The REAL Progressive Candidates of 2021 & 2022 — A Nationwide Super List

As genuine progressive candidates announce their run for election, they’re added to this list: “The REAL Progressive Candidates of 2021-2022.” These are the strong men and women — Democrats, Greens, and Independents — who we want to elect for a progressive Congress and a civilized progressive nation.

LAST UPDATED: May 6, 2021

Two REAL-ly Progressive Criteria

What qualities make a candidate REAL-ly progressive? There are two criteria:

1. Real progressive candidates reject corporate money.
2. Real progressive candidates support universal healthcare, like single-payer Medicare for All.

REAL progressive candidates, who reject corporate money AND fight for universal healthcare, also support an array of life-affirming, future-proofing policies that impact your health, your climate, your education, and much more.

REAL progressive candidates also fight for big, universal policies that include everyone. They’re not impressed by small concessions individually dribbled out to various minority groups — that manipulate “identity politics” to encourage competition between different groups of Americans and keep us divided.

REAL progressives know that nobody wins any meaningful social or financial benefit, unless we all stand together. REAL progressives understand that unity is the superpower of The People.

A Directory, Not an Endorsement

The “REAL Progressive Candidates” list is a directory, not a form of endorsement. In fact, if multiple progressive candidates in the same Congressional District meet both criteria, they all get on the list — Democrats, Greens, Independents, and more.

The list does, however, provide a section for organizations that DO endorse.

How You Can Help

You can help the progressive movement by sharing the “Real Progressive Candidates” list with your friends and family. Use it to inform, and to spur constructive political discussion that talks about real progressive candidates and real progressive policies.

You can help by telling me about the REAL Progressive Candidates running for office in your local area — so I can be sure to add them to the list. Use the Comment Section at the bottom of the page, or send me a private email with the contact form below.

REAL Progressive Candidate Submission Form

You can also help by volunteering your time to a REAL Progressive Candidate’s campaign, or by donating some money to several of your favorite candidates. They’re on the front lines, lifting the heavy weight, and we need to support them, because they represent us.

Finally, you can help by reminding yourself, and your friends, to vote in the primaries. First, we’ve got to get REAL Progressive Candidates nominated. Then, we can vote for them in the elections. It’s a two-step process!

If a candidate doesn’t manage to get on the election ballot, or drops out of the race, they’ll be removed from the REAL Progressive Candidates list. If a candidate loses, they’ll be lined out. If a candidate wins, I’ll put a “👍” after their name.

REAL Progressive Candidates, State-by-State

Please double-check the primary and election dates in your area. Always vote in the primary, to help select nominees for the following election.

Alabama – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-02 – Terell Anderson (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Montgomery City Council, District 3 – Marche Johnson (D) – Apr 27, 2021 runoff election✌

Alaska – REAL Progressive Candidates

State House, District 4 – Grier Hopkins (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
Anchorage Mayor – Forrest Dunbar (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election, May 11, 2021 runoff election
Anchorage School Board, Seat G – Carl Jacobs – Apr 6, 2021 election✌

Arizona – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-03 – Raul Grijalva (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
Tucson City Council, Ward 6 – Miranda Schubert (D) – Aug 3 primary, Nov 2, 2022 election

Arkansas – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. Senate – Dan Whitfield (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Governor – James Russell (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election

California – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-08 – Derek Marshall (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-12 – Shahid Buttar (D) – Exploring, Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-12 – Eric Curry (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-12 – Jeffrey Phillips (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-17 – Ro Khanna (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-18 – Rishi Kumar (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-22 – Phil Arballo (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-22 – Eric Garcia (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-22 – Lourin Hubbard (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-26 – Daniel Wilson (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-28 – Maebe A. Girl (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-29 – Angelica Dueñas (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-30 – Shervin Aazami (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-38 – Elizabeth Moreira (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-40 – Anthony Felix (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-45 – Katie Porter (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022
U.S. House, CD-46 – Jestin Samson (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-49 – Mike Levin (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
State Senate, District 30 – Sydney Kamlager (D) – Mar 2 special primary election✌
State Legislature, District 18 – James Aguilar (D) – Jun 29, 2021 primary, Aug 31, 2021 special election
State Legislature, District 18 – Janani Ramachandran (D) – Jun 29, 2021 primary, Aug 31, 2021 special election
State Legislature, District 51 – Mia Porter (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
State Legislature, District 79 – Akilah Weber (D) – Apr 6, 2021, special primary election✌
ADEM 33 Delegate – Alexis DeJesus (D) – Jan 27, 2021 election
ADEM 64 Delegate – Angelo Cartas (D) – Jan 27, 2021 election
ADEM 73 Delegate – James Bacon (D) – Jan 27, 2021 election
ADEM 73 Delegate – Jenna Beck (D) – Jan 27, 2021 election
Compton Mayor – Amy Jimenez (D) – Apr 20, 2021 primary
Los Angeles City Controller – Kenneth Mejia (D)- Jun 7, 2022 election
Los Angeles City Council, District 1 – Gil Cedillo (na) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
Los Angeles City Council, District 3 – Yasmine Pomeroy (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Los Angeles City Council, District 5 – Scott Epstein (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Los Angeles City Council, District 5 – Katy Young Yaroslavsky (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Los Angeles City Council, District 9 – David Cunningham (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Los Angeles City Council, District 9 – Dulce Vasquez (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Los Angeles City Council, District 13 – Albert Corado (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Los Angeles City Council, District 15 – Bryant Odega (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Riverside City Council, Ward 2 – Clarissa Cervantes (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election

Colorado – REAL Progressive Candidates

Ballot Initiatives:

• Boulder: No Eviction Without Representation – vote YES
• Denver: Climate Tax No Denver: Municipal Broadband – vote YES
• Denver: Repeal Pit Bull Ban – vote YES
• House Bill 1427 (Tobacco and Nicotine Products Tax) – vote NO
• Initiative #107 (Restoration of Gray Wolves) – vote YES
• Initiative #283 (Paid Family and Medical Leave) – vote YES
• Initiative #295 (Require Voter Approval of Certain New Enterprises Exempt from TABOR Initiative) – vote NO
• Initiative #306 (Decrease Income Tax Rate from 4.63% to 4.55%) – vote NO
• Initiative #76 (Citizenship Qualification of Electors) – vote NO
• Prop 113 (National Popular Vote Interstate Compact) – vote YES
• Prop 115 (Prohibition on Late-Term Abortions) – vote NO

U.S. House, CD-03 – Root Routledge (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-04 – Ike McCorkle (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-05 – Jeremy Dowell (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Arvada City Council, District At-Large – Randy Moorman (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Arvada City Council, District At-Large – Lisa Smith (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Aurora City Council, At-Large – Adam Fung (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Aurora City Council, At-Large – John Ronquillo (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Aurora City Council, Ward 1 – Crystal Murillo (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Deven School Board, At-Large – Scott Esserman (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Durango City Council, – Harrison Wendt (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Lakewood City Council, Ward 1 – Jeslin Shahrezaei (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Lakewood City Council, Ward 3 – Rebekah Stewart (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Lakewood City Council Ward 4 – Christopher Arlen (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Lakewood City Council Ward 5 – Tom Keefe (D) – November 2, 2021 election
Thornton City Council Ward 2 – Roberta Ayala (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Thornton City Council Ward 3 – Kate Miya (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election

Connecticut – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-01 – Andrew Legnani (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-01 – Muad Hrezi (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-03 – Justin Paglino (G) – Nov 8, 2022 election

Delaware – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

Zip.

Florida – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. Senate – Josh Weil (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-03 – Tom Wells (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-14 – Tony Eldon (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-20 – Matt Boswell (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-20 – Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D) – 2021 special election
U.S. House, CD-20 – Emmanuel Morel (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-24 – Christine Olivo (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-26 – Juan Paredes (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
State House, District 94 – Elijah Manley (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Miramar City Commission, Seat 1 – Kerri-Ann Nesbeth (D) – Mar 9, 2021 election
New Port Richey City Council, – Rachel Giuliani (D) – Apr, 2021 election
North Miami City Council, District 2 – Kassandra Timothe (D) – May 11, 2021 election
North Miami City Council, District 3 – Laura Hill (D) – May 11, 2021 election
Petersburg City Council, St. – Richie Floyd (D) – Aug 24, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
South Miami Commissioner, Group 3 – Mary Ann Ruiz (D) – Apr 20, 2021 special election

Georgia – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-11 – Beau Cannon (D) – Nov 8, 2021 election
Atlanta City Council, District 4 – Rogelio Arcila (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Atlanta City Council, District 4 – Jason Dozier (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Atlanta City Council, District 5 – Liliana Bakhtiari (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Griffin Judicial District District Attorney – Dexter Wimbish (D) – Feb 9, 2021 special election
Peachtree City Mayor – Nick Ferrante (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Public Service Commission, District 4 – Daniel Blackman (D) – Jan 5 runoff election

Hawaii – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

Nada.

Idaho – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

Zip.

Illinois – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-01 – Kirby Birgans (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-03 – Marie Newman (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-05 – Raleigh Bowman (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-08 – Junaid Ahmed (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-18 -(D) Michael Swanson – Nov 8, 2022 election
Aurora Mayor – John Laesch (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Aurora Alderman, Ward 10 – Arjun Nair (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Bloomington Mayor – Jackie Gunderson (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
DeKalb Alderman, Ward 2 – John “JJ” Wett (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Evanston Mayor – Daniel Biss (D) – Feb 23, 2021 election✌
Galesburg Mayor – Peter Schwartzman (G) – Apr 7, 2021 election✌
Joliet City Council, At-Large – Jeremy Brzycki (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Lincolnwood School Board, District 74 – Nasha Mohammed (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Lombard City Council, District 1 – Brian LaVaque (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌
Lyons Township School Board, District 204 – Ricardo Martinez (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
McLean County School Board, Unit 5 – Gavin Cunningham – Apr 6, 2021 election
New Trier Township Supervisor – Gail Schnitzer Eisenberg (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌
Oak Park Trustee – Anthony Clark – Apr 6, 2021 election
Palatine Township Trustee – Nathaniel Groh – Apr 6, 2021 election
Peoria Mayor – Chama St. Lewis (D) – Feb 23, 2021 election
Urbana City Council, Ward 5 – Chaundra Bishop (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌

Indiana – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-03 – John Stephens (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election

Iowa – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

None, so far.

Kansas – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

Nada.

Kentucky – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. Senate – Charles Booker (D) – exploring run in Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-02 – Hank Linderman (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-05 – Billy Hibbitts (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election

Louisiana – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-02 – Belden Batiste (I) – Mar 20, 2021 special election
U.S. House, CD-02 – Gary Chambers (D) – Mar 20, 2021 special election
U.S. House, CD-02 – J. Christopher Johnson (D) – Mar 20, 2021 special election
U.S. House, CD-02 – Karen Carter Peterson (D) – Apr 24, 2021 runoff election

Maine – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

Portland Charter Commissioner – Ryan Lizanecz (na) – Jun 8, 2021 election

Maryland – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. Senate – Colin Byrd (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-01 – Mia Mason (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-05 – Mckayla Wilkes (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-06 – George Gluck (G) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Hyattsville City Council Ward 3 – Sherlyna Hanna (na) – May 11, 2021 election

Massachusetts – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-07 – Ayanna Pressley (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-08 – Michael Ruiz (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
State Representative, 19th Suffolk District – Juan Jaramillo – Mar 2, 2021 election
Ayer-Shirley Regional School District Committee – Erica Spann (D) – May 8, 2021 election
Boston City Council, At-Large – Alex Gray (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Boston City Council, At-Large – David Halbert (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Boston City Council, District 3 – Stephen McBride (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Boston City Council, District 4 – Nikkia Jean-Charles (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Boston City Council, District 4 – Jacob Ureña (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Boston City Council, District 6 – Kendra Hicks (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Cambridge City Council, At-Large – Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Cambridge School Committee – Ayesha Wilson (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Milford School Committee – RJ Sheedy (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Minneapolis Board of Estimation and Taxation – Samantha Pree-Gonzalez (formerly Stinson) (na) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Newton City Council, Ward 1 – Madeline Ranalli (D) – Mar 16, 2021 special election
Somerville City Council, Ward 7 – Becca Miller (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Springfield City Council, At-Large – James Ryan (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Springfield City Council, Ward 3 – Lezlie Braxton Campbell (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Wayland Board of Selectmen – Adam Gutbezahl (D) – May 11, 2021 election

Michigan – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-10 – Brian Jaye (D) – Nov 8, 2022
U.S. House, CD-13 – Rashida Tlaib (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022
Chelsea City Council – Tony Iannelli – Nov 2, 2021 election
Lansing City Council, Ward 2 – Nick Zande (D) – Nov 9, 2021 election
Troy City Council – David Hamilton (D) incumbent – Nov 2, 2021 election
Wyandotte City Council – Nick Beaven (D) – May 4, 2021 election

Minnesota – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-05 – Ilhan Omar (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-07 – Ernest Joseph Oppegaard-Peltier (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Bloomington City Council, District IV – Patrick Martin (na) – Nov 2, 2021 election (RCV)
Minneapolis City Council, Ward 10 – Aisha Chughtai (na) – Nov 2, 2021 election
St Paul School Board, At-Large – Halla Henderson (na) – Nov 2, 2021 election

Mississippi – REAL Progressive Candidates

Jackson Mayor – Chokwe Antar Lumumba (D) incumbent – Jun 8, 2021 election

Missouri – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. Senate – Lucas Kunce (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. Senate – Tim Shephard (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-01 – Cori Bush (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-03 – Josh Nicoloff (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
Columbia City Council, Ward 2 – Andrea Warner (na) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌
Jefferson City Board of Education – Ian Shadrick (na) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Springfield City Council, General Seat A, Heather Hardinger (na) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌
St Louis Mayor – Tishaura Jones (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌
St Louis City Board, Ward 7 – Shedrick Kelley (na) – Apr 6, 2021 election
St Louis City Board, Ward 12 – Bill Stephens (na) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌
St Louis City Board, Ward 13 – Anne Schweitzer (na) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌
St Louis City Board, Ward 17 – Tina Pihl (na) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌
St. Louis Public Schools Board of Education – Alisha Sonnier – Apr 6 2021, election

Montana – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

Nada.

Nebraska – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

Omaha City Council – Cammy Watkins (I) – Apr 6, 2021 primary, May 11, 2021 election
Omaha Mayor – Jasmine Harris (na) – Apr 6, 2021 primary

Nevada – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. Senate – Allen Rheinhart – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-01 – Rahul Joshi (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-01 – Amy Vilela (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election

New Hampshire – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

Zilch.

New Jersey – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

State Senate, District 21 – Joseph Signorello (D) – Jun 8, primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
State Senate, District 37 – Valerie Huttle (D) – Jun 8, primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
State Assembly, District 20 – Aissa Catherine Heath (D) – Jun 8, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
State Assembly, District 20 – Ricky Castaneda (D) – Jun 8, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Collingswood Board of Commissioners – Jen Rossi (na) – May 11, 2021 election
Governor – Madelyn Hoffman (G) – exploring Nov 2, 2021 election
Governor – Joanne Kuniansky (SWP) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Hackensack City Council, NJ – Caseen Gaines (na) – May 11, 2021 election
Lt. Governor – Candace Wagner (SWP) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Plainfield Mayor – Richard A. Wyatt (D) – Jun 8, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Union County Commissioner – Sienna Bucu (D) – Jun 8, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Union County Commissioner – Evanda Henry (D) – Jun 8, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Union County Commissioner – Terence J. Johnson (D) – Jun 8, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Union Township Committee – Antoinette Dukes (D) – Jun 8, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election

New Mexico – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-01 – Melanie Stansbury (D) – Jun 1, 2021 special election
U.S. House, CD-01 – Francisco Fernandez (D) – Jun 1, 2021 special election
U.S. House, CD-01 – Selinda Guerrero (D) – Jun 1, 2021 special election
U.S. House, CD-01 – Patricia Roybal Caballero (D) – Jun 1, 2021 special election
U.S. House, CD-01 – Antoinette Sedillo Lopez (D) – Mar 31 runoff election
U.S. House, CD-01 – Victor Reyes (D) – Jun 1, 2021 special election

New York – REAL Progressive Candidates

New York City is using Ranked Choice Voting in its 2021 primaries and elections.
(For the very first time. Yea!)

U.S. Senate – Kate Tomasello (G) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-09 – Isiah James (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-11 – Brittany Ramos DeBarros (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-12 – Rana Abdelhamid (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-12 – Jesse Cerrotti (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-12 – Suraj Patel (D) – exploring run in Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-14 – Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-15 – Ritchie Torres (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-16 – Jamaal Bowman (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-17 – Mondaire Jones (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-21 – Ezra Watson (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Albany Chief City Auditor – Dorcey Applyrs (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Albany Common Council – Violetta De Rosa )D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Buffalo City Court Judge – Rebecca Town (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Buffalo Mayor – India Walton – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Dutchess County Legislature, District 19 – Claire Owens (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Dutchess County Legislature, District 15 – John Bohuniek (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Greece Town Board, Ward 2 – Jenna Curcio (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Kings County Civil Court Judge – Heela Capell (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Kingston Common Council, Ward 7 – Laura Nordstrom (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Manhattan District Attorney – Tahanie Aboushi – Nov 2, 2021 election
Manhattan Borough President – Lindsey Boylan (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Comptroller – Brad Lander (D) – June 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 1 – Christopher Marte (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 5 – Tricia Shimamura (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 5 – Chris Sosa (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 6 – Sara Lind (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 7 – Marti Allen-Cummings – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 7 – Maria Ordoñez (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 10 – Johanna Garcia (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 11 – Mino Lora (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 13 – Selven Brooks Powers (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 13 – Marjorie Velázquez (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 14 – Pierina Sanchez (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 14 NE – Adolfo Abreu (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 15 – Elisa Crespo (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 15 – Lachmi Devi Gopal (D) – Mar 23, 2021 special election
NYC Council, District 16 – Althea Stevens (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 18 – Amanda Farias (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 20 – John Choe (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 21 – Ingrid Gomez (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 22 – Tiffany Cabán (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 22 – Edwin DeJesus (G) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council District 23 – Jaslin Kaur (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council District 24 – Moumita Ahmed (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 24 – Moumita Ahmed (D) – Feb 2, 2021 special election
NYC Council, District 25 – Shekar Krishnan – (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 25 – Carolyn Tran – (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 26 – Julia Forman (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 26 – Amit Singh Bagga (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 27 – Natasha Williams (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 29 – Aleda Gagarin – (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 30 – Juan Ardila (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 31 – Selvena Brooks-Powers (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 32 – Shaeleigh Severino (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 32 – Felicia Singh (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 33 – Elizabeth Adams (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 33 – Lincoln Restler (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 34 – Jennifer Gutierrez (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 35 – Michael Hollingsworth (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 35 – Crystal Hudson (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 36 – Chi Ossé (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 37 – Sandy Nurse (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 38 – Jacui Painter (D) – Jun 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 38 – Alexa Avilés (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 39 – Shahana Hanif (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 39 – Brandon West (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 40 – Kenya Handy-Hilliard (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 42 – Wilfredo Florentino (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 48 – Amber Adler (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 49 – Amoy Barnes (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 45 – Anthony Beckford (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 47 – Steven Patzer (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Council, District 51 – Olivia Drabczyk (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Mayor – Dianne Morales – June 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
NYC Mayor – Maya Wiley (D) – June 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Onondaga County Legislature, District 3 – Matt Johnson – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Onondaga County Legislature, District 15 – Joe Bennett – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Otsego County Board, District 14 – Jill Basile (D) – Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Saratoga Springs Mayor – David Snyder – Nov 2021 election
Schenectady City School Board – Samuel Rose (G) – May 18, 2021 election
Syracuse Common Council, District 5 – Kristin Andrzejewski (D)- Jun 22, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election

North Carolina – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. Senate – Ava Edwards (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. Senate – Erica Smith (D) – Nov 8, 202 election
U.S. House – Scott Huffman (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election

North Dakota – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

None, so far.

Ohio – REAL Progressive Candidates

Ballot Initiative:

• Cincinnati – YES on Issue 3 – to fund the Affordable Housing Trust Fund

U.S. House, CD-01 – Savanna Redden (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-04 – Jeff Sites (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-11 – Nina Turner (D) – Aug 3, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 special election
U.S. House, CD-12 – Joe Manchik -(G) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-15 – Dan Kilgore (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-16 – Aaron Godfrey (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Ada City Council, At Large – Sean Beck (D) – May 4, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Bowling Green City Council, Ward 1 – Nick Rubano (D) – May 4, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Cleveland City Council, Ward 12 – Rebecca Maurer (D) – May 4, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Cleveland Mayor – Justin Bibb (D) – May 4, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Dayton City Commission – Jared Grandy (D) – May 4, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Dayton City Commission – Shenise Turner-Sloss (D) – May 4, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Dublin City Council, Ward 1 – Ajmeri Hoque (D) – May 4, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Franklin Township Trustee, – Aryeh Alex (D) – May 4, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election

Oklahoma – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-01 – John Swoboda (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
State Senate, District 22 – Molly Ooten (D) – Apr 6, 2021 special election
Oklahoma City Council, Ward 1 – Megan Scott (D) – Feb 9, 2021 primary

Oregon – REAL Progressive Candidates

Ballot Initiative:

• Oregon People’s Rebate – Sign petition, to get it on the ballot.

Beaverton School Board – Karen Pérez-Da Silva (na) – May 18, 2021 election
Jefferson School Board, Seat 3 – Jaylyn Suppah (na) – May 18, 2021 election
Keizer School Board – Maria Cecilia Hinojos Pressey (na) – May 18, 2021 election

Pennsylvania – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. Senate – John Fetterman (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. Senate – Malcolm Kenyatta (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-02 – Salem Snow (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-03 – Alexandra Hunt (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-18 – Jerry Dickinson (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
State Senate, District 22 – Marlene Sebastianelli (G) – November 2, 2021 election
Allentown City Council – Justan Parker Fields (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Allentown City Council – Patrick Palmer (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Allentown Mayor – Ce-Ce Gerlach (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Allegheny County Council, District 9 – Steven Singer – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas – Zeke Rediker (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Clearfield County Magistrate Judge – Elliot Gelfand (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Darby Mayor – Joar F. K. Dahn (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Erie City Council – Jasmine Flores (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Erie City Council, At-Large – Elspeth Koehle (D)- May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Erie County Council, District 6 – Lydia Laythe (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Erie County Executive – Tyler Titus (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Easton City Council, District 3 – Taiba Sultana (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Hatboro Borough Council, At-Large – Alex Myers (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Monessen Mayor – Matt Shorraw (incumbent) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
New Castle City Council – David Ward (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
New Castle City Council – Grant Fleegle (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Norristown Area School District Board of School Directors – Christopher Jaramillo (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Judge – Cortez Patton (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Philadelphia District Attorney – Larry Krasner (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Pittsburgh City Council, District 4 – Connor Mulvaney (G) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Pittsburgh City Council, District 4 – Bethani Cameron (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Pittsburgh District Magistrate, District 05-03-10 – Xander Orenstein (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Pittsburgh Public School Board, District 7 – Jamie Piotrowski (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Ridley School Board, At Large – Kayla Cocci (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Upper Moreland Township Board of School Directors, At Large – Tom Hasani (D) – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
West Reading Borough Council – Ryan Lineaweaver (D) incumbent – May 18, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election

Rhode Island – REAL Progressive Candidates

Lt. Governor – Aaron Regunberg (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election

South Carolina – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

Columbia City Council, At-Large – Aditi Busells (D) – November 2, 2021 election

South Dakota – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

Nada.

Tennessee – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-05 – Josh Berger (G) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-05 – Odessa Kelly (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election

Texas – REAL Progressive Candidates

Ballot Initiatives:

• Austin – Vote “NO” on Proposition B, stop homelessness from becoming a criminal offense
• Austin – Vote “YES” on Proposition D, elect Mayor in presidential years to maximize turnout✌
• Austin – Vote “YES” on Proposition E, Ranked Choice Voting✌
  Austin – Vote “YES” on Proposition F and G, transfer city manager’s duties to elected mayor
• Austin – Vote “YES” on Proposition H, Democracy Dollars

U.S. House, CD-04 – Russell Foster (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-18 – Charles Thompson (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-21 – Scott Sturm (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-30 – Jessica Mason (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-35 – David Anderson (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
Amarillo City Council, District 13 – Ali Ramos (D) – May 1, 2021 election
Arlington City Council, District 3 – Diana Saleh (D) – May 1, 2021 election, Jun 5 runoff election
Carrollton Farmers Branch School Board – Cydnei Drake (D) – May 1, 2021 election
Castleberry ISD Board of Education, Place 3 – Ariela Martinez (D) – May 1, 2021 election, Jun 5 runoff election
Dallas City Council, District 7 – Adam Bazaldua (D) incumbent – May 1, 2021 election, Jun 5 runoff
Dallas City Council, District 11 – Hosanna Yemiru (D) – May 1, 2021 election
Denton City Council, District 4 – Alison Maguire (D) – May 1, 2021 election, Jun 5 runoff
Fort Worth City Council, District 2 – Jen Sarduy (D) incumbent – May 1, 2021 election
Fort Worth City Council, District 6 – Jared Williams (D) – May 1, 2021 election
Fort Worth ISD Board of Trustees, District 9 – Roxanne Martinez (D) – May 1, 2021 election, Jun 5 runoff
Fort Worth Mayor – Deborah Peoples (D) – May 1, 2021 election, Jun 5 runoff election
Grand Prairie City Council, Place 8 At-Large – Junior Ezeonu (D) – May 1, 2021 election
Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD, Place 5 – Jennifer Long (D) – May 1, 2021 election
Hutto Independent School District Board of Trustees – Mina Davis (D) – May 1, 2021 election
Lampasas City Council, Place 1 – Clayton Tucker (D) – May 1, 2021 election
Lewisville ISD School Board, Place 1 – Paige Dixon (D) – May 1, 2021 election
Pasadena ISD School Board, Position 2 – Crystal Dávila (D) – May 1, 2021 election✌
Plano City Council, Place 4 – Nassat Parveen (D) – May 1, 2021 election
Round Rock City Council – Janneke Parrish (D) – May 1, 2021 election
San Antonio City Council, District 2 – Jalen Mckee-Rodriguez (D) – May 1, 2021 election, Jun 5 runoff election
San Antonio City Council, District 3 – Mark Vargas (D) – May 1, 2021 election
San Antonio City Council, District 5 – Teri Castillo (D) – May 1, 2021 election, Jun 5 runoff election
San Antonio City Council, District 10 – Gabrien Gregory (D) – May 1, 2021 election
San Antonio City Council, District 10 – Emily Norwood (D) – May 1, 2021 election
San Antonio ISD School Board, District 1 – Sarah Sorensen (na) – May 1, 2021 election✌
San Antonio ISD School Board, District 3 – Judit Vega (na) – May 1, 2021 election
San Antonio ISD School Board, District 4 – Luke Amphlett (na) – May 1, 2021 election
San Antonio ISD School Board, District 7 – Yasmin Parra Codina (na) – May 1, 2021 election
Wylie City Council, Place 4 – Mary Harris (D) – May 1, 2021 election

Utah – REAL Progressive Candidates

Utah Lawmakers Expand Ranked Choice Voting Experiment

U.S. Senate – Allen Glines (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. Senate – Austin Searle (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election

Vermont – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

State Treasurer – Beth Pearce (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election

Virginia – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. House, CD-11 – Ally Dalsimer (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
State House, District 25 – Jennifer Kitchen (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
State House, District 28 – Joshua Cole (D) incumbent – Nov 2, 2021 election
State House, District 30 – Annette Hyde (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
State House, District 31 – Elizabeth Guzman (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
State House, District 34 – Jennifer Adeli (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
State House, District 45 – Elizabeth Bennett-Parker (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
State House, District 49 – Karishma Mehta (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
State House, District 71 – Richard Walker (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
State House, District 86 – Ibraheem Samirah (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
State House, District 87 – Suhas Subramanyam (D) incumbent – Jun 8, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Alexandria City Council, At-Large – Canek Aguirre (D) incumbent – Jun 8, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Alexandria City Council, At-Large – James Lewis (D) – Jun 8, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Alexandria City Council – Alyia Gaskins -(D) – Jun 8, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Attorney General – Jay Jones – Nov 2, 2021 election
Governor – Princess Blanding (I) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Governor – Lee Carter (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Governor – Jennifer Carroll Foy (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Lt. Governor – Sam Rasoul (D) – Nov 2, 2021 election
Norfolk Commonwealth Attorney – Ramin Fatehi – Jun 8, 2021 election
Portsmouth Commonwealth Attorney – Stephanie Morales – Jun 8, 2021 election

Washington – REAL Progressive Candidates

Ballot Initiatives:

• Help get Whole Washington Universal Healthcare on the 2022 ballot

U.S. House, CD-02 – Jason Call (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-03 – Lucy Lauser (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-07 – Pramila Jayapal (D) incumbent – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, CD-09 – Stephanie Gallardo (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
King County Council, District 9 – Kim-Khanh Van (D) – Aug 3, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Olympia City Council, Position 6 – Sarah DeStasio (D) – Aug 3, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Seattle Mayor – Andrew Grant Houston (D) – Aug 3, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election
Spokane City Council, District 3 Position 2 – Zack Zappone (D) – Aug 3, 2021 primary, Nov 2, 2021 election

West Virginia – REAL Progressive Candidates

Morgantown City Council, Ward 3 – Ixya Vega (D) – Apr 27, 2021 election✌
Morgantown City Council, Ward 5 – Marly Ynigues (D) – Apr 27, 2021 election
Morgantown City Council, Ward 7 – Brian Butcher (D) – Apr 27, 2021 election✌

Wisconsin – REAL Progressive Candidates

U.S. Senate – Thomas Nelson (D) – Nov 8, 2022 election
U.S. House, District 2 – Mark Pocan (D) incumbent – November 8, 2022 election
Madison City Council, District 2 – Benji Ramirez Gomez (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Madison City Council, District 8 – Julia Bennett (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌
Madison City Council, District 12 – Tessa Echeverria (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Madison City Council, District 13 – David Hoffert (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Madison Metropolitan School Board, Seat 1 – Maia Pearson (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌
Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, District 10 – Darrin Madison (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Milwaukee School Board, District 4 – Dana Kelley (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
Milwaukee School Board, District 5 – Alex Brower (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
OshKosh Common Council, At-Large – Michael Beardsley (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election
State Superintendent of Public Instruction – Jill Underly (D) – Apr 6, 2021 election✌

Wyoming – REAL-ly Progressive Candidates

Zero.

Giving: For a REAL Progressive Country

REAL progressive candidates are doing their part. They expend personal time, energy, and financial resources in order to run for office — so they may represent us. We must do our part…

To help elect a REAL progressive to Congress, please make a small donation to all the REAL progressive candidates on the list who are running for national office. Give extra to your favorite REAL progressive candidates, whether they’re running in your state or not. And, most generously support your local REAL progressive candidates. ❤️

Official Endorsements of REAL Progressive Candidates

Being listed in the “REAL Progressive Candidates” directory is not an endorsement. But the following progressive organizations DO make official endorsements — for national candidates, down-ballot candidates, some decent Democrats (for when REAL progressive candidates are not a local option), and state and municipal ballot measures.

• 350.org (strong climate policy)
• Bold Progressives
• Brand New Congress
• Congressional Progressive Caucus
• Courage to Change PAC
• Democracy for America
• Democratic Socialists of America
• Flip the Senate
• Friends of the Earth (strong climate policy)
• Green Maps US
• Green New Deal Slate
• Green Party US
• Indivisible
• Justice Democrats
• Leftists 4 Office Endorsement Spreadsheets
• Local Berniecrats
• Move On
• National Nurses United
• Our Revolution
• Peace Action (diplomatic foreign policy)
• Progressive Democrats of America
• Progressive Rising
• Progressive Turnout Project
• Progressive Unity
• Progressive Voters Guide (it lists a candidate’s various endorsements)
• Real Justice (Progressive state and city prosecutors)
• Run for Something
• Warren Democrats
• Working Families Party

Check out the super progressives who won office in 2020.

Tips for a Great Campaign Website

I’ve visited 1000s of campaign websites — with the intention of learning more about a candidate. Please allow me to offer feedback on what makes a great campaign website.

First, have a website. Where else can you publish your policy platform, so people can find it? Consider your website as the hub of your online campaign. Facebook and Twitter are unsearchable time-streams. REAL Progressive candidates aren’t afraid of transparency, so have a website.

Second, have a platform. People won’t vote for you because of your nice smile. (Your opponent has a nice smile, too.) REAL progressive candidates build REAL progressive platforms. Commit yourself. Publish your REAL-ly progressive platform.

With a campaign website to host your policy platform, any REAL progressive candidate is 90% of the way there. A few more niceties will make your campaign website shine with clear communication:

• If you reject corporate money, as all REAL progressive candidates do, please say so — in large letters, placed prominently on the Front page, and reiterated on your Donate page. Rejecting corporate money is a progressive bragging right. Caution: phrases like “grassroots campaign” or “this movement” imply that a candidate rejects corporate money, but do not actually say it. (Remember: the far-right Tea Party is often called a “grassroots movement,” yet it was funded by Big Money.) Language is easily twisted, misleadingly co-opted, or misunderstood. Be as clear as possible.

• When you mention “Medicare for All,” you must mean “single-payer” and say so. “Single-payer” is a genuine progressive bragging right. Please do not suggest that you could (accidentally?) write better healthcare legislation than Bernie Sanders (S.1129) or Pramila Jayapal (H.R.1384).
  • Do you have a Congressional budget for policy research and consultation?
  • Do you have a research staff? Have you consulted with national healthcare experts from around the world?
  • What do you know about insurance risk pools? Healthcare plans need to be financially viable, which occurs with a single risk pool. A “public option” creates two risk pools. (Private insurance than targets young and healthy policyholders, while taxpayers pay medical bills for all the elderly and chronically disabled patients.)
  • How much experience do you have developing policies and writing legislation, particularly at the federal level that creates laws for an entire huge nation?
  • Do you accept that “universal” healthcare means everyone gets it, rich or poor, and that it’s the same quality for everyone? This is so nobody gets jealous of people who are poorer than themselves (ironic, right?), and so healthcare standards remain high.
  • Do you understand that healthcare terms like “affordable,” “access,” and “public-option” may reveal that you’re not one of the REAL Progressive Candidates, but rather a candidate who is prepared to serve wealthy special interests like private insurance companies?
• On your campaign website, include your primary and election dates, political affiliation (or independence), location, and the office you’re running for. Basic information is useful for search engine optimization, as well as website visitors.
• Provide links to your social networks. Test the links to confirm they work!
• Do you need to be reminded to exhibit a prominent “donate” button? Probably not. I’ve never seen a candidate website that forgot one. Sometimes, a “donate” button is all there is! (Happily, REAL progressives never do that!)

First Grassroots, Then Washington

Are you a progressive organizer/activist/leader in your community? Or do you know someone like that? Maybe it’s time to think about running for local office.

All good things begin at the grassroots. THEN they go to Washington. That being said, the following video may further encourage you.

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Thank you for reading about REAL progressive candidates. Please share this “Progressive Graffiti” discovery tool with your friends and social networks. Sharing quality information, from the Left point of view, helps to advance the Progressive Justice Movement.

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