Candidates
We’re Running!
“All we need are decent, honest, hard-working people who are accountable and who have America’s best interests at heart. And they’ll step up and they’ll join our government, and they will make things better if they have support." - President Obama
It is thrilling to see so many from this community seek to contribute by running for office, just as Barack Obama did more than 20 years ago. Recognizing that we share a set of values and experiences but not necessarily all of the same views, the Alumni Association sees our role as spreading awareness of alumni candidates, not endorsing them.
Support or learn about any of the candidates below by clicking on their website. If you are an alum running for office, let us know! Click here to be included on this list. And make sure to check out our Resources to Run.
Massachusetts Christopher Flanagan
Visit WebsiteOffice:
Dennis, Massachusetts Selectman
Alumni Experience:
Special Assistant to Secretary John Kerry - U.S. Department of State (2013-2017)
Maryland Andrew Friedson
Visit WebsiteOffice:
Montgomery County, Maryland Councilmember
Alumni Experience:
Field Organizer in Pennsylvania - Obama for America (2008)
California Zach Friend
Visit WebsiteOffice:
Santa Cruz, California County Second District Supervisor
Alumni Experience:
Press Secretary - Obama for America (2008)
Texas Jose Garza
Visit WebsiteOffice:
Travis County, Texas, District Attorney, Won Re-Election in 2024
Alumni Experience:
Senior Policy Advisor-- Department of Labor (2013 - 2016)
Pennsylvania Paige Gebhardt Cognetti
Visit WebsiteOffice:
Mayor of Scranton, Pennsylvania, Running for Re-Election in 2025
Alumni Experience:
Senior Advisor to the Under Secretary for International Affairs - U.S Department of the Treasury (2009-2012), Special Assistant - Presidential Transition Team (2008), Border States Director for Pennsylvania - Obama for America (2008)
California Kelly Gonez
Visit WebsiteOffice:
Los Angeles Unified School Board Member, District 6
Alumni Experience:
Policy Advisor - U.S. Department of Education (2014-2016), Communications and Field Organizer for Nevada - Obama for America (2012), Speechwriting Intern - The White House (2011)