text:
Elected Officials
Since 2004, Progressive Majority has helped elect 457 progressive champions to office and we have no intention of slowing down.
Progressive Majority supports the strongest progressives to run for office in the toughest states in the nation.
Our political team vets candidates to make sure they are:
- Politically viable
- Passionate about our progressive values
- Committed to achieving progressive change once elected
- Represent the full diversity of our nation.
Learn more about our elected officials by clicking on their profiles. You can also search for elected officials to support by state, office and demographics.
Inspired? Then we need you! Visit our Run for Office page to see if you should run!
State Representative - District 7
Open Seat
San Diego County
Marty Block won the race for the 78th Assembly District. Previously, he was elected to the San Diego Community College District Board of Trustees, and served on the San Diego Board of Education. The 78th is was held by a conservative, but who was term-limited out of office. This district has grown more Democratic over the years and was one of the best opportunities for a progressive victory this year. Marty will provide a strong platform for progressive issues in San Diego.
University of Colorado Board of Regent - District 2
Open Seat
Joe Neguse was a first-time candidate running for the University of Colorado Board of Regents to represent Congressional District 2. Joe is a young, African American law student at the University of Colorado. He was appointed by the Boulder City Council as a Commissioner on the Boulder Housing Authority, and is a co-founder and former Board Chair of New Era, Colorado, an organization that engages young people around voter registration and mobilization. Congressional District 2 encompasses Boulder, the northern Denver suburbs and about four counties on the western slope. Joe's election will bring a more progressive, diverse voice to the board. He was endorsed by numerous elected officials at all levels of government, labor groups and prominent community members.
State Representative - District 18
Open Seat
Olmsted Falls, Olmsted Township, Berea, Strongsville and North Royalton
Matt Patten was the Democratic candidate for the 18th Ohio State House District. Matt has a long history of activism and labor organizing and is currently a Regional Labor-Management Field Coordinator. As a professional community organizer, Matt is a fearless champion for improving economic opportunity, education, and universal access to healthcare. He had the endorsements of local and statewide labor. This seat was a top-tier pickup in the quest for the four seats we needed for a Democratic majority in the Ohio House of Representatives.
State Representative - District 19
Open Seat
Westerville, New Albany, Reynoldsburg, Canal Winchester, Groveport, Madison Township, Obetz, part of Columbus
Marian Harris was the Democratic candidate for the 19th House District. Marian worked for Governor Strickland's Early Childhood Development workgroup. She ran for this seat in 2006 against a popular member of the Republican leadership and lost, 45%-55%. Marian's opponent in this open seat was County Coroner Brad Lewis. Marian was a tireless campaigner and a committed progressive champion. She has a solid record in Ohio politics working for Senator Howard Metzenbaum for eight years, Governor Richard Celeste for seven years, and then as a community activist and in the non-profit sector. Marian was endorsed by labor, including the AFL-CIO and Ohio Federation of Teachers, NARAL and other allies. She is a passionate advocate for quality education, affordable, quality health care, and economic development. Marian was a tough, hardworking candidate who won in an emerging demographic-targeted region.
State Representative - District 28
Open Seat
Hamilton County
Connie Pillich was the Democratic candidate for the 28th Ohio House District, an area that includes the northern suburbs of Cincinnati. Connie is a general practice attorney representing families, small businesses and consumers. The 28th District was a tier-one pickup opportunity located in an emerging demographic targeted region. Connie's opponent, a three-term Republican, was appointed to a state office by the Governor and the Republicans have not yet indentified a replacement. This district was a must-win if Democrats are to have a shot at the four-seat pickup in the Ohio House. Connie actively canvassed from April on, knocking-on more than 2,000 doors. She was endorsed by many of our progressive allies in the state including IBEW, Ohio AFL-CIO and the Ohio Federation of Teachers. Connie was a first-rate candidate, a committed progressive, a tough campaigner, and won this race.
State Representative - District 42
Open Seat
Hudson, Cuyahoga Falls, Stow, Monroe Falls, Silver Lake Village
Mike Moran was the Democratic candidate for the 42nd House District. The incumbent Republican dropped out and this was an open seat. Mike is a former environmental attorney and the President of the Hudson City Council. Mike has a track-record and has proven appeal to independent and Republican voters by winning his council seat in Hudson, the most Republican part of the district. Despite his win in a Republican area, Mike has remained true to his progressive ideals. Mike was endorsed by numerous Progressive Majority-allied groups such as the Ohio Federation of Teachers, Ohio AFL-CIO, Akron Education Association, and the Summit County Progressive Democrats.
Commissioner of Public Lands
Peter Goldmark has owned and operated his family's Okanogan ranch for more than 30 years. In 2006, Peter ran for Congress. It was a surprisingly competitive race against an entrenched incumbent in WA-5, a very conservative congressional district. Progressive Majority, along with members of our Washington Advisory Council, helped recruit Peter into the race for Commissioner of Public Lands. The Lands Commissioner is Washington state's highest environmental office; the position oversees the state's Department of Natural Resources. The conservative incumbent commissioner, Doug Sutherland, had continuely expressed skepticism regarding the causes and potential impacts of global warming.
Mayor of Onalaska
Open Seat
Mike Giese served on the Onalaska City Council for six years before running for mayor unsuccessfully against a long-time incumbent. In his second attempt running for mayor in 2008, he was victorious by nine votes. Mike is a former owner of the Onalaska Community Life Newspaper, which he sold when he decided to seek public office. Mike made progressive issues, such as health care and the environment, the centerpiece of his campaign. With his election, now he can put those values into action.
State Assembly - District 42
Fred Clark challenged a three-term incumbent, Doc Hines for State Assembly District 42. Fred is a conservationist, consulting forester and small business owner. Fred was appointed by Republican Governor Thompson in 1998 to represent Columbia County on the Lower Wisconsin Riverway Board, and to the Wisconsin Council on Forestry by Democratic Governor Doyle in 2004. Fred was a founder of the Woodland School, a Baraboo-based educational program offering conservation training to private landowners, now in its 10th year. He was also a founding member of the Baraboo Range Preservation Association, a non-profit land trust serving Sauk and Columbia counties. As state Representative, Fred will be a strong conservation advocate and lead the fight for affordable health care and job growth.
State Assembly - District 68
Altoona, Eau Claire, Fall Creek
Kristen Dexter ran an aggressive, smart campaign for the 68th Assembly seat. Kristen was a star campaign volunteer for Pat Kreitlow, a Progressive Majority candidate elected to the state Senate in 2006. Kristen ran because she wants to bring needed change to Madison, holding state representatives accountable to the people rather than big business or special interests.
State Representative - District 40
Open Seat
Los Angeles, Northridge, Van Nuys
Bob was elected to the California Assembly, 40th District. For the past seven years Bob has been the District Director to Congressman Howard Berman. Bob is Chair of the Valley Anti-Defamation League, Vice Chair of the California Trust for Public Schools and a former board member of the Los Angeles League of Conservation Voters. Bob is a strong proponent of progressive issues in such key areas as education, healthcare, the environment and economic justice.
Los Angeles County Supervisor - District 2
Open Seat
California State Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas was elected to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, 2nd District, in the highest priority race for progressives in Los Angeles County in 2008. Mark ran against a formidable candidate, former chief of police and current Los Angeles City Councilman Bernard Parks. Although elected by a majority African American district, Parks has a conservative voting record when it comes to investing in communities. If Parks had won, Los Angeles County would have been controlled by a conservative majority at a time when county hospitals and emergency services in communities of color are facing closure. Mark has been a staunch supporter of progressive issues such as the establishment of school health centers, consumer protection, community reinvestment, jobs and workforce development.
Escondido City Council
Olga Diaz is a business owner, homeowner, mother of four, wife of an Escondido police lieutenant and an active member of the Escondido community. In 2002, she opened Blue Mug Coffee and Tea, a local progressive political hangout. Olga became incensed at the behavior of Escondido's government. In 2006, she challenged for a city council seat, but lost in the primary. Escondido has a 3-2 Republican edge in registration which makes this race difficult. Olga was endorsed by the San Diego Democratic Party and LCV. Progressive Majority began working with Olga in 2007; she received message development and a campaign plan from us. This race was difficult to win and it helped build a base in Escondido.
National City City Council
Alejandra Sotelo-Solis, 28, serves as the director of the Community Law Project at UC San Diego. She prepares undergraduate students for law school and careers in public policy. She is also the former district director for State Rep. Lori Saldana (AD79), who represents National City. In 2006, Solis ran for mayor of National City. She placed fourth, but emerged as a future leader. She brings a high level of energy to the often stagnant political debate in National City. Well versed on local issues, she has taken her previous election as a learning experience. Progressive Majority recruited her as she was deciding to run for council.
San Diego City Council - District 1
Open Seat
Sherri Lightner was elected to the 1st City Council District in San Diego. A community volunteer and leader, Sherri has served as president of both the La Jolla Town Council and the La Jolla Shores Association. An engineer by training, she is a recognized expert on land development law. Because of term limits, the 1st was an open seat. Sherri represents an opportunity for a progressive woman to make a difference in a historically moderate to conservative seat, allowing for a potential progressive majority.
San Diego Board of Education - Subdistrict A
John Lee Evans is a clinical psychologist and long-time progressive activist on education and social justice issues. He is defeated an incumbent Republican, Mitz Lee. John will provide a strong progressive voice on the school board for local control and improved opportunity for children in low-income and immigrant communities. John's win would created a progressive majority and a Democratic super majority.
San Diego Board of Education - Subdistrict D
Richard Barrera was elected to the San Diego School District in Nominating Subdistrict D. Richard is Latino and a union organizer with SEIU Local 399. Richard faced a difficult race in the general election against conservative incumbent Luis Acle, a former Reagan administration official who has openly expressed interest in higher office, but Acle failed to gather enough signatures to qualify for the ballot. This coup left Barrera unopposed for the general election. Barrera's victory created both a working progressive majority and a Democratic supermajority.
State Senate - District 16
Eagle, Summit & Lake counties
Dan Gibbs was appointed to Senate District 16 when Senate President Joan Fitz-Gerald resigned her seat to run for congress. This was an important seat for the senate to protect. Senate District 16 is a large district which encompasses both sides of the continental divide and goes from Jefferson/Boulder counties to Summit County. Progressive Majority successfully fielded Dan in 2006 when he ran for the House of Representatives. Dan is a 32 year-old former congressional staffer and forest firefighter. He is a champion on environmental issues around both renewable energies and the bark beetle. Dan ran against a businessman, who is relatively unknown, but pushed a very pro-business agenda.
State Senate - District 19
Open Seat
Arvada, Westminster
Evie Hudak was elected to Senate District 19. She is a retired educator who has spent the last 20 years working to build a stronger early education program in Colorado. She has twice been elected to the State Board of Education. District 19 was held by term-limited progressive Senator Sue Windels, who ran for Jefferson County Commissioner. Her opponent was Libby Szabo, a right-wing conservative. Evie is strong voice for children and will lead on educational issues. This was an important race for the State Senate and generated quite a bit of attention and resources from both candidates and their supporters.
State Representative - District 9
Open Seat
Southeast Denver
Joe Miklosi, former Progressive Majority Colorado State Director, was elected to State House District 9. The incumbent Democrat was a term-limited moderate who ran for higher office - State Senate. The district is located in Southeast Denver and is comprised of older, stable neighborhoods with a large Jewish population. Joe will bring passion, dedication and a progressive voice to all House District 9 residents. He secured the top line on the ballot through the caucus process, and was out walking and talking to voters every day.
State Representative - District 17
Open Seat
Western El Paso County
Dennis Apuan was a first-time candidate running for House District 17 in Western El Paso County. A member of the Asian-Pacific Islander community, he has a strong background in community organizing and brings a base of grass-roots support. His top issues are economic justice, development of renewable energy sources and affordable healthcare. District 17 is a unique district in that it encompasses a large military base. Dennis is a strong progressive and will be another voice for progressive issues in the Statehouse.
State Representative - District 36
Open Seat
Araphoe County
Su Ryden was a first-time candidate elected to House District 36 in Arapahoe County. Su is a business owner and community activist involved in the arts and historic preservation. House District 36 has had progressive representation for the last four years with Morgan Carroll, who ran for state Senate. Morgan is a strong progressive leader and Su's election will provide that continued progressive leadership. Su is a champion of economic opportunity, healthcare and transportation. She has been endorsed by several federal, state and local elected officials as well as by AFSCME, UTU, CEA and the AFL-CIO.
La Plata County Commissioner - District 3
Commissioner Wally White was re-elected to the La Plata County Commission. Wally is a long-time community activist and a llama farmer. Over the last 20 years he has served the La Plata County communities on a number of local planning commissions and boards. La Plata County is a largely rural county in southwest Colorado that includes the city of Durango. Wally is a champion of planning, water and oil and gas regulations issues, all of which are top priority in this rural county. He was endorsed by numerous community leaders. La Plata County has been a priority area for Progressive Majority, in 2006 we successfully fielded Joelle Riddle for La Plata County Commission. Wally's continued leadership is important in this corner of the state.
University of Colorado Board of Regent - District 7
Monisha Merchant is a 31 year-old runningwho was elected to the University of Colorado Board of Regents in Congressional District 7. She is a director of product management for Level 3 Communications and has a long history of political involvement, most recently in the Democratic presidential campaign. Monisha is a late addition to the ballot, replacing the original candidate who dropped out of the race. Her opponent is a Republican and current Chairperson of the Board of Regents. Monisha is dedicated to providing quality higher education to CU students, improving economic justice and opportunities within the university system and promoting the University of Colorado as a world-class research and development institution.
State Representative - District 16A
Sherburne, Mille Lacs, Benton and Morrison Counties
Gail Kulick Jackson is an attorney in Milaca, who was elected to the Minnesota State House in District 16A. Although Gail has been a candidate for the state House twice before (in 2004 and 2006), we actively recruited Gail to run again because of her strong progressive leadership in her community. The Republican was a six-term incumbent and was one of the most conservative members of the Minnesota House. Gail has been a progressive champion and will work to protect civil rights and expand vital investments in the state.
State Representative - District 38B
Mike Obermueller is an attorney from Eagan, and was elected the Minnesota House of Representatives in District 38B. Although Mike ran in 2006 (and lost by just 163 votes), we actively recruited him to run again, this time emphasizing his core, progressive values. We have worked with him to develop a comprehensive campaign plan, a detailed financial strategy and a progressive message. Eagan is the home of Republican Governor Tim Pawlenty, and has been trending Democratic over the past three election cycles. The Republican three-term incumbent was increasingly vulnerable as his voting record diverges from the needs of the district, especially on education and transportation. Mike ran to help rebuild the Minnesota miracle, to ensure the economic, educational and civic success of our state.
State Representative - District 41B
Open Seat
South Edina and western Bloomington
Paul Rosenthal is a historic building preservation specialist and was elected to House District 41B (southern Edina and western Bloomington). Paul is a passionate progressive inspired by another Paul - Paul Wellstone. He ran to bring those progressive values back to the state legislature. Paul ran against two-term incumbent Neil Peterson.
State Representative - District 49B
Open Seat
Coon Rapids
Jerry Newton is a long time local leader in Coon Rapids, in western Anoka County. He served as a school board member in the Anoka-Hennepin School District for more than a decade and is well-known throughout District 49B. He ran to return traditional progressive values to the legislature. The seat opened up when Republican Kathy Tinglestad voted to override Governor Pawlenty's veto and was immediately rejected by the GOP. She opted not to run, rather than run as an independent.
Hennepin County Board - District 6
Open Seat
Jan Callison is the Mayor of Minnetonka and was elected to the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners. Jan was a three-term at-large city councilmember before being elected mayor in 2006. She is an attorney by training, but is better known in her community as a councilmember and mayor. She earned the support of AFSCME, WomenWinning and has bipartisan support from elected officials in the 14 communities represented in her commission district. Jan's opponent was conservative John Cooney, former aide to Republican Congressman Jim Ramstad. Callison's November victory will be a major victory and will ensure that a second woman's voice will be added to the Board.
Cottage Grove City Council - At Large
Open Seat
Jen Peterson is a mother of five and was a first-time candidate for city council from Cottage Grove, Minnesota (Washington County). Peterson is a former union member and currently runs a nonprofit, ACES, which focuses on child support enforcement. Jen's involvement in her community runs deep. She serves on the Women's Consortium Board, was appointed to the City's Human Services/Human Rights Commission and has served on the Cottage Grove Comprehensive Planning Committee. Peterson will bring a sensible voice to the city council and a November victory would shift the Cottage Grove City Council to a progressive majority.
Hastings City Council - Ward 4
Danna Elling-Schultz is a DFL researcher in the Minnesota Senate and was re-elected to the City Council of Hastings. Danna has been a long-standing champion for public education funding and smart investment in suburban communities. She will continue to work against unfettered development and ensure fair and equal treatment of families in Hastings.
Rochester City Council - Ward 2
Michael Wojcik is a 31-year-old and was a first time candidate that was elected to Rochester City Council, Ward 2. Michael is an electrical engineer by training and currently works as an adjunct professor of finance at St. Mary's University. Michael also services as Chair of the Olmsted County Environmental Commission. Michael ran to bring responsible and ethical leadership to the Rochester City Council. Currently, the Rochester City Council is one of the most conservative in the state. A victory in this race will begin the shift towards a progressive majority. In this non-partisan race, Michael is one of five challengers to conservative incumbent Marcia Marcoux. Michael knocked on thousands of doors, and wasthe only candidate known to have been door-knocking. This investment in Rochester politics is an essential first step in one of the most important progressive targets in the state.
Winona City Council - At Large
Debbie White was a first-term at-large Winona City Council member (Southeastern MN) running who was re-elected in 2008. Debbie has recently finished her master's degree in business administration. She also brings leadership to the region as a co-chair of the Community Bridge Coalition to address a faulty bridge connecting Winona to Bluff Siding, WI. White's re-election to the Winona City Council was imperative in strengthening a progressive base in Southern Minnesota.
Minneapolis School Board - At Large
Open Seat
Carla Bates was a first-time candidate who was elected to the Minneapolis School Board. Carla is the first openly-GLBT person to serve on the Board. Carla is a mother of three children in Minneapolis public schools and currently works in information technology at the University of Minnesota. Carla successfully secured the Demoractic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) party endorsement with 80% of the vote this spring. She ran for one of three seats on the school board. She was endorsed by SEIU, Stonewall DFL, Regional Labor Union Council, Victory Fund and WomenWinning. The historic nature of Carla's candidacy and the fact that she has children in the public schools bodes well for her ability to drive a progressive agenda.
State Representative - District 20
Bexley, Whitehall, Gahanna, Minerva Park, New Albany, Huber Ridge
Nancy Garland was elected to the 20th State House District. Nancy is CEO of the Ohio Physical Therapy Association and former Director of Government Affairs for the American Physical Therapy Association in Washington, DC. She is also an adjunct professor at the Ohio State University teaching Health Policy. Nancy is a seasoned political professional who we recruited to run for this seat based on her experience and commitment to progressive values. Nancy's opponent was the incumbent Representative Jim McGregor, who narrowly won in 2006 by just over 350 votes. McGregor is a conservative member of the legislature who was increasingly out-of-touch with this suburban district. The Ohio Republican Party saw this seat as one of their priorities to protect in 2008, due to McGregor's conservative leanings and the closeness of the previous election. Nancy is a progressive champion with major league potential.
State Representative - District 73
Richland County
Rep. Jay Goyal was re-elected to the 73rd Ohio House District, an area that includes rural/exurban Richland County. Jay is a 27 year old freshman legislator, engineer and vice president of a manufacturing company. Jay was elected in 2006 by knocking on more than 12,000 doors and was the first Asian-American to serve in the Ohio General Assembly.The 73rd is a must-hold if Democrats are to take control of the Ohio House. He was endorsed by Ohio Education Association, Ohio Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO, IBEW, the Steelworkers and the Carpenters. Jay is a highly-regarded legislator, tireless campaigner and a candidate with pipeline potential. The example that he provides as a committed progressive legislator of color who wins in a Republican district made him the ideal endorsement for Progressive Majority.
State Representative - District 92
Open Seat
Athens, Meigs, Morgan and Washington Counties
Debbie and her committed volunteers knocked on thousands of doors. She also able to secure key early endorsements in the race including the Ohio Federation of Teachers, Ohio AFL-CIO, Ohio Education Association, International Brotherhood of Electoral Workers (Local 972) and Service Employees international Union (Local 1199).
Montgomery County Treasurer
Carolyn Rice was the incumbent Montgomery County Treasurer. She was appointed in 2007 to the Treasurer's seat and faced a strong Republican challenge for 2008. Montgomery County includes the city of Dayton and its surroundings, a swing county that has been trending Democratic over the past couple of cycles and has the potential to become a stronghold for progressives. Carolyn is a deeply committed progressive and considered a regional leader for the movement. Carolyn's opponent was Gary Ross, a conservative stockbroker from Dayton.
State Board of Education - District 6
Open Seat
Franklin County
Kristen McKinley was one of three candidates for the 6th State Board of Education District, an area that includes Franklin County in its entirety. Kristen is a labor and employment attorney for the Ohio Association of Public School Employees, an affiliate of AFSCME. The 6th is an urban and suburban district currently represented by Michael Cochran, another right-winger who snuck into the seat from a Democratic county. Kristen was endorsed by OAPSE, AFT, OEA, the Ohio AFL-CIO, and the Franklin County Democratic Party. Progressive Majority was part of a task force that included OFT, OEA, OAPSE/AFSCME, SEIU and the Governor's office that recruited Kristen.
State Board of Education - District 9
Open Seat
North Central Ohio
Mike Collins was elected to the State Board of Education District 9. He faced two opponents in a district that encompasses all or part of 19 counties. Mike is president of a marketing and media relations firm that specializes in the presentation of large community events. He has undergraduate and graduate degrees in education, and is a former president of the Westerville City School Board of Education. He is the president-elect of the Ohio School Boards Association, Central Region and serves on its Board of Trustees as well as several of its committees. Mike was endorsed by OFT, OEA, and OAPSE. The district is exurban, rural and has several small cities including Zanesville, Lancaster, Newmark and Athens. Progressive Majority was part of a task force that included OFT, OEA, OAPSE/AFSCME, SEIU and the Governor's office that recruited Michael. The district leans slightly Democratic.
State Senate - District 26
Open Seat
Delaware and Montgomery Counties
Daylin Leach was the State Representative for the 149th Legislative District and was elected this year to the 17th Senatorial Seat, which was held by moderate Democratic Sen. Connie Williams, who recently announced her retirement from public office. District 17 includes parts of Delaware and Montgomery counties. It is a critical 'must protect' seat for progressives in the conservative-controlled Senate. Born in Philadelphia, Daylin graduated from Temple University with a degree in political science and went on to the University of Houston Law Center and later taught constitutional law, legal ethics and First Amendment law at Cedar Crest and Muhlenberg colleges. He has been involved in progressive politics since childhood, volunteering on campaigns since age 12. He served as president of the Pennsylvania Young Democrats in the early 1990s and in 1993 he even co-hosted a weekly political TV debate show. First elected to the Assembly in 2002, Daylin serves on both the Judiciary and Policy committees and is Democratic secretary of the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee and the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee. He and his wife live in Upper Merion with their son and daughter.
State Representative - District 13
Open Seat
Atglen, East and West Nottingham, Elk, Franklin
Tom Houghton is an attorney who was elected to the 13th Legislative District, representing Chester County. Tom was elected to serve on the London Grove Board of Supervisors in 2001 and became chair in 2004. As chair, Tom has lowered property taxes by nearly 9%, preserved farmland, and passed an ordinance to obtain impact fees from developers to fund parkland. He also allowed for the expansion of Yeatman's Mother Earth Organic Mushrooms and Gourmet's Delight, a group that instituted industry best practices and eliminated harmful air byproducts. In 2006, Tom ran against the incumbent, now retiring, and received 47% of the vote.
State Representative - District 70
Montgomery County
Matt Bradford is running for the 70th House District in Montgomery County, which includes East Norriton, Worcester, Towamencin, Lower Salford and Skippack. We have been working with Matt on strategy, message and fundraising, in order to ramp up his campaign. The district is a likely pick-up based on the fact that the Republican registration edge has been cut. Matt's opponent is Jay Moyer, a one-term incumbent with strong ties to conservative Gov. Tom Ridge's administration. Matt makes a strong case for sound economic development and equitable allocation of state dollars to support education initiatives in his districts' public schools. Matt has been an outspoken champion for quality public education as solicitor for the Norristown School Board, and he has a pro-labor track-record as solicitor for the Norristown Municipal Authority. He is also a former Chief-of-Staff to one of our most ardent progressive champions and 2007 farm-team member, former Congressman and current County Commissioner, Hon. Joe Hoeffel. Matt has strong ties to labor and is a past member of the United Steel Workers Union. Matt is personally committed to an aggressive door-to-door direct-voter-contact-program starting now and continuing thorough Election Day. He has been endorsed by the Montgomery County Democratic Committee. In order to expand the one-seat Democratic majority in the State House, we have targeted critical pick-up districts where progressive candidates are likely to win. The 70th State House District fits the criterion.
State Representative - District 156
West Chester, East and West Goshen and two southern precincts in East Bradford
Barbara McIlvaine Smith was re-elected to the 156th Legislative District, Chester County. Barbara is a lifelong resident of Chester County whose family roots date back to 1683. Barbara is an enrolled member of the federally recognized Sac and Fox Nation of Oklahoma. In 2001, she was elected to the West Chester Borough Council and served as the vice president from 2004-2006. Barbara is a member of American Association of University Women; Sierra Club; League of Women Voters; National Association for the Advancement of Colored People; National Organization for Women; and The National Women's Political Caucus. Barbara is the first Democrat in 30 years to hold the 156th legislative seat, and we helped her build on her historic 2006 win.
State Representative - District 179
Philadelphia neighborhoods of Frankford, Hunting Park; Parts of Olney, Feltonville and Oxford Circle
Tony Payton Jr. won reelection in the 179th Legislative District, representing Philadelphia County. The 179th District is one of the poorest in the state, and African Americans and Latinos make up a majority population. Since his election to the General Assembly in 2006, Tony has been at the forefront of education reform in Pennsylvania. He introduced legislation to create the Pennsylvania Youth Commission and authored the REACH scholarship initiative. The REACH Scholarship would provide free tuition and fees to students in the State University System who maintain a 3.0 grade point average and a 90 percent attendance record. In 2007, Tony received the Philadelphia Tribune Leadership Award as one of the city's most influential African-Americans.
State Representative - District 182
Philadelphia neighborhoods of Center City, Logan Square; Parts of Bellavista and Grays Ferry
Babette Josephs won re-election to the 182nd Legislative District, Philadelphia County. She is a senior Democratic legislator and serves as the Chair of the House State Government Committee, which will oversee re-districting in 2010. Babette is dedicated to civil liberties and is responsible for a number of laws and pieces of legislation, including hate crimes protection for against crimes based on sexual orientation. Babette authored the law that guarantees confidentiality of HIV records. She also helped pass a law providing for automatic recounts in close state election races, and has been at the forefront fighting against those who seek to limit first amendment rights. Her current efforts are aimed at increasing state funding for public libraries and the arts. Babette is working to secure adequate and permanent funding for public transit, improved access to health care for low income working adults, increase the minimum wage and to end discrimination against gay, lesbian and transgendered individuals in health care, housing and employment.
State Senate - District 40
Open Seat
Anacortes, Mount Vernon, Bellingham, San Juan Islands
When Sen. Harriet Spanel announced her retirement from the Senate this spring, we recruited Kevin Ranker, a San Juan County Commissioner and former United Food and Commercial Workers member. Kevin is a passionate environmentalist who has worked tirelessly to protect ocean habitats in his work with the Ocean Foundation, Surfrider Foundation, Ocean Wilderness Network, and Friends of the San Juans. Kevin lined endorsements, including the Washington Conservation Voters, NARAL Pro-choice Washington, SEIU 925 and 775, and Kevin was the official nominee of the 40th Legislative District Democrats.
State Representative - District 6
John Driscoll is a first-time candidate, but long-time community advocate in Spokane. John works for the Spokane County Medical Society Foundation as the Executive Director of Project Access, providing universal, on-demand health care access for underserved people in Spokane County. John asked Progressive Majority for support after hearing of the work we did in 2006 on behalf of his future seat-mates, Sen. Chris Marr and Rep. Don Barlow. John's opponent, conservative incumbent John Ahern, is the sole Republican representing the 6th LD in the legislature. Ahern is extremely conservative, even asking during a committee hearing on domestic partnership legislation if 'we have a Gestapo situation' to prevent people from entering into domestic partnerships with their dogs. John is racking up the local and allied support necessary to win this race, including key endorsements from the Washington State Labor Council and Sen. Lisa Brown.
State Representative - District 21
Mukilteo, Lynnwood, Edmonds
Marko Liias ran his first election to his appointed seat in the House of Representatives, 21st Legislative District. Marko was raised in Everett. He studied international politics at Georgetown University, and is currently seeking a graduate degree at the University of Washington. For four years, Marko operated as a small green builder, constructing homes in South Snohomish County. His business experience and commitment to building a better community were what propelled him into public service. We met Marko at Camp Wellstone in 2005, and successfully fielded him in a race for the Mukilteo City Council.
State Representative - District 26
Gig Harbor, Bremerton, Port Orchard
A US Navy warship captain and Pentagon strategist, Larry launched a second career helping citizens and political leaders strengthen their communities by pioneering new methods of peace-building and conflict prevention in the Middle East, Central and South Asia, and Latin America. For the past several years Larry has also worked as a writer and lecturer, contributing opinion pieces to the Christian Science Monitor and other newspapers. We helped Larry win his 2006 race for the Washington State House, 26th Legislative District, and this year he was one of the Republicans' top targets. In his first term in the state legislature, Larry introduced numerous pieces of progressive legislation, several of which encourage development of a renewable energy industry and increased access to health care.
State Representative - District 33
Open Seat
Seatac, Normandy Park, Kent, Des Moines
While at Take Back America this spring, we got word that long-time Democratic incumbent Rep. Shay Schual-Berke was retiring from the Legislature, and we immediately got in touch with farm team member Tina Orwall. Tina is a career social worker, affordable housing advocate, and Chair of the 33rd District Democrats who has proven to be a tremendous campaigner in her first run for public office. Even with a strong primary opponent, Tina secured endorsements from numerous elected officials, the Washington Education Association, Washington State Labor Council, Washington Conservation Voters, and earned the nomination of the 33rd District Democrats. As co-chair of the King County Legislative Action Committee, Tina has spent time in Olympia advocating for progressive legislation such as improved access to health care, increased pay for teachers, and the Washington climate action bill. As a member of the Washington State House of Representatives, Tina will be a progressive policy leader.
State Representative - District 49
Open Seat
We met Jim Jacks at the Young Democrats Convention earlier this year, and recognized him as Progressive Majority material and put him into the farm team. Jim, 38, is the former SW Washington liaison for Gov. Gregoire, and was elected to replace retiring moderate Rep. Bill Fromhold in the 49th Legislative District in Vancouver. In addition to working for the Governor, Jim has served as a citizen advocate for the City of Vancouver and as a staff member of the Environmental Federation of Oregon and the National Pollution Prevention Roundtable. Jim was a first-time candidate, and he has been thankful for the fundraising and field advice we shared with him. This was an excellent opportunity to support a young candidate in SW Washington, the fastest growing suburban region of the state. Jim will be a progressive leader in the legislature, particularly in protecting the environment and advocating for smart growth.
Kitsap County Commission - District 2
Open Seat
Kitsap County Commission District #2 is a targeted race for Progressive Majority. In 2007, we met with Charlotte Garrido, a former Kitsap County Commissioner, to gauge her interest and viability. Charlotte has been incredibly active in her community, as a former elected official, volunteer with Kitsap Sustainable Energy and Economic Development, YWCA domestic violence program director, and most recently as the Higher Education Planner for Washington State University. In that role, Charlotte was instrumental in bringing Kitsap County its first 4-year university. Charlotte's deep community ties and past electoral success led us to encourage her candidacy. We provided Charlotte with media training, issue research, voter targeting, and fundraising support.
Thurston County Commissioner - District 2
Open Seat
Sandra Romero was elected to an open seat on the Thurston County Commission. Sandra spent 12 years in the Washington State Legislature representing the area around Washington's capital city, Olympia. There, she was a leader on progressive issues like reproductive choice, healthcare and the environment. In the Legislature, she chaired the House Local Government and State Government Committees. Before her election to the State House, she served as a Democratic Caucus staffer and was a member of the Washington Federation of State Employees, Local 443. Most recently, Sandra worked in Pakistan teaching democratic methods of government. When a seat became open on the Thurston County Commission, Sandra called Progressive Majority. Thurston County is experiencing environmental growing pains as its population rapidly expands and, as a County Commissioner, Sandra will be dedicated to smart growth policies that will protect the region's diverse natural ecosystems.
State Senate - District 12
Open Seat
Rhinelander, Tomahawk and Crandon
Jim Holperin was elected to an open seat in rural northeastern Wisconsin. The unexpected Democratic retirement this year left this an open seat. Jim represented an Assembly district within this Senate district for 12 years from 1983 - 1994. He spent four years as the Secretary of the Department of Tourism and currently is employed as the business services director for the Workforce Development Board of North Central Wisconsin. Jim kept this seat in Democratic hands and kept a progressive majority in the Senate.
State Senate - District 22
State Senator Robert Wirch is on his 5th term in the Senate, representing District 22, which includes Kenosha and the surrounding communities. Earlier in his career, he served two terms as a state Representative. Prior to his election Bob was a factory worker and union steelworker and served on the Kenosha County Board of Supervisors. Bob has been a top advocate for working families during his time in the legislature. He authored legislation to prevent companies that receive state contracts from sending Wisconsin jobs overseas and defended workers in Wisconsin from Scott Walker's attacks. He defeated a Repbulican led recall in 2011 and was successful in his reelection bid in 2012.
State Senate - District 30
State Senator Dave Hansen has served three terms in the legislature, representing District 30, which includes Green Bay and surrounding communities. Prior to his election, Dave worked for Green Bay's Department of Public Works as a truck driver and was a Teamsters union steward. He also served on the Brown County Board from 1996-2002. Dave authored the pay equity legislation that requires businesses to pay women the same as men for the same work and led the fight to protect our natural resources by voting to reduce mercury pollution, preserve our wetlands, and prevent the diversion of water from the Great Lakes to other states.
State Assembly - District 2
Manitowoc and Brown Counties
Ted Zigmunt was elected to the State Assembly. He challenged seven-term ultra-conservative incumbent Frank Lasee in rural Manitowoc and Brown counties. The incumbent has gained national attention for outlandish proposals such as permitting teachers to carry handguns in schools and cutting all state funding to UW Law School because lawyers are a ''plague of locusts.'' But the real reason the incumbent was vulnerable is because voters in his district are struggling to make ends meet and he has only exasperated the problem with his votes in favor of big business over workers and big oil over consumers. Ted's lead issue is economic justice; he is committed to putting working families first. He is a Manitowoc County Board Supervisor and President of the Village of Francis Creek.
State Assembly - District 8
South Milwaukee
State Representative Pedro Colon is one of only two Assembly Democrats serving on the powerful Joint Finance Committee and he has represented Milwaukee's south side in Assembly District 8 since 1998. A native of Puerto Rico, Pedro is the first and only Latino state legislator in Wisconsin. This September he defeated two Democratic opponents in a primary election. Pedro has been a progressive champion in the Assembly, particularly in the areas of economic justice and civil rights.
State Assembly - District 22
Open Seat
Fox Point, River Hills, Glendale, Whitefish Bay, Shorewood
Sandy Pasch is running in an open seat vacated by Democrat Sheldon Wasserman, who is running for the State Senate to challenge conservative Alberta Darling. The 22nd is a seat that Democrats must protect. Sandy Pasch entered the race early and has been campaigning aggressively. Sandy has attended Camp Wellstone and secured the endorsement of the Inspector of the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Department, the Milwaukee District Attorney, and many prominent progressive activists. Sandy is a registered nurse and 21-year resident of the 22nd district. She is married and has rasied three grown children. As a second job, Sandy teaches ethics, mental health, and community nursing at Columbia School of Nursing. She also serves on numerous community boards and works with the Milwaukee Police Department conducting training on how to effectively deal with people living with mental illness.
State Assembly - District 28
Balsam Lake
State Representative Ann Hraychuck was first elected to represent District 28 in northwestern Wisconsin along the Minnesota border in the state Assembly in 2006, defeating a four-term incumbent. Prior to her election, she served in law enforcement for 32 years, including as Polk County Sheriff, and at the time was one of only two female sheriffs in the state. In 1991, she was the recipient of a Medal of Valor for rendering aid to a fellow officer who had been shot. In 2006, we worked closely with Ann on her message development, fundraising and campaign strategy. During her first term in office Ann has worked to preserve our natural resources and has authored legislation to allow small business owners and their employees to be covered under the state health insurance plan.
State Assembly - District 37
Fort Atkinson
State Representative Andy Jorgensen was elected to the State Assembly, District 37 in 2006, winning an open seat held for seven terms by a Republican. Prior to his election, Andy was a UAW member and steward working on the assembly line at the General Motors plant. He also had a successful radio career as WFAW's popular morning radio personality, 'Andy Arbuckle'. He has been a Cub Scout den leader, a Sunday school teacher at his family's church, and a classroom aide at his children's school. In 2006, we worked closely with Andy, endorsing him in the primary and providing assistance on his message development, fundraising and campaign strategy. As State Representative, Andy has been a tireless advocate for farm families and also authored consumer protection legislation that would require payday lenders to disclose the total amount of fees and interest rates associated with their loans.
State Assembly - District 43
State Representative Kim Hixson was elected to the State Assembly, 43rd District, defeating a two term incumbent. Prior to his election, he was a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (an AFT member) and had a long history of community involvement including serving on the Whitewater Common Council for four years and as its President from 2005 to 2006, coaching youth basketball and soccer, and serving as a Boy Scout Pack Master. In 2006, we worked closely with Kim on his message development, fundraising and campaign strategy. As State Representative Kim has worked with members of both parties to save Wisconsin's prescription drug program for senior citizens and has fought to bring more jobs to his district. The former State Representative whom he defeated in 2006, Debi Towns, ran again for the seat this November.
State Assembly - District 49
State Representative Phil Garthwaite was first elected to represent District 49 in the State Assembly in 2006, defeating a three-term incumbent. Phil was the first Democrat to hold the seat since 1913. He was the fifth generation to be raised on the family farm, and prior to his election he was a farm radio director and broadcaster for local radio stations. In 2006, we worked closely with Phil on his message development, fundraising and campaign strategy. During his first term in office Phil fought for the rights of workers over big corporations and authored legislation to ensure that employees could collect unpaid wages when their company goes bankrupt before banks and credit companies can collect money owed to them.
State Assembly - District 51
State Representative Steve Hilgenberg was elected to represent District 51 in the State Assembly in 2006, defeating an eight-term Republican incumbent. The U.S. Army veteran and former small business owner had a long history of community involvement prior to his election to the Assembly. He served on the Dodgeville School Board for seven years and was a community representative to the Head Start Policy Council for three years. He was also a volunteer coach for the Dodgeville High School softball team for 10 years and a basketball referee for more than 20 years. During his first term in office, Steve has worked to address the health care crisis in Wisconsin and authored the Veterans Interim Health Care Bill, which would create a health care insurance program for veterans who do not qualify for any state or federal VA programs and who do not have access to employer-based insurance.
State Assembly - District 54
With Progressive Majority's help, State Rep. Gordon Hintz was first elected to the Assembly in 2006. He was the first Democrat elected to this seat in 24 years. Since his election, Gordon has been a lead advocate for higher education funding and campaign finance reform. Gordon was one of only nine legislators given the highest distinction, ''Democracy Defender'' by the non-partisan Wisconsin Democracy Campaign for his work in promoting clean and open government.
State Assembly - District 73
Open Seat
Superior City
Superior City Councilor Nick Milroy was elected to an open seat being vacated by 11-term Democrat Frank Boyle in Assembly District 73. The outgoing incumbent and Nick approached Progressive Majority for support and advice soon after filing papers. Nick is a 34 year-old fisheries biologist who was awarded the Southwest Asia Service Medal and a Letter of Commendation for his service in the Navy. Nick serves as an international representative to the Lake Superior Binational Forum, a partnership of government, industry, universities, native organizations, and environmental groups from both Canada and the U.S. dedicated to the restoration and protection of the Lake Superior Basin. Nick faced two opponents in the Democratic primary in September and then an Independent in the general election. Progressive Majority was in contact with Nick's campaign regularly, receiving updates on benchmarks and providing strategic advice.
State Assembly - District 88
Green Bay
State Representative Jim Soletski was elected to the State Assembly, District 88 in 2006, defeating a three-term incumbent. Jim was born and raised in the Green Bay area and worked in the electrical power industry for more than 33 years before running for office. He is also active with JOSHUA, a faith-based social justice group. In 2006, we worked closely with Jim, endorsing him in the primary, and providing assistance on his message development, fundraising and campaign strategy. This November he faced Tony Theisen, a long-time Green Bay City Alderman and Brown County Supervisor. During his first term in office, Jim worked to expand access to higher education and authored legislation to extend tuition remission for children of fallen firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical staff and correctional officers.
State Assembly - District 91
Open Seat
Buffalo, Jackson, Pepin, Pierce and Trempealeau Counties
Chris Danou was elected to the State Assembly in an open seat recently vacated by a thirteen-term incumbent Democrat. Chris won a six-way partisan primary and faced a well funded conservative opponent. Chris is a police officer in the City of Onalaska and is President of the Onalaska Professional Police Association and member of the County Emergency Response Team (SWAT). In addition to his law enforcement training, Chris has dual Masters Degrees in International Affairs and Wildlife Biology. One of his core issues is the American Jobs Act - giving state contract preference to companies that don't send jobs overseas.
State Assembly - District 92
Open Seat
Monroe and Jackson Counties
Mark Radcliffe was elected to the State Assembly in an open seat recently vacated by an 11-term incumbent Republican. Mark is a life-long resident of Black River Falls and a first time candidate. Mark is a lawyer in private practice and has worked to provide free legal service for local organizations, such as the shelter for battered women and the Boys and Girls Club. One of Mark's core issues is equal pay for equal work. Mark faced a tough battle against a well-funded conservative who is a former Juneau District Attorney.
State Assembly - District 93
Eau Claire
With the help of Progressive Majority, State Rep. Jeff Smith was first elected in 2006, when he defeated a six-term incumbent. A small business owner, Jeff runs the oldest locally owned family business in Eau Claire, Bob Smith Window Cleaning. He has served as chair of the town of Brunswick for the last six years. Jeff also founded the Eau Claire Area School District's parent advisory committee, Parents Advocating on Behalf of Children. In 2006 we worked closely with Jeff on his message development, fundraising and campaign strategy. During his first term in office Jeff authored a bill to close corporate tax loop holes and invest that money in a renewable energy grant and loan program and technical college student grants.
Brown County Board - District 1
Adam has been a member of our farm team since late 2005, and was first successfully fielded by Progressive Majority to the Brown County Board in 2006. At 25 years old, Adam is currently the youngest member of the board. He is an organizer for the League of Conservation Voters, a partner organization and member of our Advisory Council. Adam is a great champion for progressive values.
Brown County Board - District 5
Jack is a retired AFSCME member who has been a leader on the Brown County Board, especially in the area of protecting workers and fair labor practices. After the 2006 election, Jack was one vote shy of becoming the Brown County Board Chairman, and has since worked tirelessly to recruit and help elect progressive candidates. Our work in 2008 has been tied closely to working with Jack and other progressive partners in Brown County. Four years ago, there was much doubt that progressives could make inroads into this historically conservative part of the state. Jack has been instrumental in helping shift that perception.
Brown County Board - District 15
Open Seat
Carole Andrews has an extensive policy background and has worked on Democratic campaigns in Green Bay and Brown County for several election cycles. We know she will make a great addition to the Board.
Kenosha County Board - District 5
Open Seat
Rob Zerban was elected a Kenosha County Supervisor in April of 2008. Rob is an enterpreneur who has started several food service companies in Illinois. He was recruited by our Kenosha County Task Force in July 2007 to run for this seat.
Kenosha County Board - District 20
When Jennifer Jackson was elected to the Kenosha County Board, she was the most outspoken progressive, and the lone progressive woman. In 2008, she led our recruitment task force and worked with us to recruit new candidates to Kenosha local elected positions. Jenn is a stay-at-home mom and a leader in the environmental community.
La Crosse County Board - District 13
Open Seat
Bill Brockmiller was a first-time candidate when he won his seat on the La Crosse County Board in 2008. Bill is active in his union as a Labor Market Analyst for AFSCME and a member of the bargaining unit.
La Crosse County Board - District 15
Beverly Mach was recruited to run for the La Crosse County Board by our regional task force in Spring of 2008, and she emerged victorious. Beverly has lived in her district for more than 39 years and has strong ties to the community. Prior to her retirement, Beverly was a career advisor at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
La Crosse County Board - District 18
Tara Johnson was recruited to the Progressive Majority Farm Team in the fall of 2007. She is currently serving her fifth term on the La Crosse County Board. Tara is the former executive director of United Way and currently a stay-at-home mom. On the La Crosse County Board, she is the chair of Health and Human Services Committee and Second Vice-Chair of the board. Tara is well respected and admired for her ability to fight for progressive values while building consensus among her peers.
Milwaukee County Board - District 4
Marina was first elected in 2004 as the youngest-ever person (then 22) elected to the Milwaukee County Board. In her first two terms as Supervisor, she held over 50 town hall meetings, served on more than 30 community organizations and worked to promote progressive legislation including a GreenPrint Plan that she authored and passed in 2007. Marina is a rising star in Milwaukee politics and is committed to building a movement of young progressives.
Milwaukee County Board - District 14
Open Seat
Chris Larson was recruited by Progressive Majority to run for a then-open seat on the Milwaukee County Board in 2008. He is committed to protecting the county parks and fixing the public transit system and will be an important voice on the Milwaukee County Board.
Racine County Board - District 6
Diane Lange is active in the Racine women's progressive movement, is an SEIU member working as a public nurse and a vocal challenger to conservative mismanagement in her county government. Diane is an active community member, serving on the Board of Directors for Youth Connections, a member of the Hispanic Roundtable, and State Board Member for her SEIU Local.
Racine County Board - District 15
Ken Hall has been a member of our farm team since 2005 and was first elected to the Racine County Board in 2006. Since then, he has been working to recruit and train other progressive candidates for various local offices in his community. Ken and his wife, Debra, are building a progressive movement in Racine; Debra chairs the newly formed Racine Progressive Women's Network, a group of 200 women working for political accountability and positive change in southeastern Wisconsin. Ken has a history of community service and activism and has been strongly supported by labor.
Rock County Board - District 29
Katie Kuznacic is an elected member of the Rock County Board. She works as a legislative assistant to progressive Assembly Representative Michael Sheridan and specializes in constituent relationships. Katie is supported by United Auto Workers and the local Labor Council.
Green Bay City Council - District 7
Celestine is currently one of Wisconsin's rising political stars. She was elected to the Green Bay City Council and is currently the only woman and only person of color on the council. Progressive Majority recruited her in 2006, when she successfully won her first election. In her first term as Councilwoman, Celestine stood for the separation of church and state against a controversial ordinance that allowed a nativity scene to be placed a top City Hall. We need more progressive champions like Celestine in Green Bay and all across Wisconsin.
Kenosha City Council - District 15
Michael is a lifelong Kenosha resident whose election to the Kenosha City Council was his first race. Michael and his wife have two small children and are active members of the community. Both he and his wife are teachers in the Kenosha public schools - Michael teaches history and is very active in the local teachers' union, as well as Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC), the Wisconsin chapter of the NEA. Michael is a great elected official and we see him as a rising star in the progressive movement.
Kenosha City Council - District 10
Open Seat
We first met Anthony Kennedy in January 2007, and convinced him to run for local office. As a community member, Anthony has been involved with the NAACP, the local Democratic Party, and is a former AFSCME member and campaign manager for other local candidates. In 2008, Anthony successfully won a seat on the Kenosha City Council.
Kenosha Unified School Board - At Large
Gilbert Ostman is a member of the Kenosha School Board. He has been a leader and teacher in the Kenosha School District for more than 30 years. He retired from teaching social studies and driver's education in 1999. In addition to his many hours in the classroom, Gilbert has worked in the community. He has coached soccer, served on the Mayor's Youth Commission, helped found the Youth Memorial in one of Kenosha's parks, and is a lifetime member of the NEA and KEA (Kenosha Education Association). His knowledge and experience with issues important to both educators and students makes him a critical member of the school board.
Racine School Board - At Large
Pam Handrow was a founding member of the Racine Women's Progressive Network and has been an agent of change in Racine County for years. Currently Pam teaches adult education and labor law. Pam started her professional career as a social worker, which later prompted her to attend law school. She also has a master's degree in library science. Pam has assisted countless children and families in attaining important social services and has worked as a mediator. Her education and her life experience instilled in her a deep dedication to improving the lives of children.
Racine School Board - At Large
Melvin Hargrove was first appointed to serve on the Racine School Board in December 2007, and won his first election to the post in 2008. A lifelong resident of Racine and founding pastor of Zoe Outreach Ministries, Melvin sees first-hand how education is critical to the Racine community. Melvin plans to improve area schools by working with state legislators to address Wisconsin's school funding crisis. Melvin is the only African American serving on the Racine School Board.
Racine School Board - At Large
Dennis Wiser is a retired math teacher from Case High School, where he spent over 30 years in the classroom and working for the teachers' union. We recruited Dennis to run through our network of women in the Racine Women's Progressive Network, and he won election to the School Board in April, 2008.
Maplewood City Council
Jim Llanas is a 41 year old software salesperson from Maplewood, MN that was elected to the Maplewood City Council, At Large. Building on our work in Maplewood in 2007, we helped elect another progressive to the council and extended our majority. Jim ran to ''put residents first'' and he's actively working to reinstate the Maplewood Human Rights Commission, which was eliminated during the conservative majority's tenure. Jim did an outstanding job bringing his message to the voters of Maplewood and Progressive Majority was excited to help him in his campaign.
Minnetonka City Council
Amber Greves is a 34 year old speech pathologist in the Minnetonka schools (and a member of the Minnetonka Teachers Association). Earlier in 2009, Amber was appointed to fill an open at-large seat to the Minnetonka City Council, the seat for which she won election to in November. She was running to ensure responsible governing in the city council and to make sure that women are represented on the city council. Minnetonka is a key swing suburb and Amber's election held the progressive majority on the council (her opponent was a staunch conservative looking to flip the majority).
St. Louis Park City Council - Ward 4
Open Seat
Julia Ross is a 49 year old administrative assistant and AFSCME Council 5 member that was elected to the St. Louis Park City Council, Ward 4. Julia ran to bring dynamic leadership to the city council, and to ensure that all voices in the community are heard. She actively doorknocked with a message of progressive change.
Edina School Board
Open Seat
Lonni Skrentner is a 63 year old first time candidate from Edina, MN elected to the Edina School Board At Large. Lonni is a retired teacher and a lifelong advocate for kids and schools in Edina. She is a member of Education Minnesota and is extremely well known in her community. She ran to strengthen the Edina public schools and brings with her a strong commitment to public education. Lonni's leadership and vision will prove invaluable to ensuring the long term strength of Edina's public schools.
Fairview Park City Council - Ward 5
Michael Kilbane currently serves as the Fairview Park City Council President and was reelected. He and his wife Lynn have three children and have lived in Fairview Park for thirteen years. Mike is an ironworker with the Cuyahoga County Engineer's office and a proud member of Ironworkers Local 17 and a delegate to the Cleveland AFL-CIO. Michael is working hard to promote fair economic development to ensure that all residents have an opportunity to succeed.
Lorain City Council - Ward 6
Greg Holcomb is a 26 year old currently serving his second term on the Lorain City Council and was reelected. He is a life long resident of Lorain and is very active in the community. In addition to serving on the city council, Greg is also a member of the Black River Historical Society, South Lorain Community Development Corporation, St. Johns Church, Lorain City Council Recreation Task Force and is co-advisor of the Lorain Southview High School Model United Nations.
Bethlehem Area School Board - Region 1
Open Seat
Aurea Ortiz is a 47-year old counselor for at-risk youth in Bethlehem, where she runs the Alcohol and Drug Abuse youth program. Bethlehem, known worldwide for the now closed Bethlehem Steel Works, is located in the Lehigh Valley northeast of Allentown. Although part of the area has a high Democratic performance, the region is highly swing and routinely votes for whomever wins the statewide elections, and the county board has a narrow 5-4 Democratic majority. Bethlehem is an area that is becoming highly Latino/a, yet like most areas the elected officials haven't kept up with that diversity - there were no Latino/a representatives on the board. She ran for the Bethlehem Area School Board to unite all sections of the community, regardless of race, gender or religion, to come together to help all of the community achieve a quality education. She won election in one of three new district seats created as the result of a federal voting rights act lawsuit in 2008. The lawsuit produced a total of six new at-large seats and three district seats. We recruited Aurea to run for office with the assistance of several Latino organizations. The election of Aurea has established a Latino presence on board in this city with a 30% population of people of color.
Pierce County Auditor
Julie Anderson is well known to progressives in Pierce County and Washington. Julie was a two term member of Tacoma City Council member and previously was the executive director of the YWCA of Pierce County and political strategist of Planned Parenthood Votes! Washington. Prior to this campaign, Julie was with the Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development as a senior policy advisor. As auditor, Julie will oversee the elections office of Washington's second most populous county and has a goal to increase voter participation and make ballot access easier for school districts for bonds and levies.
Whatcom County Council
Open Seat
Ken Mann was elected to the non-partisan Whatcom County Council. He is a property manager and historic building re-developer in Whatcom County and a local talk radio host. Ken is currently chairman of the Whatcom Planning Commission and is involved with the Downtown Renaissance Network & City Club. Ken ran two years ago against a conservative incumbent, Sam Crawford, losing by less than 1,000 votes in a district that George W. Bush received over 60 percent in! This year, Ken was elelcted to an open seat being vacated by progressive Councilmember Laurie Caskey-Schreiber.
Major of Tacoma
Open Seat
Marilyn Strickland, whom we recruited and successfully fielded in 2007 for Tacoma City Council, was elected mayor of Tacoma. The seat was vacated by the incumbent due to term limits. Born in Seoul, South Korea, Marilyn's parents moved to Tacoma when her father was stationed at Fort Lewis a little over 40 years ago. A graduate of the University of Washington, Marilyn earned an MBA from Clark-Atlanta University and is the Interim Director of Marketing & Communications for Bates Technical College. She has worked in both public and private sectors, holding marketing positions with the American Cancer Society and Starbucks, and has an extensive list of non-profit boards she was served on. She is the first woman of color to be elected mayor of a major city in the state.
Burien City Council
Open Seat
Brian Bennett was elected to the Burien City Council. Brian, who has worked in the legislature and on the campaign trail for several progressive Democrats, was referred to us from about half of our South King County farm team! Brian is corporate counsel for F5 Networks, but also represents numerous clients on a pro bono basis through the Northwest Immigrant's Rights Project and other nonprofits. A passionate environmentalist, Brian has served as editor of the New York University Environmental Law Journal, president of the Animal Legal Defense Fund and worked at an environmental non-profit in Ukraine. Brian is a native of the Highline area (where Burien incorporated) and has lived there for five years with his wife, Oksana, and their daughter. Brian is a true progressive, and is eager to serve on the Burien City Council to ensure that all citizens have equal access and opportunity, particularly as it pertains to public access of shorelines, recreation opportunities and services.
Duvall City Council
Amy Ockerlander was a first time candidate, but she has packed a lot of progressive experience into her 31 years. Currently vice chair of the Duvall Planning Commission, Amy is an executive analyst for Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon. She previously worked in the legislature for Rep. Larry Springer and managed Rep. Springer's campaign. Additionally, Amy is on the NARAL Pro-Choice Washington Board of Directors and chair of the PAC. A native of Washington, Amy has lived in Duvall with her husband Brady for eight years. . As a city council member, Amy will push for smart growth in an area that is a growing bedroom community for Seattle, Everett and the Eastside.
Edmonds City Council
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas was elected to the non-partisan Edmonds City Council. She is an executive boardmember of the Washington Federation of State Employees, an affiliate of AFSCME. This year, Adrienne will be retiring from Fircrest, a Washington State Residential Habilitation Center (RHC) for the developmentally disabled, located just north of Seattle. Fircrest offers habilitation services to its permanent residents, and is able to offer various licensed professional services to developmentally disabled clients who are served in community settings. She is married and has one son, Dominic, who has Down's Syndrome. Adrienne is a Democratic Precinct Committee Officer and won her bid for the Edmonds City Council against the most conservative member, City Councilmember Ron Wambolt.
Edmonds City Council
Strom Peterson was elected to keep his seat on the non-partisan Edmonds City Council. Strom was appointed earlier this year filling the vacancy of a moderate Democrat. Since taking office, Strom has been a strong progressive council member, particularly on environmental issues, leading to his early endorsement from the Washington Conservation Voters, an Advisory Council Member. Strom and his wife, Maria, have been married for 15 years and moved to Edmonds in 2001. Strom and Maria own Olives Cafe and Wine Bar and Resident Cheesemonger in Downtown Edmonds. Strom became Vice President of the Downtown Edmonds Merchants Association in 2003 and President in 2004. In 2004, he was also appointed to the Board of the Greater Edmonds Chamber of Commerce. Maria is also the Executive Director of a charitable foundation that provides scholarships and grants to military families. Strom was recruited and fielded by Progressive Majority two years ago and lost by only 131 votes. Strom is one of the three progressives on the 7 person council, and protecting his seat can help lead to getting a progressive majority on the City Council in the future.
Tukwila City Council - Position 7
De'Sean was appointed to the non-partisan Tukwila City Council in 2008 after losing a close race for Tukwila City Council in 2007, for which Progressive Majority recruited him. A Morehouse graduate, De'Sean represents a new generation of up-and-comers in the African-American community. His entry into politics began in 2001 with the management of Richard McIver's re-election campaign to Seattle City Council. He recently served as King County Executive Ron Sim's director of council relations. As liaison between the executive and county council, De'Sean was required to have an understanding of the region's complexities as well as the ability to build consensus on critical policies. He would like to use these skills to expand transportation choices, and preserve and strengthen sidewalks, parks and public safety for the residents of Tukwila. De'Sean is the second African American council member to represent the diverse community of Tukwila (30 percent people of color).
University Place City Council - Position 3
Eric Choiniere, a military veteran and current member of Communication Workers of America Local 7800, has always been active on Democratic campaigns. After being referred to us by farm team member and fellow 2009 candidate, Sam Ross, Eric decided to finally run himself for University Place City Council. Eric previously served on the University Place Parks and Recreation Commission and on the Pierce County Citizens Advisory Council. Eric defeated the most conservative member of the city council, Lorna Smith. Smith has been elected three times, and has been an outspoken critic and denier of climate change at city council meetings. As a city councilmember, Eric will fight for living wage jobs and increasing opportunities for youth in the city.
Spokane City Council
Open Seat
Amber Waldref was elected to Spokane City Council, Position 2, an open seat. Amber was referred to us from former Progressive Majority candidate, Spokane City Councilmember Richard Rush, and with his help, we were able to recruit Amber to run. Although only 32 years old, Amber has an incredible resume; organizer for Heart of America Northwest, Vice Chair of her neighborhood council, founding board member of the Faith and Environment Network and is currently the development director for The Lands Council. Amber, a Spokane native, lives in Northeast Spokane with her husband, Tom Flanagan, a high school chemistry teacher and their 1 year old daughter, Karolina. Amber will be a strong environmental and neighborhood advocate, and put a second progressive on the city council. Spokane is Washington's second largest city, and has fairly high number of progressives. However, the city council has a conservative majority, located in a swing county that has a conservative county commission. Progressive Majority successfully fielded a candidate for Spokane City Council in 2007 and we are looking to continue build on our success.
Bremerton Port Commission
Roger Zabinski was a first-time candidate elected for Bremerton Port Commission, position 1. Although Roger's career is as a scientist in the bio-tech industry, he is a very involved member of the environmental and Democratic community on the Kitsap Peninsula. The West Sound Conservation Council and Hood Canal Watershed Education Network are just a few examples of his leadership in the area. Roger also served as a flight-crew medic and hospital supervisor with the US Air Force Reserves. Roger ran for port commissioner to address the lack of leadership on the commission. Many of the Port's contracts are awarded to the lowest bidder resulting in jobs outside the area. Roger wants to strengthen the local economy by prioritizing contracts with local companies. He also plans to address food security issues as any emergencies resulting in closure of the Port also closes off food supply to the Peninsula.
Olympia Port Commission - Position 3
Open Seat
Jeff was a first-time candidate from Olympia, WA elected to the Olympia Port Commissioner, position 3. Jeff previously served on the Washington State Labor Council's Transportation and Economic Development Committee, where he was active in keeping Washington state prosperous as the most trade-dependent state in the country. Jeff is also the political affairs coordinator for the International Longshore and Warehouse Union. We met Jeff through our relationship with Longshore and Warehouse Union. He has been a leading voice in labor on the need to reform trade policies to reduce incentives for companies to move production to countries with low wages and weak environmental protection. This is an important race for progressives. A win for Jeff means a powershift on the commission to a progressive majority. Despite the title of Olympia Port Commissioner, the commission overseas all ports in Thurston County. Jeff will make environmental issues a priority by aiming to reduce the carbon footprint through curbing emissions and making all ports, 'clean ports.' In his work at the union, Jeff has been instrumental in the ports of Los Angeles/Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle, Tacoma and Vancouver, B.C. adopting new emission standards. Jeff will bring these emission curbing standards to Thurston County ports.
Seattle Port Commission
Open Seat
Rob was elected to the Seattle Port Commission, position 4. As Rob's qualifications are quite extensive, a highlighted few include: industrial real estate professional, marine transportation specialist, former King County Agriculture Commissioner and has a degree in Seaport Management at the School of Marine Affairs at the University of Washington. Rob's history with the Port began with his childhood as his father worked for the Washington State Ferries for 34 years and was a member of the Inland Boatman's Union. Rob will bring his passion for the environment and his experience to help the Port become a leader in providing green jobs. Being a community leader has paid off for Rob. He received the endorsement of seven Seattle City Council members and a number of VIPs in the local Democratic Party. Rob will not only be the first African-American to serve as Seattle Port Commissioner, he will also be the first openly gay man on the commission. Rob had been on our farm team member for a number of years. We connected him with the Blue Green Alliance, a coalition of environmentalists and labor.
Highline School Board - Position 2
Open Seat
Angelica Alvarez was a first-time candidate and was elected to the Highline School Board. Angelica, who has worked for Child Care Resources for 10 years, is the first Latina to serve on the Highline School Board, and her goal as a school board member is to represent all children, no matter their social or economic background and to bridge the gap between early learning and entering the public school system. Angelica is married to a local minister, and they have four children, two who have graduated from Highline High School and the other two are soon to follow. Angelica has strong progressive ties, including being a member of the California School Employees Association, and her long list of endorsements including Rep. Dave Upthegrove and Highline School Board Member Sili Savusa.
Dane County Executive
Kathleen Falk will continue serving as Dane County Executive after being reelected on April 7. Kathleen is the first woman ever to hold this position and has emerged as a leader in the progressive community. During her first term as County Executive, Kathleen was an innovative leader in drug treatment in lieu of incarceration, on land use and planning, and on environmental issues. Kathleen has worked hand in hand with Progressive Majority in the recruitment of and assistance in developing other women candidates to run for office. This election, Kathleen faced a tough challenge from a conservative woman. Dane County over the past four years is trending more conservative, making this race a critical protect. She is mounted an aggressive campaign. Kathleen was a top protect this cycle in order to hold this progressive seat.
Burlington City Council
Katie Simenson was first recruited into our farm team in 2007 when she first ran for Burlington City Council. Katie ran unopposed in her first election and has since been known as a pragmatic, thoughtful leader on the Burlington City Council. Katie has also worked to help other women who are interested in running for local office and is currently participating in the Emerge Wisconsin training program. Katie faced a primary election and campaigned hard to win her first re-election.
Fitchburg City Council - District 4
Open Seat
Shawn Pfaff has been a leader in Democratic politics for more than a decade, and was recruited to run for this office in order to add a progressive member to this predominantly conservative council. Progressive Majority first started working in Fitchburg two years ago when we endorsed a farm team member for mayor. That candidate lost his race, but we started working on building a base of progressive leaders who have since attended our trainings and road shows. Shawn is currently a consultant providing strategic political advice to a variety of clients. He committment to working hard to win this race paid off.
Oshkosh City Council - At Large
Jessica King has been a farm team member since 2005, when we started preparing her for her 2007 Oshkosh City Council run. In 2007, she won her first election and we immediately started working with her on a bid for the Wisconsin Senate. This past November, Jessica lost her senate race by 0.5%, a mere 160 vote margin. This spring Jessica faced her first re-election, where there was a contested primary. Jessica is a key seat of the progressive majority we created in 2007 and we needed to ensure that she stays on the Oshkosh City Council. Jessica is a local attorney who works with clients facing bankruptcy and is involved in many community organizations such as Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America.
Beloit School Board
Tia Johnson was recruited to run for the school board by community members, parents and teachers in the Beloit School District because of her pragmatic approach to problem solving. Tia has children who attend Beloit Public schools, but also has an interesting perspective as she has served as a substitute teacher for several years. Tia is a Beloit College graduate and has lived in the district for more than 20 years. Tia faced a crowded field as she was one of six candidates vying for three seats on the Beloit School Board. Progressive Majority helped her develop a targeted voter program and help hone her message. Tia ran on a common sense platform of representing the entire district by opening up lines of communication, addressing the budget situation in a creative and fair way, and bringing the community's voice back to the educational process.
Kenosha School Board - At Large
Progressive Majority first started working with Carl Bryan in 2007 after recruiting him into our farm team at a Camp Wellstone training. Carl has worked closely with our Kenosha task force and has built relationships with the Kenosha Education Association. He knocked on doors daily and fundraised to get his message out through the mail. Carl has a great understanding of the issues facing the Kenosha School Board and, as a recent graduate brings a fresh and much needed perspective to the Board. Progressive Majority worked with Carl on his fundraising and voter contact plans as well as advise him on his message.
Kenosha School Board
Mary Snyder was brought to Progressive Majority's attention by our partners at the Kenosha Education Association of which she is a retired member. Mary was a first time candidate who was supported by the teacher in Kenosha as well as the many families that she has served throughout her career. In this election Mary challenged members of the board who have made poor decisions affecting the school district's financial well-being and is campaigning on a reform message. Progressive Majority assisted her in developing a campaign plan, connected her with our Kenosha Task Force for support, and worked with her on message and debate prep. Mary's victory means eliminatimg a key adversary to the teacher's union and putting a former union member serving on the Kenosha School Board.
Racine School Board - Kim Plache
Kim Plache is a well-know community leader in Racine as she is the former state Senator turned community activist. Since leaving the state legislature in 2002, Kim has maintained a high profile by serving on community boards and working to help support local candidates. Kim is currently a Steering Committee Member for the Women's Progressive Network of Racine, where was part of a group that helped recruit 11 candidates to run for office in 2008. Kim represented the key seat to flip the Racine School Board to a progressive majority, as we added three candidates in 2008. Kim drew on a large base of supporters from her years of public service to win and adds a strong progressive voice to the Racine School Board.
Racine School Board
Gretchen Warner's is one of two seats on the Racine School Board on which Progressive Majority focused attention this cycle. Gretchen and her husband are both political activists in Racine County; he ran for county board this past spring and she is active in the Women's Progressive Network of Racine. Gretchen has a Masters Degree in teaching and specializes in Montessori programs. Gretchen has been serving on the board for the past two years and protecting her was key to flipping the Racine School Board to a progressive majority. In spring of 2008, we added 3 new board members, and this cycle we added a fourth. There were five candidates running, forcing a primary in February and general election on April 7.
State House - District 13
Open Seat
Lakewood & a part of Cleveland
Nickie Antonio is a member of the Lakewood City Council and is running in an open seat vacated due to term limits. Nickie has served as a special education teacher and is a former administrator of a multi-county HIV/AIDS prevention program. If elected, Nickie would be the only lesbian serving in the state House. Nickie has a very strong campaign with grassroots energy, particularly in Lakewood. A win in this race would be an important hold as we fight back against the Republican effort to reclaim the state House.
National City Council
San Diego County
Mona Alvarado-Rios (she will appear on the ballot as Mona Rios) is the third generation of her family to be born and raised in National City. Her father is a long time aide to US Rep. Bob Filner, the representative for National City, and her mother serves on the National City School Board. Mona works as a Library Technician and is a member of SEIU. She wants to bring economic opportunity to National City while championing education and environmental issues.
State House - District 5
Open Seat
Crisanta Duran, 30, is a native of Colorado. After graduating from law school, she went to work for UFCW Local 7 as their counsel. In this role, she fought for better contracts for their union members across the state. She has served on the board of directors of La Rasa, Democrats Work, Voto Latino and on Progressive Majority's Colorado Advisory Council. She served as president of the Colorado Young Democrats and as an Obama Delegate. She won her seat in the primary in 2012.
State House - District 18
Open Seat
Colorado Springs
Pete Lee has lived in Colorado Springs for over 34 years, and practiced law for 25 years, where he represented individuals and small business owners in commerical and real estate transactions. Pete has been active in the community, including serving on the boards of numerous community organizations. As a candidate, he is running to help fix Colorado's health care system and to strengthen environmental protections.
State Senate - District 11
El Paso County
In 2006, John Morse ran and won in one of the most competitive State Senate districts in Colorado. He was the first Democrat to win in El Paso County since 1974. Now, he is running for re-election in a tougher environment. John has served as a police officer and as a Police Chief for nearly 20 years, worked four years as a CPA, worked as a paramedic in Denver, and ran a $3.3 million nonprofit organization that helps seniors age with dignity and remain independent. In the Legislature, John serves as Vice Chair of the Judiciary Committee and a member of the Finance and the Health and Human Services Committees. He has fought for improved public pensions and increased investment in health care.
State House - District 4
Open Seat
Denver County
Dan Pabon is a former staffer at the Office of White House Counsel who is running for House of Representatives in District 4. Dan worked with President Obama's top advisors creating and drafting the President's first Executive Order on Ethics. While a student at Colorado University, Dan helped create a recruitment and retention program for at risk students. As a young lawyer, Dan worked in a legal aid clinic helping economically disadvantaged clients obtain child support, alimony, and social security benefits. Dan recently won a tough primary against two other accomplished progressives. Dan is an outstanding progressive champion and will be a leader in the Colorado House of Representatives for many years.
State Senate - District 5
Alamosa, Chaffee, Conejos, Costilla, Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Mineral, Pitkin, Rio Grande, and Saguache Counties
Senator Gail Schwartz is running for re-election in the Colorado Senate District 5. Gail has lived in the Western Slope for 32 years. During that time, she has worked to serve the unique needs of the Western Slope in over a dozen nonprofit, government, and business organizations that focus on helping students graduate, providing rural health care services, and constructing affordable housing for working families. Prior to being elected to the Colorado Senate, Gail was appointed by Governor Roy Romer to be a member of the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, and was elected by the voters of the 3rd Congressional District to serve as a member and Vice-Chair of the University of Colorado Board of Regents. Her current legislative focus is on re-energizing Colorado's economy by creating jobs and investing in the future of renewable energy.
State Representative - District 10
Open Seat
Harvey Santana is running for State Representative in District 10. This Detroit district has crowded primary for the Democratic nomination in August. Harvey is a Navy veteran who stands out as a progressive leader. He completed the Michigan Political Leaders Program, Center for Progressive Leadership's Local Candidacy Training. Professionally, he is an urban planner and brings a unique perspective as to how to redevelop and revitalize Detroit, and urban areas across the state. Once elected, Harvey will focus on correction reform, job creation, and initiatives that help increase population in our core urban centers. At 37, Harvey will be among the youngest members in the legislature. When elected, Harvey will also be the only Puerto Rican serving in the state house and would increase the number of Latinos in the legislature.
State Representative - District 21
Wayne County
Dian Slavens is running for reelection for State Representative in District 21 in Wayne County. With Dian as a candidate in 2008, Democrats surprisingly picked up this open seat. During her first term, she has been a strong progressive member of the Democratic Caucus in the Michigan House of Representatives. Before getting elected, Dian worked as a respiratory therapist for more than 20 years in Southeast Michigan hospitals; first at William Beaumont Hospital and later at Henry Ford Hospital. Her experience gave her a firsthand look at how families are hurt when they don't have access to affordable health care. Drawing on her many years as a respiratory therapist, where she witnessed the devastating and often fatal effects of secondhand smoke, Dian was also instrumental in banning smoking in most indoor places in Michigan, including bars and restaurants. Dian also is fighting for aggressive job creation strategies that take advantage of Michigan's manufacturing expertise and highly skilled workforce to help make the state a leader in advanced battery technology.
State Representative - District 43
Oakland County
Lisa Brown is running for re-election for State Representative in District 43. Lisa is the first Democrat to ever represent this area which has a less than 50% DPI. Located in Oakland County, a Progressive Majority targeted county, Lisa's seat is a strategic pathway to increasing seats in the state senate down the line. Her re-election is crucial to increasing the progressivity of the state house. As a state legislator, Lisa has been a tireless advocate for public education, protecting a woman's right to choose, and prompting stem cell research.
State Senate - District 8
Wayne County
In Wayne County, MI, Hoon-Yung Hopgood is running for the Michigan State Senate in District 8. Hoon-Yung, a former state representative, will be the only Korean American in the state legislature and the first to serve in the state senate. With at least 30 of the 38 members of the senate being new next year, Hoon-Yung will be a progressive leader with the experience to take on a leadership role and be a champion for the community. At 35, Hoon-Yung is a pipeline leader who not only leads with his values, but is committed to helping elect other progressives to office.
State House - District 26
Open Seat
Oakland County
Jim is a first time candidate for state representative in District 26 in Oakland County. This seat is open due to term limits. This legislative seat has a history of being fiercely competitive when there is no incumbent running. Having prevailed in a string progressive Democratic Primarily, Jim goes into November prepared to face off against a strong conservative. Jim embodies the type of progressive leadership Lansing needs. Jim is currently the Executive Director of the Tourism Economic Development Council leading economic development in Metro Detroit. Prior to his current role, he created the Michigan Suburban Alliance non-profit organization devoted to revitalizing and reinventing Detroit's surrounding communities. This seat is critical to Democrats controlling the state house next year.
Anoka County Board - District 5
Open Seat
Anoka County
Becky Fink is lifelong Anoka County resident and has been an anti-homelessness advocate, DFL activist and volunteer for more than 30 years. Becky is running for Anoka County Board in 2010. Becky is running to replace conservative incumbent Scott LeDoux - who has resigned his post due to progressive ALS. Becky has a terrific vision to ensure that everyone in Anoka County can thrive and would be an outstanding addition to the Anoka County Board.
State House - District 65A
Open Seat
Ramsey County
Rena Moran is a community organizer and dynamic progressive. If elected she will become the only African-American woman in the legislature. Rena has been at the forefront of organizing in the African-American community in St. Paul and the immediate suburbs. She is a former Wellstone Organizing Fellow and a graduate of the Organizing Apprenticeship Project. She is a true grassroots leader in her community and faces both primary and general election challenges from moderates of both parties.Rena has a remarkable life story and an unrivaled commitment to grassroots organizing. If she wins, she would be the only woman of color in the 134 member Minnesota House.
Minneapolis School Board - District 3
Open Seat
Hennepin County
Hussein Samatar is a banker and community organizer and the founder and executive director of the African Development Center (ADC). ADC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit organization that works with the African communities in Minnesota to start and sustain businesses, build wealth, and promote community reinvestment. Hussein formerly served on the now defunct Minneapolis Library Board and is a leader in Minneapolis. If elected, he will become the first Somali-American to serve on a Minnesota school board.
Eric Peterson is an artist, web designer, and real estate agent in Wyoming, MN. He has decided to run for Mayor because he believes that Wyoming has lacked leaders who actually listen to the needs and concerns of residents. Eric has been one of the leading progressives in his community for many years, and this race presents an important opportunity to bring new leadership in this northern suburban city.
City Council
Open Seat
Doug Schroeder is a union member and a pro-labor progressive running for City Council in Otsego, MN. Doug is a member of the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Union, and currently serves as their Business Representative. Doug has been extremely involved locally in his community, helping with numerous local projects and building a strong reputation as a community leader.
State Senate - District 23
Open Seat
Cuyahoga County
Rep. Mike Skindell currently represents District 13 in the Ohio House. Rep. Skindell served the city of Lakewood as the Councilman At Large and was first elected to the Ohio House in 2002. He is a well-known consumer advocate and environmental leader in the Ohio House, and is a Board member of the Single Payer Action Network Ohio. Rep. Skindell won a tough May primary over two opponents (47% to 28% to 25%). Rep. Skindell has strong support from the Ohio Association of Justice and would be an outstanding addition to the Ohio Senate.
State House - District 11
Cleveland, Brooklyn Heights, Cuyahoga Heights & Newburgh Heights
Rep. Sandra Williams has served in the State House for the past three years. She represents a part of the City of Cleveland, as well as inner ring suburbs Brooklyn Heights, Cuyahoga Heights, and Newburgh Heights. Prior to her election to the Ohio House, Sandra worked in the criminal justice system as a probation officer and a parole officer. In these positions, she gained a deep appreciation for the state's role in maintaining a just society. She has worked to achieve social justice as a State Representative. With Progressive Majority's assistance, Sandra has crafted a strong campaign plan, developed an effective fundraising strategy, and dramatically improved her ability to deliver a strong stump speech. This is an important race as we work to protect the majority that we won in 2008.
State Senate - District 11
Open Seat
Lucas County
Edna Brown currently represents District 48 in the Ohio House. Rep. Brown is a lifelong resident of Toledo and one of its most trusted leaders. She was involved in the founding of the Greater Toledo Urban League and currently serves as the First Vice President of the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus. Rep. Brown won the May primary over Toledo City Council Member Joe McNamara (56% to 44%) and now faces another Toledo City Council member, Tom Waniewski, in the November general election. Rep. Brown is a courageous progressive and will be an immediate leader in the Ohio Senate.
State House - District 20
Franklin County
Nancy Garland's election in 2008 was widely considered one of the great progressive triumphs in Ohio when she won with Progressive Majority's support. Despite her strength, however, Nancy represents a very marginal district near Columbus and her race is one of the GOP's top targets to ''take back.'' Nancy has been a dynamic progressive leader in the legislature and it is vital that we protect this seat. As well, she has won the endorsements of all major unions, choice groups, environmental groups and other partners. Progressive Majority staff continues to advise Nancy on her campaign strategy and targeting, and she is well-placed to continue to lead within the progressive caucus in the Ohio House.
State House - District 56
Open Seat
Lorain County
Dan Ramos is a young progressive leader in Ohio. For the past five years, he has worked as the senior policy analyst in the House majority to Speaker Budish, concentrating on healthcare and higher education funding. Dan worked on continuing a tuition freeze at all public colleges and universities, and providing health coverage parity to those suffering from diabetes and autism. As an aide, he has gained invaluable experience serving constituents and pushing for progressive reforms. If elected, Dan would become the first Latino Democrat elected to the Ohio Legislature, and would be one of the youngest to serve. Progressive Majority staff have helped Dan create a strong campaign plan, implement improved fundraising strategies and developed a strong targeting approach. His district is in a swing area where we have an opportunity to elect a more progressive Democrat than had previously served.
State House - District 28
Hamilton County
Connie Pillich is running in a district that includes the northern suburbs of Cincinnati. Connie is a general practice attorney representing families, small businesses and consumers. Connie has been an outstanding leader in the Ohio House of Representatives and is a committed progressive and a talented and tough campaigner.
State House - District 92
Athens, Meigs, Margan and Washington Counties
Debbie and her committed volunteers knock on thousands of doors every election cycle. She has been a great legislator and she has demonstrated her commitment to improving the lives of average Ohioans. She has won critical endorsements from Ohio educators, electrical workers and service workers.
State House - District 73
Richland County
Rep. Jay Goyal was re-elected in 2008 to the Ohio House of Representatives' 73rd District, an area that includes rural/exurban Richland County. Jay is a 29 year old legislator, engineer and vice president of a manufacturing company. He was the first Asian-American to serve in the Ohio General Assembly and has been an outstanding leader in the House.
Ohio State School Board - District 3
Open Seat
Jeffrey Mims, Jr. is a candidate for Ohio State School Board, District 3. Jeff is a former teacher and administrator, a member of the Ohio Education Association, and is currently the President of the Dayton School Board. He retired from the Dayton Public Schools with more than 35 years of service. His legislative efforts helped to pave the way for Ohio's School Facilities Program. Jeff is an Executive Board Member for the Council of the Great City Schools, Chairperson for the Urban 21 Ohio School Board Coalition, and will be a great addition to the Ohio State Board of Education.
State House - District 190
Part of Philadelphia County
State Representative Vanessa Lowery Brown is a long-time community advocate, civic activist and volunteer running for re-election to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. As a community organizer, Rep. Brown recruited parents to volunteer in their children's schools and assisted with parent training, including developing and coordinating training on financial literacy. She worked as the community outreach specialist at a shelter for homeless women and children and was a representative for the National Campaign for Jobs and Income Support. In the House, Brown has championed utility independence and energy equity, held a rally to support increased day-care center funding, and voted to expand health insurance programs for the uninsured.
State House - District 194
Open Seat
Parts of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania and Philadelphia County
Pam DeLissio, a long term adult care consultant, is a candidate for Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Pam is recognized for her strong leadership skills and has volunteered in various capacities for professional associations and community organizations. Pam is running to improve the quality and accessibility of health care, protect a woman's right to choose, and achieve marriage equality. Pam won a hotly contested primary and is well-placed to be a leader in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
State House - District 3
Open Seat
Spokane County
Andy Billig is President and part-owner of the Spokane Indians Baseball Club. He is proud to have worked with the Spokane Tribe of Indians on the team's logo design in 2006, which is a rare instance of cultural sensitivity in professional sports. A recognized business leader with a self-stated "commitment to progressive values like equality, justice and prosperity," Andy should do well in the 3rd district which has a 59.4% democratic performance. Andy graduated cum laude with a degree in government from Georgetown University in Washington, DC, and is the leading candidate in the race. Electing Andy ensures we retain a strong, progressive voice representing the most left-leaning district in Eastern Washington.
State House - District 27
Open Seat
Pierce County
Laurie Jinkins is running for State Representative in the 27th district in Tacoma. Electing Laurie ensures we retain strong, progressive representation in one the most left-leaning districts in the state (democratic performance of 63.7%) and would give voice to a totally unrepresented group. Laurie would be the first and only openly lesbian member of the Washington State Legislature if elected. Laurie has been a human and civil rights advocate for more than 20 years and co-chaired last year's successful ballot initiative to affirm domestic partnership rights for the state's gay and lesbian couples. Laurie is a respected public health expert, having served as Deputy Director of the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department and worked for the Department of Health in the state capital for 13 years. She worked with Governors Gregoire and Locke to assist in developing the state's healthcare budget and is credited with transforming Washington's regulation of the healthcare system to one that proactively protects the public. As Washington moves to implement recent federal healthcare legislation, Laurie's skills will be a tremendous asset in the state capital. Likewise, Laurie is an education leader, having served as a Tacoma Community College Trustee for over a decade. Her focus on job creation, worker retraining and college readiness will be a strong asset for Washington's Legislature.
State House - District 32
Open Seat
King and Snohomish Counties
Cindy Ryu, a Korean-American, is running for the open House seat in the 32nd district in North King County and South Snohomish County. Cindy holds a MBA from the University of Washington and is active in a number of local community activities, including the local and state Democratic Party organizations, the Asian/Pacific Islander Community and the local business community. We helped Cindy in her race for Shoreline City Council in 2005, where she later became the first Korean-American mayor in the country when she was elected Mayor of Shoreline. Electing Cindy ensures we retain strong, progressive representation in one the most left-leaning districts in the state (democratic performance of 62.9%). She faces one Democrat and one Republican in the primary.
State House - District 28
Pierce County
Tami Green is running for re-election in Pierce County's 28th District. A registered nurse, Tami has championed health care and worker's issues since her election in 2004. Since then she's helped organize the Labor Caucus of her peers, and has been one of the driving forces behind the Blue/Green Alliance, the progressive caucus within the State House. She faces a tough challenge in this swing district, and is the #1 target for the House Republicans in 2010.
State House - District 1
Open Seat
King County
Luis Moscoso is running to defend an open seat in the 1st legislative district, located on the King-Snohomish county line, a community that tends to elect Democrats (55.5% democratic performance). Luis has decades of experience as an activist for social and economic justice. His extensive work with communities of color and labor organizations endeared him to the local party organization and the activist community. Luis recently acquired the endorsement of the Washington State Labor Council and has been endorsed by many individual unions. Luis has demonstrated his commitment to progressive values by "walking the talk." He has been the Secretary of the Washington State Democratic Party since 2005.
State Senate - District 34
Open Seat
West Seattle, Vashon Island & Des Moines
Sharon Nelson is a Washington State Representative running for the open state Senate seat in the 34th district in Seattle. Sharon has been a strong progressive leader in the state legislature, serving as a member of the Blue/Green Alliance in the House. Sharon has long been a champion of environmental issues, working closely with Preserve our Islands to protect Vashon and Maury Islands, which are part of the 34th District and are critical to the future of the Puget Sound. If elected to the state senate, Sharon would continue to provide the energy needed to advocate for a progressive agenda in the Senate. She will continue to be a champion on consumer protection, protecting working families and, of course, on environmental issues, fighting a proposed barge loading facility that would negatively impact Maury Island.
State House - District 34
Open Seat
King County
Joe Fitzgibbon is running for State Representative in the 34th district in West Seattle and Burien. Electing Joe ensures we retain strong, progressive representation in one the most left-leaning districts in the state (democratic performance of 71.3%) and would give voice to a largely underrepresented group: young people. At 23 years old, Joe would be the youngest member currently serving in the state legislature and nearly the youngest ever to be elected. Joe grew up in his district and is now a homeowner. For the past three years, Joe has served as the legislative assistant to the House member he seeks to replace: Sharon Nelson, a Progressive Majority endorsed candidate now seeking election to the State Senate. Joe will be an effective member of the Blue/Green Alliance, the progressive caucus in the State House. Joe is in a tough primary with two other Democrats and an Independent.
King County Council - District 8
Open Seat
Joe McDermott is a Washington State Senator running for an open seat on the King County Council, the state's biggest population center. Joe has been a strong advocate for education, elections, the environment and civil rights during his 10 years in the state legislature, where he is one of six openly gay legislators. If elected to the King County Council, however, Joe would be the first openly gay member of this body, ensuring that key decisions made at the county are inclusive of the many LGBT individuals and families living in Seattle and beyond. Joe would like to see the county extend services to include human services and enhanced public health. He intends to leverage his experience and relationships in the state capital to advocate that the legislature open up new funding sources and lift restrictions on existing ones to allow the county to do so.
State House - District 38
Snohomish County
Nick Harper is challenging incumbent Democratic Senator Jean Berkey. A strong democratic district (58.1% Democratic performance), the 38th District should be home to one of the most progressive voices in the state and instead is represented by a Senator that has been a bad vote on a range of progressive issues from labor to education to the environment. The progressive community is united in their dissatisfaction with Senator Berkey. Nick, 31, and his wife Lacey live in Everett, where Nick serves as the Snohomish County Conservation Director for Cascade Land Conservancy. Nick has a strong interest in conservation and land use management, which he has worked on locally and in the state capital through his current role and his past work with the Realtors. Harper jumped in the race with the endorsement and support of several local elected officials, including his potential seatmate State Representative John McCoy.
State House - District 1
Open Seat
King and Snohomish Counties
Derek Stanford is running for one of two open seats in the suburban 1st district, which straddles the King and Snohomish county line. Derek works in the telecommunications industry, and is a member of WashTech, Local 37083 of the Communication Workers of America. He is running to fill the seat opened by the retirement of Al O'Brien, and plans on making job growth and education his top priorities. Electing a champion for working families like Derek will help tilt the balance of power in Olympia.
State House - District 23
Kitsap County
Sherry Appleton has been a leader in the House of Representatives since we helped elect her in 2004. A former city council member and active voice for women's rights, Sherry brings a diverse background to the House, and is a progressive voice we can't afford to lose. The 23rd district has a democratic performance of 55.5%, but her opponent this year is a moderate republican who also serves on the Kingston Port Commission and has pledged to stay on the commission if elected to the House. After a long session, Republicans think they can catch Sherry off-guard, but we want to make sure we keep her progressive voice in the Legislature.
State House - District 24
Open Seat
Clallam, Gray Harbor and Jefferson Counties
Steve is a three-term Clallam County Commissioner, and has been a small business owner and an active community member for over 30 years. Steve grew up in a large family - one of seven children - and his values in public service of economic, social and environmental justice stem from his childhood. Steve will make an excellent seatmate for Rep. Kevin Van De Wege, who we helped elect in 2006. The retiring Democrat Steve seeks to replace was a moderate, making electing him a key part of our strategy to flip four seats to a progressive Democrat.
Clark County Commission
Clark County
After being appointed in 2004, elected to serve out that term in 2005 and being elected for a full term in 2006, Steve Stuart is now the lone Democrat on the Clark County Board of Commissioners. With our support four years ago, Steve was able to stand up for the values he's had since he grew up in Clark County - now one of Washington's fastest growing and most populated counties. Prior to his service as County Commissioner, Steve worked as a lobbyist and executive director for an environmental group that promotes smart growth. Steve now faces a tough fight against the usual suspects: developers with deep pockets.
Pierce County Auditor
Pierce County
Julie Anderson is a former Tacoma City Council member and the current Pierce County Auditor. We helped Julie in her successful challenge to the Republican appointed auditor after Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy was elected in 2008, and Julie is finishing out the remainder of the short term. Now Julie is running for a full term, and it's critical that we keep her in office. Prior to serving as Auditor, Julie was a Senior Policy Advisor at the Washington Department of Commerce and the executive director of the YWCA of Pierce County. Her office oversees elections in the second most populated county in Washington.
State House - District 22
Open Seat
Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Thurston County
With progressive champion Brendan Williams retiring this year, Chris Reykdal is running to take his place as the progressive voice for the 22nd district. Chris is a Tumwater School Board member, and currently the Deputy Executive Director of the Washington State Board for Community & Technical Colleges. His experience working with the legislature has prepared Chris to be one of the House's most effective members, particularly for improving Washington's schools. Chris' campaign centers around one of the most critical issues facing Washington: reforming the state's regressive tax structure. Chris emerged as the top Democrat after the August primary, and faces conservative Republican Jason Hearn in November.
State House - District 40
Open Seat
Anacortes, Mount Vernon, Bellingham, San Juan Islands
After the retirement of Rep. Dave Quall in the rural 40th district, nine candidates filed to run for his seat. Kris Lytton emerged out of the crowded August primary field. Kris is the president of the Anacortes School Board, and spent years working in the private sector handling business budgets. Kris won the most votes in the primary, and in the general she'll face Republican Mike Newman, a real estate agent from Mount Vernon.
State Assembly - District 77
Open Seat
Dane County
Brett Hulsey is a dynamic progressive, a member of the Dane County Board of Supervisors, and a candidate for Wisconsin State Assembly. Brett is running for a strong public education system, environmental conservation, human and civil rights, health care for all, and the promotion of labor. Brett recently won a tough, five-way primary and now he faces a three-way general against a Green Party candidate and a Ron Paul-style Republican.
State Assembly - District 22
Milwaukee County
Sandy Pasch is running for re-election to the Wisconsin Assembly in District 22. The 22nd is a seat that Democrats must protect. Sandy Pasch entered the race early and has been campaigning aggressively. Sandy is a registered nurse and 23-year resident of the 22nd district. She is married and has raised three grown children. As a second job, Sandy teaches ethics, mental health, and community nursing at Columbia School of Nursing. She also serves on numerous community boards and works with the Milwaukee Police Department conducting training on how to effectively deal with people living with mental illness.
State Assembly - District 73
Superior County
Nick Milroy is running for re-election to the Wisconsin Assembly. Nick is a 36 year-old fisheries biologist who was awarded the Southwest Asia Service Medal and a Letter of Commendation for his service in the Navy. Nick serves as an international representative to the Lake Superior Binational Forum, a partnership of government, industry, universities, native organizations, and environmental groups from both Canada and the U.S. dedicated to the restoration and protection of the Lake Superior Basin.
State Assembly - District 92
Monroe and Jackson Counties
Mark Radcliffe is seeking re-election to the Wisconsin Assembly in district 92. Mark is a life-long resident of Black River Falls and was a first-time candidate in 2008. Mark is a lawyer in private practice and has worked to provide free legal service for local organizations, such as the shelter for battered women and the Boys and Girls Club. One of Mark's core issues is equal pay for equal work.
City Commissioner
Open Seat
Royal Oak
Kyle DuBuc settled in Royal Oak with his wife, Tara, and their two children, Jackson and Hayes, after completing his service with the Peace Corps in Niger, West Africa. Kyle has extensive experience in the field of public policy; he is currently serving as Legislative Director for state Representative Vicki Barnett (HD-37). DuBuc's skills and experience will help guide the city through these difficult economic times while his dedication to the future of our community will ensure that the qualities that make Royal Oak a great place to live are protected.
City Council
Highland Park
Mamie Moore is the Executive Director of the non-profit Next Generation Community Organizers and a political activist. She was not only a 2009 Center for Progressive Leadership Fellow, but served in several roles with the Obama campaign, including Obama's Fellow for Macomb County and Wayne County's Team Coordinator/Staging Director for Highland Park. Moore will be an effective City Council Member by tuning in with the community in which you serve; using her extensive background in community leadership; and gaining the trust of the people within the community.
City Council
New Baltimore
Zack Stanton was born and raised in New Baltimore and has a long history of public service, serving as a 16-year-old page in the U.S. House of Representatives and as an aide to Congressmen Levin and Bonior. As a consultant, Zack helped small businesses and non-profits become more successful. He's running to build a better community and bring energy, fresh ideas, and get New Baltimore moving again.
School Board
St. Louis Park
Joe Tatalovich has worked hard to help the schools in St. Louis Park. He has served as Chair of the legislative action committee and the Community Education Advisory Council. For the past seven years he has worked as a math tutor in four different schools. As Chair of the Vote Yes Committee he helped pass a bond and levy referendum in 2008, this helped him build a network of supporters for his school board campaign. Tatalovich is running to give back to his community and to ensure that his children Eli and Emma are able to attend and thrive in schools that are even better for the future.
County Treasurer
Open Seat
Jason Salus' experience as a City Councilman in Conshohocken's 1st Ward, Chairman of the Transportation and Parking Committee and former Director of Real Estate Development for a community non-profit makes him a strong candidate for Montgomery County Treasurer. As a City Council member, Jason cut property taxes by 12.5% without cutting services and implemented an audit system that collected over $1 million in delinquent taxes.
County Council - District 6
King County
Richard Mitchell, an architect and urban planner, knows King County like the back of his hand. After focusing on smart growth, economic development and transportation in his career, Mitchell is ready to take on the challenge of building better communities through progressive policy. As someone who grew up in public housing in London, Mitchell is in touch with how the bigger issues affect people at all levels. Mithcell's win would mean solidfying a progressive majority on the King County Council.
Tacoma City Council, Pos. 8 At-large
Ryan Mello is a longtime Progressive Majority Champion, first elected in 2005 then appointed to the Tacoma City Council. Now, he's running for a full term. In his first year on the Council, Ryan led the fight against other elected officials in Pierce County in their support of Arizona's anti-immigrant laws. While others ran from the debate, Ryan stood his ground and spoke up about his values. Mello has worked in the State Legislature, and currently works with an environmental conservation organization, preserving natural lands across Washington state
King County Council - District 8
King County
Joe McDermott has a long career as a successful progressive leader - serving in the Washington State Senate and House of Representatives. Now, he's bringing his proven leadership to King County Council. From protecting Maury Island and Puget Sound to preserving farms and open space, King County needs proven champions like Joe, committed to our quality of life.
City Council - Ward 3
Cathy Lehman is an advocate for urban sustainability and is well versed in the issues facing the City of Bellingham today. She's running for City Council to take her experiences as a volunteer and her work in environmental advocacy to City Hall and maintain Bellingham's high quality of life. Cathy will bring a fresh new energy to the City Council and if elected would be the only female councilmember. Bellingham and Whatcom County are at the heart of the debate on growing urban density versus allowing more urban sprawl and Cathy is poised to represent her dynamic downtown district as it grows over the next four years.
County Council - District 3
Stephanie Wright is a progressive leader who is ready to fight the challenges Snohomish County faces such as tough budgets, affordable housing, improving public safety and implementing a sustainable vision for our community while providing for economic opportunity. After Snohomish County Councilmember Mike Cooper, a 2007 Progressive Majority candidate, was appointed to serve as the Mayor of Edmonds, Lynwood City Councilmember Stephanie Wright was appointed the County Council in August 2010. Returning Stephanie will mean securing our progressive majority on the County Council for the next four years
County Commissioner - District 1
Robert Gelder was appointed to the Kitsap County Commission earlier this year, and is now running to serve out an unexpired term before running for a full-term in 2012. Robert brings over two decades experience in the non-profit and private sectors to the Kitsap County at the heart of Puget Sound. Robert is also the Commission's only openly gay member. Robert is focused on sustainable budgeting and growing the local economy while protecting the unique and pristine landscape of Kitsap County.
City Council President
Open Seat
Ben Stuckart is a successful businessman who also founded a non-profit in Spokane, Communities in Schools, to help local students. Stuckart is now looking to serve his community as the next Spokane City Council President. Stuckart's priorities include building better relationships between the community and public safety officers, improving neighborhood programs, and strengthening public safety.
City Council - Position 7
After election in 2007, Mia Gregerson has been at the forefront of local government for the City of SeaTac. One of the most diverse cities in Washington, SeaTac has a growing immigrant population and faces unique challenges with the growing number of residents working at Sea-Tac International Airport. In her day job Gregerson manages a dentistry office, but on the Council Gregerson has been a strong advocate of enhancing public transportation and building green spaces for the city's residents. Gregerson is a part of our slate of candidates running to increase diversity on the Council in this ever increasingly diverse city.
City Council
Open Seat
Michael Recchiuti is active in the Bethlehem community, volunteering his time as a member of the Parking Authority, and as Treasurer of the Bethlehem City Democratic Committee. He participates in his neighborhood's Block Watch (Moravian College Block Watch) in North Bethlehem. The son of former union printer and Bethlehem School District employee, Mike learned at an early age the value of hard work and community service. It is this hard-working, middle class upbringing that helped shape his values—the same values he's bringing to city service.
City Council, Position 3
Jeff Gadman has been active in his community his entire adult life as a youth soccer coach, PTA President, committee member for North Thurston Public Schools, and currently as President of his homeowners association. Gadman is also a former Chapter Chair and shop steward for AFSCME local 618, active in fundraising for St. Jude's Children's Hospital and a member of Lacey Rotary. His long resume of community involvement makes Gadman a great candidate for city council.
City Council, Position 2
Leslie works in campus security for the Bremerton School District and is an active member of her union, SEIU 925. Leslie is focused on a long-term vision for Bremerton, seeking to continue revitalizing all of the city's neighborhoods after decades of improvements focused on the downtown district. Leslie and her husband have fostered more than 50 children in addition to raising their own children.
City Council, Position 1
Open Seat
John Stokes has been a strong advocate for the environment as a member of the Bellevue Parks and Community Services and Friends of the Cedar River Watershed Boards. John's focus is on smart growth and investment in Bellevue's infrastructure, as well developing strong partnerships between the city and the local schools. He currently serves on the Bellevue School District's fiscal advisory committee and has been a site facilitator and PTA leader.
State Representative - District 29
Oakland County
Tim Greimel is running for State Representative in District 29. Greimel is currently serving his third term as an Oakland County Commissioner and was elected twice to the Rochester School Board where he served as President. As an Oakland County Commissioner and former School Board President, he fought for families, schools, and communities. As State Representative, Greimel will continue that fight. Greimel is dedicated to investing in the education of young people, to strengthening neighborhoods, and to empowering businesses to create jobs.
Township Commissioner - Ward 1
Scott Brown is running for re-election as Ward 1 Hatfield Township Commissioner. Brown is a retired teacher and is running for the same reason he became a union leader, to make a difference. He was the first Democrat elected in his town and as a commissioner; he led the effort that made Hatfield the only municipality in Montgomery County that has same-sex benefits for public employees. While a teacher he led a teachers strike that made his local the only one in Pennsylvania with a class size provision in its collective bargaining agreement.
School Board - Pos. 4
Open Seat
Yoshie Wong is running for an open seat on the Steilacoom School Board. Yoshie works with children and families suffering from mental illness, and is hoping to bring her passion for service to the school board and help her community.
Fire Protection - Dist. 7, Pos. 3
Shauna Willner is running for the position of Fire Commissioner in Snohomish County's Fire District 7. Shauna is a small business owner looking to bring a progressive voice to this non-partisan board.
School District Board of Directors - Pos. 5
Open Seat
Pam LeSesne is running for the Everett School Board in Snohomish County. Pam is a retired Navy Captain and Pam serves as an Everett Civil Service Commissioner, and served on the Everett School Strategic Planning Council and the Everett Public Schools Fiscal Advisory Council.
Mayor, City and County of Broomfield
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Colorado Springs Board of Education District 11
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Lakewood City Council
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Lakewood Councilmember, Ward 2
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Lakewood City Council Ward 5
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Broomfield City Council
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Westminster City Council
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
St Paul City Council- Ward 1
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
St. Louis Park School Board
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Burton Township Trustee
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Fairview Park City Council (President)
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
City Council District 5
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Northampton County Council - incumbent
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Bethlehem City Council
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Snohomish County Sheriff
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Pasco City Council
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Snohomish County Council
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Mercer Island City Council
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Lake Stevens City Council
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
Whatcom County Treasurer
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
State Senate District 12
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
State Senate District 30
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate running for re-election.
State Senate - District 18
Jessica King was born and raised in Fond du Lac County. She put herself through college with hard work and scholarships, earning academic and leadership honors. Jessica opened her own small business and in 2006 she was elected to the Oshkosh City Council. In 2011, she defeated Randy Hopper in a recall election, and held on to her seat in 2012.
Milwaukee County Supervisor - District 4
Marina Dimitrijevic was first elected Milwaukee County Board 4th District Supervisor in 2004 and has the distinction of being the youngest woman ever to be elected to the Milwaukee County Board, at the age of 22. Marina has always fought for her community and progressive values. She fights to help working families, protect the environment and to make sure the people of Milwaukee County are heard. As a lifelong resident of Milwaukee, Marina has deep ties to her community graduating from Milwaukee Public Schools and is actively involved in over 30 civic organizations in her district.
La Crosse County Board - District 11
Bill Brockmiller is running for re-election to the La Crosse County Board in District 11. Bill was born and raised in Wisconsin and has lived in the La Crosse area for almost 20 years now. A member of AFSCME, Bill is a strong believer in workers' rights and fights to protect working families in La Crosse County.
Eau Claire County Board
James Dunning is running for reelection as an Eau Clarie County Supervisor. James has been a progressive voice in Eau Claire County for many years. He is a strong advocate for the environment and has worked as an Environmental Specialist with the Ho-Chunk Nation and taught Environmental Health Planning at the University of Wisconsin in Eau Claire. He has continued his work for the environment on the board by supporting the establishment of a Regional Transit Authority for the Chippewa Valley and the high speed rail program through west central Wisconsin. His leadership on these issues and in his community help make James a true progressive leader.
Kenosha School Board
Supporting young progressive leaders is one of the reasons Progressive Majority was formed and Carl Bryan is a great example of a young progressive leader. Carl was elected to the Kenosha Unified School District Board in 2009 at the age of 19 earning first place out of a six-way race. As a graduate of Kenosha Public Schools, Carl has a unique perspective as a recent student. He's know a full-time student at the University of Wisconsin – Parkside, a leader in his community and an example to other dedicated young people who want to make a difference in their community. We're proud to support Carl for reelection to the Kenosha Unified School District Board.
State Representative - District 154
Open Seat
As a former teacher, Steve McCarter knows how important education is. When children receive a quality education, they are more likely to get good jobs that pay a living wage, which improves the economy in their community. The attacks on Pennsylvania's children and schools by Republicans must be stopped and Steve is standing up to Republican's dangerous actions. He is dedicated to the preservation and improvement of Pennsylvania schools. Steve taught high school Social Studies for 35 years in Abington and Lower Merion, was an adjunct Professor of Education at the University of Pennsylvania and is a retired Captain in the U.S. Army Reserves.
Island County Commissioner - District 1
Helen Price Johnson won re-election as Island County Commissioner in 2012. In 2008, she became the first woman to be sworn in as Island County Commissioner. Helen is a longtime Island County resident with deep ties to the community. Helen has four children and has owned and operated a small home construction business since 1995. Helen served on the South Whidbey School Board from 2001-2007.
State Senate - District 11
Open Seat
Bob served in that Washington State House for 12 years before his election to the State Senate. As both a labor leader and social activist, Bob has worked to bring together members of the progressive community and advocate for social justice issues. He has spent the past eight years in the House of Representatives fighting to create jobs, protect seniors and education, help small businesses and expanding higher education opportunities. In the Senate, Bob continues to fight for these issues and will be a strong advocate for the residents of his district.
State Representative - Distrct 48 (Position 2)
Open Seat
Cyrus is Iranian-American, grew up on King County's Eastside, and graduated from Bellevue Public Schools. He is a Truman Scholar and a Rhodes Scholar, and a graduate of Columbia, Oxford, and Yale Law School. Cyrus currently works as a lawyer, providing legal assistance to technology start-ups. Having lost his eyesight at age 8 to a rare form of childhood cancer, Cyrus has spent years advocating for the rights of the disabled, first in college and then as a law student and a lawyer. A staunch advocate for quality education and equal opportunity, Cyrus serves a Trustee of the Bellevue College Foundation and a Human Rights Commissioner for the City of Bellevue.
Twin Rivers Unified School District Trustee, Area 3
From his first "paid" experience assisting grade school teachers when he was in high school to most recently serving as a foster parent with the American Indian Child Resource Center, Walter has always gravitated to opportunities in education. As a school trustee, Walter will be fighting to provide high-quality educational opportunities for children in the Twin Rivers Unified School District. Walter is a professor at American River College, the PAFC chair for the Los Rios College Federation of Teachers and Democratic Delegate for Assembly District 9.
State Senate - District 32
Senator Jennifer Shilling has deep ties to her community. She was elected as a La Crosse County Supervisor in 1990 and to the State Assembly in 2000. Jennifer defeated incumbent Repblican Senator Dan Kapanke in a recall election and has continued to fight for Wisconsin's working families in the Senate.
Adams County Commissioner, District 1
Open Seat
Eva grew up in a family one paycheck away from being homeless, but they got by through sacrifice and with the help of neighbors. She knows what it's like to struggle, to have a family member lose their job, to live without health insurance and be one bad break away from economic catastrophe. Eva brings accountability and transparency to Adams County government, which has been lacking for many years.
State Representative, District 91
Collene ran for a seat in the Michigan House of Representatives because she has seen first-hand how the policies pushed by the Republicans have affected her neighbors, her students and her own family. A high school math and science teacher, and Michigan Education Associate member, she has watched as drastic funding cuts to education resulted in overcrowded classrooms and a lack of supplies for her students. When the economy slowed in Michigan, her husband lost a job in a tool and die shop that supplied the automotive industry. She knows the anxiety of unemployment and the heartbreak of foreclosure. The Lamontes worked hard to put their lives back together and start over again, and now Collene is helping others who are fighting the same battle.
State Senate, District 36
John knew something needed to be done about the incumbent after the incumbent came out strongly in favor of Right to Work legislation. This incumbent had been unresponsive to his districts needs; instead he has focused on advocacy for anti-worker legislation. John has been serving his community since 2005, when he was elected to the Anoka Hennepin School Board, the largest district in Minnesota, where he now serves as Vice-Chair. He takes his knowledge of education and work to ensure that Republicans stop balancing the budget by cutting school funding.
State Senate, District 3
Open Seat
Originally from Maryland, Andy has spent the past 18 years as co-owner, President and General Manager for the Spokane Indians Baseball Team. Andy lives in Spokane with his eight-year old daughter and volunteers for various organizations in his community including Big Brothers and Sisters, YMCA and is a volunteer sports coach. Elected to the Washington State House of Representatives in 2010, Andy has already proven to be an effective leader and progressive voice as a legislator. He successfully worked to restore and protect funding for public education, enact stronger safeguards for our rivers and streams and help craft a transportation bill that provides living-wage jobs for workers across the state.
State Senate, District 27
Open Seat
Growing up in a U.S. Air Force household, Jeannie eventually moved to Tacoma in 1979 where she has lived and served her community ever since. After spending 10 years working in colleges and universities in four states, Jeannie has spent the past 30 years in public service as a volunteer, community activist and legislator. Her volunteer service includes City Club of Tacoma, Associated Ministries, Planned Parenthood and Tacoma Community House. Jeannie is also active in her local Democratic Party, serving 14 years as a Precinct Committee Officer and Vice Chair of the Pierce County Democrats. Darneille has served in the Washington State House of Representatives since 2001. As a legislator Jeannie is a consistent advocate and voice for women's reproductive freedom, social services for vulnerable and underrepresented communities and the environment.
State Representative, District 17 (Position 1)
Open Seat
Born on Edwards Air Force Base in California, Monica was raised in a military family and moved to Washington State while in high school. A former middle school teacher, Monica is currently an instructional coach at Pacific Middle School in Vancouver. Monica's political activism began in 2008 when she was elected a delegate to the Democratic National Convention. She has also been an active member of the Washington Education Association. Monica's priorities if elected include preparing kids for the jobs of tomorrow, making sure career and technical training in schools aligns with the jobs in our communities, help small businesses become more competitive and offer veterans more job opportunities.
State Senate, District 23
Christine moved to Kitsap County in 1992 with her husband Leonard. They currently live on Bainbridge Island with their two school-aged children. Christine's professional background is in economics and environmental policy where she has spent 20 years working to create employment opportunities while protecting clean water and clean-up of Puget Sound and Hood Canal. Christine has long been active in her community, serving on Bainbridge Island City Council, Kitsap County Board of Health and volunteering with local organizations. Elected to the Washington House of Representatives in 2006, Christine is an effective legislator and advocate on issues ranging from education funding, reforming the Washington State Ferry system, protecting military families and improving environmental disaster response. Christine continues working to boost investments in local communities and expand manufacturing jobs, in particular the aerospace industry and strengthening Kitsap County's maritime base.
Oakland County Clerk
Lisa was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2008 and in June 2012, she was banned from speaking on the House floor after using the word 'vagina" in her defense of women's health. While in the House, Lisa has successfully fought to create jobs and is fighting to hold drug companies accountable for dangerous products. She is now serving the community of Oakland as County Clerk.
State Senate, District 49
Open Seat
Annette was born and raised in a working family in Vancouver, Wash. Her father was a Longshoremen and president of ILWU Local 4 where she was first exposed to politics at early age. Annette lives by ILWU's motto "An injury to one is and injury to all." Annette has 29 years of experience in advertising, communications, government affairs, community relations and strategic planning. Her professional background includes 10 years serving as staff for two Democratic U.S. Senators.
State Representative, District 23 (Position 2)
After growing up in Washington State public schools, Drew Hansen earned degrees from Harvard and Yale Law School and Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar. Drew is an attorney and author who wrote an influential book about Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have A Dream" speech and subsequently appeared on national television networks and colleges across the country to discuss civil rights. Prior to his appointment to the legislature in 2011 Drew was active in local politics and involved in his community. He is a founding member of the Puget Sound Chapter of the American Constitution Society (ACS), a progressive legal advocacy group. In 2005, Governor Gregoire appointed Drew to the Community Economic Revitalization Board, which has invested over $30 million to create and retain jobs in Washington state.
State Senate, District 14
Open Seat
A Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, former educator, health outreach worker and job-training counselor, Rep. Kefalas was first elected to the Statehouse in 2006 as a Progressive Majority supported candidate. He worked with Catholic Charities as a public policy advocate and community development coordinator for seven years.
State Senate, District 22
Open Seat
Andy Kerr was elected to State Senate in District 22 in 2012. Andy has spent over a decade with the Jefferson County Public Schools as a teacher and curriculum specialist, and has worked with many boards and organizations committed to improving education in Colorado. Since his election to the State Assembly in 2006, Andy has been a fighter for schools, health care, seniors, and economy.
State Representative, District 26
Open Seat
Diane Mitsch Bush was elected to State Representative District 26 in 2012. Diane currently serves on the Routt County Commission and is a professor at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. She's running to strengthen the economy and community in District 26 and Colorado.
Minneapolis Board of Education, District 6
Open Seat
From Tracine's experience as an involved Southwest mother of three, she knows that parents are the first educators of their children. She believes that all families should be treated equitably and have opportunities to engage in decision-making regarding their children's education. During Tracine's time as an MPS teacher, she employed innovative approaches to family involvement. She worked directly with students and families in order to promote equal, accessible, high quality education.
State Senate, District 51
He is a former member of the Minnesota Senate who represented District 38 (now 51). He was first elected to the State Senate in 2006. Jim finds the anti-women, anti-voter, anti-education agenda being pushed by Republicans repugnant. With his background as a professional engineer at 3M and Ecolab and his experience in the State Senate, Jim is now pushing a progressive agenda in the State Senate.
State Senate, District 15
Open Seat
Rob Teplitz has spent his career fighting for families throughout the Commonwealth, protecting constituents' hard-fought tax dollars, and making government work. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree, magna cum laude, with a major in Government, from Franklin and Marshall College and his Juris Doctor degree, cum laude, with a concentration in Public Law, from Cornell University Law School. Rob serves as both Chief Counsel and Director of the Office of Policy and Planning at the Pennsylvania Department of the Auditor General. In addition, he teaches law and history classes as an Adjunct Professor at Central Penn College.
State Representative, District 33
Open Seat
Dianne Primavera is a Colorado native and has worked in public service and the non-profit sectors for over three decades. She has worked as a vocational counselor, government manager, and served as an elected official. Dianne was elected to the Colorado House of Representatives in 2006, and re-elected in 2008. During her time in the legislature, Dianne was chosen to serve as Chair of the Legislative Audit Committee and sponsored legislation to create the Colorado Autism Commission. Additionally, Dianne is a breast cancer survivor.
State Representative, District 71
Theresa Abed is a life long Michigan resident, and has worked as a school social worker for over thirty years. She currently serves as a Eaton County Commissioner. As County Commissioner, she spearheaded the creation of the Communications Committee and fought for board and committee meetings to be held in the evenings and open to the public. She has led in increasing transparency and accessibility to local government.
State Representative, District 110
At age 22, Scott Dianda purchased a retail store in Calumet from his grandfather. As a small business owner, Scott gained real world business experience including meeting a payroll, developing budgets and staying within them. During that time, he was elected as a member of the Calumet Village Council and served for three years, including as president for part of that time. After selling the business, Scott took a position with the Michigan Department of Transportation. He became more involved with the Michigan State Employees Association and was elected president of the statewide union in 2008.
State Representative, District 48
Open Seat
After graduating high school, Pam Faris worked at Fisher Body while attending Mott Community College where she obtained an Associates degree. She later obtained a Bachelor's degree from Baker College. In 1989, Pam went to work in the Prosecutors office as a Case Coordinator and Jury Coordinator for Genesee County. In the court system, she was instrumental in shortening the number of days jurors are on call from two weeks to two days. When she retired she was president of American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Local 916, Chapter 10. Pam was selected to serve on the Michigan Community Service Commission, the Early Childhood Investment Corporation (ECIC) and the Michigan Women's Commission.
State Representative, District 68
Open Seat
Andy Schor has extensive experience in government. He was elected to the Ingham County Commission in 2002 and was re-elected four times. He serves as the chair of the Finance Committee and has previously served as Chair of the Law Enforcement Committee, the County Services Committee, and the Human Services Committee. Andy currently works as Assistant Director for State Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. Prior to entering public service, Andy served in numerous roles in the State Legislature and in Former Governor Jennifer Granholm's administration.
State Senate, District 49
Open Seat
Melisa Franzen has a proven track record of bringing communities together to advance issues. An attorney, Melisa serves on the Board of Directors for the Girl Scouts of Minnesota and Wisconsin River Valleys and President of the Minnesota Hispanic Bar Association. She also volunteers with Neighborhood House, Center for Urban and Regional Affairs, Centro Legal, the Saint Paul Foundation, and Minnesota Women Lawyers.
State Senate, District 37
Open Seat
As a resident of Spring Lake Park for 45 years, Alice has been an active member of the community. From 1986-2000, Alice Johnson served in the Minnesota House of Representatives. While in the Minnesota House, Alice chaired the K-12 Education Finance Division and served on the Transportation, Education and Tax committees. Additionally, Alice serves on the Volunteer Fire Board and on the Anoka-Ramsey Community College Foundation Board.
State Board of Education, District 5
Richard Javorek has taught in Ohio public schools for over 30 years. He is currently an Adjunct Instructor for Bryant & Stratton College. Richard is an active member of the Ohio Education Association (OEA).
State Representative, District 182
Brian Sims is dedicated to making Philadelphia safer and more accessible. After graduating law school, Brian practiced law as a disability attorney representing disabled professionals. He also worked with the Philadelphia Bar Association, served on the National Campaign Board of the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund, and served as President of the Board of Directors for Equality Pennsylvania. Brian is the state's first openly LGBT Member of the House.
State Representative, District 11 (Position 2)
Open Seat
A lifelong resident of Renton, Steve is currently a public school teacher at Lindbergh High School. In addition to working with students as a teacher, Steve is a volunteer and community leader. Steve is a coach for the golf programs at both Lindbergh and Renton High School and once organized the community to raise $100,000 to maintain these programs when facing budget cuts. Steve is also a small business owner, running a local tennis shop.
State Representative, District 29 (Position 1)
Open Seat
A native of Pierce County, David has been active in his community both in politics and civic groups. After graduating college, David worked on political campaigns in western Washington and Barack Obama's 2008 campaign in Iowa. He currently works as a Law Clerk at Ladenburg Law, PLLC and is very close with firm owners John and Connie Ladenburg, who have both served – or are serving – as local elected officials. His volunteer service includes United Way, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Habitat for Humanity.
State Representative, District 22
Open Seat
After taking early retirement, Mary Parker and her husband Steve started a small consulting business. Mary also works as a Truancy Special Advocate (TSA) and serves as a member of the Strategic Planning Advisory Committee for the Jefferson County School District.
State Senate, District 21
Open Seat
Jessie Ulibarriwas born and raised in Colorado. After becoming the first person in his family to receive a bachelor's degree, he began non-profit advocacy work, building grassroots campaigns educating citizens on the economy. Jessie has also served his community in a variety of roles, including as State Central Committee Member of the Colorado Democratic Party, Board Chair of the Colorado Progressive Coalition, Board Chair of the Denver Agency on Human Rights and Community Relations, and as a Commissioner on the Denver GBLT Commission.
State Representative, District 14B
Open Seat
Zachary is a native Minnesotan, raised in Maple Grove. He graduated from St. Cloud State University with a B.A. in Community Development and a M.S. in Counseling Psychology. He has been active in Democratic politics for a number of years, working on a number of local campaigns. Zachary also ran for the State House of Representatives in 2010.
State Representative, District 17
A retired Battalion Chief from the Colorado Springs Fire Department, Tony Exum spent thirty-five years working to make the community safer. Tony's victory for the State House seat in 2012 was another step in a lifetime of public service. He is a member of the Colorado Springs Fire Association.
State Representative, District 76
Winnie Brinks is an educator, advocate, and community servant. Winnie served as Executive Director of One Way House, Inc., a non-profit that provided residential services for female offenders as an alternative to incarceration. She also worked as a Spanish teacher and owned a small web-based business. Winnie has been active in the community mobilizing parents, teachers, and community members to advocate for positive change in education. She served as the Chair of the East Grand Rapids Parent-Teacher-Student Association's Legislative Committee. Currently, Winnie is a caseworker at The Source, a non-profit employee support organization.
State Representative, District 25
Open Seat
After graduating high school, Henry Yanez became a machine tool electrician and was a member of the UAW and IBEW. In 1985, Henry heard became a member of the Troy volunteer fire department. He went on to become an emergency medical technician. Then, in 1995 Henry became a firefighter and paramedic for the City of Sterling Heights. He is a proud member of the International Association of Firefighters Local 1557. Henry is active in local politics and served as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 2004 and 2008.
State Representative, District 37A
After college, Jerry Newton enlisted in the United States Army, serving for 23 years. Upon returning, Jerry managed a small business and became heavily involved in the community. From 1994-2000, Jerry served on the Coon Rapids City Council. While serving on the Council, Jerry promoted development of local businesses and worked to improve safety. He also served on the Anoka Hennepin School Board; where he worked to raise education standards and add the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Jerry was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2008. While in the House, he served as a member of the House K-12 Education Policy Oversight Committee, and the Agriculture, Rural Economies, and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee for the Veterans Affairs Division.
Virginia Beach School Board
Joel McDonald iran for School Board in 2012 because he believes in the fair treatment of those in the education field and to ensure the success of students. A third generation resident of Virginia Beach, Joel is a graduate of Virginia Beach Public Schools. For the last six years, he worked as a Data Support Specialist and School Improvement Coordinator. Joel is a proud member of the Virginia Beach Education Association. He served as a delegate to the Virginia Education Association (VEA) Convention and the National Education Association (NEA) Convention. In 2008, Joel completed his associate's degree in Information Technology and is currently studying Political Science at Old Dominion University.
State Representative, District 102
Rich Hancock is a broadcaster, formerly of WFAA Channel 8′s "Inside Texas Politics" in Dallas, Executive Director of RationalBroadcasting.com. A passionate advocate of public education, Rich serves as a leader in the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and as a coach.
State Representative, District 25
Kevin Boyce has a long history of public service, previously serving as State Treasurer from 2009-2011. He also served on the Columbus City Council for 8 years, where he was Chairman of the Finance and Appropriations Committee. As State Treasurer, Kevin sought to reduce the state's operating costs and launched the nation's first web training for treasurers' continued learning. In addition, Kevin worked as Executive Director of the KnowledgeWorks Foundation, a nonprofit organization that promotes college access to high school students. Kevin was appointed to the State House in May 2012.
Cincinnati City Council
P.G. Sittenfeld is running for re-election to the Cincinnati City Council. He is serving in his first-term on council and is the Vice-Chair of the Job Growth Committee, and also serves on the Finance Committee and Strategic Growth Committee. Born and raised in Cincinnati, P.G. is focused on making Cincinnati economically competitive, seeing that citizens receive high-quality basic services, and ensuring that our local government lives within its means. He was the Assistant Director of the Community Learning Center Institute. P.G. also dedicates much of his time to volunteer initiatives, including serving as a past division co-chair for the United Way annual campaign; a current board member for the Freestore Foodbank; a mentor through the Adopt-A-Class program; a Citizens-On-Patrol volunteer; and an announcer for events on Fountain Square.
Tempe City Council - At Large
In 2008, Corey Woods was elected to the non-partisan Tempe City Council. Corey ran unsuccessfully for the council in 2005, but afterward he became more involved in the community by serving on the City of Tempe's Transportation Commission, the Boards of Directors for the Boys and Girls Clubs, Communities in Schools, Kiwanis Club of Tempe, and Tempe Community Action Agency. Corey is the first African-American to serve on the City Council of Tempe.
State Representative - District 25
Open Seat
Bisbee, Douglas, Gila Bend, Marana and Nogales
Progressive Majority fielded Pat for her in her first bid for the House in District 25 in 2006 against an entrenched incumbent. While unsuccessful, Pat ran a great race and is ran again, this time for an open seat. Pat is a retired member of AFGE, the federal government employees union. District 25 is a sprawling rural district that runs along much of the Mexican border where illegal crossing is occurring. Pat is retired from the U.S. Department of the Defense, where she oversaw multi-million dollars budgets. She was a Clean Elections candidate.
State Representative - District 20
Open Seat
Ahwatukee and Chandler
Rae Waters is a member of the Kyrene School Board who ran for state representative in District 20. Rae received endorsements from all corners of organized labor. District 20 is a traditionally Republican district that, due to changing registration numbers and the political climate, is trending Democratic. Rae ran on the Democratic Party's platform of fiscal responsibility, and strengthening health care and education. She was a Clean Elections candidate.
Chandler City Council - At Large
Open Seat
Rick Heumann, won race for the Chandler City Council, is a long-time resident of Chandler and has been active in the community for more than 20 years. Rick has served eight years on the city planning and zoning commission, has served on several other city commissions, and has been president of a large homeowner's association. Chandler is a conservative community east of Phoenix, but a well-run progressive campaign can succeed there. Progressive Majority candidate Trinity Donovan was the top vote-getter in Chandler's elections two years ago, and as the lone progressive on the council, she now has help to move forward a progressive agenda. On the council, Rick will advocate smart and sustainable growth policies, expansion of mass transit and a greater emphasis on parks and other city services that increase quality of life.
Maricopa City Council - At Large
Marquisha Griffin is a 32-year-old member of the Maricopa City Council. She is the only female and the only person of color on the city council. Marquisha is also in her third term on the City of Maricopa Planning and Zoning Commission. She volunteers at local charity events and city-sponsored activities and is currently employed by the City of Mesa as a City Council assistant.
Creighton Elementary School Governing Board
A Center for Progressive Leadership fellow, Matt Jewett ran to fulfill the remaining two years of the term Progressive Majority candidate Tiffany Troidl left vacant on the Creighton Elementary School Governing Board when she left the board. Tiffany recruited Matt and helped him get appointed by the county superintendent of schools to serve on the board until the November election, so he is technically an incumbent. Matt's day job is working for the Children's Action Alliance, a prominent Arizona non-profit. He is openly gay. Matt campaigned on a platform of strengthening student performance even in the face of declining enrollment, and assuring that all students have the tools to succeed at the high school level.
Creighton Elementary School Governing Board
Open Seat
Carl Zaragoza is a former Teach for America corps member and an Army veteran. Progressive Majority recruited Carl through local community partners and past candidates. Progressive Majority has worked with Carl since the beginning of his race for the Creighton Elementary School Governing Board. He ran on the platform of celebrating real, significant academic achievement, Carl understands how critical the public school system is for a community's growth. Carl won one of three available four-year seats, the three highest vote getters win this race.
Glendale Elementary School Governing Board (Open Seat)
Open Seat
Rosemary Arthur, a medical billing specialist at Planned Parenthood, ran for an open seat on the Glendale Elementary School Governing Board and won. This was her first run for public office. We recruited Rosemary through our partnership with the Arizona Education Association, Planned Parenthood and the Center for Progressive Leadership. One of the reasons Rosemary ran, is to guarantee medically-accurate sex education in Glendale's schools, a program that is threatened by a growing conservative bloc in the city.
Madison Elementary School Governing Board - At Large
Open Seat
Robin Stamp was a first-time candidate for the Madison Elementary School District Governing Board. Robin, 30, was a fellow at the Center for Progressive Leadership and works for the Arizona Attorney General's Office in its consumer outreach division.
Phoenix Elementary School Governing Board - At Large
Open Seat
Liz Meza was a candidate in the non-partisan race for an open seat on the Phoenix Elementary School Governing Board and won. Three seats were up, all elected at-large. Liz, the sister of Robert Meza, a progressive member of the Arizona House of Representatives, is a prominent member of the community making her first run for public office. She ran on a platform of improving conditions in Phoenix's inner city schools, effectively confronting the issues of reduced enrollment due to enhanced immigration enforcement and charter schools, and improving communication between school administration and the community. Liz's perspective as a member of the Latino community is desperately needed - this school district has an enrollment of 85 percent Latino students and 5 percent Caucasian students, yet all five board members are Caucasian.
Tempe Elementary School Governing Board - At Large
Sherri Connell, 36, was a first-time candidate running for a position on the Tempe Elementary School Governing Board. A graduate of Emerge Arizona, Sherri is a young candidate with a bright political future. A mother of two, Sherri understands the issues facing the Tempe Elementary District from the perspective of a parent whose children attend the schools. She wants to improve communication between school administration and parents, reduce class sizes and work to retain quality teachers. Sherri was a challenger running for one of three seats up for election in this non-partisan race.
Tempe Elementary School Governing Board
Rochelle Wells is a social worker and an appointed incumbent member of the Tempe Elementary School Board who ran to retain her seat. This is her first run for public office. Rochelle has been a standout board member since her appointment, keeping a very high-profile in the community with both public appearances and newspaper op-eds on behalf of students and teachers. Rochelle ran along with another Progressive Majority candidate, Sherri Connell, for two of the three available seats on the board.
Tucson Unified School Governing Board - At Large
Open Seat
Ran as a challenger for the Tucson Unified School Governing Board, first-time candidate Mark Stegeman is an MIT-educated professor of economics at the University of Arizona. Mark ran for this non-partisan office because of his passion for education and because of the terrible mismanagement the district during the past several years. Tucson Unified is the largest school district in Arizona; it includes more than 150 schools and receives more dollars per student in funding than any other district in the state. Due to bloated bureaucracy, however, the district ranks near the bottom in the state in terms of dollars spent per student. During the past few years, Mark has been serving on the district's budget advisory committee, and he will use his experience on the committee, as an economist, and as a small business owner to streamline the district's overhead to put more money in the classroom and increase teacher pay.
Arcadia-Biltmore Constable
Maricopa County
Carolyn Lane is a real estate agent, small-business owner who ran for constable in the Arcadia-Biltmore justice precinct. The constable is a county-level partisan elected official who carries out court actions assigned by the justice of the peace. Carolyn is openly LGBT and is very active with the Human Rights Campaign, even serving as host of HRC's gala fundraiser last year. Progressive Majority has been involved with Carolyn's campaign since before she announced her candidacy. Carolyn ran on a platform of competent, effective administration of the constable's duties. She believes, as one of the only locally elected officials in the justice system, the constable has an important responsibility to the citizens of Maricopa County.
Arcadia-Biltmore Justice of the Peace
Open Seat
Maricopa County
Steven Sarkis is a 24-year-old legal clerk who ran and won for justice of the peace in the Arcadia-Biltmore justice precinct in Maricopa County. This was Steven's first run for public office. Steven worked for the justice court for two years before he left to run for justice of the peace, which is a partisan elected office. This was an open seat held by a Democrat. Progressive Majority was been involved in Steven's race from the beginning and he relied heavily on our advice. Steven walked very aggressively for several weeks. The general election was very competitive, with the district almost exactly evenly split between Democrats and Republicans.
State House - District 15
Open Seat
Maricopa County
Katie Hobbs is a proven leader and represents State House District 15. Katie served as a Commissioner on the Phoenix Women's Commission, and is the chair of the Maricopa County Merit System Commission. Over the years, Katie has worked tirelessly to stem domestic violence and homelessness. She now wants to bring her passion and dedication to the Arizona State Legislature. Katie understands the importance of strong leadership, supporting strong schools, and fostering safe neighborhoods. Katie won her vital suburban Phoenix district in 2012.
Pima College Governing Board - District 2
Pima County
David Longoria was appointed to the Pima Community College Governing Board District 2 last February and he is now running for election to that seat. David is an SEIU member and has been a coordinator of the Neighborhood Reinvestment Program in the Pima County Community Development and Neighborhood Conservation Department. He presently serves as the Vice Chair for the Pima County Regional Transportation Authority's Citizens Accountability for Regional Transportation Committee.
Open Seat
Jonathan Rothschild's experience in both the private sector, as a managing partner in a law firm, and in the public sector, with his extensive service with non-profits, gives him the skills needed to be an effective Mayor of Tucson. He is a member of the Tucson Parks & Recreation Commission and has served as Board President of Casa de los Ninos and on the Board of the Tucson Medical Center. Jonathan is the strongest candidate in this race.
Surprise City Council
Progressive Majority previously endorsed candidate up for re-election.
State Representative, District 9
Open Seat
Victoria Steele is a counselor, educator, successful business owner, and former television and radio broadcaster. As a licensed counselor, Victoria helps individuals deal with relationship problems and emotional issues. Of Native American and German descent, Victoria developed Native Ways, a treatment program for Native American women struggling with substance abuse issues. In addition to her counseling practice, Victoria is a faculty member at Prescott College and the University of Phoenix. She teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in Counseling, Psychology, Environmental Psychology, and Cultural Diversity.
State Representative, District 10
Open Seat
At age seventeen, Stefanie Mach was faced with a traumatic car accident that left her with many injuries. After the events of September 11th, she dedicated a year of service to our country with AmeriCorps NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps). In that year, Stefanie responded to a flood disaster with the American Red Cross, taught elementary school children, built part of the Appalachian Trail, maintained a wildlife reserve, and helped construct five houses with Habitat for Humanity. She now runs a small business helping build and sustain non-profit organizations.