Prominent progressive group endorses Yes We Can candidates
COLUMBUS, OH – Democracy for America announced its endorsement of the Yes We Can Columbus slate of candidates running for City Council and School Board.
“These candidates have proven their determination to build an economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthiest few,” said Jim Dean, Chair, Democracy for America. “Democracy for America is glad to support their fight to build a Columbus that thrives on core progressive values. The Yes We Can slate is all about giving neighborhoods a stronger voice, making Columbus a safer city and ensuring that all zip codes have a high quality of life. These candidates are going up against the wealthy elite, but we think they have what it takes to win this November.”
City Council candidates Will Petrik and Jasmine Ayres received official backing from the prominent progressive group in their race against Councilmembers Mitch Brown, Shannon Hardin and Priscilla Tyson.
Abby Vaile, Amy Harkins and Erin Upchurch are the DFA-endorsed candidates for Columbus City School Board. They’re competing with incumbents Dominic Paretti, Ramona Reyes and Michael Cole for Board seats.
“We’re honored to be recognized by such a progressive powerhouse,” said Madeline Stocker, Yes We Can Communications Coordinator. “In other cities, DFA has improved the lives of working families by helping light a fire under the Democratic establishment. We hope that, with their support, we can build a Columbus where good jobs and benefits, affordable housing and a livable wage are accessible for all.”
Other Ohio candidates on DFA’s endorsement list include Senator Sherrod Brown and Cincinnati Mayoral candidate Yvette Simpson. So far this election cycle, the prominent progressive group has endorsed candidates running for local office in 19 states, including Senator Bernie Sanders in Vermont and Senator Elizabeth Warren in Massachusetts.
The organization supports candidates fighting for income inequality and racial and economic justice for all. Democracy for America joins the Working Families Party, Communications Workers of America Local 4501, Black Central, Central Ohio Young Black Democrats, National Association of Social Workers-Ohio Chapter and others in endorsing Yes We Can Columbus candidates.
