2024 was an incredible year for our Ad Grants Program, with $100,000 being put forth to assist Democrats across the country in winning elections! Over 185 fantastic candidates with unique profiles and perspectives applied.
Without further ado, we’re proud to introduce 23 passionate, strategic, and inspiring candidates–aka DSPolitical’s 2024 Ad Grants Program Recipients!
Ysabel Jurado is a tenant rights attorney, single mother, daughter of undocumented immigrants, and lifelong Angeleno, running to become the next Council member for District 14. Through grassroots efforts, she knocked on over 85,000 doors, earning first place in a competitive primary election against eight candidates, including the incumbent. Raised in Highland Park, Ysabel attended Pasadena City College and graduated from UCLA with a bachelor’s degree. She then earned her Juris Doctorate from UCLA School of Law, specializing in Critical Race Studies and Public Interest Law, all while raising her daughter, Stella. As a housing rights attorney, Ysabel has fought against tenant evictions and collaborated with community organizations to protect small businesses facing lease threats. Her work focuses on creating pathways to homeownership for communities of color, preserving open space, and decommodifying housing. Running for District 14, Ysabel aims to increase housing access, end homelessness, support small businesses, and promote a just economy. She has received endorsements from numerous progressive organizations, unions, and notable elected officials, including the LA Democratic Party, the LA Federation of Labor, and civil rights leader Dolores Huerta. Learn more about Ysabel’s campaign here.
Chris Massicotte is a dedicated leader with a diverse background and a passion for community improvement and is running for Monroe County Commissioner, District 3. Chris earned his Bachelor’s degree in accounting and a Masters degree in Government Administration. He is a former auditor and political strategist, learning about local governments all over the country, and how to make them work for us. In 2017, Chris moved to Key West permanently and co-founded Duval Street Media, a local marketing firm dedicated to collaborating with locally owned businesses in the Keys. He also serves on several boards, including Fair Insurance Rates for Monroe and the Key West AIDS Memorial. If elected, Chris plans to find ways to reduce wasteful spending, stop property taxes from rising, and keep hard-working residents from having to leave the Keys due to rising costs of living. He is dedicated to giving a voice back to the people and fighting the recent alleged corruption that has been engulfing the current BOCC through transparency and accountability. Chris will bring the necessary change to get Monroe County back on track, putting residents first. Learn more about Chris’ campaign here.
Danielle Bell is running for the Georgia State House of Representatives to build a stronger, more compassionate community. Our current legislature has been highly unproductive and gridlocked. As a social worker and mental health business leader, Danielle has a unique ability to connect with diverse perspectives. She will focus on common values rather than divisive ideologies to drive results. Raised on a family farm in Indiana, Danielle learned hard work and compassion from her parents— a small business owner and a waitress. Her commitment to service has been evident through her informal help at home, school volunteering, and community advocacy. Danielle is dedicated to representing her constituents with transparency, honesty, and commitment. In her career as a clinical therapist, Danielle has observed that many face universal challenges: financial insecurity, failing education systems, and inadequate healthcare. These issues have shaped her priorities for meaningful change. It’s time to send someone to the Georgia House who will really fight to improve the quality of life for all Georgians. Learn more about Danielle’s campaign here.
Conolus Scott is a family man, devoted Christian, and advocate for democratic principles shaped by his upbringing on a farm in Madison County. His parents, Bernice and Conolus Scott, instilled strong values in him. Married to Rebecca Jo for 57 years, Conolus and Rebecca Jo have two grown children and five grandchildren. Currently, he chairs the Madison County Planning and Zoning Board and serves as a courthouse bailiff. A graduate of Southside High School and Athens Technical College in business marketing, he began his career at Westinghouse in 1967, eventually becoming an area manager overseeing 200 employees. After 30 years there, Conolus worked with his father as a plumber and later owned a mobile home business, gaining insight into the affordable housing needs in his community. Outside of work and church at Tabor’s Chapel C.M.E., he enjoys volunteering and coaching baseball, basketball, and football at Madison County High School and at the county’s recreation department. He knows first-hand the challenges that his county and region are facing. His positive attitude, fueled by faith, drives him to coordinate Ministry-to-Men, helping churches and assisting those in need. Conolus also appreciates the benefits of living in northeast Georgia, where his family enjoys the rich, rewarding life of rural Georgia. He believes we are here to serve one another and asks for your support as he runs for Georgia State Senate, District 47. Learn more about Conolus’ campaign here.
Nabilah Islam Parkes, raised in Gwinnett County, is the youngest woman ever elected to the Georgia State Senate. She is also the first Muslim woman and the first South Asian woman elected to the Senate. Nabilah is a lifelong organizer and community advocate. The daughter of working-class immigrants, Nabilah watched her parents work long hours to put food on the table. When she was in high school, her mother was injured at the warehouse. Nabilah saw firsthand the devastating effects our broken healthcare system can have on families. During her time in the Senate, Nabilah has been a staunch advocate for Georgia’s families, fighting to lower drug costs, make healthcare more affordable, fully fund our public health agencies, expand Medicaid, and protect abortion rights. Her innovative measures to eliminate taxes on essential household items like diapers, menstrual products, and school supplies will put more money in the pockets of hardworking Georgians. Learn more about Nabilah’s campaign here.
Madeline Ryan Smith, 27, is a dedicated disability advocate from Statesboro, Georgia, originally born in Savannah. As a blind woman, Madeline is passionate about promoting disabled representation in government and educating others on disability justice. She earned her degrees in psychology and sociology from Georgia Southern University in 2020 and 2022, respectively. After graduate school, Madeline made her first run for office in 2022. Though unsuccessful, she became the Disability Caucus Chair for the Democratic Party of Georgia and also serves as Communications Chair for her local county party. Now, in 2024, Madeline is running again in District 158, aiming to unseat Rep. Butch Parrish in the November election. Learn more about Madeline’s campaign here.
Dr. Victoria Garcia Wilburn grew up in a working-class neighborhood in the Chicago suburbs, raised in a union family that emphasized the importance of organizing. As a first-generation college student, she earned a degree in occupational therapy and began her career as a clinician and public health advocate. In 2005, Victoria and her husband, Christopher, moved to Indiana, where they expanded their family to three children and she completed a doctorate in health science at the University of Indianapolis. Victoria has committed her career to enhancing the well-being of Hoosiers, focusing on equity and access to mental and behavioral health services. Her efforts have bolstered resources for children and families dealing with substance use disorders and trained future healthcare professionals in trauma-informed care. After winning her first election in 2022 for Indiana House District 32, she successfully passed legislation to improve mental healthcare access and the safety of vulnerable children in the Department of Child Services system. Victoria is now seeking re-election to further strengthen public schools, improve public health infrastructure, and advocate for common-sense gun safety laws to build a better future for all Hoosiers. Learn more about Victoria’s campaign here.
Cinthia Moore has deep roots in Assembly District 11, having moved from Jalisco, Mexico, over 30 years ago with her family in search of the American Dream. Her father opened a carpentry shop, while her mother worked as a housekeeper. As a first-generation Latina and long-time resident of East Las Vegas, Moore is dedicated to addressing community issues as she runs for the State Assembly, where she now raises her son. Moore’s legislative priorities include affordable housing, better schools, jobs, and healthcare for all Nevadans. With years of experience helping organizations pass beneficial bills, she is equipped to drive change. A strong advocate for environmental justice for nearly 20 years, she advocates for clean air, energy, and water conservation, recognizing the disproportionate impact of environmental issues on AD11 residents. Believing in community service, Moore is an active member of the Junior League of Las Vegas and serves on the State Advisory Board for Climate Power. Previously, she co-chaired the Scholarships Committee for the Nellis Area Spouses’ Club, which awarded $30,000 in scholarships to military dependents. Now, Moore is running for Assembly District 11, because she believes that residents of AD11 have been far overlooked and under-represented in the policy decision-making process, and they deserve a seat at the table. Learn more about Cinthia’s campaign here.
Joe Dalia is a privacy attorney, an entrepreneur, and a long-time Nevadan. Joe grew up in the district he is running to represent in a working-class union family. He was the first member of his family to attend a four-year college. After earning degrees from Boston University and University of Michigan Law School, he launched a successful career in law and business. Now a father of three, Joe is passionate about improving Nevada’s education system, supporting small businesses, and diversifying the state’s economy. Joe aims to make Nevada a place of opportunity and growth for future generations, drawing on his deep connection to the community and professional experience. Learn more about Joe’s campaign here.
Andrew Ferguson, a Georgia native, was born and raised in Duluth but has called Athens home for over 25 years. With a Bachelor’s Degree from the Terry College of Business and a Master’s from the School of Public and International Affairs with a specialization in Local Government, Andrew has the kind of background needed to encourage small business growth, improve economic conditions for workers, and make sure our State Legislature works responsibly and effectively to improve the lives of the people in this state. Having served as the Vice-Chair of Candidate Recruitment and Development for the Athens-Clarke County Democrats, and having run for office twice already, Andrew has built relationships throughout Georgia, working on issues such as voter empowerment, reproductive rights, and gun safety, just to name a few. Andrew is endorsed by Fair Fight, Georgia Equality, Moms Demand, the Human Rights Campaign, United Campus Workers of Georgia, and Everytown For Gun Safety. Presently, in addition to being the Democratic Nominee for Georgia State House District 120, Andrew is also the Executive Director of The 2030 Project, Georgia’s only Political Action Committee committed to funding year-round organizing to flip the Georgia State Legislature blue by the end of 2030, ahead of the next redistricting cycle. Learn more about Andrew’s campaign here.
Ariel Phillips has always felt an inescapable pull to be part of something greater. They joined the Air Force as a radar technician shortly after graduating from high school, which led them to their current role as a manufacturing analyst for Northrop Grumman. Along the path to where they are today, Ariel has strived to build community relationships and embody the idea Mr. Rogers expressed when he said to “look for the helpers.” They strongly believe that “if you want it done right, you have to do it yourself” and is very proud to be working on their second campaign for the Georgia State House. Ariel holds a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy with a concentration in Morality, Politics, and Law, as they believe that having an open perspective on the world is the most effective way to identify what needs to be done to make it a better place. Fighting for people to have access to the resources they need to live and thrive is Ariel’s top priority and primary goal if elected to the Georgia House. Learn more about Ariel’s campaign here.
Floyd L. Griffin, Jr. has had a remarkable career as a cadet, Vietnam helicopter pilot, Army Colonel, football coach, professor, businessman, state senator, mayor, and author, all dedicated to public service. He co-owned Slater’s Funeral Home in Milledgeville, Georgia, and currently serves on the Board of Trustees at Georgia College and State University. Griffin has been recognized in the “Big-House Gaines” Athletic Hall of Fame and the ROTC Hall of Fame at Tuskegee University. In 2021, Milledgeville honored him by naming a street and the Black Heritage Plaza after him. His oral history video is included as a permanent record of the History Makers Collection at the Library of Congress, and his papers are archived at Georgia College. Griffin has served on the Board of Directors for the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and the Board of Trustees for Tuskegee University. He holds degrees from Tuskegee University, Florida Institute of Technology, and Gupton-Jones College. In 2009, he published his autobiography, Legacy to Legend, followed by Life: Four Quarters plus Overtime in 2019. Griffin made history in 1994 by becoming the first African American elected to the Georgia State Senate from a majority-white district, and in 2000, he became the first African American mayor of Milledgeville.
Belinda “Judge” Timmons is the former Chief Magistrate Judge for Florence County and is running for the South Carolina Senate seat in District 31. After nearly two decades on the bench, she made the difficult decision to step down to run for office so she could serve her community better. Belinda holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of South Carolina, and this background is what informs her fight for justice and freedom. For the past four decades, she has dedicated her life to advancing justice, promoting equality, and improving the criminal justice system. She believes, “NOW IS THE TIME,” that we embrace the essence of democracy with respect and the opportunities that lie ahead, guided by fresh perspectives and determination. Learn more about Belinda’s campaign here.
Yokima Cureton, a fourth-generation Lancastrian and a Black woman determined to challenge the long-standing Eurocentric, patriarchal system. Her motto? “If I have to complain about it twice, then I need to do something about it”. Women make 80% of household financial decisions, yet their leadership in government is often overlooked. Yokima understands that real change comes from stepping up and demanding what’s right. Born and bred in Lancaster, Yokima’s roots run deep in this soil—just like the blood, sweat, and tears of her ancestors who were enslaved on it. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and a fierce refusal to let the status quo silence her. She’s a voice for every person who’s tired of being told to “wait your turn” and who’s ready to shout back, “Make it make sense!”. Yokima has worked hard, earning two master’s degrees and leading PR for a global enzyme manufacturer. Returning to Lancaster with her husband Jesse, she established Tacos Ole Food Truck & Catering and Infinity Travel Group, only to encounter the same patterns of mismanagement and corruption that hinder small businesses. In 2022, she ran for Mayor of Lancaster to bring real change, advocating for marginalized voices. As co-founder of the Lancaster Minority Business Network and a commissioner on the Planning and Zoning Commission, she fights for equity, transparency, and access to resources. But her fight isn’t just about women, business, and politics—it’s about lifting up the people the system consistently ignores. With Yokima as the next SC Senator for District 27, South Carolina is poised for transformative change, ensuring every community can thrive. Learn more about Yokima’s campaign here.
Dr. Sonja Ogletree Satani is a dedicated leader, Air Force veteran, esteemed professor, and accomplished business expert running for the South Carolina State House of Representatives District 98. With over three decades of experience in leadership training, business management consulting, and organizational development, she has expertise in public relations, manufacturing, human resources, and government contracting. Currently, a professor at ECPI University, Dr. Ogletree Satani has also taught in both public and private schools. Her military service in the U.S. Air Force has earned her notable recognition, including the 2013 Charleston County Small Business Enterprise Small Business of the Year and the 2016 ABWA Top Ten Business Woman award. Dr. Ogletree Satani envisions a District 98 characterized by inclusivity, progress, and prosperity. She is committed to advocating for policies that promote economic growth, educational opportunities, and community development. With her proven track record of leadership, expertise in business management, and dedication to service, Dr. Sonja Ogletree Satani is the ideal candidate to lead District 98 forward. Vote for Dr. Sonja Ogletree Satani for a brighter future for all. Learn more about Sonja’s campaign here.
Rita Adkins was raised in Charleston, South Carolina from a young age and has been deeply committed to her community ever since. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Management from Charleston Southern University, which laid the foundation for her successful career spanning nineteen years. As the owner and founder of The Adkins Group, Rita has been providing development and real estate services to Charleston and the surrounding areas, helping to shape the community she loves. Rita’s dedication to community service is evident through her active involvement in various organizations. She is a proud member of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, Dress for Success Incorporated, the Women’s Realtor Council, the Charleston Realtor Association, and The National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB). In addition to these affiliations, Rita participates in numerous boards and committees for school and community events, further demonstrating her commitment to making a positive impact. With her extensive experience and deep ties to the community, Rita Adkins is a passionate advocate for the people of Charleston, working tirelessly to improve the quality of life for all her neighbors. Learn more about Rita’s campaign here.
Dr. Octavia Amaechi is a dedicated family medicine physician, mother of three, and passionate educator and community advocate who has served upstate families for nearly 15 years. With local and national leadership experience in healthcare and a deep understanding of family needs, Octavia is committed to improving access to quality healthcare, education, economic advancement, and opportunities for all. As a mother, she knows firsthand the challenges facing families and will fight tirelessly to ensure a brighter, healthier future for our children. Octavia’s faith, proven track record of advocacy, and compassionate leadership make her the ideal candidate to represent our community’s interests in the Senate. Vote for Octavia – for the health of our community! Learn more about Octavia’s campaign here.
Heather Bauer has represented the people of House District 75 since 2022 when she defeated a long-time Republican incumbent by holding him accountable for voting to strip women of their right to choose an abortion. Heather was the only South Carolina Democrat to flip a seat from red to blue that year. During her first legislative session, Heather has proven to be one of the most consequential members of the state House—passing bi-partisan legislation and delivering results for Columbia. Heather was named the 2024 Champion of Choice by Planned Parenthood, Legislator of the Year by the SC Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, a Rising Star by SC Women in Leadership, and the Joseph Neal Elected Official of the Year by the Young Democrats of South Carolina. Heather is an insurance technology project manager and owner of Warrior Fitness and Martial Arts. She earned her master’s degree at the University of South Carolina in media arts. She serves on the board of the Nickelodeon Theatre. In her spare time, she enjoys playing with her sweet puppy, Lilly! Learn more about Heather’s campaign here.
Lisette Cifaldi is entering the race to win the SC House seat for District 123 because her voice, the voices of her daughters, sisters, mother, female friends, and colleagues have been silenced in South Carolina. Her state ranks third nationwide in the least number of women represented in state legislatures and is the only state with an all-male Supreme Court. As she observes newly enacted and very conservative laws restricting women’s needed healthcare adopted across the nation, and as the state legislature loosens gun laws, Lisette has grown fearful for the women of South Carolina. They have reached a critical point for women’s rights in her home state, and she believes the time has come to be part of the solution. Women need to be present in the rooms where laws are passed, important local and state issues are discussed, and budgets are set. Lisette welcomes the opportunity to serve her community and state by representing Hilton Head, Daufuskie, and Levy as their next SC House Representative. Learn more about Lisette’s campaign here.
Eunice Lehmacher has dedicated over thirty years to serving her community as a social worker, healthcare professional, teacher, and small business owner. Her extensive experience in Oconee and Pickens Counties has honed essential leadership skills such as active listening, crisis management, and compromise, enabling her to tackle complex challenges effectively. Witnessing the hardships faced by those around her has fueled her passion for community support throughout her career. As a high school teacher in math, chemistry, and physics, Eunice equipped her students with the skills to navigate future challenges. In her role as a counselor, she guided neighbors through tough times. As the sole proprietor of a private practice in Seneca, she contributed to the local economy and community well-being. Her commitment extends to various volunteer efforts, including teaching mental and physical health courses, advocating for affordable housing, and facilitating community dialogues on race. Currently a psychotherapist at Included Health Inc. and LifeSource Inc., Eunice also finds joy in gardening, hiking, reading, playing board games, and spending time with family and friends. Now, she is running to represent her district in Columbia for Freedom, Families, and the Future. Learn more about Eunice’s campaign here.
Adrienne Lett is a 25-year-old civil engineer who is passionate about improving abortion access, public education, housing affordability, and local infrastructure. If elected, Adrienne would be the first Gen-Z woman elected to South Carolina’s State House and the youngest woman elected to the State House of Representatives in almost 50 years. After graduating from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Adrienne relocated to South Carolina to start her career working for Dorchester County. During her tenure with the county, Adrienne has garnered industry knowledge pertaining to roadway improvements and stormwater infrastructure. She intends to use this experience to advocate for funding and policies at the state level to help alleviate traffic and flooding issues in addition to requiring developers to take on more responsibility in upgrading our public infrastructure. Learn more about Adrienne’s campaign here.
Francie Kleckley, a dedicated civil servant and former U.S. Treasury official, is running for the South Carolina Senate to represent District 10 and combat the divisive politics in Columbia. Raised in rural Marlboro County by hardworking parents, Francie learned the values of fiscal responsibility and educational opportunity early on. After a tennis scholarship led her from Clemson University to Francis Marion University, where she became a first-generation college graduate, Francie devoted herself to public service. Throughout her distinguished 36-year career in Lexington County, she helped bring small businesses into compliance with complicated tax obligations, supported working families navigating the federal bureaucracy, and solved systemic issues related to taxpayer rights and taxpayer burden nationwide. Meanwhile, she battled gender discrimination within the department’s ranks and managed the demands of being a single, working mother to her two beautiful children, Allen and Kathryn. Allen, who graduated from Lexington High School and the Culinary Institute of Charleston at Trident Technical College, works as a property manager. He and his daughter, Collins, are the joys of Francie’s life. Kathryn, an alumna of Presbyterian College, tragically passed away from a breast cancer-related illness at the age of 36. Francie misses her every single day. Now residing in Lexington County with her partner Nekki, Francie aims to leverage her extensive government experience to advocate for fiscal responsibility, reproductive rights, and a brighter future for South Carolinians in the state Senate. Learn more about Francie’s campaign here.
Katie Crosby’s story embodies resilience, community service, and a deep dedication to education and advocacy. Growing up in Kannapolis, North Carolina, a town hit hard by economic downturns, Katie’s early life was shaped by her family’s struggle and adaptability after the local mill’s closure. These experiences instilled in her values of perseverance and adaptability. At UNC Charlotte, as a Levine Scholar, she pursued elementary and special education, encountering educational disparities during her clinical work in an urban Title 1 school. Her transformative experience included interning with Roof Above, where she worked with the unhoused and updated community resources, igniting her passion for housing equality. Katie further broadened her impact by teaching in Peru and South Africa, addressing diverse educational needs across various backgrounds. After graduating, she taught in North Carolina, gaining insight into the broader challenges faced by her students and their families, which deepened her commitment to holistic support. Since moving to South Carolina in 2019, Katie transitioned from teaching to a real estate career, helping families secure stable homes. She has made significant contributions, including co-founding the LCDP Q+ Council and the Northern Piedmont Young Democrats chapter, demonstrating her dedication to inclusivity and youth engagement in politics. Learn more about Katie’s campaign here.