These are articles, old and new, that are under-reported, buried or just plain forgotten. The first entry was a Daily Kos Diary that really struck a chord...made it on to the Recommended List. So I realized this kind of thing was important to people. So here I am, making it a regular thing. This is the information about people and events you need to know.
Here is Tod Theise's statement on why he is running:
I'm running for Congress in the 5th Congressional District because I believe Scott Garrett is out of touch with the values we share. While I harbor no personal animosity toward Scott, I am often left scratching my head at the votes he casts and the priorities he pursues.
Our nation's economic collapse thoroughly exposed Scott Garrett's disconnect with the working familes he was elected to represent. Even in the face of Wall Street's unbridled fleecing of the American economy, Scott continues to serve as the apologist-in-chief for Big Finance.
He continues to push the same discredited agenda of reckless deregulation that drove our economy off a cliff. He continues to advocate for privatizing social security. He even voted against extending unemployment benefits for families suffering through the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression while advocating for millionaire Wall Street execs to get lucrative bonuses because, according to Scott, they "earned" them.
If you're looking for a logical reason for Scott's servitude to Wall Street, you need only look at the sources that fund his campaign. His campaign finance reports read like a who's who of corporate lobbyists and entities that directly benefit from his lock-step votes. Moreover, Scott sits on the United States House Committee on Financial Services (or House Banking Committee), which oversees the entire financial services industry, including the securities, insurance, banking, and housing industries. The Committee also oversees the work of the Federal Reserve, the United States Department of the Treasury, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and other financial services regulators (see sourcewatch.org). How can anyone objectively regulate Big Finance when their political lifeblood flows from these very sources?
For Scott Garrett the golden rule is "Wall Street plays and Main Street pays."
Aside from national issues like financial reform, New Jersey faces a particular challenge that has plagued us for decades. New Jersey gets only 61 cents back on every federal tax dollar we send to Washington. For decades we have ranked dead last out of all 50 states in this regard. Given our current financial crisis and the brutal budget cuts we are enduring, we can't go on paying the freight for other states -- some of whom get back as much as twice what they pay in federal taxes. It's about time someone took the gloves off in Congress and fought for New Jersey taxpayers.
My FAIR SHARE TAX ACT will require that any state receiving less than 75 cents back on each federal tax dollar be refunded the difference between their return and the 75 cent baseline. In new Jersey's case, taxpayers would be refunded the difference between our pathetic 61 cents and the 75 cent baseline, which comes to 14 cents.
That 14 cent per tax dollar refund represents $9.8 billion that would come back to New Jersey. Can you imagine what an impact these funds would have on preserving our quality of life? I've outlined the plan in full detail (including a funding mechanism that won't cause other states to oppose the bill) in the "Tax Fairness" section. I will go to Washington and do something no on else has had the guts to do -- get back our fair share!
I look forward to meeting my friends and neighbors during the campaign and listening to your concerns.
Elliot Anderson is running for Nevada's state Assembly (District 15) in Clark County. Anderson is a unique candidate in that he has been endorsed by a wide spectrum of Nevada's organizations: from Las Vegas LGBT Publications and Nevada Conservation League all the way to the National Rifle Association. More importantly to my interests in his campaign, VoteVets.org and Howard Dean's Democracy for America have also endorsed Elliot Anderson for Nevada Assembly. He is a true progressive who also can talk to the NRA...that is a rare opportunity! Here is Anderson's campaign statement to DFA:
Before graduating from high school, Elliot Anderson signed up for the U.S. Marine Corps. Serving as a machine gunner for four years on active duty and three years in the inactive reserve (including a combat deployment to Afghanistan), he returned a decorated marine. He received numerous medals awarding his service, including the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, three Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, a Combat Action Ribbon, and the Rifle Expert Badge. After his return from duty, Elliot began searching for a place to call home and build his future. Nevada turned out to be the perfect fit.
Once moving to Nevada in 2005, Elliot immediately became recognized by many as an individual with a strong work ethic who was dedicated to improving our community. . While serving as the Interim Chair of the Nevada Democratic Veterans and Military Families Caucus, he helped to raise funds in order to send care packages to America’s men and women overseas.
Currently serving as the Nevada State Captain for VoteVets.org, Elliot works to empower and elect to office America’s veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Elliot has also worked hard with the community to address our service men and women’s needs. Recently, Elliot has successfully fought for the people in Assembly District 15 at the Nevada legislature. While working for our current Assemblywoman, Kathy McClain, Elliot was able to develop and present language for a Bipartisan veterans bill that passed unanimously in both the Senate and the Assembly. Elliot not only continues to work hard at all he does, but has made a commitment to use these experiences in order to advocate for better communication between residents and the elected officials who represent them.
In the military, in school, and in his civilian life, Elliot gained unique qualifications which differentiate him from others. While serving our country, he learned how to negotiate in order to find common ground between disagreeing parties, and also the importance of fighting for those who don’t have a voice of their own. While working for Assembly 15, he quickly grasped the ins and outs of the legislative process, while proving himself as someone who listens and believes in working towards a goal that benefits the people. His involvement with numerous community organizations established him as a leader in grassroots and community outreach. Elliot has become the perfect choice to represent the people of Assembly 15.
Anderson has also been endorsed by VoteVets.org, the AFL-CIO, IBEW 357, Southern Nevada Building and Construction Trades, Senator Bob Coffin, Assemblywoman Ellen Koivisto, Assemblyman Harvey Munford, Assemblyman Joe Hogan, Assemblywoman Kathy McClain, and Assemblyman Paul Aizley.
Re-elect Nevada State House Representative John Oceguera
Representative John Oceguera is the kind of candidate I love to support. From the Indigenous Democratic Network (INDN List):
Representative Oceguera, an enrolled member of the Walker River Paiute Tribe, has spent his life serving the community as a firefighter and member of the IAFF. In 2008, he was named Assistant Fire Chief of the North Las Vegas Fire Department. In the state legislature John has been an effective leader and most political insiders believe he is on track to be the next Speaker of the House.
John is being challenged for reelection by a Republican for the Nevada State House of Representatives in District 16.
I love to see firefighters, cops and teachers elected to public office and more often than not they wind up being better at representing actual people than do the lawyers that are generally elected. Oceguera is an excellent legislator and deserves re-election.
In 2000, John Oceguera was elected to the Nevada State Legislature as Assemblyman for District 16 in Southeast Las Vegas. The voters in District 16 have returned John to office every two years since that time.
Oceguera served on four legislative committees in his freshman year: Commerce and Labor, Constitutional Amendments, Judiciary, and Transportation.
By 2003, Oceguera was named Assistant Majority Leader and Vice-Chair of the Assembly Judiciary Committee. He also served on both the Commerce and Labor Committee and the Transportation Committee. During the period between legislative sessions, he served on the Legislative Subcommittee to Study the Death Penalty and Related DNA Testing. Additionally, he was one of a select number of young legislators appointed to a Toll Fellowship, a bipartisan organization which trains new legislators nationwide.
In the 2005 session of the Nevada Legislature, he continued as Assistant Majority Leader, chaired the Transportation Committee, served as vice chair of the Committee on Commerce and Labor, and continued to serve on the Judiciary Committee.
Following that session, Oceguera chaired interim committees to review regulations and study legislative security. He was vice chair of the Legislative Commission, and continues to hold that position. Trusted with additional leadership duties, John served in 2005 and 2006 on the Committee to Consult With the Director and the Legislative Counsel Bureau Biennial Budget Review Committee.
At the beginning of the 2007 legislature, Oceguera became Assembly Majority Leader and took over the reins as chair of the Committee on Commerce and Labor. He continued working on the Judiciary Committee.
In Carson City, Oceguera has a reputation for being thoroughly informed on the issues, ready to ask the tough questions and willing to go the extra mile for the district he represents. Back in his district, he is known for keeping the lines of communication open to the residents and businesses there. He takes a grass roots approach to both campaigning and representation, often going door-to-door, meeting with the voters and hearing their concerns first-hand.
Rory Reid has been endorsed by Democracy for America. Here's what they have to say about him:
Rory Reid is running for governor because he believes that Nevada needs a fundamental change in direction to realize its potential and compete in the 21st Century economy.
He's won the support of DFA members across the state and is DFA's Nevada All-Star. Join the campaign today and help put it over the top in November.
Here is Rory Reid's statement to DFA:
I am a Nevadan through and through. I grew up here, went to school here, raised my family here, and built a successful career devoted to public service here. My three children have gone through the public school system and my wife, Cindy, is a longtime educator.
An attorney by trade, I have served as leader of one of the largest and most complex counties in the nation, serving more than 2 million residents – more than 70% of the state’s population – and more than 40 million visitors each year.
Clark County covers more than 8,000 square miles, providing social services, overseeing businesses in the region – including the Las Vegas Strip, and managing the nation’s fifth busiest airport - with a budget nearly equal to the State of Nevada’s entire general fund.
As chairman of the Clark County Board of Commissioners, I have worked to ensure fiscal discipline during difficult times, while promoting job creation and economic development.
One of my first initiatives when elected to the Clark County Commission in 2002 was to reform government ethics and transparency. I led the groundbreaking effort to crack down on lobbying, conflicts of interests and gifts.
Clark County’s smart fiscal planning helped to avert the drastic budget cuts that have plagued the rest of the state. Clark County has reserved 8-10% of its revenues in a rainy day fund, hedging against economic downturns. Under my leadership, Clark County has never raised taxes, and balanced its budget every year.
Goals:
I am running for governor because I believe that Nevada needs a fundamental change in direction to realize its potential, compete in the 21st Century economy, and provide a high quality of life for all residents – present and future.
Nevada is at the bottom of important lists because for too long our state has suffered without leadership, and with no discernible plan for the future – not for economic diversification, not for jobs, and certainly not for education. And we can no longer survive, let alone thrive, with an economy solely dependent on the volatile fortunes of the tourism industry.
My campaign is built around real ideas, calling upon experts in Nevada and around the country, and citing proven successes and lessons from other states that might be adapted and applied successfully here.
Issues:
My top three priorities are to put Nevadans back to work by diversifying our economy, transforming our schools and addressing our state’s difficult budget crisis.
We must do more to diversify our economy. The day I announced my candidacy, I introduced a 30-page plan, The Virtual Crossroads, to create a new economy in Nevada. This document proposes a fundamentally new direction for Nevada. It is a new approach to economic development that captures the full potential of the state, and new leadership that has been sorely lacking in Carson City. I also plan to release an energy plan this summer that will create better ways to tap into Nevada’s vast renewable energy potential.
Earlier this year, I released my EDGE plan, which will totally transform our schools. It will give educators the ability to create professional learning environments in our schools. Everyone – the governor, parents, teachers and principals – must be part of the solution to ensure our children are ready for the 21st Century economy. I believe that we can create a stronger economy by focusing on stronger schools, while providing our children with the education they need to succeed in the 21st Century.
Finally, I will work to address our state’s difficult budget crisis. We must grow our economy in order to generate more revenue. And to grow our economy in the current competitive global climate, we must invest in education. It’s that simple.
To free up the resources necessary to improve our schools, upgrade our workforce, attract higher-paying jobs, and pay down the past decades’ debts, we will need to cut back in other areas. That will require finding efficiencies wherever we can and cutting waste, reinventing Nevada’s outdated state government for the 21st Century, using new thinking to do better with less, and eliminating unnecessary expenditures.
Here are some candidates endorsed by major progressive organizations like the Indigenous Democratic Network, Progressive Majority and Democracy for America.
First, here is a particularly great candidate, a brilliant astrophysicist. I find the result is often excellent when a scientist enters politics:
Angela Cotera Candidate for State House - District 12 (Challenger) Avondale, Buckeye, El Mirage, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Luke AFB, Youngtown and parts of Phoenix, Glendale & Surprise
Angela Cotera, an astrophysicist, garnered 47.5% of the vote in the 2008 elections. This district is in the fast growing far western portion of Maricopa County and is part of our strategic plan. She holds a Ph.D. in applied physics from Stanford University and is a research astrophysicist for the Carl Sagan Center, SETI Institute. She has volunteered in schools for years to bring her passion for astronomy to students. She and her husband have lived in Avondale since 1991. During the 2006 elections, her frustration with elected political leaders at the local, state and national levels compelled her to do whatever she could to help change the political landscape of Arizona. She is a graduate of Emerge program and has participated in the Center for Policy Alternatives training, attended the Take Back America Confernece and gotten messaging help from us.
Next I would like to highlight some candidates endorsed by Democracy for America:
Raul Grijalva for Congress (AZ-07)
Raul Grijalva is a progressive champion. As Chairman of the Progressive Caucus he's fought for us time and again -- And his work has made him the number one target of Wall Street interests and Republicans across the country.
I was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona. My father emigrated from Mexico in 1945 as a bracero, a laborer brought in by the U.S. government to help offset the loss of skilled American ranch hands serving in World War II. My parents stressed the importance of education to their three children. It was that encouragement that led me to my career in public service. My wife, Ramona, and I have been married for almost 40 years. We have three daughters, Adelita, Raquel and Marisa, as well as two grandchildren, Adelina and Raúlito.
From 1974 to 1986, I served on the Tucson Unified School District Governing Board, serving as chairman during my last three years on the board. During my tenure at TUSD, I worked with the courts, Superintendent, and educators on a desegregation plan and was the lead Board member in implementing the integration plan. Upon my retirement, an elementary school was named after me in order to honor his service and contributions to education in TUSD.
I served on the Pima County Board of Supervisors from 1989 to 2002. My leadership led to the creation of the Sonoran Desert Conservation Plan, an innovative approach to species and habitat protection in concert with land-use planning in the community. As a Supervisor, I led a successful campaign for a $10 million bond package to reinvest in older, poorer neighborhoods and to fund a county housing trust.
I was elected to Congress in 2002. It was a true grassroots campaign – I was outspent 3:1, but defeated my opponents by staying true to progressive values and standing up for what’s right. Currently, I am member of the House Education and Labor Committee and the House Natural Resources Committee, where I serve as Chairman for the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands. I am an active member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and Co-Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
This year, I was proud to introduce many bills, including HR 5355, the “no cap” bill, which would eliminate the cap on economic damages for companies drilling offshore. Well before the Deepwater Horizon disaster, I was actively pushing for oil rig safety and oversight. I called out government agencies’ pathological coziness with the oil industry and prioritized transparency and accountability. Recently, I led the markup of H.R. 3534, the Consolidated Land, Energy, and Aquatic Resources (CLEAR) Act, which will break up the outdated Minerals Management Service, require full environmental reviews of drilling proposals, and make it possible for the public to recoup more royalties from companies working on public land.
I also introduced HR 5028, the Right to Rent Act of 2010, which would stem the nation’s tide of foreclosures by allowing families to stay in the houses that are their homes at a fair market rent, while also lowering the family’s monthly housing costs, and allowing the mortgage holder to receive a fair-market return on their property.
Goals:
I believe that public service can and should be an honorable career that makes life better for the greatest possible number of people. This value has been my guiding star since I first decided to run for public office. We are living in a defining period for our great nation. The history books will praise or condemn us based on how we invest in people, reestablish our moral standing in the world, and create a better direction for America. I am running for re-election to Congress because what the government does now can permanently improve the well-being of our people.
Issues:
Education—As a member of the Education and Labor Committee, I will continue to prioritize significant reforms of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act re-authorization to improve education for Arizona children, provide the resources that were originally promised by No Child Left Behind, and advocate for smaller classes, greater teacher support and increased involvement of parents in their children’s education. I will closely monitor implementation the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act, passed this session as part of health care reform, especially in terms of how it lowers costs at colleges and universities and increases access to student loans for higher education.
Immigration/Border security—Comprehensive immigration and border security reform continues to be exploited as a wedge issue instead of being seen as a major national and international question sorely in need of an answer. A lack of administration prioritizing and of Congressional political courage has led to the divisive, mean-spirited and unconstitutional approaches of local and state governments: deriding and targeting all undocumented people, and those who may appear to be undocumented, as a threat to our security and the survival of our nation. The debate has become about how much unaccountable, symbolic enforcement we can carry out: bigger border walls, more armed troops, spending sprees on failed technology. Elected officials continue to avoid tackling the tough issues they were sent to Washington to address. I remain committed to supporting comprehensive immigration and border security reform as the top priority in the next session of Congress, if not sooner.
Environment—My top priorities for Arizona are protecting our public lands and national treasures from assault by foreign mining companies around the Grand Canyon and ensuring that land swaps do not benefit private industry at public expense. As chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee’s National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands subcommittee, I will remain focused on reforming federal agencies that oversee resource extraction on public lands and coastal waterways. I will also continue working to end the cozy relationship between federal oil drilling regulators and the industry they are paid to oversee.
Some of what Raul Grijalva has been doing recently:
Penny Kotterman (AZ Superintendent of Public Instruction)
As a parent, a teacher, and a teacher mentor, Penny Kotterman has spent more than thirty years devoted to fulfilling the promise of a quality public education for every child.
Penny understand that the success of our students today will determine our quality of life tomorrow. Arizona must do better -- from critical early learning for young children, to the higher education necessary to prepare the next generation of state leaders. That's why Penny earned the support of DFA members across the state and DFA's Arizona All-Star endorsement.
Here is Penny Kotterman's statement to DFA:
My name is Penny Kotterman. I am seeking the office Superintendent of Public Instruction in 2010 because I can make a real difference for our schools and for public education in the state of Arizona. There is no greater foundation for our children and young adults than an excellent education that prepares them to be successful and thrive and gives them the opportunity to make choices about their future. As Superintendent of Public Instruction, I can help create those opportunities for the next generation of Arizona students.
A lifelong educator with over 30 years of experience as a classroom teacher, mentor, and district program facilitator, I currently work providing policy and program support in the areas of teacher quality and professional development for K-12 educators. In addition to nearly 20 years of practical classroom experience, I have a decade’s worth of experience in education advocacy and policy development here in Arizona.
As president of the Arizona Education Association for 6 years, I helped build many of the policies central to education in Arizona today, including work on student standards and assessments, Proposition 301, and teacher certification. I have provided policy advice and support Governor Napolitano’s committee on Teacher Quality, the Arizona P-20 Council, and the State Board of Education, among others.
If we believe in high standards and high expectations for our children, our teachers and our schools, we must invest our efforts and resources in their success. I encourage you to go to our website www.PennyKotterman.com to find out more about our campaign.
Goals:
I believe it is time to change the conversation about public education. The superintendent of public instruction needs to be an educational leader, armed with a depth of knowledge gained over a lifetime of experience in education, not a politician with an ideological formula gained over a lifetime of running for office. We do not need anymore attorneys, politicians, bureaucrats or consultants, we need a committed teacher and educator leading the public education effort in our state. We need to move from polarizing political stances to conversations and solutions about what Arizona students need to be successful in the world they will face. High standards and high expectations for our schools, our teachers and our students are essential to our success. In order to be sure we are not just engaging in rhetoric, we also need to talk about the importance of investing in our schools for the future and providing the resources our children need to be competitive and successful. I believe I have the experience, dedication, passion, skill and knowledge to serve this state as a true educational leader and superintendent of public instruction. There is a great deal to be considered in the public education arena in Arizona. Arizona is 49th in per pupil funding and as a state we have one of the largest per-capita budget deficits in the nation. Public education has been underfunded and over-regulated for much of the last two decades. At the same time we have allowed a largely unregulated system of Tuition Tax Credits and Charter Schools to expand. Student achievement has improved in some areas, but as a whole is virtually flat, and the achievement and resource gap between our poorest schools and the wealthiest continues to grow. Teacher quality has been eroded by an "anyone can teach" mentality. Given this set of circumstances, my first major goal is to change the conversation about public education in Arizona and advocate for our public schools as the foundation for a strong democracy, opportunity, and economic development. The Superintendent of Public Instruction must be the voice of advocacy for our schools, our educators and our students. It is the responsibility of the Superintendent to seek efficient and effective program and financial policies, and this is more important than ever in tough economic times. My second goal is to improve the relationship of the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and the 225+ school districts in Arizona. The establishment of reasonable policies that are informed by local needs, listening and collaborating with local district and county entities, and reinforcing a public service ethic and purpose in the ADE can return the ADE to a place of providing service and technical support to districts and schools. The third broad goal I have is to systematically improve student success in schools across Arizona. This will require attention to the use of data, assessments, teacher effectiveness and school improvement support in a very connected and systematic manner, constantly developing and managing systems of continuous improvement and adjusting to meet the needs of our most struggling schools and student populations. I believe the answers and expertise to do this lie within the vast experiences our best educators. We must work to replicate programs that work and support the elimination of those that do not.
Issues:
Our campaign is focused on the issues of High Standards and High Expectations for students, teachers and schools. This translates into issues of educational opportunity for ALL of our students, improved (not MORE) student assessments and their uses, and effective, research-based programs and policies for supporting student and school improvement. For teachers this means a concerted effort to recruit and retain our best teachers through aggressive recruitment of individuals who are committed to the profession of teaching, the development of programs like quality mentoring for new teachers, professional development for existing teachers, and performance evaluation systems that lead to reflective practice and on-going and continuous improvement.
And here are some other Progressive Majority endorsed candidates in Arizona:
Andrei Cherny Candidate for State Treasurer (Open Seat)
Andrei Cherny most recently was an Arizona Assistant Attorney General before becoming a full time candidate. He worked as a White House aide for President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore, and served as the youngest Presidential speechwriter in history. He is also the author of two top selling books, The Next Deal: The Future of Public Life in the Information Age, and most recently, The Candy Bombers: The Untold Story of the Berlin Airlift and America's Finest Hour. He is an officer in the Naval Reserve and is a member of SEIU. Andrei is already garnering national support for his election, including having Clinton host a fundraiser, and Gore writing a solicitation for his campaign.
Rae Waters Candidate for State House - District 20 (Incumbent) Maricopa County
Rae Waters picked up a traditionally Republican-held state House seat in District 20. Rae was a late entrant into this race because the Democratic Party's previous candidate, Corey Harris, was recalled to active duty in Iraq and cannot stand for election. District 20 is a traditionally Republican district that, due to changing registration numbers, is trending Democratic, however, Rae is the only Democrat elected in the district and is one the Republicans top targets. In 2008, Rae only won by 700 votes. Rae is running on her record fiscal responsibility, and strengthening health care and education. Professionally, most recently she served as a community columnist for the Arizona Republic. For the last 12 years, Rae has also served as an elected m ember of the Kyrene School District governing board, where she held a variety of leadership positions, including chairing the state association. She is running as a clean election candidate.
Rae Waters has also been endorsed by:
Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona
"The Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona are proud to endorse Rae Waters for the House in Arizona, legislative District 20. Rae Waters understands the need for core government services like public safety, education, and health care. She has demonstrated her ability to deal with difficult problems and arrive at the best solution possible. We need more people like Rae Waters in the Arizona State Legislature."
Arizona Education Association
"The Arizona Education Association is proud to endorse Representative Rae Waters for the House of Representatives in Legislative District 20. Rae has been a strong advocate for students, schools, and teachers. Arizona's students and families need more legislators like Rae who care about quality public education."
AZ Correctional Peace Officers Association
"Rae Waters has shown clear and consistent support for law enforcement. Her dedication to keeping our neighborhoods safe and her commitment to staying tough on crime are traits that are desperately needed in the Arizona legislature."
And: Fraternal Order of Police Arizona Medical Association National Association of Social Workers
Pat Fleming Candidate for State House - District 25 (Incumbent) Bisbee, Douglas, Gila Bend, Marana, Nogales and the Tohono O'odham Reservation
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 ran again in 2008, this time successfully. In 2010, she is running for reelection and is a top target of the Republicans, as they have control of the other state house seat in this district and the district is trending Republican. 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 Department of the Defense, where she oversaw multi-million dollars budgets. She is a retired member of American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE). Pat is a graduate of the Emerge program, has worked with Jennie Blackton on messaging, has attended the Take Back America conference and has worked with Progressive Majority on all aspects of her campaign.
Pat Fleming has also been endorsed by:
The Tucson Weekly Greater Sierra Vista Chamber of Commerce Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona Arizona Nurses Association Political Action Committee Arizona Education Association Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association Arizona League of Conservation Voters Arizona Women’s Political Caucus Las Adelitas Arizona AFSCME Arizona Sierra Club, Grand Canyon Chapter Planned Parenthood of Arizona Arizona State Building and Construction Trades Council Arizona AFL-CIO International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, IBEW 640
Cheryl Cage Candidate for State House - District 26 (Challenger) Pima County
Cheryl Cage is a repeat candidate for a House seat in Legislative District 26. The seat had been held by a Democrat between 2006 and 2008; Cheryl's close loss (she garnered 49% of the vote) allowed the Republicans to win the seat. A retired member of the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA), Cheryl is now a consultant in the aviation industry. As a small business owner, she understands the need for fiscal responsibility, and wants to rein in the irresponsible budget practices of the Republican majority in Phoenix. Her opponent is the extreme right-wing Sen. Al Melvin, upset a popular, moderate, well-funded in Republican House member in the primary in 2008. This district has featured very close elections in recent years, but all three seats (this and the two house seats) were all captured by Republicans in 2008. Year in and year out, LD 26 has been a top-tier target for all progressive stakeholder groups and the Democratic Party. Cheryl received a significant amount of training in 2008; this year she has honed her fundraising messages with us, as she ran as a clean election candidate last time.
Andrea Dalessandro is another of our repeat candidates who ran in 2008. This year, she's running for the House of Representatives in District 30, which has two seats currently held by Republicans. Andrea garnered 47.5% of the vote in 2008. Andrea is a graduate of Emerge, our partner organization, that trains women. There is one open seat and one conservative running for reelection. This is a targeted district for taking control of the Statehouse, and a viable race due in large part to Andrea's tireless campaigning in the last year. She is a certified public accountant and a former high school math teacher. Andrea and her husband, a retired letter carrier, moved to Arizona in 2004 from New Jersey. She is a retired member of the Arizona Education Association, the New Jersey Education Association and the New Jersey Federation of Teachers. She attended numerous trainings, including Center for Policy Alternatives' values training and Progressive Majority's messaging training.
This comes from the Indigenous Democratic Network (INDN's List), an organization that helps Native American Democrats run for office:
INDN's List is proud to announce our endorsement of an unprecedented slate of highly qualified Indian candidates for office in Arizona. This election, more than any other, it is vital the Indian voice be heard in elected office in Arizona. A recent law passed this year allows police to racially profile American Indians, and others, because they "look like illegal aliens." This radical law directly impacts the Indian communities in Arizona and we need strong Indian voices to stand up for ALL of our civil rights. Luckily, we have the best slate of Indian candidates Arizona has ever seen, including the chance to elect the first Indian statewide.
INDN's List is so excited to join the Arizona Republic in endorsing Chris Deschene for Secretary of State. Chris Deschene attended our "From the Table to the Ticket" training in 2006 where he impressed all of our staff and as well as Congressman Mike Honda (D-CA), the Vice Chair of the DNC, who is also supporting Chris. He has served in the State House with distinction and is ready to bring his experience to the Secretary of State’s office.
Chris Deschene was inspired to service by his grandfather, who served as a Navajo Codetalker during World War 2. Chris followed in his grandfather’s footsteps and dedicated his life to serving his country. He attended the US Naval Academy and served two tours of duty overseas in the Marine Corps, ultimately serving as the Executive Officer for a reconnaissance team of 160 Marines.
Upon completing his military service, Chris returned to Arizona and simultaneously earned a law degree and a Masters in Mechanical Engineering with an emphasis in renewable and alternative energy development. He also has been a member of the United Steelworkers Union and knows the importance of standing up for working Americans.
Chris is running a hotly contested primary for Secretary of State, and, if victorious, would be the first American Indian to hold statewide office in Arizona.
Deschene has also been endorsed by:
Arizona Education Association:
"Public education has been a priority for Chris Deschene throughout his career in the state Legislature, and we in the Arizona Education Association are thrilled and proud to support him for the office of Secretary of State."
SEIU Arizona:
"SEIU Arizona is pleased to endorse Chris Deschene for Secretary of State. A tireless supporter of quality public services and the employees who deliver them, Chris is well qualified to represent the citizens of Arizona in this essential office."
Retired General John Adams:
"Chris is a proven leader with a track record of success in one of our nation's most important institutions, the United States Marine Corps, and Arizona needs his leadership. I served more than 30 years in the U.S. Army dedicated to defending the Constitution and its protections guaranteed to everyone. No one understands better the importance of these guarantees, especially as they relate to fair elections, than Represenatative Chris Deschene. He will be a great Secretary of State for all of Arizona."
INDN's List is thrilled to endorse Jack Jackson, Jr. for State Senate in the Second Legislative District. Jack has spent his entire career fighting for Indian rights, including representing the Navajo Nation for 12 years in Washington, DC. He then moved on to the National Indian Education Association, where he represented the educational concerns of over 3,000 American Indian and Alaskan Native educators, school administrators, parents and students. During the Fiscal Year 1996 budget negotiations, he worked tirelessly with tribal leadership to reinstate full funding of $81 million to the Office of Indian Education in the Department of Education.
In 1997, Jack became the Director of Governmental Affairs for the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), the oldest, largest and most representative Indian advocacy organization in the nation for over 250 tribal governments. His main responsibility was overseeing legislative and appropriation measures before the United States Congress affecting Indian Country.
While at NCAI, Jack helped create a strong and credible Native influence at the national, state and local levels. He assisted in the design of a comprehensive government-to-government strategy, which resulted in three unprecedented Executive Orders issued by President Clinton and several Presidential Memorandums and Directives relevant to the needs and concerns of Indian Country. These actions protected Native American sacred sites and required appropriate consultation with tribal governments.
From 2003 to 2005, Jack served in the 46th Arizona State Legislature in the House of Representatives. In 2005, Jack was appointed by Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano as the Executive Director of the Arizona Commission of Indian Affairs (ACIA). His main duty was to ensure that the Commission provided assistance to the State of Arizona in fulfilling its responsibilities to Arizona’s 22 Indian Nations and Tribes by making recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature. He conferred and coordinated with officials and agencies of other governmental units regarding Indian issues, and worked to provide improved relationships and a greater understanding between tribal governments and the State.
INDN's List is delighted to endorse Albert Hale and Albert Tom for State House District 2. In Arizona, voters select two State House candidates to represent their district in the legislature. These two Navajo candidates have each served in the state legislature in the past with distinction and are the best choices to represent the Indian voice in the State House this next legislative cycle.
Republican Senator Chuck Grassley has betrayed working and middle class Americans:
Obstructionist Republican Chuck Grassley has a challenger for Senator from Iowa. Roxanne Conlin is running for US Senate:
Roxanne Conlin has been endorsed by Democracy for America:
Roxanne Conlin is running against one of the Senate's biggest Healthcare opponents -- Chuck Grassley.
Senator Grassley fought us for more than a year, working everyday to kill the public option and take down all health reform with it. He even went so far as to claim President Obama wanted to "pull the plug on grandma." America doesn't need Republicans like Chuck Grassley in the U.S. Senate.
Here is Roxanne's statement to DFA:
Battling organized crime, corruption and giant corporations, Roxanne Conlin has spent her life standing up to special interests for Iowa families who have been hurt by powerful forces. At an early age, Roxanne experienced personally the hardships many families face. She learned to never give up, no matter what the odds. Growing up in Iowa, Roxanne's family lived paycheck to paycheck, moving from town to town in search of steady work. Her father was an alcoholic, who struggled to hold down a job, while her mother tried to put food on the table for their children. The oldest of six children, Roxanne went to work as a waitress at the age of 14 to help the family make ends meet.
At the age of 16, Roxanne entered Drake University - taking on extra classes while holding down several jobs at the same time. Roxanne worked her way through college, graduating at 19 and Drake Law School graduating at just 21 years old. She chose to dedicate her legal career to speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves. As an Assistant Attorney General for Iowa, Roxanne fought public corruption and wrote the first law of its kind protecting rape victims. Then, as the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa, she worked hand in hand with law enforcement - leading major drug busts and cracking down on violent crime.
For more than 25 years, Roxanne has owned and managed a small law firm in Iowa. Her firm is dedicated to representing everyday people who do not have a voice. She has never worked for a single corporate interest. Instead, Roxanne has chosen to fight for family farmers squeezed by big banks, police officers wronged by the system, and workers hurt by large companies. A successful small business, Roxanne Conlin & Associates was recently cited by a national magazine as one of the best firms to work for because of its family-friendly practices, welcoming the children of staff into the workplace.
With each new milestone - serving as United States Attorney in Iowa, earning the Democratic nomination for Governor of Iowa, being elected as the first woman President of the American Association of Justice, and selected as one of the first women in the Inner Circle of Advocates - Roxanne leaves behind a trail of shattered glass. Through it all, she still sees the world through the eyes of the courageous, everyday Iowan who refuses to give up in the face of overwhelming odds. Roxanne lives in Des Moines with her husband of 45 years, James. They are most proud of their four adult children and five grandchildren.
Goals:
I’m running because I’m fed up with double-digit unemployment, endless wars and bailouts for Wall Street. Chuck Grassley has held office for 51 years and has created partisan gridlock. He tried to block health insurance reform and Iowa deserves better. As a Senator, I will work to create good paying jobs, stimulate our economy and truly leave no child behind.
Issues:
JOBS While the big banks got bailed out, Iowans got left behind. Simply put – that’s outrageous. We need a senator who will help small businesses in Iowa, not big corporations that ship jobs overseas. We must fight for relief on Main Street – with tax incentives to encourage businesses to keep and create jobs here, instead of more bailouts for Wall Street. And preserve the jobs we have, while also creating new ones with a renewable energy revolution — in wind, solar, ethanol, and biomass.
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY: THE ECONOMY The federal government should use the same practical, kitchen table budgeting principles Iowa families use every day – live within your means, save for a rainy day, and work towards a balanced budget. We need an honest budgeting process that ensures government is effective, efficient, and working for the middle-class – instead of serving as an ATM for the big banks and other special interests. We must invest in education, job training, transportation, and health care to create jobs and promote long-term economic growth. An important element of this process must include closing corporate tax loopholes for companies who ship our jobs overseas.
EDUCATION Iowans are no longer competing with Nebraska, Minnesota, or even the East and West coasts, we are competing with the workforce and entrepreneurs in India, China, and Europe. The best way to invest in Iowa’s future is by providing our children with a world-class education. In order to grow and sustain a vibrant economy we need to ensure every American has access to a quality education – from preschool through college. The cost of a college education has risen 40% in the last five years. We must make vocational schools and college more affordable by increasing the value of Pell Grants and lowering the interest rates on student loans. We need to change No Child Left Behind, it is an unfunded mandate and encourages schools to teach to the test and punishes poorly performing schools instead of working to make them better.
Michael Mauro has been an excellent secretary of state for Iowa and he has been endorsed by the Secretary of State Project. Here is what they have to say about him:
Michael Mauro is seeking his second term as Iowa’s Secretary of State. He has worked to strengthen Iowa’s rich history of quality elections, which had the fifth highest voter percentage turnout in the nation in 2008. In the fall of 2009, Iowa’s election laws and procedures implemented by Secretary Mauro gained national attention when the state ranked first in a study focusing on the ease of voting for members of the military and U.S. citizens living overseas. In just his first term, he has worked with the state legislature to allow same-day voter registration and to establish a uniform voting system for all 99 counties. As a result, legislation is now in place to ensure a voter-verified paper trail for all future elections. He has also helped create electronic poll books available for use across the state, enhancing precinct officials’ ability to process voters effectively and consistently and adding another layer of security to Iowa’s voting process.
Among Mauro's accomplishments is to encourage and bring out the military vote, as outlined here (PDF):
Here is a round up of Democracy for America endorsements in Georgia:
Russell Edwards for Congress (GA-10)
Russell is a DFA member running for Congress in a so-called "red" state. He was a DFA Netroots Nation Scholar in 2009 and he's running a strong grassroots campaign that's fired up Democrats across his district.
Democrats in Washington are playing defense, but we're not. We're going on offense and supporting progressive challengers like Russell Edwards across the country. Join the campaign today and help fuel our 50 State Strategy.
Here is Russell's statement to Democracy for America:
I am a Georgia native, born and raised in Fayette County. As an adolescent, I began organizing trips to a half-way house in Atlanta to provide food and fellowship. There, I came to realize the struggles faced by some of my fellow citizens and the importance of supporting them. I began to question the validity of a modern Republican ideology driven by the notion that everyone can fend for themselves and pull themselves up by their own bootstraps.
I went off to college at the University of North Carolina-Asheville. There, I received a B.A. in Spanish and also managed a local architectural salvage business. I fell in love with Appalachian culture.
After college, I moved to Washington, D.C. and taught Spanish in D.C. Public Schools. I also coached basketball at the school, leading its team to an undefeated district championship. There, I recognized the incredible challenges facing today’s educational system as well as the children and parents it serves. Teaching in D.C. also gave me a firsthand opportunity to work alongside important national leaders. I worked with Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton as her Chair of Outreach for the D.C. Congressional Art Competition Committee and was instrumental in expanding the program’s reach and participation.
I also fought for clean air and water while I lived in Washington, serving as a leader of the Sierra Club’s Washington D.C. Chapter. I launched a renegade campaign that distributed over 5,000 energy-saving light bulbs to residents of the community, mostly by standing on the sidewalk outside the Eastern Market with a box of bulbs. I also organized a Climate Change Youth Summit that brought together community members to explore ways to reduce energy consumption and lessen America’s dependence on oil.
During my time in the nation’s capital, however, I never forgot my Georgia home. In 2007, I made the hard decision to leave my teaching position in Washington to return to Georgia.
I next attended and graduated from the University of Georgia School of Law. Much of my studies at law school centered around how to make it easier for all Georgians to register to vote. I successfully fought the GA Secretary of State to remove an illegal requirement on GA’s Voter Registration Form.
I am a 2009 Netroots Nation Scholar and have attended several DFA Campaign Academies. I feel I have been given the tools to make a difference for my state. Now we just need support to execute our campaign's strategy.
Goals:
I am running because I think it's time for my district to send responsible representation to Congress. We need someone who will fight to create jobs in our community and support our schools. My district is currently represented by one of the most embarrassing members of Congress, Paul Broun, Jr.- someone the Southern Poverty Law Center has labeled the "Doctor of Demonization." To be honest, much of my inspiration to run derives from the terrible leadership GA is currently experiencing. I am a firm believer in the 50-State Strategy and have taken matters into my own hands. I am DFA-trained and feel empowered to win!
Issues:
Job creation is probably the most important challenge my District faces. We are experiencing record unemployment levels, and businesses are left with few reasons to invest in our area. We have crumbling infrastructure, underfunded schools, and a lack of public investment in job-creating research. The current incumbent believes earmarks are unconstitutional, so all federally-funded institutions in the district suffer under his rule. If elected, I will work tirelessly to restore important research funding to district institutions that will help attract private investment and good-paying jobs back to our district.
Supporting our area schools is also an important issue. Local and state budgets in Georgia have been slashed and revenue is down. Unfortunately, Georgia's teachers have received the brunt of the cuts. They have been fired, furloughed, and forced to teach classes with unmanageable amounts of students. If we can come together and pass a three page bill to bailout Wall Street's illegal gambles, then we should come together to help our community's teachers. There is no way we will prosper by short-changing the education of our children.
Jim Nichols is 29 years old and works at UPS loading trucks. He attends Georgia State University and he's working on degree's in Economics and Philosophy. He's an activist and DFA Campaign Academy alum -- and he's DFA's Georgia All-Star.
Jim is running for State Senate to get Atlanta working for the people of Georgia again. Join the campaign today to help put him over the top.
Here is Jim Nichols' statement to Democracy for America:
I am 29, currently lives in metro Atlanta with his wife Deana, and work at UPS loading trucks. I attend Georgia State University and am working on degree's in Economics and Philosophy. I am a graduate of DFA grassroots training and jumped in head first–becoming Chair of Henry County Democrats in 2008, Young Democrats of GA Legislative Aide of the Year in 2008 and 2009, and 2nd vice chair of 3 congressional district 08-current. I ran a GOTV for a State House special election in 2007 and was campaign manager for a State Senate race in 2008.
Goals:
On the campaign trail since May of 2009, I will fight to bring the new ideas, new energy, and new leadership needed to clean up state government and shake things up in Atlanta. I intend to keep doing what i'm doing--giving Republicans a full court press. Democrats have failed to be a strong opposition party and our citizens have paid for this in bad legislation.
Issues:
Creating a sustainable budget. The State of GA ranked 49th in per capita spending---yet we have the 10th largest budget shortfall in the nation. We are firing teachers when we should be hiring them. Even now Republicans are running on "cutting taxes"--I'm running right back at them asking "how many more teachers are you going to fire when you do it?" Engaging on the issues is the only way to regain the narrative from the tea party fringe.
Here are some important candidates running in South Dakota:
Ben Nesselhuf for South Dakota Secretary of State
From the Secretary of State Project:
Ben Nesselhuf is running for an open seat to replace Republican Secretary of State Chris Nelson. Nesselhuf has had a distinguished legislative career in the South Dakota House of Representatives and the State Senate, where he sponsored numerous bills around campaign finance reform. Over his five terms he has served on the Health and Human Services, Commerce, Taxation, Education and State Affairs committees.
A lifelong resident of South Dakota’s rural heartland and an enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Julie Garreau was born to a life in public service. Her father, Ellsworth Garreau, built a respected career in local law enforcement. Her mother, Iyonne, served as executive director of the Cheyenne River Elderly Nutrition Center for more than three decades; she also instilled in her children a powerful drive to help the less fortunate....
Following her graduation from Huron University, she worked as the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe’s education services specialist for 15 years; during that time, she also spent five years on the CRST Police Commission, three as chairperson. She broadened her community involvement by serving as a Suicide Crisis Referral Hotline counselor for six years and taking American Red Cross training courses in Mass Care, Introduction to Disaster Services, Damage Assessment and Shelter Operations.
Perhaps most significantly, Julie also has been executive director of the grassroots, not-for-profit Cheyenne River Youth Project® since its 1988 inception. She volunteered in the position for the first 12 years, becoming a full-time staff member in 2000. Julie has seen the project through its exhilarating development from a tiny, one-room youth center in a former Main Street bar to a comprehensive community organization that includes The Main Youth Center for children ages 4-12, the Cokata Wiconi Teen Center for youth ages 13-18, the 2.5-acre naturally grown Winyan Toka Win Garden and Family Services, an important program that provides household necessities, clothing, heating and home-repair funds, Christmas gifts and much more to local families.
In addition to her work with CRYP, Julie is a field coordinator for Running Strong for American Indian Youth®, a national not-for-profit organization that is an important CRYP partner. She is a dedicated advocate for youth and for sustainable grassroots initiatives within communities, and she hopes to provide a valuable model for other communities as they develop effective, sustainable youth programming and community support services.
That dedication has been recognized at the regional and national levels. Julie has received the South Dakota Volunteer of the Year Award (1992); the Presidential Points of Light Award (1992), presented by President H. W. Bush; the Father Hogebach Service to Native American Children Award, presented by St. Joseph’s Indian School (1995); the Lakota Nation Invitational Tournament Public Service Award (1993); the North American Indian Women’s Association Fellowship “Among All Peoples” Award (1999); and the Garden Supply Company’s First Place “Garden Crusader” Award (2005).
In 2002, the South Dakota Coalition for Children named CRYP a “Champion for Children,” and Julie was named to an honor roll that recognized its 16 members’ outstanding dedication to South Dakota’s Children. Her name also appears on the Honor Wall at the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington D.C.
Most recently, Julie received the Spirit of Dakota Award (2009). Established in 1987, the award recognizes a South Dakota woman who has demonstrated leadership qualities, has become successful in her community and state, has deep Dakota roots, has shown courage and strength of character and has represented social, cultural and educational advancement for others. It recognizes, according to the society, “those outstanding women who have been the symbols of all that we are proud of in our prairie women.”
Although the South Dakota Senate run for District 28 is Julie’s first campaign for public office, she is not new to politics. She has been chairperson of the Dewey County Democratic Party since June 2008; she also served as the Cheyenne River coordinator for then-Sen. Barack Obama’s presidential campaign.
Bob Pille for School and Public Lands Commissioner
Bob Pille has been endorsed by the Indigenous Democratic Network and is running for a very important if generally very overlooked position. He is an Oglala Sioux Tribe Natural Resources Executive focusing on Environmental Protection Program-grants management and crisis management, which makes him very well qualified for Public Lands Commissioner.
Here are some excellent candidates in Washington State:
Sen. Claudia Kauffman: Senate District 47
From Progressive Majority:
Sen. Claudia Kauffman is running for re-election in the 47th legislative district. We helped recruit Claudia for her first run in 2006, based on her activism within the Native American community, particularly for her role as the Intergovernmental Liaison at Muckleshoot Tribe. We worked closely with Claudia's campaign to overcome both a tough primary opponent where we took on the Democratic Party and tough general election fight in 2006. The 47th is a swing district and one Republicans view as vulnerable in this tough political climate for progressives. Claudia and her two house Democratic seatmates are some of the top targets of the Republicans and we expect them to spend a great deal of resources here. President Obama won this district by 55%. A member of the Nez Perce Tribe of Idaho, Claudia is the only Native American woman in the state legislature.
Helping Families:
Values:
Veterans:
From the Indigenous Democratic Network:
In 2005, INDN’s List was born and we hosted our First INDN Campaign Camp, where we brought in a very distinguished group of Indian leaders from across the country to be trained by the top political consultants in the Democratic Party. In that inaugural class was Claudia Kauffman, a member of the Nez Perce tribe, an extraordinarily talented individual who, with the support of INDN’s made history by becoming the first American Indian woman elected to the Washington State Senate.
In her first term in office, Senator Kauffman has quickly made a huge impact and taken the lead on issues involving children and education. As Vice Chair for Early Learning on the State Education Committee, Senator Kauffman brought together parents, professionals and policy makers to examine early learning needs statewide and develop a plan to expand early learning in Washington. She authored and passed legislation that implemented this plan for all of Washington’s children.
This year, Senator Kauffman faces her first reelection campaign. INDN’s List is proud to once again endorse Senator Kauffman for State Senate. Republicans have targeted Senator Kauffman, making her their # 1 target, and are raising massive amounts of money to use against her. They have even already started their dirty tricks, including a push poll, to defeat her.
We've supported him since our founding in 2005, and we are so proud once again to endorse Washington State Rep. John McCoy, a member of the Tulalip Tribe, in seeking his fifth term in office.
He is current Chair of the House Technology, Energy and Communications Committee. He is also Chair of the National Caucus of Native American State Legislators.
During the last session, Rep. McCoy sponsored legislation that created a new state law expanding the authority of tribal police. They can now arrest anyone on the reservation, not just tribal members.
We want John to continue his work for the safety of American Indians in Indian Country, for education, and for health care, and we are happy to help him in his electoral efforts.
Eric Oemig Candidate for State Senate - District 45 (Incumbent) King County
Senator Eric Oemig was supported by Progressive Majority when he first ran for Senate in 2006. Since his election, Eric has been a champion for reform and efficiency in government. Once a Republican stronghold, the 45th district of East King County has elected Democrats in recent elections and the current delegation is 100% Democratic. Re-electing Eric ensures we retain progressive representation in a swing district that has only recently trended democratic.
Cindy Ryu Candidate for 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.
Tami Green Candidate for State House - District 28 (Incumbent) 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.
Andy Billig Candidate for 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.
Laurie Jinkins Candidate for 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.
Geoff Simpson Candidate for State House - District 47 (Incumbent) King County
As a Navy veteran and a firefighter in Kent for 20 years, Rep. Geoff Simpson is no stranger to a tough fight. First elected to the House in 2000, Geoff has been a progressive champion in Olympia, focusing on improving our economy, fighting for consumer protections and even taking on his own party if necessary to stand up for working families. Every two years, the right-wing smear machine goes after Geoff because he's such a strong advocate for progressive values, and this year will be no different. Geoff Simpson has earned the endorsement of Progressive Majority and we're excited to help return him to Olympia.
Carol Gregory Candidate for State House - District 30 (Open Seat) King County
Carol Gregory is running for the open House seat in the 30th district in Federal Way. After a sudden retirement by the same state representative she challenged in 2008 (and lost to by just 1,600 votes), Carol immediately jumped in. During her last campaign, Carol raised over $150,000; the most of any Democratic challenger in that election cycle. A former President of the Washington Education Association and former board member of Washington NARAL, Carol has a long history of activism for progressive causes. Carol is facing four Republicans in the race, but with the district's 54.9% democratic performance, none of them have raised significant funds as of yet. Carol has a top notch campaign team poised to take this swing district back for progressives in 2010.
Luis Moscoso Candidate for 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.
Sharon Nelson Candidate for 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.
Joe Fitzgibbon Candidate for 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.
Joe McDermott Candidate for 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.
Randy Gordon Candidate for State Senate - District 41 (Incumbent by appointment) King County
Appointed in 2010 to replace retiring Senator Fred Jarrett, Randy is a Bellevue attorney who owns his own law firm, Gordon Edmunds Elder PLLC. He is an Adjunct Professor at Seattle University School of Law, specializing in products liability and remedies. During his first session, Randy sponsored seven bills, one of which provided children from birth to three years old with educational support for developmental disabilities. Randy has a demonstrated commitment to progressive values and has already proven his effectiveness in the State Senate. Randy will be defending his seat for the first time this cycle. Randy is definitely among the most progressive members of the legislature and has a tough fight against a well funded Republican who has ran in this district before.
Derek Stanford Candidate for 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.
Jean Melious Candidate for Whatcom County Council (Open Seat) Whatcom County
Jean Melious is running for Whatcom County Council. Jean is seeking to replace Bob Kelly who resigned late last year to seek election as president of the Nooksack Tribe. We helped elect Bob in 2007 and electing Jean will allow us to retain this progressive seat. Jean's background is in land use, working as an attorney specializing in environmental law for over 20 years. She is the Chair of the Planning Commission and also serves on the historic preservation commission. Jean has drawn two Tea Party opponents, neither with any experience in government and one who jumped in during the last hour of filing week. Jean has compiled a great team of Camp Wellstone-trained volunteers and staff. Jean will need to pull all the partners together to defeat the opposing ideological forces in this swing county.
Chris Reykdal Candidate for 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.
Nick Harper Candidate for State House - District 38 (Challenger) 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.
John Dean Candidate for Island County Commissioner - District 3 (Incumbent)
John Dean is an Island County Commissioner running for re-election to the third district. We recruited John to run four years ago, based on his 25-year career in journalism and deep engagement in the Camano Island community. We were instrumental in his victory in 2006 - part of a multi-year strategy to flip the Island County Commission, which was achieved in 2008 with the election of Commissioner Helen Price Johnson and Commissioner Angie Homola. One of John's proudest achievements over the past four years is the passage of a one-tenth of one percent sales tax to expand mental health services. John believes education must be a top priority and points to the mental health sales tax, as well as the creation of an Island County Children's Commission, as examples of how he is bringing needed services to the county's most disadvantaged kids.
Tom Riggs Candidate for State House - District 10 (Challenger) Island County
A park ranger for more than 17 years, lifelong Washingtonian Tom Riggs is running in the 10th District against conservative Republican Barbara Bailey. We first met Tom when he participated in the candidate training at Camp Wellstone in Seattle in May 2010. Tom wants to take his experience in parks management to Olympia and continue his dedication to community service. As a ranger, Tom is also a member of AFSCME/WFSE Local 1466.
Monica Stonier Candidate for State House - District 17 (Open Seat) Clark County
Monica Stonier is a middle school teacher who is running for an open seat in the swing 17th district. Monica will be a strong voice in Olympia for education funding and her hands-on experience in this field will provide needed insight in moving toward the goal of more results-oriented strategies in reshaping out education system. The retiring Democrat Monica seeks to replace was a moderate, making electing Monica a key part of our strategy to flip four seats to a progressive Democrat. Monica got involved in politics during the 2008 Presidential election and has stayed involved, connecting with her community as Secretary of the 17th District Democrats. She has comprehensive support from elected officials and the labor community, and has raised more money than all other candidates in her race.
Sherry Appleton Candidate for State House - District 23 (Incumbent) 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.
Steve Tharinger Candidate for 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.
Sumner Schoenike Candidate for State House - District 26 (Open Seat) Kitsap and Pierce Counties
Sumner Schoenike, a pediatrician, is in a tough race with incumbent Jan Angel, a Republican completing for her first re-election. Although this is a swing district, the other two legislative seats are held by democrats. Dr. Schoenike's background in medicine and health care administration will be helpful when the legislature takes up implementing the new federal laws. Dr. Schoenike has the support of his local Democratic Party organizations and received the early endorsement of the Washington State Labor Council.
Steve Stuart Candidate for Clark County Commission (Incumbent) 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.
Julie Anderson Candidate for Pierce County Auditor (Incumbent) 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.
John Driscoll Candidate for State House - District 6 (Incumbent) Spokane County
State Representative John Driscoll is running for re-election for State House of Representatives. Driscoll, the director a local non-profit focused on providing healthcare to low-income individuals, faces a general election rematch with the ultra-conservative candidate he unseated just two years ago (by just 72 votes). The 6th is a swing district, making this a tough, but crucial fight in November. Re-electing John ensures we retain progressive representation in Eastern Washington.
Kris Lytton Candidate for 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.
Mark Lindquist Candidate for Pierce County Prosecutor (Incumbent) Pierce County
Pierce County Prosecutor and former Chief Criminal Deputy Mark Lindquist is a career prosecutor who has been with the office for 15 years. Mark most recently won a conviction in the first degree murder case of slain cab driver Mohamud Ahmed. Under Mark's leadership, the Prosecutor's Office is reducing gang violence, prosecuting the
