Commitment to Open Government, Bipartisanship and Innovation

Oregonians know Ron as a senator who listens and innovates. For example, Ron has secured landmark health care and economic wins for our workers and retirees. Always citing the need to “throw open the doors of government for Oregonians,” he holds an open-to-all town hall meeting in each of Oregon’s 36 counties each year. Thus far he has held more than 1080 meetings, as well as several virtual town hall meetings sponsored by the nonpartisan Town Hall Project. Wyden’s dedication to hearing all sides of an issue and looking for common sense, nonpartisan solutions has won him trust on both sides of the aisle and put him at the heart of so many of the Senate’s most important debates. In 2011, the Almanac of American Politics described Wyden as having “displayed a genius for coming up with sensible-sounding ideas no one else had thought of and making the counter-intuitive political alliances that prove helpful in passing bills.” The Washington Post’s Ezra Klein wrote: “The country has problems. And Ron Wyden has comprehensive, bipartisan proposals for fixing them.”

In advocating for the needs of working families, Ron wants a tax code that gives small businesses and families an opportunity to get ahead, not one that rigs the rules for multinational corporations or the mega-rich. He led a pioneering expansion of unemployment benefits to help workers shoulder the economic burden of the COVID-19 health crisis, which economists say added more than $200 billion to the economy at a time when it was desperately needed. He updated the “Medicare Guarantee” with improved services for seniors with chronic illnesses, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, he secured Medicare coverage for telemedicine so homebound seniors could safely access medical care. Ron advanced the Family First Act to improve care for vulnerable families and kids, and was the first to promote internet policies that ensure free opportunities for Americans to learn and find good-paying jobs. Ron was also the first to introduce federal legislation to give all Americans the opportunity to vote by mail.

Moreover, when principles are at stake, however, Ron Wyden never shies away from standing alone, even when it means taking on powerful interest groups or his own party.  His lone stand against the PROTECT IP Act (PIPA) and its predecessor, the Combating Online Infringement and Counterfeit Act (COICA), put a spotlight on the problematic legislation being fast tracked through Congress and served as a rallying point for the historic Internet protests that ultimately toppled the bills.  He stood alone on the floor of the Senate to block right wing efforts to overturn Oregon’s Death with Dignity law; a law that Oregon voters have passed twice. He went head-to-head with the E.P.A. to reduce cancer-causing benzene in gasoline sold in Oregon, and key elements of Wyden’s Kinship Care Act were included as part of major reforms improving the nation’s foster care system. Wyden’s provisions recognized and strengthened support for kinship care, the full-time care and protection of children by relatives.

His relentless defiance of the national security community’s abuse of secrecy forced the declassification of the CIA Inspector General’s 9/11 report, shut down the controversial Total Information Awareness program and put a spotlight on both the Bush and Obama Administration’s reliance on “secret law.”

Wyden has taken the lead on policies that are helping to grow the economy in areas like improved infrastructure through his Build America Bonds program, micro and nano-technology, e-commerce, and through incentives for cleaner sources of energy.

He has won countless awards for his pioneering role in establishing a free and open Internet, is known for his commitment to an open government, having authored the “Stand By Your Ad” law and the resolution ending Senate Secret Holds, and he has been routinely recognized as one of the Senate’s foremost health policy thinkers.

Commitment to Oregon Values & Priorities

In Oregon, Wyden has authored laws extending permanent Wilderness protections to more than 400,000 acres including Mt. Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, Oregon’s Bull Run Watershed, Badlands, Spring Basin, Copper Salmon and Soda Mountain. He has championed the designation of 1,986 miles of Wild and Scenic rivers in Oregon ”more than any other member of Congress, overall, for the contiguous 48 states ”helping Oregon secure the most wild and scenic river designations in the lower 48 states. Since 2000, the Wyden-authored Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act, commonly known as the “county payments” law, has helped provide a stable source of revenue for historically timber-dependent communities and Wyden’s Combat Illegal Logging Act has helped protect Oregon’s hardwood industries from the import of illegally harvested timber products. Wyden has fought to expand rural access to health care. For example, Wyden secured the creation of a Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic in La Grande for veterans in Eastern Oregon.

Wyden serves on the Committees on Finance, Budget, Intelligence, and Energy and Natural Resources.  He is Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and a senior member of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

Wyden began college at the University of California-Santa Barbara where he won a basketball scholarship and played in Division I competition for two seasons before transferring to Stanford University where he completed his Bachelors degree with distinction.  He earned his law degree from the University of Oregon School of Law in 1974, after which he taught gerontology and co-founded the Oregon chapter of the Gray Panthers, an advocacy group for the elderly.  He also served as the director of Oregon Legal Services for the Elderly from 1977 to 1979 and was a member of the Oregon State Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators during that same period. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1981 until his election to the U.S. Senate.

Senator Wyden’s home is in Portland; he is married to Nancy Wyden, whom he married in September 2005. He has five children: Adam, Lilly, Ava, William and Scarlett.

Biography of Senator Jeff Merkley As Oregon’s U.S. Senator, Jeff’s goal is to make Washington work for working Americans. He is fighting to create good jobs for working Oregonians, protect consumers from predatory practices, and ensure that all Oregonians have access to high-quality, affordable education. Jeff is the son of a millwright and the first in his family to attend college. Born in the timber town of Myrtle Creek, Oregon, Jeff has spent his career fighting to increase opportunities for working families. After earning an undergraduate degree from Stanford and graduate degree in Public Policy at Princeton’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, Merkley worked as a national security analyst at the Pentagon and at the Congressional Budget Office. In 1991 Jeff returned to Oregon to lead Portland’s Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit that empowers low-income families through homeownership. Jeff went on to serve as president of the World Affairs Council in Portland before entering the Oregon House of Representatives in 1998. He became Speaker of the House in 2007. As Oregon’s House Speaker, Jeff led the most productive legislative session in decades. The legislature increased education funding, expanded access to affordable prescription drugs, passed landmark environmental and energy legislation, established domestic partnerships, cracked down on predatory payday and title lending, and created Oregon’s first ever Rainy Day fund. In the U.S. Senate, Jeff continues to stand up for working families. He fights to create livingwage jobs and to push back on unfair trade policies that ship Oregon’s jobs overseas. He has worked to make college more affordable and make retirement more secure for seniors. A true reformer, he led an historic coalition to fix the broken Senate by breaking up the gridlock, making it more responsive to the concerns of working families. Jeff serves on the Senate Committees on Appropriations; Environment and Public Works; Budget; and Foreign Relations.

Communities: LGBTQ+

Biographical

Communities:African American or Black, People with Disabilities, Union Member

Dr. Rosa Colquitt was elected State Party Chair of the Democratic Party of Oregon after serving as its Vice Chair and Chair of the Black Caucus, and a lifetime of dedication to the Democratic cause.

Having grown up in a military family with three older sisters, mom, and her dad who devoted thirty years of his life to the U.S. Army, Dr. Colquitt lived on various bases on the East Coast and in the Southern United States. In addition to living on a number of statewide bases, she spent five and a half years in Kaiserslautern, Germany teaching at an American high school. Travel has been instrumental in her life’s education, informing how she relates to people of all races, cultures, backgrounds, beliefs, and identities.

Dr. Colquitt completed three college degrees in North Carolina, a BS degree at HBCU, Fayetteville State University and an MA and PhD at North Carolina State University in Research Administration.

Her life’s philosophy is based on a great quote from poet and activist Dr. Maya Angelou:

“You can practice any virtue erratically, but nothing consistently without COURAGE. My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style. I can be changed by what happens to me, but I refuse to be reduced by it.”

A lifelong resident of Portland, Oregon, Congressman Earl Blumenauer (OR-3) was raised in SE Portland and attended Centennial High School.

While still a student at Lewis and Clark College, Earl spearheaded the effort to lower the voting age both in Oregon and at the national level. He was elected to the Oregon Legislature in 1972, where he served three terms and Chaired the House Education and Revenue Committee in 1977-78. In 1978, he was elected to the Multnomah County Commission, where he served for eight years before being elected to the Portland City Council in 1986. There, his 10-year tenure as the Commissioner of Public Works demonstrated his leadership with innovative accomplishments in transportation, planning, environmental programs and public participation that helped Portland earn an international reputation as one of America’s most livable cities.

Elected to the US House of Representatives in 1996, Earl created a unique role as Congress’ chief spokesperson for Livable Communities: places where people are safe, healthy and economically secure. From 1996 to 2007, he served on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, where he was a strong advocate for federal policies that address transportation alternatives, provide housing choices, support sustainable economies and improve the environment. He was a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee from 2001 to 2007, and vice-chair of the Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming from 2007 to 2010. He is currently a member of the Ways and Means Committee, Chairman of the subcommittee on Trade and is a member of the subcommittee on Health.

His priorities also include healthcare reform, honest trade, financing critical infrastructure, building livable communities in a global economy, economic security for working families, protection of public lands, stopping gun violence, ending the prohibition of marijuana and criminal justice reform.

Earl co-chairs the following caucuses:

• Cannabis Caucus
• Animal Protection Caucus
• Bike Caucus
• House Trails Caucus
• Public Broadcasting Caucus
• Neuroscience Caucus
• Historic Preservation Caucus
• Library of Congress Caucus

Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici represents the First Congressional District of Oregon, which includes large portions of Washington and Multnomah Counties, and Tillamook, Clatsop, and Columbia counties.

Strengthening public education is one of Suzanne’s top priorities and one of the reasons she got involved in public service. Suzanne spent hundreds of hours volunteering in public schools before serving in the Oregon State Legislature, where she passed legislation to reduce duplicative testing. In Congress, she is a leader on the Education and the Workforce Committee and Ranking Member of the Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee. The Congresswoman has long been an advocate for equity in education policy and funding. She is dedicated to setting national policies that give students the support and opportunities they need to succeed in school and in life. She played a lead role in the passage of the bipartisan Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which replaced No Child Left Behind, reduced testing, put more focus on well-rounded education, and gave more decision-making back to states and local districts.

Suzanne worked her way through college in Eugene, first at Lane Community College and then at the University of Oregon, where she earned her bachelor’s degree and law degree. She is focused on making college more affordable and providing workers with in-demand skills to enter the workforce. Suzanne is the founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional STEAM Caucus, which encourages innovation and creative thinking by integrating arts and design with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education.

Suzanne was honored to serve on the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, and she is continuing work to implement the Climate Action Plan, take immediate action to reduce emissions, create good-paying jobs, support a just transition, and strengthen the resilience of our communities. She is also a senior member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and a leader on the Subcommittee on Environment, and Subcommittee on Research and Technology. From this position, she works to defend science, address the causes and consequences of climate change, and make sure that policy decisions are based on independent science. As a representative of coastal Oregon and co-chair of the House Oceans Caucus and Congressional Estuary Caucus, she is working to draw attention to issues that affect coastal communities.

In Congress, Suzanne is fighting to help working families get ahead and to build an economy that gives everyone the opportunity to succeed. She is a strong advocate for retirement security. In addition to protecting and strengthening Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, Suzanne also advocates for policies that help workers save for retirement. Suzanne also supports paid family leave, raising the federal minimum wage, making sure workers have a voice on the job, and workforce development programs. Suzanne is vigilant about making sure that women have access to a full range of family planning services, including abortion.

During college and law school, Suzanne worked at Lane County Legal Aid. After law school, Suzanne was an attorney at the Federal Trade Commission in Washington, D.C., where she was in the Credit Practices Division of the Bureau of Consumer Protection. She then practiced law in Portland, where she represented individuals and small businesses. Suzanne has brought her commitment to consumer protection and access to justice to her work in Congress.

Suzanne and her husband Michael have two grown children.

Communities: Latino/Hispanic

Congresswoman Andrea Salinas is the proud daughter of a Mexican immigrant, a first-generation American, and dedicated public servant working for the people of Oregon’s sixth district. Her father immigrated to the United States as a child and picked cotton and tomatoes in the fields of the Rio Grande Valley before eventually going on to serve as a police officer. Her family’s story is an American story – one where hard work can provide a path to a better life.

A first-generation college student, Andrea decided to pursue a path of public service after graduation and worked as a US congressional aide and policy advisor to Senator Harry Reid and Congressman Pete Stark. Later, Andrea fell in love with the communities of the Willamette Valley while serving as a district aide for Congresswoman Darlene Hooley.

After her work with Congresswoman Hooley concluded, Andrea went on to serve as an advocate for labor unions, environmental groups, and reproductive rights organizations in Oregon. In 2017, she was appointed to the Oregon House of Representatives and served through the end of her term in 2022. In the Oregon House of Representatives, she served as House Majority Whip and was the Chair of the House Health Care Committee.

In Congress, Andrea is proud to serve on the House Agriculture and House Science, Space, and Technology Committees, where she crafts policies that will help level the playing field for Oregon farmers and rural communities and create more good-paying, union jobs. As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Mental Health Caucus, she has prioritized making mental health care and addiction treatment more accessible and affordable.

Andrea and her husband, Chris, live in Tigard with their daughter, Amelia.

Communities: LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Rural Democrats

Serving as Chair of the Jefferson County Democrats (4 years), and then as Chair of the Rural Caucus is where Kim began work within the Democratic Party of Oregon. In early 2021 Kim initiated work in outreach programs to non-affiliated voters to help change elections for the positive in more conservative, rural communities. Kim believes it is through local civic involvement we make the greatest impact on the local community. To this end, Kim focuses on young voter outreach, is an advisor for high school student leadership groups where 85% of her leaders are BIPOC, and serves on the Latino Community Association – Latino Festival Committee. Kim takes local experiences and passion for rural people to the state and national stage with service as Chair of the Rural Caucus, Chair of CD2 and additionally serving as the DNC Rural Council Western Regional Representative. Kim does democracy and policy  work so that rural young people, marginalized people of color, those who are undocumented, and families in need always know that someone standing in their corner, willing to fight for what is right.

Communities: African American or Black, LGBTQ+, Union Member

Travis Nelson is the grandson of Louisiana sharecroppers. When he was a small child his family moved from Louisiana to the Pacific Northwest in search of a better life. Travis was a Head Start kid who is thankful for the free public school lunches he received as a child. Prior to earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Washington State University, Travis earned his Associates degree in Nursing from a community college in rural Eastern Washington near the Oregon border. He is now a Board Certified Registered Nurse who has specialized in Medical/Surgical Nursing, Critical Care Nursing, Emergency Nursing, Case Management and has even served as a Charge Nurse on a Physical Rehabilitation Unit. Travis has now resided in North Portland for nearly a decade.

In addition to serving as a DNC Member, Travis serves the party as a Precinct Committee Person (PCP) in Multnomah County and as Western Director of the Democratic National Committee Black Caucus. Additionally, Travis served as a delegate to the 2016 Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia. In 2020, Travis had the honor of serving as Co-Chair of the Oregon Delegation to the Democratic National Convention, thanks to the support of Senators Jeff Merkely and Ron Wyden.

Travis works full time as a Union Representative where he advocates for his fellow Registered Nurses and fights for social justice. Travis is a member of the Oregon Nurses Association, American Nurses Association, AFL-CIO, Teamsters Local 117, American Federation of Teachers, Oregon League of Conservation Voters, Sierra Club, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, The Urban League, The Oregon Assembly for Black Affairs (OABA), Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and is a board member of Nurses For Single Payer.

Communities: LGBTQ+, Union Member

Serving his second 4-year term as a Democratic National Committeeman, Matt Keating (he/him) also serves Oregon voters as Eugene City Councilor (2021-2025) and Lane Community College Board Member (2013-2021).

A former broadcaster, Matt brings years of community organizing, political digital consulting, and field management expertise to his role as DNC Member. In both urban and rural settings, he’s worked for a multitude of Democratic candidates and allied organizations including MoveOn.org, Democracy for America, CREDO SuperPAC, and We Are Wisconsin.

Matt is active with the DNC’s Western States Regional Caucus, LGBT Caucus, Poverty Council, Interfaith Council, and DNC Council on the Environment & Climate Crisis.

Alongside Matt on many a progressive political adventure are his trusted pals Vegas, a rescue Great Dane and his talented and inspiring wife Becca.

Communities: LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities

Lisa Rockower was born in La Mesa, California, and raised in Eugene, Oregon. She has devoted her career to supporting Oregon Democratic politicians, serving as the State Director to Senator Ron Wyden for the last 23 years. A fun tidbit about Rockower is that she had the opportunity to ride in a small Sprinter van with former Vice President Al Gore and five other people all the way from Eugene to Portland in 2000. She describes it as “quite an experience.”

Sarah Fisher Beachy was born and raised in Middletown, Ohio. She attended Syracuse University, where she received a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. Fisher Beachy runs a non-profit organization named after her son, The Jacob Beachy Fund. This organization helps children with disabilities receive hippotherapy (occupational therapy while riding a horse). She was inspired to start the organization after seeing the significant benefits her son received from this type of therapy, which many families cannot afford due to insurance limitations or Medicaid reimbursement rates. In memory of her son, her family founded the Jacob Beachy Fund and built a sensory trail expansion at the farm he attended. The organization has since helped many children receive consistent services, enabling them to grow and thrive. Fisher Beachy is a Democrat because she believes the party truly supports working families and education for all, fights for the marginalized in society, and advocates for progressive policies that empower individuals.

Lisa Reynolds is a physician, state representative, and mother. Reynolds was raised in suburban Chicago in the 1970s by a working-class family, daughter to a roofer and a housewife. Taking her along to Equal Rights Amendment marches and migrant farmworker camps to drop off blankets and clothes, Reynolds’ mom, Phyllis, instilled in her the importance of living a life of action and service — a sentiment that Reynolds has taken with her into the medical field. On a personal level, having a brother who struggles with schizophrenia, and a professional one, as a pediatrician of almost 30 years, Reynolds has observed and worked against the detrimental impacts of mental illness, poverty, and inequity throughout her life. She continues this work in the Oregon House, fighting for abortion protection, access to gender-affirming services, an end to child poverty, addiction services, housing for all, gun violence prevention, and increased funding for education.

Communities: LGBTQ+, Young Democrats

Garrett Fleenor is a lifelong Oregonian, born in Hillsboro and educated at Oregon State University. They currently work as a Senior Gameplay Engineer at Notorious Studios, where they design video games. Fleenor is a Democrat because they believe the Democratic Party stands for people. While they acknowledge that no party is perfect, they appreciate that the Democratic Party prioritizes human beings in its platform and policies. Fleenor is passionate about using their technical skills to create immersive and engaging gaming experiences. They believe in the power of technology and entertainment to bring people together and inspire positive change.

Communities:Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders, People with Disabilities, Veterans or Active Service Members

Cindy Smith was born in Seoul, South Korea, and grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She attended the Community College of Allegheny County and the University of Montana. Smith is currently the Chair of the Democratic Party of Oregon Veterans Caucus, and is a retired Air Force Master Sergeant. She is a Democrat because Democrats work to ensure the right to bodily autonomy; champion equality and diversity; and help everyone get a seat at the table regardless of what they look like, who they love, or who they worship.

Communities: African American or Black, Young Democrats

Taliek Lopez-Duboff is a dedicated college student at the University of Oregon, where he studies Political Science and Planning, Public Policy, and Nonprofit Management. Born and raised in Oregon, he attended Aloha High School in the Beaverton area. At the University of Oregon, Lopez-Duboff has had the honor of serving as the Student Body Senate President, a role that allows him to passionately advocate for his fellow students. Lopez-Duboff has lobbied on behalf of students at the Oregon state capitol, fighting for their rights and needs. He supports President Biden because of his commitment to student advocacy, including the forgiveness of $153 billion in student debt and his support for school teachers. A proud Democrat, Lopez-Duboff believes in the promise of America and strives to contribute to making the country a more perfect union. His dedication to public service and student advocacy reflects his deep commitment to these values, working tirelessly to ensure a brighter future for all.

Communities: Union Member

Joseph Esmonde is a seasoned political strategist who has dedicated his career to advancing the needs of working people and Labor Unions. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Esmonde attended Wheeling University in eastern Ohio. Throughout his impactful career in Oregon politics, he has been instrumental in crafting significant bipartisan pieces of legislation, but especially: the establishment of solar and wind energy projects statewide and the securing of dedicated funding for STEM and CTE programs in high schools. A lifelong Democrat, Esmonde believes the party champions the dignity of working people, job creation, and the protection of constitutional rights. His commitment to these values has driven his work and contributions, making a tangible difference in the lives of Oregonians. Esmonde’s legacy in political advocacy is marked by his unwavering dedication to creating sustainable energy solutions and educational opportunities for future generations.

Communities: Union Member

Kari Chisholm is an experienced political consultant with expertise in digital strategy and interactive web development. He is the founder of Mandate Media, a nationally-recognized political consulting firm based in Portland, Oregon, that serves progressive political campaigns and advocacy organizations. Since 2001, Chisholm has advised over 300 candidates and elected officials in 32 states. He has served as adjunct faculty at the University of Chicago, and was recently selected by Portland’s mayor as one of 13 residents to serve on the Independent District Commission, which was responsible for drawing the lines of the district map used in the newly implemented, district-based city council election system. Chisholm is a Democrat because he believes in the power of government to improve quality of life for all and create an equitable economy that opens doors for everyone and celebrates each human’s dignity no matter who they are.

Communities: Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders, Young Democrats

Jeffrey Teh was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. He attended Sunset High School and is an incoming freshman at Middlebury College. At 18 years old, he is the youngest Democratic National Convention Delegate representing Oregon this year. He is a proud alum of two Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies’ programs in campaign training and youth leadership; has served on the planning committee for the Asian American Youth Leadership Conference for three years; and volunteered with Teens for Tina Kotek during the 2022 election. He is passionate about gun control, climate change, human rights and national security in foreign policy, and the influence of large donors in domestic politics. Teh believes that, as the Democratic Party comprises a diverse, multiethnic coalition, it is uniquely suited to solving the issues of tomorrow through effective governance from the municipal to the federal level. Teh is a Democrat because he believes the party and its policies best advocate for the priorities of young people and people of color.

Communities: Rural Democrats

Lisa Horwitch was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She pursued her higher education in London and at the University of Arizona, completing her undergraduate degree and teaching credential at California State University. She then attended graduate school at the University of Southern California, earning a Master’s in Education Leadership and a PhD in Education Policy & Law. A retired educator, Horwitch has taught both K-12 and higher education. She currently works part-time as a mediator. Horwitch draws inspiration from her mother, Myra, a lifelong Democrat who actively worked on numerous presidential campaigns. In 2008, Myra was elected as a delegate for Hillary Clinton, and Horwitch accompanied her to the Denver convention. There, she had a front-row seat to the democratic nomination process and witnessed her mother’s overwhelming pride and joy. This pivotal experience instilled in Horwitch a deep appreciation for the democratic process and the importance of active participation. She carries forward her mother’s legacy with tremendous pride and love, serving with the same dedication to upholding democratic values. Horwitch remains committed to fostering a just and equitable society, honoring the memory and influence of her mother.

Communities: Latino or Hispanic American, People with Disabilities, Rural Democrats, Young Democrats, Native American

Isabella Lee Tibbetts was born in Pelileo, a town in central Ecuador with a population of about 10,000. Her family relocated to the United States, and she grew up in Medford, Oregon. Lee Tibbetts attended the Imani Institute of Cosmetology in Medford and is currently enrolled in the Lyndon B. Johnson Women’s Campaign School at the University of Texas at Austin. In her professional life, Lee Tibbetts works as a Development Associate for Southern Oregon Climate Action Now (SOCAN). In this role, she is dedicated to fundraising and collaborating with donors to promote sustainability in southern Oregon. A committed Democrat, Lee Tibbetts believes in a society that prioritizes the highest quality of life for all, where individuals can express themselves freely without fear of repercussions. She advocates for a robust, adaptable economy that ensures a healthy, safe, and clean environment for future generations, including her own children. Lee Tibbetts views the Democratic convention as a vital platform to amplify the voices of young, indigenous, and rural communities as the party unites to nominate President Biden and Vice President Harris.

Communities: LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Rural Democrats, Young Democrats, Union Member

Cole Daneman is a lifelong Oregonian who believes in the importance of a thriving democracy,  finding effective solutions to our toughest challenges near and far, and respecting our differences while celebrating what we all have in common. Daneman graduated from Ashland High School and was an Oregon School Activities Association state champion in Congressional Debate. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences from Soka University of America, including a semester spent in Chile studying Globalization and Intercultural Communication at the Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso. Currently, Daneman serves as campaign manager for Oregon State Representative Emerson Levy, who is running for re-election in a battleground legislative seat in Central Oregon. Daneman is active in the Democratic Party because of his strong support for unions and workers, investing in public education, proactive environmental stewardship, universal and comprehensive healthcare, responsible global engagement, and human rights.

Communities: Veterans or Active Service Members, Union Member

Kevin Stine was born in Medford, Oregon, and spent some of his childhood there before moving with his family to a small town in Oklahoma. After graduating from high school, Stine joined the U.S. Navy, where he served for nine years and completed three submarine deployments as an electronics technician. After an honorable discharge from the Navy, Stine moved back to Medford, and shortly after, he ran and was elected to the Medford City Council. He is proud to have been elected for three terms to city council as a Democrat in a red city. Additionally, since returning to Medford, Stine has worked with Access in Jackson County to help houseless veterans to obtain housing and access available resources. Stine is a Navy Reservist, member of the Navy Funeral Honors Team, teacher with the Medford School District, and loving husband of over a decade to his wife, Casey. As someone who grew up in poverty, Stine is a Democrat because he knows the Democratic Party builds bridges for the more disadvantaged to reach their goals and experience true success.

Aisling Coghlan is a highly accomplished leader in government, advocacy organizations, and political campaigns. Born in Dublin and raised in Belfast, she first came to the United States to work on an Oregon legislative campaign as part of her dissertation with Queen’s University. Since then, she has served as the District Director for Congressman Earl Blumenauer as well as Chief of Staff to Portland City Commissioner Dan Saltzman, with whom she created and passed a measure funding the Portland Children’s Levy, which works to reduce disparities in children’s outcomes in- and outside of the classroom. On the campaign side, Aisling has led numerous statewide and local ballot measures, including making Oregon the first state in the nation to affirm sanctuary state status. As Director of the DPO Coordinated Campaign, she oversaw successful electoral campaigns for both statewide and legislative candidates, and serving as the Interim Executive Director of Basic Rights Oregon, she championed marriage equality in Oregon and beyond.

Communities: LGBTQ+, Young Democrats

Alex Hollis was born in Lakeheath, England, a town about two hours northeast of London. As a child of a Military family, he moved to the United States as a child, he lived in California and Mississippi before settling in Oregon. Hollis attended Oregon State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology Administration and Management, and Business Information Systems. Now a software engineer for Xbox Game Studios, Hollis applies his technical expertise to create cutting-edge gaming experiences. A proud Democrat, he believes the party embodies the core values he was raised with: equality, representation, and the commitment to improving lives for everyone. Hollis is dedicated to using his skills and platform to advocate for these principles, both in his professional life and in his community. Alex lives in Portland, Oregon with his wife and high-school sweetheart Sarah and their three chickens.

Kimberly Greenberg was born in Colorado but grew up in New York. She completed her undergraduate education at Wesleyan University, completed a certificate of global affairs at NYU and earned her Master of Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business. Currently, Greenberg is a self-employed strategy consultant, providing a wide range of consulting services to nonprofits and start-ups, including strategy, fundraising, operations, and team management. With nearly two decades of political and activist experience, Greenberg’s dedication is largely inspired by her father, whom she considers her role model. She has canvassed in swing states to get out the vote and has worked tirelessly to expand access to meaningful education. Greenberg is passionate about advocating for policies that promote high-quality public education, women’s reproductive rights, and the US’s role as a global superpower. She is also committed to combating climate change and promoting equality in every facet of life. Greenberg emphasizes the importance of speaking up for future generations and ensuring that their voices are heard in the fight for a more just and equitable world.

Communities: Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders, LGBTQ+, Young Democrats, Union Member

Kien Truong was born and raised in Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam; immigrated to the United States at the age of 17, joining his grandparents and extended family; and became a U.S. Citizen seven years later. In 2017, Truong was the first AANHPI, first immigrant, and first person of color to serve as a non-voting Student Trustee to the Portland Community College Board, and later, in 2023, he was elected to Board Member, becoming the first openly LGBTQ+ and the second AANHPI person to ever hold the position. In addition to lowering the socioeconomic barrier to food, housing, transportation, textbooks, and childcare in his position with the Portland Community College Board, Truong has served as the Chief of Staff to Oregon State Senator Kayse Jama since 2021, playing a significant role in passing progressive legislation on labor, business, housing, and immigration. Since 2022, Truong has been the Chair of the Young Democrats of Oregon Caucus with the Democratic Party of Oregon. Truong is a Democrat because of the policies pushed by Democrats that place a livable planet and homeownership within reach; protect and ensure respect for queer people; promote fairness in the workplace; and support reproductive health care rights for all.

Communities: People with Disabilities

Sri Benson is a dedicated advocate for veterans and Gold Star families. As a Gold Star husband, he made history as the first male widow to represent Gold Star Wives of America at the Memorial Day White House Breakfast and the Arlington National Cemetery wreath-laying ceremony. Raised in Portland, Oregon, Benson attended Oregon State University, where he earned a Master’s degree in Engineering. He currently serves as a healthcare policy advisor for The American Legion, the nation’s largest veteran service organization. Benson leverages his engineering expertise to analyze policies and provide constructive feedback to ensure their effectiveness. Benson aligns with the Democratic Party, believing that its ethical stance holds significant potential for driving positive societal change on a global scale.

Communities: LGBTQ+, Rural Democrats

Nick Walden Poublon was born and raised in Oregon, and is the current Democratic nominee for Oregon House District 52. Walden Poublon is a first generation college student, receiving both his Bachelor and Master of Arts at Portland State University before going to serve as the university’s Trans Health Advocate to the 30,000 student population for 12 years. It was there that he found a passion for health policy and a dedication to healthcare for all which has fanned out into a wider platform of support for multiple ramps toward secondary education, housing for the most vulnerable, and environmental conservation. He is the current president of the Oregon Trail Democrats — a grassroots organization of Democrats in House District 51 and 52 that organizes on local issues; serves on two Democratic Party of Oregon committees, including the Rules Committee and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee; and until recently, was the First Vice-Chair of the Democratic Party of Clackamas County. He is a Democrat because he believes that we are strongest when we work together toward a common goal.

Communities: Latino or Hispanic American, LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities

José Gamero-Georgeson, born in Trujillo, Perú, and raised in Miami, FL, has dedicated his life to community advocacy and public service. A disabled, gay, Latino immigrant, José’s journey has been marked by resilience and a steadfast commitment to justice. Recently elected as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention, he brings a unique perspective shaped by personal and professional experiences.

José’s path to citizenship was fraught with challenges, only becoming possible after the overturning of DOMA validated his marriage in the eyes of the federal government. This milestone underscores his belief in the profound impact of elections on individuals’ lives, particularly through the judicial system. His personal struggles, including becoming disabled following a couple of strokes, have deepened his understanding of the importance of accessibility and inclusivity.

A passionate advocate for diversity, Jose has served as a David Douglas School Board member, where he tirelessly works to ensure that all voices are heard. His advocacy extends to his role as a foster parent, having cared for 12 boys and recently adopting a son from foster care.

In his political endeavors, José has been an active organizer and volunteer, working behind the scenes and on the front lines to support Democratic candidates at all levels. As Multnomah’s VAN Coordinator, he has played a crucial role in mobilizing voters and coordinating campaign efforts.

José’s commitment to progressive values, diversity, and inclusion drives his work. He strives to be a voice for marginalized communities and continues to fight for a just and equitable society.

Communities: African American or Black, People with Disabilities

Loretta Smith describes herself as a public servant, small business owner, mom and barrier breaker. She grew up in Michigan and came to Oregon to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Communications. Smith is the founder of Dream Big Communications LLC, which is a communications firm specializing in government relations and public affairs. For 14 years, she served on Senator Ron Wyden’s staff as a Staff Assistant, Multnomah County Field Representative, and Senior Policy Advisor. Smith has served two terms as Multnomah County Commissioner and is currently the Chair of the Democratic Party of Oregon Black Caucus. This will be her fifth time attending the Democratic National Convention as a delegate. Smith is a Democrat because her grandmother was a Democrat, who believed that it was the best party to represent Black people, and because the Party respects women and stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Communities: People with Disabilities, Union Member

April Milan was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, and received her Bachelor of Arts in Biology at Washington University in St. and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Southern California. Milan has dedicated her career to helping others as a physical therapist with over 20 years of experience that covers the range of physical rehabilitation from hospital care to World Cup sports. Milan also has a deep commitment to volunteerism. She spent 20 summers as a camp counselor with the Muscular Dystrophy Association and eight years as an Adaptive Recreation Volunteer with Shriners Children’s hospital and has served in the Oregon Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals; in the Oregon AFL-CIO; and as a Precinct Committee Person for Multnomah County. Milan is a Democrat because it is the party of civil rights.

Communities: Young Democrats

Gabe Shepherd was born in Eugene, Oregon; grew up in the rural community of Cheshire, Oregon; and moved to Corvallis after high school to attend Oregon State University from which he graduated with an Honors Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering. While at school, Shepherd became increasingly concerned about politics at the national level, so he decided to get involved at the local level — heeding former Speaker of the House Tip O’Neill’s message that “all politics is local.” In 2017, Shepherd started regularly attending Corvallis City Council meetings. In 2019, he became an active member of the Benton County Democratic Party, and in 2020, he ran and was elected to Corvallis City Council where he has been representing the people of Ward 4 ever since. Today, Shepherd is Chair of the Benton County Democratic Party, a member of the Corvallis City Legislative Committee, the Deputy City Clerk for the City of Albany, and the Democratic Nominee for Benton County Commissioner. He has served as the recorder to the cities of Newport, Corvallis, and Albany and was named the Young Democrat of the Year in 2021 by the Benton County Democrats.

Communities: LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities

Rebecca Bradvica is an experienced advocate for numerous social issues and a dedicated political activist. She was raised by parents who upheld Democratic values, particularly a respect for human rights. Bradvica attended the University of Oregon, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Telecommunication & Film. Now retired, Bradvica has taken on various roles in political activist groups. She serves as the Neighborhood Leaders Program Coordinator for Oregon House District 14, a program that fosters relationships between constituents and their elected representatives. Additionally, Bradvica is an At-Large Board Member of the Oregon chapter of the National Organization for Women. Bradvica regularly volunteers in key swing states during election years. This year, she plans to coordinate with the delegation from North Carolina and travel there in October to work with them.

Communities: Young Democrats

Celine Swenson Harris was born and raised in Eugene, Oregon, and graduated from the University of Oregon. She is the Chair of the Democratic Party of Lane County. Celine lives in Springfield with her husband Chris and cats Harriet and Walter.

Communities: LGBTQ+, Rural Democrats

Monica Kirk was born in Sioux City, Iowa, as the eldest of ten children. Her educational journey took her across the country and around the globe, attending schools in Omaha, Kalamazoo, Nashville, Eugene, Seattle, and even Denmark. This wide range of experiences shaped her broad worldview and her rich understanding of various cultures. A retired attorney, Kirk dedicated a significant part of her career to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), where she championed environmental protection and sustainability. Her legal expertise and commitment to safeguarding the environment made a lasting impact during her tenure. Kirk is a staunch Democrat, driven by her unwavering belief in bodily autonomy and the fundamental rights of individuals. Her advocacy extends to issues of reproductive rights, healthcare, and personal freedoms. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Kirk is an active member of her community, participating in local initiatives and volunteering her time to causes she is passionate about.

Communities: African American or Black, Young Democrats

Chandler James is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Oregon, specializing in American Politics with a focus on the U.S. presidency and public opinion. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy, Master of Arts, and Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Chicago. His research has been published in Presidential Studies Quarterly and has received support from the American Political Science Association, the University of Chicago Council on Advanced Studies, and the Bradley Foundation. In 2018, James was honored as an APSA Minority Fellowship Program (MFP) Fellow. James has provided insightful commentary on national politics in outlets such as the Chicago Tribune, BBC News, The Associated Press, USA Today, and The Conversation. Beyond his academic work, James is deeply engaged in the arts, writing poetry, essays, and fiction, with his work featured in numerous publications. He is also an accomplished painter, photographer, and musician, thriving in vibrant, innovative communities that foster creative expression and experimentation. A committed environmentalist and outdoorsman, James serves on the board of the Sierra Club’s Many Rivers Group in Eugene. He has participated in ultramarathons, marathons, triathlons, and other races across the United States. An avid rock climber, mountaineer, trail runner, bike commuter, and backpacker, James embodies a passion for both the natural world and the creative arts.

Communities: African American or Black

Ibrahim Coulibaly is an activist dedicated to promoting and protecting rights in Oregon. Born and raised in Burkina Faso as the youngest of eleven siblings, Coulibaly currently serves as a Senior Civil Rights Investigator for the Oregon Bureau of Labor & Industry (BOLI) in the Fair Housing Unit. In this role, he provides guidance to the public on state and federal civil rights law, ensuring their enforcement through regular engagement with stakeholders from both employer and worker communities. In addition to his investigative work, Coulibaly holds several leadership roles including President of the BOLI Sublocal, Chair of the Central Table Bargaining Team, CAPE Council President, Chair of the Afram Caucus, and member of the Civil and Human Rights Committee.

Becca Keating’s journey into Democratic politics began by chance when she met her husband, DNC Member Matt Keating, on the Bernie 2016 campaign. Matt, who was running the local campaign office, was the first person Becca encountered when she walked into the Lane County Bernie Sanders office as a new volunteer eager to get involved. From that moment, their lives intertwined both professionally and personally. As Becca noted in her wedding vows, Matt single-handedly changed the trajectory of her life that day, igniting a passion for politics and a love that has only grown stronger. Together, Becca and Matt have become a formidable team in the realm of Democratic politics. Their shared passion has led them to collaborate on numerous campaigns, work together in Oregon’s State Legislature, and proudly serve as Biden-Harris National Delegates in both 2020 and 2024. Their commitment to Democratic values and progressive causes continues to drive their joint efforts to create positive change. In addition to her political work, Becca is deeply involved in community service and advocacy, focusing on issues such as social justice, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.

Communities: Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders, Young Democrats

Alex Aghdaei is an exceptional political organizer passionate about education and student representation. A 19-year-old Iranian-American born in Singapore, Aghdaei grew up as an expat, living in Germany, various states in the U.S., and finally settling in Lake Oswego, Oregon. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Political Science at the University of Oregon. Aghdaei serves as the President of the Oregon Student Association and is a member of the UO Forensics: Speech and Debate team, the UO United Nations Association Club, and the UO College Democrats. He is also an active participant in the United States Student Association, a nonprofit, student-led organization dedicated to expanding access to higher education and promoting social justice. Aghdaei’s commitment to the Democratic Party is deeply influenced by his parents’ experiences. He credits democratic policies for enabling his parents to receive an education after immigrating to the United States following the Iranian Revolution. Aghdaei is passionate about electing leaders who will provide future immigrants with the same opportunities.

Rob Wagner currently serves as the Oregon Senate President and is proud to serve as the Oregon Senator for District 19 where he grew up. After graduating from Portland State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and earning his Master of Arts from George Washington University in Public Policy, Wagner got an early introduction to the Oregon Legislature, serving as a legislative aide in the Oregon House of Representatives in the late 1990s. Wagner believes in education as the ladder to success, which led him to spend a decade advocating for Oregon’s teachers, faculty, health care workers, and academic support workers at the American Federation of Teachers-Oregon; serve as the Associate Vice President of College Advancement and Government Relations Director at Portland Community College; and run and win election to the Lake Oswego School Board. Wagner is honored to serve as a delegate alongside his wife, Laurie Cremona Wagner, and is a Democrat because he believes in leaving the planet and humanity better than we found it through the avenues of representative democracy.

Communities: People with Disabilities

Diane Grover was born in Ontario, Oregon, a town nestled on the border with Idaho. From a young age, she worked on farms alongside migrant workers, and the lessons she learned from those hardworking individuals ignited her passion for immigration law. Today, Grover is a dedicated immigration attorney in Portland. Grover earned her undergraduate degree from Portland State University before obtaining her JD from Seton Hall Law School in Newark, New Jersey. A lifelong Democrat, she is committed to ensuring that Democratic values are upheld, particularly on critical issues such as the protection of democracy, voting rights, and reproductive rights. As an immigration attorney, Grover is devoted to amplifying the diverse voices of her clients and their families. She deeply understands the impact of the judicial system, including Supreme Court and other court decisions, on everyday lives. This understanding fuels her strong support for the reelection of President Joe Biden, as she believes in the importance of his leadership in upholding these essential values and rights.

Amy Sabbadini has devoted her career to furthering education because she believes that modeling civic interaction in the classroom is paramount to keeping democracy in the United States vibrant. She spent 20 years as a classroom teacher, the majority of that time teaching U.S. History in the International Baccalaureate program at Bend Senior High School. Sabbadini currently serves as an instructor in OSU-Cascades’ Master of Teaching program and as the Civics Learning Project’s Regional Program Manager for Central Oregon. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies and Master of Education in Secondary Teaching Social Studies from UC Santa Barbara. Amy is honored to be a second time delegate and is a Democrat because she believes in a social safety net for the less fortunate.

Laurie Cremona Wagner is a passionate business leader who advocates for democratic values. Raised in Bellevue, Washington, she attended Stanford University, where she earned a Master’s degree in Engineering. Cremona Wagner now serves as the Vice President of Marketing for Pure Storage, a company that redefines the data storage experience by simplifying how people consume and interact with data, while also reducing energy usage and costs. Cremona Wagner is a dedicated Democrat because she values diversity of culture, thinking, and people. She believes in ensuring that everyone has access to quality education, healthcare, food, and housing.

Communities: Veterans or Active Service Members

Susan Rodway was born and raised in New Jersey and attended Clackamas Community College. Rodway recently retired from a 38-year career working as an electrician. For 29 years, she has been a proud member of the IBEW 48 — a local trade union serving electricians in the Pacific Northwest — and is currently serving as the IBEW 48 treasurer. Having spent her career in the trades, workers’ rights and equal rights for women on the job and in the paycheck are a big part of why Rodway is a Democrat.

Communities: LGBTQ+, Young Democrats

Eli Bliss is a savvy political staffer with extensive experience in government, campaign, and party offices. Growing up in Gresham, Oregon, Bliss attended Skidmore College in New York, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government. During his time at Skidmore, he served as the Executive Vice President of the Student Government Association and interned for Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley. Bliss currently serves as a Field Representative in Oregon Congressman Earl Blumenauer’s District Office. In this role, he represents Congressman Blumenauer at district events and works to ensure that the district’s priorities are reflected in the congressman’s legislative agenda. Bliss is a Democrat because he supports policies that mitigate the effects of poverty, improve access to education, and address the addiction crisis in the United States. He advocates against Republicans who threaten to eliminate the programs his family relied on during his childhood.

Communities: African American or Black, Young Democrats

Victor Jackson grew up in Glendale, Arizona, and attended Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in American History with a minor in Philosophy. Jackson has been passionately involved in Democratic campaigns since he was 11 years old, starting as a volunteer for the Gore campaign in 2000. Since then, he has held various volunteer and staff positions in campaigns across the country, working on races up and down the ballot. Currently, Jackson serves as the Regional Program Manager for Richard Heath & Associates, a company dedicated to enhancing access to programs that improve lives, strengthen communities, and protect the environment. A committed Democrat, Jackson was raised to care deeply about the well-being of others. He takes pride in working alongside fellow Democrats to protect rights, address the needs of all, and build a sustainable future for both the nation and the world.

Carl Fisher is an experienced political operative dedicated to building community connections and engaging citizens in the political process. An Oregon native, Fisher was born in Portland and raised in the Tigard area. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Western Oregon University, he became a committee member of the City of Tigard Transportation Advisory. In this role, he facilitates citizen involvement in transportation matters, increasing community awareness of transportation issues. Since 2022, Fisher has also served as the Commissioner of the Tualatin Valley Water District. A proud member of the Democratic Party, he values the party’s commitment to cooperation and effective governance. Fisher believes that the actions taken to govern once in office are more important than simply winning elections.

Communities: Union Member

Sheri Schouten was born and raised in Oregon, and has dedicated her career to helping families in Oregon raise healthy children for over three decades as a public health nurse. Schouten was originally motivated to become involved in politics after her first husband passed away from illness and she needed to raise her three young sons as a single parent. The idea of helping families like hers not just get by, but to get ahead, inspired Schouten to run for State Representative. She won election three times before deciding to retire, introducing legislation capping insulin copays at $75 per month; banning bumper guards on cribs to prevent sudden infant death syndrome; and requiring that children younger than 2 years old stay in rear-facing car seats all just in her three terms. Additionally, Schouten has served on the Oregon Commission for Women, which she was appointed to by the Governor for expertise in nursing. Schouten is a Democrat because she believes in a democracy that is fair and works to meet the needs of all people.

Communities: Latino or Hispanic American, Young Democrats

Carina Perez Europa was born and raised in Salem-Keizer area and attended two Oregon schools — Chemeketa Community College and Western Oregon University — obtaining her Associate of Arts and Bachelor of Arts, respectively, both in Political Science and Government. Perez Europa currently serves as a Field Representative to Senator Ron Wyden, and has previously worked as a Campaign Manager for Steph Newton for Albany City Council and a Clean Air Organizer with the Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility, where she organized in Marion County to regulate incineration of waste and promote zero waste solutions, leading to the creation and passage of SB 488, the Covanta Incinerator Regulation Bill, in the State Senate. Additionally, Perez Europa serves as the Chair of the Democratic Party of Oregon Latino Caucus and as one of the Caucus’ State Central Committee Delegates. She is a Democrat because her parents raised her according to Democratic ideals; she believes everyone should have an opportunity to have a good life and experience the American dream; and she holds we are all responsible for fighting against hate and protecting the most vulnerable among us.

Veronica Williams was born in the U.S. capital and grew up in Palo Alto, California. In addition to a decades-long career working for the federal government, Williams has been very active in local politics, previously serving as the Treasurer of the Washington County Democrats and currently holding multiple positions in local political organizations including Vice President of the Willamette Women Democrats; Chair of the Endorsements and Contributions Committee with the Washington County Democrats; and member of the Democratic Party of Oregon Budget Committee. Williams is a Democrat because she wants to belong to a party that cares deeply about all people and uses policy and infrastructure to lift every one of them up. Williams’ work in government, through many administrations, has confirmed what her parents taught her at an early age — the Democratic Party is the way to go!

Communities: Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders, Latino or Hispanic American, LGBTQ+, Young Democrats, Union Member

Nathan Soltz was born and raised in Medford, Oregon, and is the proud son of an immigrant from El Salvador. After dual-enrolling at Chemeketa Community College and Western Oregon University, he graduated with degrees with honors in both philosophy and psychology as the first in his family to earn a four-year degree. Soltz is currently completing his Juris Doctor at Lewis and Clark Law School with a concentration in Indian Law and Civil Rights Law; serving as the Chief of Staff to Oregon State Senator Lew Frederick; and acting as the Democratic Party of Oregon Secretary and Jewish Caucus Chair. He was Oregon’s youngest-ever Democratic National Convention delegate in 2016 and Oregon’s youngest ever presidential elector in 2020. Soltz is a Democrat because it is the party that cares and works toward the success of all people.

Communities: LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Rural Democrats

Kelie McWilliams, born in Idaho Falls, ID, and raised in numerous locations as a military brat, is a dedicated, pragmatic, and progressive Democrat. Elected as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention this year, Kelie brings extensive experience and passion to the role. Currently serving as the Vice Chair of Polk County and Vice Chair of the Gun Owners Caucus, Kelie is also an active member of the Platform & Resolutions Committee and engages in various capacities within the Democratic Party of Oregon (DPO).

Kelie runs a non-profit organization focused on outreach to rural Oregonians, demonstrating how progressive policies align with family and community values. As a non-binary parent of three children, Kelie is committed to instilling a legacy of inclusivity and equality. Their advocacy centers on LGBTQIA+ rights, immigration reform, and the Black Lives Matter movement, believing that progress is achieved through collective action and amplifying marginalized voices.

Upon returning from the Democratic National Convention, Kelie plans to partner with county parties to develop effective outreach tools, cultivate relationships with persuadable unaffiliated voters, and strengthen the bench of Democratic candidates for various local positions. Kelie’s motto, “Drink Water. Love Hard. Fight Fascism,” encapsulates their dedication to fostering a hopeful and inclusive future for all.

Communities: Latino or Hispanic American, LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans or Active Service Members

Alexis Avery, a dedicated advocate from Salem, has been elected as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention for CD6. Identifying as non-binary (they/them), Alexis represents the Latino or Hispanic American, LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, and Veterans or Active Service Members communities.

With nearly two decades of advocacy experience, Alexis has served on numerous boards, including the Yamhill Community Care Organization and the Portland VA Hospital for LGBT+ advocacy. Raised in Hillsboro, OR, they learned early on the importance of fighting for change and social equality.

A former flight attendant, Alexis has traveled extensively, meeting a diverse array of individuals, including many celebrities. Committed to the Democratic Party’s values of social equality, bodily autonomy, and the right to healthcare, food, and housing, Alexis aims to bring fresh perspectives and grassroots energy to the convention and beyond, working diligently to elect Democrats across Oregon.

Communities: African American or Black, Veterans or Active Service Members

James Manning began his career and commitment to community service as a state corrections officer, and later a police officer, railroad special agent and private investigator prior to enlisting into the United States Army. During his 24 years of service, Manning held the position of United States Army Assistant Inspector General, assessing equipment and staff to ensure they are able to perform effectively, and Garrison Community NCO, overseeing military installation in Panama & Puerto Rico that supported 65,000 troops at the time, in addition to Military Diplomat to the Australian and New Zealand Defense Forces; Chief Administrator Supervisor United States Army Southern Command; and Battalion Training Officer/Detachment Sergeant Major for a deployed unit. Since then, Manning and his late wife of multiple decades, Lawanda, moved to Eugene where Manning has continued to devote himself to serving his community. Manning has served as the Chair of the Oregon Commission on Black Affairs, a member of the Bethel School District Budget Committee, and part of the City of Eugene Police Commission. Additionally, he co-founded a nonprofit foundation that provides financial support and learning tools for students from low-income and historically underserved communities to assist them in attending college. Manning has served as an Oregon State Senator since 2016, leading efforts to provide good jobs and workforce training; transform our healthcare system to reduce costs and expand access; and stop gun violence. He has also championed strategies to make housing more affordable, help those experiencing homelessness, and expand access to addiction treatment and mental health care.

Aaron Woods proudly represents Senate District 13 in Oregon’s State Senate and is committed to making Oregon a place where everyone can succeed. He grew up in Chicago, and served in the U.S. Army for 6 years out of high school as part of Strategic Communications and secure message processing computers. Upon returning to Chicago, he continued to work for several international computer corporations and came to Oregon after being recruited by Tektronix and later Xerox where he worked as a Senior Executive. In retirement, Senator Woods is deeply committed to serving his community, serving as a valuable member on numerous committees at the city, county, and state levels. In addition to his committee work, as a State Senator, he crafts and passes legislation impacting education, healthcare, public safety, economic development, and environmental sustainability; engages with constituents through various mediums, ensuring their voices are an integral part of the legislative process; and works to maintain legislator-constituent transparency through multiple informational outlets. He has been a Democrat since he started voting at 18 and believes deeply in the values that the party champions.

Communities: People with Disabilities, Rural Democrats, Young Democrats

Steph Newton Azorr is marketing and public relations consultant and a deeply dedicated Democrat. Newton Azorr currently serves as a City Councilor in the City of Albany in addition to holding two roles with the Democratic Party of Oregon — Vice Chair of the Jewish Caucus and Chair of the Disability Justice Caucus — and serving as a Linn County Precinct Committee Person. She was previously a member of the Albany Human Relations Commission and a founding Board Member of the Albany Community Together Political Action Committee. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Utah. Newton Azorr is a Democrat because she is committed to social equality, civil rights, and social justice and believes in fair taxation, social welfare programs, expanded access to affordable healthcare, environmental protection, affordable higher education, and protection of minority and workers’ rights.

Austin Folnagy is an Idaho native who grew up in Coeur d’Alene. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Government and a Graduate Degree in Organizational Dynamics from the University of Idaho. Folnagy currently serves as the Board Chair for Lane Community College, where he oversees past and future bond projects to ensure the institution meets its goals. For the past 12 years, he has also worked as a Business and Employment Specialist for the Oregon Employment Department, using his community outreach and leadership skills to connect businesses with potential employees. Folnagy is a Democrat because he believes the party represents working families. He is passionate about advocating for policies that support economic growth and job creation, particularly in underserved communities. In addition to his professional work, Folnagy is actively involved in local civic organizations and enjoys mentoring young professionals. His commitment to public service and community development is driven by a desire to create a more equitable and prosperous society for all.

Communities: LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Young Democrats, African American or Black

Salomé Chimuku is the current Chair of the Multnomah County Democrats. A lifelong Oregonian, Chimuku attended Lincoln High School in Portland and Willamette University in Salem, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Throughout her childhood, Chimuku became a polyglot, speaking six different languages. In addition to her role as Chair of the Multnomah County Democrats, Chimuku works as a DEI & Community Engagement Consultant at Espousal Strategies, LLC, a boutique firm specializing in government, community, and public affairs. The firm focuses on collaborative problem-solving, equity and inclusion, issue lobbying, and coalition building. At Espousal Strategies, Chimuku utilizes her team management skills to foster a productive and inclusive work environment. She is passionate about creating equitable opportunities and enhancing community engagement through her leadership and advocacy efforts.

Kimberly Culbertson is an experienced advocate dedicated to supporting humanitarian causes. Born and raised in Oregon, Culbertson earned degrees in International Business and Russian from Portland State University. Over the past five years, she has served as a Board Member of the Hillsboro Food Co-Op and, for the last three years, as an Executive Board Member of Habitat for Humanity Portland Region. Culbertson’s passion for civic engagement and equal opportunity drives her commitment to the Democratic Party, which she supports for its dedication to these values. In addition to her board roles, she actively participates in community outreach programs, further exemplifying her dedication to service and advocacy.

Michael Smith was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, and graduated magna cum laude in mathematics from Loyola University. Growing up in the tradition of FDR and the anti-machine reform movement, Smith was inspired to become a Democrat at an early age. Following the 2016 election, Smith was motivated to become personally involved in politics and became a Multnomah Precinct Committee Person. Now, he is the Chair of both the Democratic Party of Oregon Gun Owners Caucus and the Multnomah County Democrats Rules Committee and works as a Senior Network Administrator. Smith continues to be a staunch supporter of the Democratic Party for the way that it promotes democracy, equity, opportunity, and innovation.

Communities: African American or Black, Young Democrats

Alex Davis is a political organizer with a passion for public policy strategies. Born and raised in Kansas City, Davis moved to Oregon for college, attending Portland Community College and the University of Oregon. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Government. During his time in college, Davis served as the President of the University of Oregon College Democrats. A proud member of Gen Z, Davis supports the agenda and vision of President Joe Biden, whom he believes is the best president since Lyndon Johnson. He is dedicated to advancing policies that benefit young Americans. Davis has been heavily involved in Oregon politics. He served as an intern for Portland City Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty’s campaign to become the first Black woman on the Portland City Council and later interned in the office of U.S. Senator Ron Wyden. For the past three years, Davis has been a board member of Portland Forward, an organization focused on promoting progressive values in the city of Portland. Davis aspires to attend law school and practice as an attorney.

Communities: Latino or Hispanic American

Moses Ross was born and raised in Salt Lake City Utah and originally came to Oregon to work at the Lake Oswego Review newspaper. After half a decade of publishing his own quarterly holistic health magazine after leaving the Lake Oswego Review, Ross turned his efforts toward becoming involved in his community and, more specifically, becoming involved in local politics. Following tresurial and communications positions with the Lew Frederick for County Commissioner campaign and the Multnomah County Democrats, Ross served as President of the Multnomah Neighborhood Association and an appointed member of the Multnomah County Charter Review Committee, personally making lasting changes in the area of campaign finance reform. A fun tidbit about Ross is that he was a driver in the motorcades for former President Bill Clinton and First Lady Hillary Clinton when they individually made trips to Portland in 2008. In addition to running his voter contact firm of 22 years, Smart Voter Contact, Ross recently returned to the Multnomah Neighborhood Association as President and is running a campaign for Portland City Council with the aim to increase livability and revitalize the city through smart economic development policies.

Communities: African American or Black

Bryan Lewis, a native of Portland, Oregon, has been a dedicated community advocate since the age of thirteen. With a passion for empowering communities, Bryan served nine impactful years on the Multnomah Youth Commission and held a significant role on the Executive Board of the Commission on Children, Families, and Community of Multnomah County. His commitment extends to his active membership in the NAACP Portland chapter and his influential position as a Precinct Committee Person for the Multnomah County Democratic Party. As President of the national nonprofit Community Rights US, Bryan champions grassroots movements across the country. A former union organizer with SEIU Local 503 and 49, and a proud member of CWA Local 7901, Bryan’s dedication to workers’ rights is unwavering. He also contributes to the National Popular Vote Oregon, striving for fairer democratic processes. Passionate about fostering collaboration among new and emerging social movements, Bryan envisions a more just and peaceful world. As a staunch Democrat, he advocates for working families, union support, and environmental activism.

Communities: LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans or Active Service Members

Malcolm Scott is a sixty-two year-old disabled Navy veteran, long-term AIDS survivor, and lifelong warrior for progressive causes. After being discharged from the United States Navy for homosexuality in 1987, Scott learned during his separation physical that he had contracted HIV, which, as he describes, was a death sentence at the time. Encouraged by the activist Franklin “Gay is Good” Kameny, he turned his fear into righteous anger, and dedicated himself to overturning the ban on LGBTQ+ military service, fighting government inaction on AIDS, and decriminalizing the medical use of cannabis. Though, in 1995, Scott reached the terminal stage of AIDS. He describes how he had drafted a will and started to wish farewells when he received the first effective drugs against HIV through an unusual compassionate access lottery that was administered under emergency authorization by then President Clinton who was working on the advice of activists. Scott rightfully calls his story living proof that elections matter. Since that life-saving measure taken by the Clinton administration, Scott has personally helped hundreds of people register to vote; hit the streets and barricades with ACT UP and Queer Nation; and taken his place in the conference room on behalf of organizations like the Drug Policy Foundation and the Marijuana Policy Project — ever fighting for progressive, Democratic causes.

Communities: Veterans or Active Service Members

George Hough was born in Benton Harbor, Michigan, and raised in Flint. He attended the University of Michigan before pursuing his passion at the California School of Professional Psychology, becoming a clinical psychologist. Hough hails from a family of Democrats and unionists, deeply ingrained with the values of the Democratic Party. He firmly believes that active involvement in the democratic process is more crucial than ever. Hough’s commitment was solidified when he attended a peaceful anti-Trump rally outside the American Embassy in London after Trump’s election. Surrounded by thousands of British, Europeans, and Americans, he witnessed the profound impact of the event as people carried banners, chanted, protested, and consoled one another. Moved by the emotional solidarity and determined to prevent such a historical aberration from happening again, Hough vowed to become actively involved in Democratic politics upon his return to the United States. His dedication to the party’s platform and principles drives his ongoing efforts to advocate for a more just and equitable society.

Communities: African American or Black, Young Democrats

Reginald Richardson was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, and attended the HBCU Oakwood University. His advocacy journey began in Chicago, inspired by his parents and the ministry of Reverend Jesse Jackson. Working on the Fani Willis campaign while in college deepened his commitment to justice and democracy. Now, as the pastor of Your Bible Speaks Seventh-day Adventist Church in Portland, he dedicates himself to community service daily with one of his proudest duties being the mentorship he provides to students at Rigler Elementary School. He also serves on the Democratic Party of Oregon Rules Committee and Black Caucus, advocating for equitable rules within the Democratic Party of Oregon and tirelessly working to amplify the voices of the marginalized. Richardson is a Democrat because he believes it is the only party that listens to and actively fights for the rights of the Black community.

Communities: Veterans or Active Service Members

Eric Koszyk was born in Indianapolis but grew up in Lancaster, California. His academic journey led him through Antelope Valley Community College, Cal State Sacramento, and George Mason University, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. For the past 18 years, Koszyk has worked as a Licensed Massage Therapist, providing holistic care and promoting wellness in his community. His dedication to his craft reflects his broader commitment to helping others and improving quality of life. A proud Democrat, Koszyk is driven by his deep belief in equality and the power of organized labor. He advocates passionately for workers’ rights, fair wages, and the empowerment of labor unions. Koszyk is also a staunch supporter of women’s rights, firmly believing that women should have full autonomy over their bodies and that healthcare decisions, including abortion, should be left to the individual woman. His unwavering dedication to these principles continues to guide his actions and inspire those around him.

Brian Clem is an Oregon politician with a distinguished career in public service. He was born in Coos Bay, and attended Oregon State University. Clem represented District 21 in the Oregon State House from 2007 to 2021, serving with dedication and commitment for 15 years. Since resigning from the State House, Clem has remained actively engaged in politics, supporting and investing in the campaigns of numerous Democrats across the state. He is passionate about the Democratic Party because he believes it champions the interests of ordinary people and works tirelessly to promote equity, justice, and opportunity for all Oregonians. Clem’s advocacy extends to environmental conservation and economic development initiatives, reflecting his commitment to sustainable progress in Oregon.

Communities: LGBTQ+, Rural Democrats

Janet Marrs was born in Newberg, Oregon, and raised in St. Paul, Oregon. She is an avid genealogist and the co-founder of Almosta Farm, a 10-acre micro-urban farm in Cove, Oregon, that is home to a chicken flock of 30 hens, a small apiary, various vegetable and fruit crops, and a small herd of Nigerian Dwarf goats. Marrs became a Democrat after her mother and grandfather and remained so due to the Party’s steadfast commitment to social justice and fair economic policies.

Laura Gillpatrick has been a steadfast advocate for Democratic politics throughout her life. Born and raised in Chicago, she moved to Oregon to attend the University of Oregon, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Journalism with a focus on public relations. For the past twenty years, Gillpatrick has been deeply involved with the Democratic Party in Oregon. She has spent the last decade serving as the Vice-Chair of Lane County Democrats, Chair of the Lane County Congressional District, and the county’s Neighborhood Leader Coordinator. Prior to these roles, she chaired Lane County’s Community Action Committee and the Organization Committee. Gillpatrick has also played a crucial role in numerous political campaigns, particularly in finance. Most recently, she served as the Deputy Finance Director for former State Senator James Manning Jr.’s campaign for Secretary of State. Her extensive experience and unwavering commitment make her a vital force in advancing Democratic values and initiatives in Oregon.

Communities: Veterans or Active Service Members

Marchelle Paholsky was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, and attended Portland State University. She is an involved and active member of the community, serving as a member of the Board to the Planning Commission of the City of Happy Valley; the Secretary of the Democratic Party of Oregon Veterans Caucus; and a Precinct Committee Person for Clackamas County. Paholsky is a Democrat because she believes that good government should represent all people in America and that strength comes from uniqueness. She believes the Democratic Party is the party of unity and acceptance.

Communities: African American or Black

Tina Turner-Morfitt has spent both her working life and retirement devoted to political activism, with a specialized interest in union activism. After graduating from Willamette University in 1978, Turner-Morfitt spent 38 years with the Department of Corrections. She currently serves as the President of the Oregon chapter of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists and the Vice President of the Oregon AFSCME Retiree Chapter 75. In addition, Turner-Morfitt sits on the Executive Board of the Oregon AFL-CIO. Turner-Morfitt is a Democrat because of the ways she has witnessed the Democratic Party take definitive action to address the needs of everyday people and the working poor.

Communities: African American or Black

Jennifer Parrish Taylor was born in Bowling Green, Kentucky, and raised in Portland, Oregon. She began her political career as a volunteer coordinator with the Kerry/Edwards campaign in Cincinnati, OH, and soon went on to work for the 2008 Obama for America campaign. She now serves as the Director of Advocacy and Public Policy of the Urban League of Portland, working to advance equity and justice for Black communities in Oregon and Southwest Washington. Parrish Taylor has also served as the Northwest Regional Advocacy Manager for Compassion and Choices — where she advised on legislative campaigns and ballot strategies across several states — and as the State Affiliate Political Organizer for the American Federation of Teachers — orchestrating statewide political campaigns and mobilizing union members for political action. As a Black woman in America, Parrish Taylor is a Democrat because the Democratic Party has been the only party that has represented her values, recognized the true strength of diversity, and striven to keep democracy healthy and vibrant.

Communities: Rural Democrats

Tabitha Jensen moved to Clackamas County from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, when she was twelve years old. Although she initially dropped out of high school, she later went to college as a nontraditional adult student, earning a Bachelor of Arts and an MBA from Marylhurst University in West Linn, Oregon. She also pursued partial coursework as a Community Health PhD student at the OHSU School of Public Health. Jensen currently serves as the Budget & Strategic Projects Director for the Office of Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson. A proud Democrat, she passionately advocates for legal and accessible reproductive and sexual health services, universal healthcare, eradicating systemic racism, affordable higher education, and the preservation of democracy. Her journey from high school dropout to influential public servant exemplifies her dedication to making a positive impact in her community and beyond.

Communities: LGBTQ+

Susan Taylor was born and raised in California and attended both California State University in Los Angeles and San Francisco State University. Now retired, she devoted her career to financial aid in higher education. Although Taylor was born into a Democratic household, it was a priority for her to confirm these beliefs for herself as she was growing up, and she can now firmly say that her soul is with the Democratic Party. One of Taylor’s formative experiences was seeing a group of Japanese tourists taking pictures in Golden Gate Park, who, despite the two U.S. atomic bombs dropped on their country, seemed elated to be in San Francisco; it made her realize that if the Japanese people can forgive the atrocities of World War II, U.S. citizens can bridge their own divides.