2023 ELECTION WATCH: Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania
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Run for Something is THRILLED to have 33 candidates on the ballot on Tuesday, May 16 in Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania! In any of those states? Help get voters to the polls by volunteering for a shift this weekend. Learn more below:
MASSACHUSETTS
Light Plant Board, Hull, Massachusetts
General Election: 05/15/2023
Jake is running for Hull’s Municipal Light Plant Board because he cares about his community and feels strongly about residents having access to affordable, non-carbon emitting, reliable electricity.
NEW YORK
New Rochelle School Board, New Rochelle, New York
Gneral ElectioN: 05/16/2023
Makeda, a lifelong resident of New Rochelle, has dedicated her career to improving public education. With a Master’s degree in Higher & Postsecondary Education Administration from Teachers College, Columbia University, Makeda has provided support to students and families while creating data-driven solutions for division leads, principals, and superintendents. With four and a half years of experience working for the largest school system in the country, Makeda understands how to work within a bureaucracy. Her campaign slogan, “Excellence and Opportunity,” is her guiding principle when considering impactful policies. Makeda believes that setting high standards for all students and those who impact school communities is essential to advancing public education for all. She is committed to serving not only every child and parent but also school administrators, custodians, librarians, cafeteria cooks, and all those who touch the school experience. As a Board of Education member, Makeda will use her experience and passion to bring excellence to New Rochelle’s public schools and ensure every student has access to the opportunities they deserve.
OREGON
Multnomah County, District 3, OR
General Election: 05/16/2023
Ana is a mother of two with experience as a public educator and nonprofit executive. She is the first person in her family to earn a college degree, attending the University of Southern California on a full academic scholarship at the age of sixteen. Ana later earned graduate degrees from Harvard Kennedy School and Pepperdine Caruso School of Law. As the first executive director of Oregon Futures Lab, Ana worked on groundbreaking legislation for economic security, environmental justice, and access to healthcare. She also served on the boards of directors of several nonprofits and was appointed to the Oregon Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee, the Multnomah County Health Department Budget Advisory Committee, and the Multnomah County Tobacco Rules Advisory Committee.
Ana was elected to the David Douglas School Board, where she successfully expanded the availability of services in the school-based health clinic in collaboration with community-based advocates. Ana is now running for Multnomah County Commission, District 3, to bring her firsthand understanding of the problems facing everyday people to the policy- and budget-making experience needed to help solve them.
David Douglas School Board, Position 4, OR
General Election: 05/16/2023
Gabriela is a community organizer and lifelong advocate in outer East Portland, running for the David Douglas School Board in Portland, Oregon. She is an alumna of the school board and has family members who have gone through the district. Gabriela was raised by immigrant parents and attended ESL/ELL, providing her with first-hand experience of the challenges students face. She is passionate about increasing student voice, community safety, and equity.
As an organizer, Gabriela has worked on labor rights, housing protections, food and environmental justice. She brings a different perspective to the table, having experience as a former student, and is proud to give back to her community and make positive change.
PENNSYLVANIA
Lancaster City Council, At-Large, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Ahmed is a community leader and former refugee from Chad, Africa, who resettled in Lancaster, PA with his family in 1997. Since then, he has devoted his life to advancing the city and promoting a welcoming environment for all. As a volunteer community organizer and refugee leader, Ahmed was appointed to Lancaster City Council to fill a vacancy, becoming the first former refugee to serve in that capacity. He is currently running for a full term in a special election. Ahmed is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion, and to making sure that all members of the Lancaster community have a voice. As a council member, he has worked to increase access to affordable housing, to support small businesses, and to advocate for the needs of underserved communities. If elected to a full term, Ahmed will continue to prioritize the needs of all residents and work to build a brighter future for Lancaster.
West Chester School Board, Region 1, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Alex has dedicated his career to uplifting students and advocating for public education. He is currently an interim school board member and has experience managing an inclusive, in-school program in one of the largest public-school districts in the country. He also works in the Pennsylvania General Assembly, advocating for local issues and public schools. Alex is running to represent Region 1 in the West Chester Area School District in Chester County, PA, where he is an alum and has deep roots in the community. He is committed to ensuring that all students have a voice, supporting teachers and staff, and collaborating with families and community members to create an inclusive and welcoming district for everyone.
Alex is passionate about improving mental health resources for students, teachers, and staff, and is vocal about banning assault weapons and advocating for stricter gun legislation to combat the threat of gun violence in schools.
Central York School Board, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Born and raised in York County, Amelia attended the Red Lion School District. As a young adult, she cultivated profound insight into public mental health, after navigating through her own personal struggles.
With exceptional growth, came an exceptional calling to public life. Amelia became active in the community, working as a mentor, assisting victims of domestic abuse to safely relocate, participating in cleanups, being an active blood donor, and so much more.
After over a decade heading human resources and operations for a local restaurant chain, she brings rare experience to the pressures involved in managing budgets around human interest.
Amelia is committed to open discussions with the community, from all sides, and will work to facilitate policies that directly serve people. She resides with her husband, who works as a mechanic, and their two children.
City Council, District 7, Philadelphia, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
“Andrés is an educator, a social worker, and a community organizer who has worked for over a decade with families across eastern North Philly to make our communities stronger. Andrés was raised in Cali, Colombia, and reared as an organizer in Philly’s Latine community. As Lead Organizer with Youth United for Change, he trained and mentored Kensington youth to fight for change at their neighborhood schools — and bring these skills home to their neighborhoods. He went on to complete his MPA and join Councilmember Helen Gym’s office as Outreach Director, working hand-in-hand with unions and community organizations.
Through these experiences, Andrés has developed a unique vision for the relationship between community organizing and transformative public policy. As Councilmember, he’ll fight for affordable housing, real, community-based public safety, and opportunities for our young people to learn and grow.”
Franklin City Council, District 2, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Ashley, a lifelong resident of Franklin, is a candidate for the 2nd District seat on the Franklin City Council. As the Be Here program manager at the Venango Area Chamber of Commerce, she aims to bring her passion for community engagement and public service to the council.
Apart from her role at the chamber, Smith serves as a board member for several organizations, including the Franklin Fine Arts Council, the Franklin Historic and Architectural Review Board, Franklin Meals on Wheels, and Venango — Together We Can. She is also the vice-chair for the Venango County Democratic Committee and is an active member of Oil Region Rising and the FLEX Young Professionals group.
Smith’s contributions to the community have earned her recognition, including the Oil Region Alliance “Best Local Business and Tourism Advocate” award in 2021 and the Venango Chamber of Commerce “Community Hero” title. She has also been nominated twice for the FLEX “Young Professional of the Year” award.
A Leadership Venango alumna, Smith has completed the Be Here ambassador training multiple times. She volunteers as a coach for the Franklin High School Marching Band Silks and the Franklin Middle School cheerleaders. In addition to her community work, Smith is also the owner and inspector of Zaccari Home Inspections LLC. She is a member of the InterNACHI Western PA and Young Professional Inspector Chapters and holds the title of PA Certified Professional Inspector from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
Central York School Board, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Ben is a dedicated public servant, poet, and father who resides in Central York School District, Pennsylvania. With a decade of experience as a human services analyst, caseworker, and legal assistant, he understands the importance of community support and education in shaping a better future. Ben holds a bachelor’s degree in International Studies from American University in Washington, DC, and an MFA in Creative Writing from Hollins University in Virginia. He is committed to advancing the curriculum and ensuring that students receive the resources they need to succeed in and out of the classroom.
Ben’s strong belief in education has been further strengthened by the events that occurred in Central York School District in 2021. When hundreds of books were banned from schools for their political and racial content, Ben joined hands with the community and newly elected board members to reverse the ban. However, far-right and anti-education extremist groups are continuing their efforts to impose book bans in the district. Ben will continue to be vocal and firm in his opposition to these attempts and will work tirelessly to protect the district’s children and their education. If elected, he will work to ensure that the district’s teachers and students receive the resources and support they deserve.
Bethany Hallam
Allegheny County Council, At-Large, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Bethany is a formerly incarcerated person in long-term recovery from opioid use disorder. In 2019, she beat a 20-year incumbent to become the youngest person ever elected county-wide in Allegheny County, representing 1.2 million people. In Bethany’s first term, she fought for fair pay for county employees and won paid sick leave for everyone in Allegheny County. She helped pass a fracking ban in county parks and increased funding for lead remediation in homes. Bethany created a civilian police review board and passed a conversion therapy ban. She championed the effort to amend the budget to give additional funding to community colleges and the Housing Court Help Desk.
If elected to a second term, Bethany hopes to institute a $20/hr minimum wage for county employees, achieve funding parity for the public defenders and district attorneys offices, increase access to and the reliability of public transportation, and implement tenants’ rights to counsel. She plans to continue being an unapologetic voice against the violence perpetuated by the criminal legal system and the Allegheny County Jail, and will continue the first of its kind $100 monthly stipend for incarcerated individuals, which she implemented in early 2020 to help them afford phone calls with their families and purchase hygiene products and other necessities from commissary.
York City Council, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Blade, a York County native with strong ties to York City, holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and will complete a master’s degree in public policy and administration in May 2023. He served as the youngest councilperson and sole Democrat in Yorkana Borough for four years. Additionally, Blade is a member of the Pennsylvania Democratic State Committee and currently works as a Research Analyst for the Pennsylvania House Democratic Transportation Committee. With a lifelong commitment to public service, Blade understands the importance of government working for its constituents.
Blade’s candidacy for York City Council is driven by his desire to continue making a difference in the community. If elected, he will advocate for transparency, accountability, public safety, and lower property taxes. Blade plans to serve as a liaison between council and other elected officials and be a resource for city residents. He is ready to begin serving his community from day one.
Harrisburg City Council, At-Large, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Brad is a conservation advocacy manager working towards a cleaner and healthier environment for all Pennsylvanians. He is a United States Air Force veteran, a homeowner, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community who loves music and musical theater. With a Masters Degree in Public Administration, Brad aims to advocate for policies to provide affordable housing, improve critical infrastructure, enforce housing codes, reduce blight, enhance community engagement, support small businesses, and boost public health and sanitation. His vision for a better Harrisburg is based on three values: Accountability, Transparency, and Resiliency.
Brad believes that by working together, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, or religion, they can make Harrisburg a more equitable home for all. Brad’s advocacy was instrumental in securing over $750 million for Pennsylvania’s environmental landscape in 2022. He plans to leverage his experiences to push for policies that protect the environment and make Harrisburg a better place to live.
Washington, District Attorney, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Christina, a seasoned prosecutor and child advocate, is running for the position of District Attorney in Washington County. Her mission is to bring equality, integrity, and transparency to the District Attorney’s Office. Currently serving as a Deputy District Attorney in Somerset County, Christina has also established a private practice where she acts as a court-appointed guardian ad litem and child counsel for dependent children in Washington County.
Additionally, she represents clients in family law matters. With extensive experience prosecuting thousands of cases, including those involving child abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault, Christina has developed a reputation as a skilled trial attorney, boasting an impressive conviction rate of approximately 90%. As District Attorney, Christina aims to educate and prevent crime among school-aged children in the county. A lifelong resident of Washington County, Christina graduated from Ringgold High School in 2004, and later earned her B.A. in English from Temple University in 2008, where she was a member of the NCAA Division I women’s volleyball team. She went on to earn her J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 2012 and passed the Pennsylvania bar later that year.
Haverford City Council, Ward 1, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Curtis, a lifelong resident of Haverford Township, is running for the Board of Commissioners to represent the community where he grew up. He aims to help build a more representative board that truly reflects the people it serves.
Having graduated from the Haverford school district and obtained a degree in political science from Cabrini University, Curtis now works full-time in the district office of State Representative David M. Delloso (D). His experience in politics and community involvement has given him a unique perspective on the issues facing Haverford Township, and he is committed to working with other commissioners to continue implementing bold, progressive plans for the future.
Allegheny County Board, District 5, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Dan is an engineer, school director, and organizer running for Allegheny County Council in District 5. He’s fighting to improve Allegheny County’s air quality, bring good union jobs to the area, and reform the Allegheny County Jail. Dan is an active member of the South Hills community. He volunteered as a youth mentor at the South Hills Interfaith Movement, regularly helps at the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, serves as a judge for PA Junior Academy of Science competitions, and filled in as an emergency substitute teacher during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. As an engineer working on safety systems for nuclear reactors, Dan is no stranger to utilizing research and data to solve complex problems. He plans on leveraging that experience to help build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Allegheny County.
County Controller, Alleghany County, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Darwin is the current Auditor of O’Hara Township and has been in office since 2017. He has a proven track record of uncovering tax evasion schemes, particularly by exposing UPMC’s private parking lot tax evasion that amounted to millions of dollars. Darwin has also been successful in his efforts to demand greater transparency in contract compliance, winning 13 cases against the current County Controller. He is the only County Controller candidate who refuses campaign donations from UPMC, Highmark, and corporate PACs. Darwin is a second-generation Taiwanese American who graduated from Fox Chapel Area High School and earned a degree in Computer Science from Yale. His technical background makes him a suitable candidate for the role of County Controller. Darwin’s platform includes countywide parcel review to crack down on tax evasion by corporations and nonprofits, auditing clean air enforcement to benefit impacted communities, and enforcing health and nutrition contracts in our jail, which currently has soaring overtime costs and a death rate almost twice the national average.
School Board, North Hills, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Deanna serves as a School Board Director for North Hills School District. She was first elected in 2019 and currently serves on the Health and Wellness, Finance, and Policy Committees. On these committees, Deanna provides oversight on issues involving the district budget, board policies, school meal program, and physical and mental health programs. She is dedicated to following expert guidance and research to ensure North Hills grows. She is passionate about making North Hills a community where all kids can feel welcomed.
Deanna brings her professional experience and expertise as a school wellness consultant to the board and district. She works with school districts across Pennsylvania to improve areas like recess, school meals, health and physical education curriculum, and other school wellness topics, in partnership with state agencies, organizations, and other elected officials. Deanna has a bachelor’s degree in human development and family studies from Penn State and a master’s degree from American University in sociology. She graduated from North Hills High School and returned to raise her three kids in the district and to give back to the community.
Titusville City Council, At-Large, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Gavin is a recent graduate of Titusville High School and a lifelong resident of the area. He served as the first Junior City Councilman for six months before enrolling as a freshman at Mercyhurst University. Even while away at college, Gavin remains committed to the Titusville community and enjoys spending time with loved ones, including his girlfriend, dogs, family, and friends.
Gavin is passionate about engaging young people in the community and supporting small businesses. He also values protecting senior citizens and showing appreciation for Titusville’s police officers and firefighters. Gavin strongly believes in bolstering local social services and supporting the hard-working individuals in Titusville.
District Judge, Norristown, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Hakim is a dedicated public servant and lifelong resident of Norristown. With close to 20 years of experience, Hakim has worked in various areas, including Youth Workforce Development, Home and School Truancy, Nonprofit leadership, and Mental Health Services. During his seven years on the Norristown Municipal Council, Hakim never missed a meeting and took pride in representing the needs of his community. His focus areas were public safety, quality of life, youth recreation, and economic empowerment, and he accomplished a lot in these areas.
Hakim’s work has positively impacted generations of Norristown families. He has worked with the Montgomery County Workforce Investment Board, Montgomery County Emergency Services, Norristown Area School District, and the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit, earning the trust of many by assisting them in achieving self-sufficiency in their personal lives and within the community as a whole.
Collaborating effectively with various community partners is one of Hakim’s strengths, and he has a proven track record in volunteer and community service. From serving as a leader in the youth athletics community to the nonprofit world, Hakim has added value to various organizations, allowing them to exceed their missions and expectations.
Hakim graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Relations Journalism from West Virginia University and is currently pursuing an MBA in Organizational Management from Eastern University. Elected service is the path that has chosen him, and he wears the title proudly.
As a proud husband, father, and homeowner in the Norristown community, Hakim understands the importance of building a strong community, and his experience and dedication make him a valuable asset to any team.
City Commission, Philadelphia, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Jarrett, a community and labor advocate, is seeking the position of Philadelphia City Commissioner with the Working Families Party. Jarrett’s lifelong commitment to organizing has fueled his mission to cultivate a diverse and inclusive voter base in Philadelphia, capable of electing candidates that genuinely reflect the needs and priorities of the community. If elected, Jarrett plans to safeguard the rights of Philadelphia voters and increase access for all eligible voters in the city.
Over the past four years, Jarrett has worked as Legislative Director for SEIU Healthcare, where he advocated for the rights of members in state and local government, fought back against right-to-work attacks, and empowered members to participate in elections. In 2022, Jarrett coordinated advocacy efforts that resulted in safe-staffing ratios for nursing home workers and secured over $600 million in recurring Medicaid funding for bedside care.
Before joining SEIU, Jarrett led a statewide youth voter engagement program with NextGen America. As a provisional voter in 2016, Jarrett was among over 30,000 voters in Philadelphia, mostly new registrants and young people, who were unable to vote due to the commissioners’ office’s failure to process voter registrations on time. As Commissioner, Jarrett is committed to ensuring that no voter falls through the cracks, particularly new voters to the process.
City Council, At-Large, Scranton, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Jessica (she/her) is a history-making member of Scranton City Council, elected in 2019 as the first out LGBTQ councilmember. During her time on the council, she has achieved several notable accomplishments, including banning conversion therapy and helping the city exit financial distressed status after three decades under PA Act 47. Jessica has also fought for improved quality of life and rental registration ordinances to reduce blight in the city. As the only woman currently serving on City Council, she has been a strong advocate for marginalized communities and plans to continue her efforts towards progress in the city if re-elected. As a parent, she is particularly invested in securing a bright future for her child.
Jessica’s passion for advocacy began in college when she founded her school’s first LGBTQ student organization. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Scranton, where she currently works full-time as a physical therapist in an outpatient facility. Jessica has served on multiple non-profit boards and finds fulfillment in helping others as a public servant.
City Council, At-Large, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Katherine, the youngest woman and African American woman ever elected to Philadelphia City Council in 2019, is committed to improving public safety, ensuring every child graduates college or career-ready, and addressing climate change and environmental justice through a whole-of-government approach. As a Councilmember, she passed legislation to increase transparency and accountability in city government, crack down on nuisance businesses, and integrate climate risk disclosure into the City’s Pension Fund operations.
As the Chair of the Committee on the Environment, Councilmember Katherine updated landscaping requirements in the zoning code and created the Philadelphia Tree Fund, which collects fees from developers to expand and maintain the city’s tree canopy. She also secured millions of dollars for environmental justice funding, including the creation of the Climate Resilience Grant Program. Councilmember Gilmore Richardson’s achievements have been recognized with her appointment to the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Local Government Advisory Committee (LGAC) in 2021.
Additionally, she created Philadelphia’s first Apprenticeship Guidebook, which provides comprehensive information on over 20 apprenticeship programs in the city. Councilmember Richardson’s commitment to government transparency, social justice, and environmental issues has had a positive impact on Philadelphia’s residents.
School Board, Bellevue, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Katrina, a School Board Director for Northgate School District, has a strong commitment to the Northgate community. As a graduate of Northgate High School in 2012, they were asked to fill a vacant seat on the School Board a decade later. Katrina stepped up to serve the community and prioritize the well-being of Northgate students.
With a unique perspective as an alumni, community organizer, queer person of color, and someone who grew up in the disability justice movement, Katrina brings a fresh approach to the school board. They are dedicated to ensuring that every student attending Northgate has access to mental health support and resources, that the schools celebrate the diversity of the community, and that each child’s individual learning needs are met in an environment that raises the bar for all students.
Katrina’s goal is to create a safe and nurturing learning environment where every student can thrive. By prioritizing the needs of the students, Katrina is working towards making Northgate a better place for everyone in the community.
School Board, Region 1, West Chester, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Katy is a 24-year-old endorsed Run for Something candidate running for the West Chester Area school board in Region 1. Katy is a new parent and lifelong resident of the area. She graduated from Unionville High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida in environmental management, African American studies, and communications. She is currently pursuing a master’s in social work from Temple University. Katy has worked as a policy staff writer for Ballotpedia, covering different policy topics such as public education, criminal justice reform, and environmental social governance. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, solving crossword puzzles, and trying out plant-based restaurants in the area.
Katy is passionate about fostering inclusive learning environments for all students, including LGBTQ+ youth, BIPOC, and students with disabilities. As the mother of a biracial child, Katy is committed to ensuring that every student feels accepted and appreciated in the classroom. She hopes to continue building upon the diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives already taking place within the West Chester Area School District if elected. Katy is also concerned about the threat of gun violence in schools and is vocal about banning assault weapons and pushing for stricter gun legislation. In addition, she plans to advocate for greater mental health resources for teachers, support staff, and students.
County Commission, Montgomery, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Kimberly has dedicated her life to serving her community in Montgomery County. As a lifelong resident, she holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Bucknell University and Villanova University, respectively. Kimberly is a veteran public school teacher who advocates for the teaching of multicultural literature and fights against extremists who want to ban books from classrooms. She also serves as the Vice Chair of the Whitpain Township Board of Supervisors, where she led the charge to establish a Reproductive Health Ordinance in response to the potential overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Kimberly has also implemented a Responsible Contractors Ordinance to ensure that municipal projects are completed efficiently and effectively. She established a Human Relations Commission and successfully preserved 63 acres of land at Mermaid Park. In addition to her work on the Board of Supervisors, Kimberly serves on the Montgomery County Community College Board of Trustees.
City Council, District B, Wilkes-Barre, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Mark is running for Wilkes-Barre City Council District B because the residents of the city have been left behind. A researcher and community organizer with experience in housing policy and economic development, he ran in 2019 because an unresponsive city government had allowed crumbling roads, blighted properties, trash and litter, and the drug epidemic to spread throughout the city.
In the last four years, Mark has organized his community, bringing people together to improve their neighborhoods. He founded a community service group called the Wilkes-Barre Worker Bees, organizing weekly cleanups throughout the city. Last October, they planted over 20 trees in 5 parks around the city.
Mark represents Luzerne County as an elected member of the PA Democratic State Committee. He is the Chair of the 6th District of the Luzerne County Democratic Party, helping to recruit members and candidates. He is also a Luzerne County chapter coordinator for Action Together Northeastern PA, a grassroots progressive advocacy organization.
Mark thinks the city council needs to tackle the housing crisis in Wilkes-Barre, using recovery funds to expand affordable housing opportunities through land trusts and other innovative policies. The city also needs to change its policies on addiction, shifting from criminalization to compassion, giving neighbors the resources they need to protect themselves and get clean. Mark believes that through organizing and bold policy changes, a brighter future for Wilkes-Barre is possible.
City Commissioner, Ward 9, Haverford, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Monet is a mother of two and a committed and active community member for change. Since moving to Haverford 10 years ago, she immediately stepped into spaces and roles to enhance experiences in schools, in equity and inclusion, and in democratic processes. Whether it’s advocating for district change, volunteering hundreds of hours to create safe spaces for all learners to feel seen and heard, or championing the needs of union members across the state, Monet is someone who answers the call to bring ingenuity, creativity, and drive to all that she does.
Monet is running for Commissioner in Haverford Ward 9 to improve township services for working parents, revitalize parks and playgrounds, increase transparency in local government, strengthen civic engagement, and find creative solutions to assist seniors on fixed incomes.
County Commissioner, Montgomery, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Neil is an election lawyer and voting rights advocate running for Commissioner in Montgomery County, which has a population larger than four states. As a Commissioner, he would oversee 3,000 county employees and a $500M budget, as well as manage the Board of Elections in Pennsylvania’s third-largest county, a critical role at a time when voting rights are under attack. Neil is the only candidate with the experience and qualifications necessary to withstand relentless GOP voter suppression and voter intimidation through litigation, even if it means going to the PA Supreme Court to fight for every voter’s ballot.
Born to immigrant parents, Neil earned a scholarship to Harvard Law School after working in the Obama White House. In his legal practice, he stood up to opioid manufacturers on behalf of Pennsylvania counties and took on Big Tobacco for marketing flavored e-cigarettes to children. Neil lives in Lower Merion with his wife, Dr. Rachel Nash, and they are expecting their first child in June. Neil is running for the seat formerly held by PA Governor Josh Shapiro, and if elected, he would be the first Indian American or AAPI Commissioner in the entire Commonwealth.
County County, District 13, Allegheny, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Liv is a community activist and has served on Allegheny County Council, District 13, since January of 2020. Liv is a mother of four children and through this experience has seen first hand the challenges in the County for Black and other minority populations. For this reason, the legislation that Liv has worked on and passed has targeted marginalized communities.
During Liv’s time on Council she has passed numerous legislation from banning conversion therapy, hair discrimination and fracking in the park. She has also passed Paid Sick Leave, Juneteenth as a Countywide holiday before it was done by the City of Pittsburgh or federally and the Independent Police Review Board. While Liv has gotten a lot done, she recognizes that there is still much work to still do. She looks forward to being able to serve for a second term on the County Council to continue her work for the least of these.
Magisterial District Judge, 5–2–31, Allegheny, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Rachel is a legal aid attorney at KidsVoice, where she represents at-risk juveniles and young adults with system involvement at magistrate hearings. With a focus on harm reduction, Rachel’s platform is based on her daily observations at magistrate offices across the county. Her top priorities include dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline, ending the criminalization of poverty, and implementing trauma-informed, respectful, and efficient courtroom practices. Rachel is particularly concerned about the levying of fines and fees against those without the means to pay, which traps people in poverty through an endless cycle of missed payments, bench warrants, and increased penalties. She is also passionate about ending the arrests of juveniles, particularly those with mental health struggles, within our schools.
Rachel is the board secretary for Dreams of Hope, a creative and performing arts organization for LGBTQA+ youth, and Write Pittsburgh, a writing program collective. As a Regional Vice-President of the National Lawyers Guild, she previously represented and advised those participating in various protests and demonstrations. Rachel holds three degrees from the University of Pittsburgh, including law, masters, and undergraduate degrees. She resides in Pittsburgh’s East End with her husband Brandon and their rescue pitbull Nuala.
Magisterial District Judge, 5–2–8, Allegheny, PA
Primary Election: 05/16/2023
General Election: 11/7/2023
Weldianne is a resident of the Borough of Swissvale, a mother of two, and a lawyer with wide-ranging experience. She has represented clients in criminal and civil matters in state and federal courts, and has also served as an arbitrator for the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas. Weldianne received her Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy, and her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Finance from the University of Central Florida. As a woman of color in the legal field, and the daughter of an immigrant, she is committed to serving the people and communities that shape them. Weldianne is a dedicated public servant and thought leader in the community. She is currently a Member of Council for the Borough of Swissvale and Vice President, as well as founder and chairperson for the Borough of Swissvale Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. She has also participated with the Allegheny County Bar Association Homer S. Brown Division and Pro Bono representation through the Neighborhood Legal Services, Allegheny County Pro Bono Center, and Ask A Lawyer (AAL) legal clinic. Weldianne’s hard work, integrity, and diligence have earned her numerous awards and recognition, including the Pittsburgh Courier’s Fab 40 award.
