Dr. Yadira Caraveo

MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Dr. Yadira Caraveo for Congress!

Meet Dr. Yadira Caraveo

Dr. Yadira Caraveo, a pediatrician, legislator, and advocate for middle- and working-class families, was inspired by her parents’ dream of a better life. Her parents emigrated from Mexico to Colorado, where they raised their four children with strong values of hard work and community.

Dr. Yadira Caraveo’s Personal Life

Dr. Caraveo grew up in Adams County, attended public schools, earned her degree from Regis University, and completed medical school at the University of Colorado. Living close to her parents, Dr. Caraveo enjoys large family gatherings filled with love, support, and lively conversations. Her upbringing and community roots deeply influence her commitment to public service.

Dr. Yadira Caraveo’s Legislative Achievements

As a state legislator, Dr. Caraveo quickly gained a reputation for taking on tough fights. She passed significant legislation, such as capping insulin prices, expanding preschool funding, ensuring paid family leave, protecting renters during the pandemic, and combating toxic pollution. Her dedication to improving the lives of her constituents has been evident through her persistent efforts to address critical issues affecting Colorado families.

Dr. Yadira Carveo’s Bid for Congress

Now in Congress, Dr. Caraveo continues her commitment to Colorado families. She fights against special interests, works to lower costs, and supports bipartisan efforts to expand the Child Tax Credit and allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices. Dr. Caraveo also focuses on combating the fentanyl epidemic with tougher penalties and enhanced trafficking prevention. Additionally, she works to increase transparency in hospital pricing and improve healthcare access for all.

Dr. Caraveo’s drive to create a more equitable future stems from her experiences as a doctor and legislator. She is dedicated to lowering healthcare costs, addressing the high cost of housing, combating climate change, and protecting a woman’s freedom to choose. Every day in Congress, Dr. Caraveo is guided by the values of hard work, dedication, and service that her parents instilled in her. She remains committed to fighting for a better future for all Colorado families.

Will Rollins

MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Will Rollins for Congress!

Meet Will Rollins

Will Rollins, a former federal prosecutor specializing in counterterrorism and counterintelligence in Southern California, is running for Congress. Coming from a family of both Republicans and Democrats, he aims to address ongoing threats to democracy and fight corruption, countering the extremism and divisiveness exacerbated by Ken Calvert’s record.

Legal Career

After attending Dartmouth and Columbia Law School, Will clerked for two federal judges in California. As an Assistant U.S. Attorney, he tackled white-collar crime, including prosecuting a Ponzi scheme organizer and a corrupt physician. Later, he joined the National Security Division, prosecuting significant cases like the export of missile guidance microchips to China, violations of U.S. sanctions on Iran, an attack at the Port of Los Angeles by a QAnon follower, and insurrectionists from the January 6th Capitol attack.

Southern California Roots

Will’s grandparents, WWII veterans, started a small business in Southern California that still operates today, manufacturing parts for U.S. fighter jets and commercial aircraft. Growing up, Will saw the effects of government-sponsored discrimination on all Americans, our economy, and national security. At a time when being gay was a crime in some states, he considered enlisting in the military after 9/11 but was deterred by “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Instead, Will found his path in counterterrorism through law enforcement, inspired by his parents—his mother a public defender and his father a journalist—who instilled the importance of justice and free speech.

Will Rollins’ Bid for Congress

Will Rollins is running for Congress to serve California’s 41st district. He believes in bringing justice and accountability back to Washington. He seeks to end toxic divisions, combat corruption, and ensure that Congress works for the benefit of working families. Will’s commitment to public service is driven by the values his family instilled in him and his experiences as a federal prosecutor. He aims to represent his district with integrity and a focus on improving the lives of his constituents, advocating for a government that truly serves its people.

Eric Sorensen

MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Eric Sorensen for Congress!

Meet Eric Sorensen

Born and raised in Rockford, Eric Sorensen has deep roots in the community. His family cherished outdoor activities, like floating down the Kishwaukee River, a tradition they still continue. Influenced by his grandfathers, who served in WWII, he learned the value of service from a young age.

Eric Sorensen’s Personal Life

Currently, Eric lives in Moline with his partner, Shawn, and their two dogs, Oliver and Petey. They enjoy biking, kayaking, and exploring the culinary scene in the Quad Cities and surrounding areas.

Value of Hard Work

As a child, Eric was terrified of storms, but “TV Eric,” the local weatherman, helped him feel safe. Inspired, Eric Sorensen became the Chief Meteorologist at WREX in Rockford at age 27. He started Project Tornado, educating 50,000 students about severe weather safety. After 11 years, Eric moved to Moline and spent seven years delivering weather to the Quad Cities.

Serving the Community

Eric came out during college at Northern Illinois University and received tremendous support from friends and family. However, he faced discrimination in his first job in Texas. His experiences in Rockford and the Quad Cities were different, allowing him to be openly gay on TV. He served on the boards of Clock, Inc and The Project of the Quad Cities, connecting vulnerable individuals to health services.

Eric Sorensen’s Bid for Congress

For 22 years, Eric served as a weatherman, dedicated to keeping the community safe and informed. His commitment to protecting the community stems from values instilled by his family. As a meteorologist, Eric Sorensen’s role was always about safeguarding neighbors. Now, Eric Sorensen is running for Congress to continue this mission, ensuring the well-being and safety of his community. Eric Sorensen aims to protect the values of service, hard work, and community safety that he has championed throughout his career.

Gabriel Vasquez

MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Gabriel Vasquez for Congress!

Meet Gabriel Vasquez

Gabriel Vasquez grew up in Ciudad Juarez and New Mexico, spending time in his grandfather’s TV repair shop. This experience highlighted the importance of cross-border connections for families and businesses. He believes that Congress needs representatives who prioritize New Mexican families over partisan politics to strengthen the 2nd district’s economy.

Personal Life and Community Involvement

For over a decade, Gabe has dedicated himself to public service. In 2013, after building a successful startup in Las Cruces, he joined Senator Heinrich’s staff. There, he addressed issues for businesses, communities, and families. He played a key role in protecting the Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument from harmful development.

Elected to the Las Cruces City Council in 2017 with over 70% of the vote, Gabe secured investments to improve parks, infrastructure, and create jobs. He also developed a plan to lift families out of poverty. His roles have included executive director of the Las Cruces Hispano Chamber of Commerce, public lands conservation advocate, and policy advocate for child welfare.

Addressing Economic Challenges

Gabe has seen the American Dream slipping away for many New Mexicans due to rising living costs, limited economic opportunities, and a tax code favoring the wealthy. He has also noted the lack of investment in rural and Native American communities and the tendency of politicians to prioritize Wall Street donors over their constituents.

Gabriel Vasquez’s Bid for Congress

Gabe is running for Congress to champion working families and build an inclusive economy. He aims to create high-quality jobs, address the rising cost of living, ensure affordable healthcare, combat climate change, and conserve public lands to boost the outdoor recreation economy. Gabe is committed to fighting for all New Mexicans to ensure they have opportunities to raise happy, healthy families and pass on their traditions. He is determined to represent New Mexico’s interests in Congress and deliver meaningful results.

Jahana Hayes

MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Jahana Hayes for Congress!

Introduction

Jahana Hayes serves as the U.S. Representative for Connecticut’s Fifth Congressional District. Elected in 2018, she is Connecticut’s first African-American Congresswoman. Jahana gained national attention as the 2016 National Teacher of the Year, awarded by President Barack Obama. In this role, she engaged with public education stakeholders nationwide to improve student outcomes.

Personal Life and Community Involvement

Jahana’s journey from poverty and addiction to becoming a Congresswoman is inspirational. Becoming a mother at 17, she persevered, earning multiple degrees and excelling in teaching. She advocates fiercely for equitable education access, inspired by her own experiences. Her decision to run for office was driven by her desire to represent and advocate for her students and community members.

Jahanna Hayes’ Legislative Focus and Achievements

As a Congresswoman, Jahana Hayes focuses on several key issues. Serving on the House committees of Education and Labor, and Agriculture, her priorities include quality education, affordable healthcare, food security, labor rights, agriculture, and environmental protection. Additionally, she champions immigration reform, gun violence prevention, veterans’ issues, social justice, and improved transportation. Her bipartisan efforts aim to bring about significant positive changes.

Jahana Hayes’ Bid for Congress

Jahana Hayes exemplifies resilience and dedication. From overcoming personal challenges to advocating nationally for education and serving in Congress, her journey inspires many. Jahana continues to fight for her community, ensuring that all voices are heard and everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Jahana Hayes is committed to continuing her Congressional work, addressing her constituents’ most pressing issues. Emphasizing equitable education, accessible healthcare, and comprehensive social justice reforms, her campaign reflects her dedication to public service and her desire to continue fighting for the residents of CT-05 at every turn. Jahana’s story and accomplishments highlight her commitment to making a difference and ensuring that every voice is heard in Washington.

Janelle Bynum

MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Janelle Bynum for Congress!

About Janelle Bynum

Janelle Bynum, a mother of four and small business owner, knows her community well and works diligently for its betterment. Her commitment to public service and community development is deeply rooted in the values instilled by her parents, who were both teachers. They taught Janelle that education is the key to creating a better and safer world, a principle she has lived by throughout her life.

Janelle Bynum’s Personal Life and Career

Growing up in an inner-city neighborhood in Washington, DC, Janelle faced the threat of drug violence but remained focused on her education. She earned scholarships and worked hard to achieve her academic goals, ultimately earning a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Business Administration. Today, Janelle lives in Happy Valley with her husband, Mark, and their children. She operates her family’s small business, running four restaurants in the community. In these businesses, Janelle continues to embody the ideals taught to her early in life, mentoring her employees, providing scholarships for their education, and encouraging them to dream big.

Janelle Bynum’s Accomplishments as State Representative

Janelle’s dedication to public service extends to her role as a State Representative, where she has been a fierce advocate for her constituents. She has worked hard to lower the cost of prescription drugs, protect women’s reproductive freedom, safeguard LGBTQ+ rights, build more affordable housing, and address homelessness. Additionally, Janelle has taken on the climate crisis and sought to create pathways for all young people to succeed, whether through a four-year degree or career and technical education. Her willingness to stand up to anyone to ensure the well-being of Oregonians is a testament to her unwavering commitment to public service.

Janelle Bynum’s Bid for Congress

Janelle Bynum is running for Congress to continue her dedication to her community on a larger scale. Her campaign is focused on making Oregon a place where everyone can thrive. She aims to bring her experience as a small business owner and state legislator to the national stage, ensuring that every Oregonian has the opportunity to succeed. Janelle’s priorities include affordability, equity, and sustainable development. Her vision for the future includes a thriving economy, a protected environment, and a community where education and healthcare are accessible to all.

Dave Min

MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Dave Min for Congress!

Dave Min’s Background and Early Life

Dave Min is a first-generation Korean American whose parents emigrated from Korea in 1971. They settled in California, where they raised Dave and his brother. Dave’s early career included roles as an enforcement attorney at the SEC, an economic advisor to Senator Chuck Schumer, and the economic policy director at the Center for American Progress. He later returned to California as a business law professor at UC Irvine School of Law.

Dave Min’s Personal Life

Dave met his wife Jane at Harvard Law School. Jane teaches Family Law, runs the Domestic Violence Clinic, and founded UC Irvine’s Initiative to End Family Violence. Together, they have passed eight bills protecting domestic violence survivors. They are raising their three children in Irvine, appreciating the district’s vibrance, diversity, and excellent weather.

Dave Min’s Accomplishments in the State Senate

Dave Min serves Orange County in the California State Senate. Over the past three years, he has ended gun shows at the Orange County Fairgrounds, secured $2.1 billion in COVID-19 relief grants for small businesses, and made California the first state to recognize reproductive coercion as domestic violence. He has also secured nearly $80 million for wildfire prevention, outdoor space preservation, and green innovation. As a State Senator, Dave has focused on critical issues affecting Orange County and California. His efforts include ending gun shows at the fairgrounds, securing COVID-19 relief funds, and recognizing reproductive coercion as domestic violence. Additionally, he has addressed climate change by obtaining significant funding for wildfire prevention, outdoor space preservation, and green innovation.

Dave Min’s Bid for Congress

Dave Min is running for Congress to ensure California remains a place where everyone has a fair shot at the American Dream. His priorities include safeguarding the environment, promoting education, and ensuring the safety of children. He aims to bring the spirit of openness and innovation to Washington, representing the best of California and America.

Rudy Salas

MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Rudy Salas for Congress!

Early Life and Education

Rudy Salas, a lifelong resident of the Central Valley, has a deep connection to his community. He grew up working alongside his father in the fields, which instilled in him a strong work ethic. Salas later attended UCLA, where he furthered his education and developed the skills that would pave the way for his political career. He made history by becoming the first Latino Bakersfield City Council-member in the city’s 112-year history, marking a significant milestone in his journey.

Legislative Career

In his five terms as a member of the California State Assembly, Salas has been a dedicated advocate for Central Valley families. His legislative efforts have been focused on several key areas, including public safety, workforce development, veterans’ and workers’ rights, clean water infrastructure, and support for small businesses. Salas has consistently worked to address the needs of his constituents, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.

Rudy Salas’ Key Achievements

One of Salas’s most notable achievements came in his final term, where he secured $50 million for various projects in the Central Valley. These funds were allocated to expand local nursing programs, construct an emergency response center, a cooling center, and a clean water well, as well as a new building at Bakersfield College’s Delano campus. Additionally, Salas played a crucial role in saving Kern Medical Hospital from closure, ensuring that it remained open to serve the community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he was instrumental in providing small business assistance and distributing protective equipment to residents and frontline workers.

Rudy Salas’ Congressional Bid

Rudy Salas is now setting his sights on a new challenge: flipping California’s 22nd Congressional District. His goal is to ensure that the residents of the Central Valley have a strong and respected voice in Washington, D.C. Salas’s extensive experience and commitment to his community make him a formidable candidate, ready to fight for the needs and rights of his constituents at the national level. He aims to bring the same dedication and advocacy to Congress that he has demonstrated throughout his career in the State Assembly.

Derek Tran

MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Derek Tran for Congress!

Derek Tran’s Early Life and Background

Derek Tran is an Army Veteran, Consumer Rights Attorney, City Commissioner, and Small Business Owner running for Congress to represent Californians, not corporations. As the son of Vietnamese refugees, Derek’s upbringing in Southern California was marked by hard work and sacrifice. His parents opened a corner market where Derek worked every day after school.

Derek Tran’s Military and Legal Career

At 18, Derek enlisted in the Army to give back to the country that gave his family so much. In the military, partisan divisions didn’t matter—everyone worked together to get the job done. Derek aims to bring this collaborative spirit to Congress. After his military service, he attended law school to uphold the rights and liberties his parents valued. Derek chose to start his own law practice in Orange County, focusing on fighting for immigrants, workers, sexual harassment survivors, and consumers rather than pursuing high-paying corporate law jobs.

Derek Tran’s Advocacy and Public Service

Derek has been a staunch advocate for holding corporations accountable, ensuring justice for individuals rather than special interests. Recognizing Southern California’s significant infrastructure and environmental challenges, he served on the Orange Traffic Commission to help address transportation and highway planning. In Congress, Derek plans to secure infrastructure funding for clean energy jobs, public transit, and reducing traffic, directly combating climate change.

Derek Tran’s Personal Life and Community Involvement

Derek is married to Michelle, a pharmacist from Garden Grove. Together, they run a pharmacy in Orange County, helping local businesses and residents during the pandemic through vaccinations and testing. They understand the challenges families face with high drug prices and healthcare costs. In Congress, Derek will work to lower prescription drug prices, protect reproductive rights, and expand healthcare coverage.

Derek and Michelle have three children who attend public schools, and Derek instills the values of hard work, patriotism, and service in them. He also serves on the board of Consumers Attorneys of California and mentors at-risk youth at Sunburst Academy, continuing his commitment to community service and leadership.

Derek Tran’s Bid for Congress

Derek Tran is running for Congress with a commitment to represent the interests of Californians over corporate interests. He plans to bring his military experience of bipartisan collaboration to the legislative process, ensuring effective governance. Derek’s focus includes lowering prescription drug prices, protecting women’s reproductive rights, expanding healthcare coverage, and securing infrastructure investments for Southern California. His campaign emphasizes justice for individuals, environmental sustainability, and economic development, aiming to address the pressing needs of his community.

Missy Cotter Smasal

MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Missy Cotter Smasal!

Background and Career

Missy Cotter Smasal, a veteran, former small business owner, and mother, is running for Congress to bring a brighter future to Coastal Virginia. She served as a Surface Warfare Officer in the U.S. Navy and deployed aboard the U.S.S. Trenton during Operation Enduring Freedom. After her military service, Missy settled in Hampton Roads, where she opened and operated a Rita’s Italian Ice for over a decade. Currently, she is the Executive Director of a nonprofit that honors service women through running events and also serves as an adjunct professor.

Community Involvement

Missy is deeply involved in her community. She serves as the Virginia Citizen representative on the Chesapeake Bay Commission, a bipartisan, multi-state body dedicated to Bay restoration and the health of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. For over 20 years, she and her husband, Bryan, an Army Officer, have lived in Virginia Beach, raising their two children who attend Virginia Beach Public Schools. Missy’s community service includes coaching youth sports, leading Girl Scouts, and participating in Clean the Bay Day cleanups.

Missy Cotter Smasal’s Advocacy and Leadership

Missy has been a passionate advocate for school safety in Virginia Beach and supported the city’s ERA resolution. Her dedication to public service is evident in her efforts to ensure children and families in Coastal Virginia have the opportunities they need to succeed. She is a steadfast champion for families, military families, and veterans, committed to standing up for the values of Hampton Roads.

Missy Cotter Smasal’s Congressional Bid

Missy is running for Congress with a focus on enhancing the future of Coastal Virginia. Her military background, business experience, and deep community roots position her as a strong advocate for the region. She aims to bring practical solutions and dedicated leadership to Congress, ensuring that the needs and values of her community are represented and addressed at the national level.