number of overdoses. She will also work to prevent the defunding of public schools.
She is also a community organizer and Democratic Party leader, who got her start in 2003, when she planned a statewide voter registration drive and student-led walkout in response to higher education budget cuts from the Tennessee legislature. She has been a small business owner, a contractor for the Navy supporting the Self-Defense Test Ship, and has worked for several Northeast Tennessee nonprofits that address hunger and substance use disorder.
TEXAS
Jess Salgado-Ramos
Canutillo ISD School Board, At-Large
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Jess is a lifelong resident of Canutillo and a proud graduate of Canutillo schools and Northwest Early College. He is the son of two migrant parents, who fled their country seeking a better future for their family. Jess is an organizer at heart, fighting to ensure that every student has equitable access to a quality education. If elected, Jess will make history as the youngest elected school board member in the history of Canutillo.
VERMONT
Vermont House, Chittenden-9
Primary Election Date: August 9, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Emilie is a lifelong Vermonter who grew up in a family committed to social justice and activism. Her mother was an educator for over 45 years until her recent retirement. Her father was an educator, a school board member, and a State Representative in the Vermont State House, where Emilie hopes to follow in his footsteps this November as the State Representative for Chittenden-9.
Emilie grew up in Charlotte, VT but moved to South Burlington as a renter in 2005. As a renter, Emilie knows first-hand about the difficulties of affordable housing in South Burlington and across the state. Housing, and more specifically affordable housing, is critical to the health of the South Burlington community and the state as a whole. Emilie quickly became an active member in the community as a volunteer, a community organizer, and political consultant. She is no stranger to the Vermont State House, having worked as a staffer in the Lt. Governor’s office for four years.
Vermont House, Chittenden 21
Primary Election Date: August 9, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Rep. Taylor Small is an incumbent Progressive / Democrat candidate seeking to represent Winooski in the Vermont House of Representatives. Rep. Small is a strong advocate for marginalized Vermonters in both her professional and personal lives and seeks to continue to bring this work to the Vermont legislature. She knows and understands that by creating systems to support the communities among us who face the greatest barriers and needs, we can truly uplift all people. Rep. Small also holds the position of Education Program Manager at Pride Center of Vermont, a statewide non-profit organization serving the needs of LGBTQ+ Vermonters. In her role, she works closely with health and human service professionals to navigate health disparities impacting the LGBTQ+ community. She has conducted training sessions for thousands of providers across the state of Vermont and aims to increase cultural competency statewide. Her activism has taken many shapes and forms over the years, but the most notable is her drag persona, Nikki Champagne. Alongside her business partner, Emoji Nightmare, she has had the opportunity to provide Drag Queen Story Hours across the state promoting local libraries and youth literacy, host fundraisers to help support Vermont’s non-profit organizations, and create safer spaces for LGBTQ+ community members to come together. In her first term, Rep. Small was successful in passing two bills in which she was the lead sponsor: banning the use of the LGBTQ+ Panic Defense as well as simplifying and expanding options for gender marker changes on birth certificates.
WASHINGTON
Washington Senate, District 35
Primary Election Date: August 2, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Julianne has dedicated her life to supporting youth and the environment. She co-founded Mason County Climate Justice and manages the Skokomish Indian Tribe’s youth program. A community organizer at heart, Julianne has also worked in public education, union construction work, community mental health, oysters, wood products, and nonprofit management.
Julianne is running for state senate because she wants to ensure a good future for the youngest generation. She believes that rural and small-town voices belong at the center of statewide policy discussions, and she understands that it’s time for a sensible transition to a just and sustainable future. As a mixed heritage woman, Julianne has always been someone who builds connections between different communities. As state senator, she will work together with everyone to focus state priorities on what really matters: food, housing, healthcare, education, clean air and water, family-wage jobs, and the people who live in Washington State.
Julianne was valedictorian at the University of Southern California, where she earned master’s degrees in teaching and applied theatre arts and a bachelor’s degree in computer science.
WISCONSIN
Wisconsin Assembly, District 80
Primary Election Date: August 9, 2022
General Election Date: November 8, 2022
Anna identifies problems and works collaboratively toward solutions with creativity, perseverance, and hard work. She will bring her optimism, experience, and energy to the Wisconsin State Assembly.
Anna is active in Moms Demand Action, organizing and advocating to reduce gun violence through grassroots and legislative action. Currently, she works with the disabled community and their families, helping them access the services they need to live full lives. Anna began her career working in Maryland as a teacher, senior instructor, and in-home therapist for students with autism. In 2012, Anna came to Wisconsin as an AmericaCorps volunteer through the Schools of Hope program in Madison, where she implemented a tutoring program at East High School that was designed to increase academic success for low-income students and students of color.
While earning her master’s degree in rehabilitation psychology from the University of Wisconsin Madison, she worked with the state’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) in the Department of Workforce Development, providing case management services in Iowa County.
