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.
Michigan Rashida Tlaib
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Member of Congress (MI-13), Won Re-Election in 2024
Alumni Experience:
Muslim and Arab Community Outreach Coordinator for Michigan - Obama for America (2008)
Illinois Lauren Underwood
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Member of Congress (IL-14), Won Re-Election in 2024
Alumni Experience:
Senior Advisor to the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response – U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2016-2017), Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response – U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2014-2016)
Arkansas Tony Washington
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Jefferson County, Arkansas Tax Collector
Alumni Experience:
Political Director for Arkansas, Obama for America (2008)
Colorado Phil Weiser
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Attorney General of Colorado
Alumni Experience:
Senior Advisor for Technology & Innovation - The White House (2010-2011), Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Antitrust Division - Department of Justice (2009-2010)
California George Whitesides
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Member of U.S. House of Representatives (CA-27), Newly Elected in 2024
Alumni Experience:
NASA team member, Presidential Transition Team, 2008 Chief of Staff, NASA, 2009-2010
California Buffy Wicks
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California State Assemblymember, District 15, Won Re-Election in 2024
Alumni Experience:
National Director of Operation Vote - Obama for America (2011-2012), Deputy Director - White House Office of Public Engagement (2009-2010), State Director - Obama for America (2007-2008)