Strengthening Communities: 37 Potential Pillars of the Community
Endorsing 37 progressive local and state candidates is a powerful step toward building a more inclusive, equitable future for our communities. These candidates represent a diverse range of voices, committed to championing policies that prioritize fair housing, education, environmental justice, and economic equality. By supporting these leaders, we’re not just advocating for change at the national level, but empowering those who can make an immediate impact in our neighborhoods and states. With an endorsement class consisting of 51.4% POC, 48.6% women and 45.9% LGBTQIA+ candidates — we can foster progress that reflects the values of fairness, opportunity, and social justice for all.
COLORADO
Colorado Springs City Council, District 3
Election Date: Apr 1, 2025
Maryah first came to Colorado Springs to attend college, and after earning her Bachelor’s in Political Science and Communication, she received a Master of Laws in Human Rights and the Environment from Lancaster College in the UK.
Maryah has a long history of fighting for environmental justice, workers rights (including helping to unionize her own workplace), corporate accountability, abortion rights, and police accountability as an activist and community organizer and led successful campaigns against a funding initiative for a police training facility and the ensuring the closure of the Martin Drake coal power plant.
Focused on addressing the housing crisis, she will advocate for housing-first policies that include renter protections and community benefits agreements for development projects. Further, Maryah wants to introduce alternative crisis response teams for emergencies like mental health calls. She also seeks to increase Council pay to encourage broader participation and improve democracy in local government. Maryah’s goal is to create a more inclusive and responsive local government that prioritizes the needs of the community.
GEORGIA
Stockbridge Mayor
Election Date: Nov 4, 2025
Jayden Williams is a proud son of Stockbridge, known for his dedication to equity and positive change. He has a long history of community service and policy-making experience from his work as Chair of the Stockbridge Planning Commission and President of the State NAACP Conference, and he is one of the few Black youth leaders with the ACCG. Jayden has a proven track record of advocating for policies that empower the community, promote equity, and drive meaningful change.
Jayden’s priorities focus on putting the needs of the people first, including creating a housing strategy that ensures affordability and smart growth, furthering economic development to support local businesses and attract new jobs, and investing in the arts and youth programs. He believes in good governance that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and efficiency — because trust in leadership is essential.
Jayden will work to build a city that works for everyone. The future of Stockbridge is bright — let’s lead together!
ILLINOIS
Homewood Village President
Primary Date: Feb 25, 2025; General Date: Apr 1, 2025
Brady is running to bring a new generation of leadership to Homewood. As a dedicated husband and father, he is actively involved in the local PTA. Brady’s platform focuses on easing the property tax burden, fully funding public schools, reinvesting and upgrading infrastructure, and promoting good-paying union jobs. He believes community-oriented third spaces, like parks and libraries, are crucial for fostering social engagement. He also envisions establishing a tech corridor in the South Suburbs to position Homewood as a leading innovation hub.
If elected, Brady would be the first Black Mayor of Homewood, Illinois. Outside of his campaign efforts, Brady can be found hanging out with his wife, Jillian, their two daughters, Naomi and Maya, and their cat, Eartha Kitty.
Rachel Jacoby
Moraine Township Trustee
Election Date: Apr 1, 2025
Rachel Jacoby’s strong background in public policy and community advocacy will help ensure every Moraine Township resident has access to the support and resources they need to thrive. In addition to serving as the Firearm Risk Reduction Coordinator for the Lake County Gun Violence Prevention Initiative, she is also an active member of the Township Gran Committee, which allocates funding to local organizations addressing important issues like food insecurity, disability services, and childcare affordability.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Rachel founded Feed the Front Line, a nonprofit to support small businesses and frontline workers, and now leads the Illinois Alliance to Prevent Gun Violence.
Rachel is a notable advocate in the gun violence prevention movement and played a vital role in the passage of the Protect Illinois Communities Act, which prohibits assault weapons and high-capacity magazines in Illinois. She will bring her deep expertise, compassion, and leadership as a long-time community advocate to ensure Moraine Township remains a welcoming community that embraces opportunity and care for all its residents.
LOUISIANA
New Orleans City Council, District A
Primary Date: Oct 11, 2025; General Date: Nov 15, 2025
Bob is a devoted working parent who is deeply engaged in local advocacy and watchdog efforts in his spare time because New Orleans is a core part of who he is. He thinks our government should help all of our residents thrive, but the City of New Orleans’ budget is over a billion dollars, while 22% of our population lives in poverty.
Bob believes it is time for a community leader who will prioritize people over profit to represent District A. Therefore, his platform centered on making New Orleans an affordable and safe place to live, where schools are funded and maintained, where parks are plentiful and clean, where roads are safe for pedestrians, cyclists, and cars alike, and where our ecosystem is protected as much as our culture and cuisine.
MASSACHUSETTS
Longmeadow School Committee
Primary Date: May 6, 2025; General Date: Jun 3, 2025
Emily is a passionate advocate for public education and children’s well-being who believes all students should have the opportunity to learn in an environment that is safe and welcoming. She is deeply concerned by the current administration’s attack on the Department of Education and how students, especially those who are vulnerable, will be harmed. When we take care of our students — they thrive. Emily also believes civic engagement is crucial for a thriving community, so she is ready to step up in work with the school committee to protect student freedoms, improve their outcomes, and represent all of our voices on the school committee.
MISSISSIPPI
Starkville Mayor
Primary Date: Apr 1, 2025; General Date: Jun 3, 2025
Brenna Betts is a high school science teacher, a community recreation enthusiast, and a longtime advocate for equity and accessibility for all Starkville residents. With deep ties to the city through her work in education and her public service, she is committed as mayor to creating a better community for everyone — not just those with the loudest voices.
Her vision for the city prioritizes infrastructure improvements, expanded public services, and funding for underserved communities — acknowledging that economic mobility and social equity are deeply intertwined. Brenna’s platform centers on transparency, community engagement, and equitable policies that uplift all residents.
Laurel Lynn Rowse
Starkville Board of Aldermen, Ward 3
Primary Date: Apr 1, 2025; General Date: Jun 3, 2025
Laurel Lynn Rowse, licensed civil engineer and project manager at a top engineering firm who oversaw a $20 million loan application portfolio for the State of Mississippi Drinking Water Revolving Fund Program. As the next progressive Starkville Alderwoman for Ward 3, her vision includes a strategic approach to capital infrastructure investment, a focus on solutions to our housing, and work to strengthen City ordinance and policy focusing on green infrastructure and mitigation of extreme heat events.
Laurel wants to create a vibrant and inclusive Starkville and is a leader who sees value in growing our community farmer’s market, creating connectivity in pedestrian and bikeable infrastructure, and strengthening opportunities for youth to recreate and connect with the larger community.
NEBRASKA
Omaha City Council, District 2
Primary Date: Apr 1, 2025; General Date: May 13, 2025
With a degree in Political Science from Western Colorado University, Mike Lee, a North Omaha native, channels his passion for justice and equity by founding Iola and Associates Political Consulting. As the founder, he collaborates with local candidates and organizations to develop impactful campaigns. Mike’s prior experience as a legislative staffer for Senator Terrell McKinney has allowed him to contribute to the passing of significant legislation in Nebraska.
Aside from his political work, Mike leads as Chair of the Nebraska Democratic Black Caucus, focusing on bolstering civic engagement and membership growth. He prioritizes initiatives that empower youth, improve access to affordable housing, and enhance economic opportunities in Omaha. Mike’s unwavering commitment is geared toward building a more equitable future for Omaha, with a specific focus on North Omaha.
NEW JERSEY
General Assembly, District 32
Primary Date: Jun 10, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Katie, a dedicated Jersey City resident, is an experienced policy expert specializing in housing, environmental justice, and survivor protections. With over 15 years in the field, she has a proven track record of advocating for working families by challenging powerful interests and turning innovative ideas into tangible results.
Her career kicked off with a notable victory against Governor Christie to safeguard affordable housing protections, and she has since secured record funding for affordable housing initiatives in New Jersey. Katie also led a pioneering collaboration between hospitals and housing agencies, setting a national standard for creating affordable homes for families with critical medical needs.
Locally, Katie is an outspoken community advocate in Hudson County, fighting for fair housing policies and tenant safeguards. She has worked closely with neighbors to strengthen Jersey City’s inclusionary zoning ordinance and protect Hoboken’s rent control law. Katie actively engages in city council meetings and community events to support causes important to her community.
Beyond her public service work, Katie enjoys performing in local theater productions, exploring New Jersey with her husband Travis, and connecting with neighbors over coffee to better understand and champion their concerns.
Hackensack City Council
Election Date: May 13, 2025
Caseen is a lifelong resident of Hackensack and a voice for community change whose advocacy work has been recognized by state and local organizations. After earning a degree in English, Journalism, and American Studies from Rutgers University, he returned to his former high school to teach and direct theater for the past eighteen years.
Cassen is president of his local teacher’s union, a member of the National Education Association, an award-winning author, the current liaison to the city’s Library Board, and a former member of the Hackensack Cultural Arts Board. Mike is also a co-founder of the nonprofit Hackensack Theatre Company.
He is especially concerned that Hackensack has become overrun with luxury apartment development, making it one of the most expensive places for renters (especially diverse working-class people) to live in New Jersey. Caseen will ensure that developers pay their fair share so his neighbors aren’t priced out of town, the public schools aren’t cheated out of funding, and vital public health, safety, and quality-of-life services aren’t scaled back.
Ryan Talmadge
Newark City Council, Central Ward
Election Date: Nov 4, 2025
Ryan, a determined candidate for Central Ward Councilman, draws inspiration from personal encounters with the struggles of working families. Motivated by his parents’ experience with a water shut-off caused by a negligent landlord, Ryan founded a Tenants Association to combat unsafe housing conditions. With a background in public safety, community leadership, and grant acquisition, Ryan is poised to provide pragmatic solutions to the Central Ward’s issues.
If successful in his campaign, Ryan will concentrate on enforcing landlord responsibility, increasing housing affordability, and endorsing community initiatives. Introducing a Clean Hands Doctrine to safeguard tenants from unjust evictions and implementing stricter measures against negligent corporate landlords are among his key proposals. Leveraging his expertise in grant management, Ryan plans to boost youth employment prospects, enhance workforce development schemes, combat food scarcity, and establish inclusive environments for all residents. His primary objective is to revamp Newark into a city that prioritizes its populace with cleaner streets, safer neighborhoods, and a transparent government that caters to all.
NEW YORK
New York City Council, District 49
Primary Date: Jun 24, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Sarah Blas is a small business owner, a public health champion, and a successful proponent for working families who has proudly called Staten Island her home for over 20 years. As a mother of six children, while also serving as a dedicated community advocate, she deeply understands the challenges everyday people face because she faces them, too.
As a community organizer, Sarah’s drive to create real solutions is propelled by over two decades of working for education reform, housing reform, workforce development, and so much more. Her extensive work in coordinating with city, state, and federal agencies has been lauded by prominent local leaders throughout her career. Sarah hopes to bring the same dedication to producing tangible results to improve people’s lives to the New York City Council.
Dutchess County Legislature, District 2
Primary Date: Jun 24, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Emma Arnoff is a small business owner, mom, little league coach, and social worker focused on making Dutchess County affordable and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Emma is the Founder and Director of The Sensory Space in Poughkeepsie, a center devoted to providing therapy and support for children, families, and neurodivergent individuals. As a small business owner, Emma has seen firsthand how the growing expenses of daily life are impacting her clients as well as her own bottom line, and she will work just as diligently to engage county agencies and leaders to find new ways to support small business growth and bring costs down as she has making her own business thrive.
Prior to launching The Sensory Space, Emma worked in schools, residential treatment centers, and the foster care system. She creates spaces where people are heard, seen, and supported, which she believes builds and strengthens community. Through her current work, Emma works closely with local agencies and school districts by facilitating trainings. She lives in Lagrange with her husband, Dan, and their twins, Miles and Henry.
New York City Council, District 2
Primary Date: Jun 24, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Sarah Batchu, a public servant and community health leader, is running for City Council because she believes New York City deserves more than business-as-usual politics — it needs leaders who truly care about the people. At a time when the city is grappling with rising rents, the disappearance of affordable housing, shuttered hospitals, and families displaced from neighborhoods they have called home for generations, Sarah is committed to bringing change.
Sarah’s father, an immigrant from India, and her mother, the granddaughter of Jewish refugees, dedicated their lives to providing medical care to their community and shaped Sarah’s values.
From the earliest days of her career working at City Hall, Sarah tackled big issues — like addressing the city’s crumbling public housing infrastructure and planning an effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic — head-on. Later, as the Chief of Staff at the Lower Eastside Girls Club, she helped launch the Center for Wellbeing & Happiness, an intergenerational community space dedicated to transforming self-care into community care.
Sarah’s vision for the city is grounded in care and equity, prioritizing affordable housing, access to quality healthcare, and opportunities for every New Yorker to thrive.
New York City Council, District 4
Primary Date: Jun 24, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Virginia Maloney is a born and raised East Sider running to represent New York City Council District 4 to make New York more safe and more affordable. She grew up in a family where service wasn’t just a value — it was a way of life, and throughout her career, she has worked to improve lives both in the public and private sectors. Virginia worked for the New York City Economic Development Corporation during Mayor Bloomberg’s administration to expand internet access. She also consulted extensively with the Federal government while overseeing high-speed rail initiatives in the Northeast Corridor. Virginia is still working to improve people’s lives in her current job as a tech executive, striving to harness technology to create tangible impacts for our communities. Virginia is committed to addressing public safety — because all New Yorkers deserve to feel safe on our streets — and making it easier for seniors to age in place. She is also proud to be a participant in the City’s campaign finance matching funds program, which New Yorkers fought so hard to implement and expand.
OHIO
Columbus City School Board
Primary Date: May 6, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Julie is a dedicated nurse, Columbus City Schools parent, and steadfast supporter of public education, economic stability, civil rights, and labor unions. As a candidate for Columbus City School Board, she strives to create safe and inclusive learning environments for all students, regardless of their backgrounds. Julie is a strong advocate for equal and accessible education at all levels, from early childhood to higher education, recognizing its vital role in society and democracy. Her focus includes advocating for free universal childcare, implementing a Safe Spaces Resolution, and securing increased school funding.
Originally from Columbus, Julie moved with her family to ensure her children’s educational needs were met, which led her to become actively involved with Columbus Gifted Academy and advocate for gifted education. She strongly believes in meeting students at their individual levels and continues to champion educational equity and CGA.
With a professional background spanning nursing, education, and community relations, Julie is dedicated to serving and amplifying the voices of her community. Her commitment to advancing public education in Ohio and Columbus City Schools reflects her mission to uphold the dignity and rights of all community members.
Cleveland City Council, Ward 12
Primary Date: Sep 9, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Tanmay Shah, a union organizer, lawyer, and truck driver, is a candidate for Cleveland City Council in Ward 12. With over 15 years in Northeast Ohio, Tanmay’s background in employment and housing law includes advocating for low-income tenants at the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. At Legal Aid, he organized a union with nearly 100 members. Now, he works part-time as a truck driver for a local composting company.
Tanmay’s platform focuses on addressing Cleveland residents’ challenges like population decline and lack of investments in essential services. He aims to improve the quality of life for working-class families in Ward 12 by advocating for affordable housing, accessible groceries, and reliable city services. Tanmay is dedicated to ensuring that city government prioritizes constituents’ needs and supports sustainable growth in local communities.
Cleveland City Council, Ward 9
Primary Date: Sep 9, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Alana Belle is an artist, activist, and organizer from the Glenville neighborhood of Cleveland and is running for the Ward 9 seat of the Cleveland City Council. With a deep-rooted connection to her neighbors in Glenville and Collinwood, she is fervent about advocating for her community and enacting positive transformations in her area.
Alana listens to East Side community members and has heard firsthand that they have noticed significant changes in our neighborhoods — improvements like new artwork and businesses — but also see that many of the challenges have stayed the same — like abandoned buildings and crumbling community resources.
As the next City Councilwoman representing Ward 9, she plans to use her history of community organizing skills to advance efforts to end housing and food insecurity, create new maintenance and resource distribution systems, and make health and reproductive services accessible for all residents.
Alana believes that safe, sustainable communities are built collaboratively through cooperative governance, and she is honored to have the opportunity to fight for ALL of Ward 9 residents and is committed to continue embracing accountability to the community members, organizers, and movement leaders she has worked alongside for over a decade.
Akron City Council, Ward 1
Primary Date: May 6, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Fran Wilson (they/them) is a community organizer, restaurant server, and neighbor with Akron roots that run four generations deep. Fran is a former Akron Civil Rights Commissioner and West Hill Neighborhood Board Member who has attended council meetings regularly for over five years and written and maintained a weekly newsletter on city issues for the last two years. They also ran for council in 2023. Fran has been tear-gassed while protesting, sued the city to establish protestor protections against police violence, and has fought local anti-environment legislation while being a loud voice about the need for public participation in local government. Fran loves Akron and is ready to work hard for Akronites.
Chillicothe City Council, At Large
Primary Date: May 6, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Welcome Stokien, a Chillicothe resident, is running for Chillicothe City Council At-Large. She is committed to fostering a city that serves all its residents, drawing upon her experiences as a mother, volunteer, and community advocate.
With a focus on inclusivity and representation, Welcome seeks to address the evolving needs of Chillicothe through proactive problem-solving and immediate action. Her vision includes sustainable development, prioritizing infrastructure, housing, and public services while advocating for the interests of the community.
Unaligned with traditional political affiliations, Welcome’s campaign is founded on practical experiences, compassion, and a dedication to collaborative progress. She aims to create a city that provides opportunities for everyone, particularly youth and working families.
Welcome Stokien encourages community involvement in building a promising future for Chillicothe. Through determination, foresight, and empathy, she hopes to bring about positive changes that benefit the entire city. Join Welcome on this journey towards a brighter tomorrow for Chillicothe.
Ajmeri Hoque
Franklin County Municipal Court Judge
Primary Date: May 6, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Ajmeri Hoque, a licensed attorney in Ohio and New York with a focus on criminal defense, juvenile defense, and guardian ad litem work, brings over 15 years of legal experience to her practice. Originally from Bangladesh, she moved with her family to the United States as a toddler and has since dedicated her career to serving marginalized communities in Central Ohio.
Throughout her career, Ajmeri has noted that folks from lower-income and underserved communities are the largest demographic she encounters in Court. She has not only represented these vulnerable people in her cases but has also spent extensive time in their neighborhoods and seen their lives firsthand. Amjeri is proud to have been able to fight for clients who have been wrongly accused and, by telling their stories to juries and judges, she is proud to have been instrumental in reunifying children with their parents. Amjeri has been so effective in this work that prosecutors have stood in Court and said, “Attorney Hoque is correct and we will dismiss this case,” on multiple occasions.
She strives to be a judge who listens to every person who comes in front of her, who remembers that people in the criminal justice system have experienced trauma and barriers that they bring with them to the courtroom, and are only seeking justice and fairness in Court. Therefore, Ajmeri hopes to be a Judge who will always be fair and just to everyone who appears in her courtroom.
PENNSYLVANIA
Madison Pease
Hatboro-Horsham School Board
Primary Date: May 20, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Maddy, residing in Hatboro, PA, is a Zoo Science major at Delaware Valley University and a proud graduate of Hatboro-Horsham High School. She volunteers with the Hatboro Chamber of Commerce — Holiday Parade and Car Show and supports the fight against food insecurity with H.A.T. Packs. In her role as a dog gym trainer at DogVenture, Maddy loves teaching her furry friends new tricks during the day.
Her dedication to safety, equality, and community engagement drives her to create top-notch learning experiences for all. Maddy is a strong advocate for inclusive educational settings that empower students to voice their opinions. Serving as a mentor, she strives to motivate the youth to become positive change-makers. Emphasizing the significance of emotional and social education, Maddy encourages students to express themselves and contribute to a better world.
With a focus on championing her community and amplifying diverse perspectives, Maddy is committed to nurturing a more inclusive and responsive society.
East Hempfield Township Supervisor
Primary Date: May 20, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Darren is a committed stay-at-home dad with a part-time position who brings a diverse skill set to the East Hempfield Township Board of Supervisors. His experience in law enforcement, personal training, and nonprofit organizations equips him to tackle community challenges head-on. Darren is passionate about upholding democratic principles and understands the significance of dedicated local leadership. He is eager for the opportunity to contribute as a Township Supervisor.
P.J. Monella
Erie County Magisterial District Judge
Primary Date: May 20, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
P.J. Monella, a candidate for Magisterial District Judge in Erie County, PA, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Holding a B.A. from Penn State University and an M.P.M. from George Washington University, P.J. is certified by the Minor Judiciary Education Board and has completed legal coursework at Widener University School of Law through the TAP program. With a background as Chief of Staff to State Rep. Ryan A. Bizzarro, P.J. has successfully managed a high-volume legislative office, resolving over 35,000 cases in 64 counties. A champion of fairness, compassion, and justice, P.J. is dedicated to upholding civil liberties and rights both inside and outside the courtroom. With a strong emphasis on integrity, honesty, and ethical conduct, P.J. is well-equipped to serve as a Magisterial District Judge.
Allegheny County Council, District 3
Primary Date: May 20, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
With a background spanning public education, government service, nonprofit leadership, and consulting, Lissa is a dedicated advocate for children and families. Her focus is on promoting quality early childhood education, accessible childcare, and well-funded public schools.
As a County Council member, Lissa works to expand effective county programs and address policies that impact families’ well-being. Committed to upholding the civil and constitutional rights of all individuals, she collaborates with local leaders on various policy issues such as economic development, environmental concerns, civil rights, and public services.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Lissa actively engages with the community as a member of the Hampton Rotarian, the board of HAEE (supporting Hampton public schools), a PTO board member, and a Democratic state committee member.
Andrew Harbaugh
Clarion Borough Council
Primary Date: May 20, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Andrew, a dedicated resident of Clarion, is passionate about his community. He appreciates the tight-knit environment, locally owned businesses, and active participation of its residents. His commitment to family values is evident as he campaigns for a position on the Clarion Borough Council.
Driven by a desire to create meaningful change, Andrew is focused on improving crucial aspects of borough operations. In light of budgetary challenges in 2025, he understands the gravity of the council’s decisions. Andrew is ready to shoulder the responsibility of budget management, infrastructure enhancement, communication improvement, and accountability elevation within Clarion Borough.
Manheim Central School District Board
Primary Date: May 20, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Dr. Amber Snyder, a native of Manheim, obtained her doctorate in education in 2021, becoming the first in her family to do so. With a deep-rooted belief in the impact of education, Amber is committed to providing all students with the necessary resources for success. Her career has been centered on promoting children’s well-being and recognizing their crucial role in shaping the community and beyond.
Dedicated to establishing strong connections between schools and the community, Amber envisions a cohesive Manheim wherein the school board serves as a liaison between the two entities. She advocates for the involvement of parental and student perspectives in decision-making processes, striving for transparency, prudent financial management, and a cooperative future.
In her Manheim residence, Amber enjoys spending time with her husband, along with their Standard Poodle, Rowlf. She finds happiness in music, disc golf, and relaxing in nature.
Lancaster City Council
Primary Date: May 20, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Councilman Ahmed Ahmed, the first former refugee on Lancaster City Council, is running for re-election to continue his work in making the city more affordable and inclusive. He is known for his focus on creating budgets that benefit all residents and emphasize long-term financial planning. Having been supported by the city when he and his family arrived as refugees, Ahmed is dedicated to giving back and serving the community in a meaningful way. His commitment to making Lancaster a better place for everyone remains steadfast.
Lancaster City Council
Primary Date: May 20, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Marshall, a Lancaster, Pennsylvania native from a sizeable family, understands the value of hard work and community support. Growing up with seven siblings under the care of a nurse father, he appreciates the assistance provided by public resources such as libraries and educational centers.
Devoted to serving his community, Marshall has spent the last five years organizing in Pennsylvania to support families facing similar challenges. As the leader of Lancaster City’s Democratic Party, he focused on promoting leaders dedicated to issues like affordable housing, social services, and public health.
Through his efforts to promote a new Home Rule Town Charter, Marshall contributed to reducing Lancaster City’s reliance on property taxes and empowering residents with increased local control. In the 2024 campaign, he worked alongside Pennsylvania House Democrats to help maintain the party’s majority in the PA House.
Having connected with numerous Lancaster City residents, Marshall understands their shared aspirations for a government that emphasizes essential services and affordability. His goal is to address their needs, confront obstacles, and enhance the quality of life for all city residents.
Cumberland County Prothonotary
Primary Date: May 20, 2025; General Date: Nov 4, 2025
Montana has a strong background in politics, starting his journey as Judge of Elections in his teens and currently serving in that role. Seeking to expand his impact, he is now running for the position of Prothonotary in Pennsylvania — a role that uniquely combines record-keeping and court administration.
The Prothonotary, as the top record keeper and Chief Clerk of the Courts of Common Pleas, plays a crucial role in certifying and safeguarding important legal records such as name changes, divorces, and custody agreements. Montana’s platform focuses on supporting marginalized communities, including the LGBT+ population, immigrants, and individuals facing legal challenges.
While the Prothonotary does not have lawmaking authority, the position directly impacts the lives of residents in Cumberland County by ensuring the integrity and accessibility of essential legal documents. Montana is dedicated to promoting fairness and inclusivity in legal processes and aims to use his term to make a positive difference in the community’s access to justice.
TEXAS
Emmanuel Guerrero
Pasadena City Council, District C
Election Date: May 3, 2025
Emmanuel Guerrero, a 1996 Pasadena, Texas native, holds dual Bachelors of Business Administration degrees in Finance and Marketing from the University of Houston’s Bauer Business School. Graduating in just 3 years as a First Generation college student, he balanced two jobs while pursuing his education from 2015–2018.
At 26, Emmanuel Guerrero made history as the youngest City Councilman of District C in Pasadena, Texas. In this role, he initiated projects enhancing waterlines, sewer systems, and water wells, along with creating scholarships for local students in need.
Emmanuel’s remarkable achievements have garnered recognition, including the 2024 Centennial Under 40 Impact Award from the National League of Cities and being designated a Social Justice Fellow by The Memorial Foundation in 2025. Additionally, he was named an Emerging Latino Leader by the American Jewish Committee Houston in 2023 and selected as one of the Houston Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 honorees.
Fort Worth City Council, District 3
Election Date: May 3, 2025
With a strong family legacy in public service, Jason has a background in leadership through service and accountability. His experience as a former city councilmember in Marfa, Texas, focused on initiatives for neighborhood safety, city infrastructure improvements, and protection against unfair real estate practices. Advocating for funding for the fire department, rental regulations, and city street improvements, Jason aimed to enhance residents’ quality of life.
With expertise in public health, safety, and technology, Jason has led disaster preparedness efforts and supported community safety policies. Running for Fort Worth City Council, his platform includes addressing affordable housing, fair wages, public safety enhancements, expanded healthcare access, and sustainable development to support local neighborhoods. He also advocates for gun safety measures, afterschool program investment, and infrastructure upgrades for all residents’ benefit.
Jason aims to bring new leadership to Fort Worth by focusing on listening, leading, and producing tangible results. By participating in voting on May 3, the community can work towards a more resilient and thriving Fort Worth under his guidance.
South Houston Mayor
Primary Date: May 3, 2025; General Date: May 3, 2025
Sophia Saenz, a public school teacher and community advocate, is running for Mayor of South Houston. With a strong passion for her city, Sophia is determined to tackle issues like corruption, infrastructure, water safety, and social programs. She is committed to improving the safety of children by enhancing streets, sidewalks, and lighting. Furthermore, Sophia aims to provide clean and cost-effective water for all inhabitants and expand community resources through projects like a clothing closet, food pantry, and workforce development programs. Through her dedication to community empowerment and collaboration, Sophia envisions a city that provides equal opportunities for all its residents.
WISCONSIN
Madison Common Council Alder, District 8
Primary Date: Feb 4, 2025; General Date: Apr 1, 2025
MGR is a dedicated District 8 Alder seeking re-election, focused on representing the campus community in Madison with a emphasis on student perspectives. In the past two years, MGR has worked diligently to address students’ unique challenges and ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
Recognizing the significant contributions of students to Madison’s economy and population, MGR is committed to prioritizing student interests and advocating for increased representation. By running for re-election, MGR aims to continue building on the progress made during their tenure and empowering young people to shape the future of Madison.
As Alder, MGR remains devoted to representing constituents and amplifying their voices to bring about positive change in the community.
Eau Claire City Council, At Large
Election Date: Apr 1, 2025
Ethan Reed, a candidate for Eau Claire City Council, combines software development expertise with a passion for community well-being. His background includes experience in union stewardship and government accountability advocacy. Ethan is dedicated to fostering affordable housing, safer streets, and a robust local economy in the city.
Through his commitment to transparency and support for working families, Ethan has a proven record of advocating for the community’s best interests. In his campaign, he emphasizes inclusive development, open governance, and policies that prioritize the needs of residents over special interests.
Carl Bryan
Kenosha Unified School Board
Primary Date: Feb 18, 2025; General Date: Apr 1, 2025
Carl Bryan is a devoted advocate with experience in education policy, finance, and community leadership. With a background as a former KUSD School Board member and policy analyst at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, he has championed equitable school funding and student achievement. Carl actively participates in KUSD standing committees and contributes to the Kenosha Education Justice Coalition. He is currently working towards a doctorate in educational leadership to tackle financial obstacles in KUSD while emphasizing student success and equitable teacher compensation. Carl’s goal is to establish a school district that fosters the well-being of every student, teacher, and family.
