Released: May 24, 2012 10:12 AM
Progressive Powerhouse Invests in local Democratic Races
Strength of Party Depends on Supporting Progressive Candidates up and Down the Ballot

Burlington, VT – Today, Democracy for America (DFA) announced a slate of seven local endorsements for the 2012 election cycle. Known for their ability to strengthen grassroot support for a candidate, Democracy for America goes to great lengths to vet and endorse local candidates. For candidates, earning the endorsement of DFA can signal a sea change for their campaign.

Democracy for America’s recent slate of non-federal endorsed candidates are:

Christian Smith, candidate for Mobile Country Treasurer in Alabama
Abel Guillen, candidate for California’s General Assembly District 18
Andy Melendrez, candidate for Riverside California Mayor
Julio Perez, candidate for California’s General Assembly District 69
Vin Gopal, candidate for Monmouth County Democratic Party Chair in New Jersey
Diane Trautman, candidate for Harris County Board of Education in Texas
John McClelland, candidate for Denton County Democratic Party Chair in Texas

“All across the Country, progressives are getting active, tuning in, and making a decision to take their country back,” said Jim Dean, Chair of Democracy for America. “Many of our locally endorsed candidates start out as grassroots activists trying to make a difference in their communities. Democracy for America believes the best way to build a stronger and more engaged progressive community is to enable candidates up and down the ballot. These endorsements clearly paint that picture. The strength of our party depends on candidates like Diane Trautman, Vin Gopal and Abel Guillen.”

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DFA Press Release