Frequently Asked Questions

When and where can candidates apply?

Candidates can apply starting Tuesday, April 22, 2025. https://americanleaders.smapply.io/prog/endorsement/


Is there a deadline?

There will be four rounds of endorsement announcements between June and October. Candidates with primaries in June or July need to submit their applications by May 19th. Candidates with primaries in August or September need to submit their applications by July 11th. The third deadline is August 18th. The final deadline to apply is September 24th. 


Who is eligible to apply? (New Americans, types of elected office, etc.)

Candidates running for local, state, or congressional seats who are New Americans from all racial and ethnic backgrounds, including U.S. territories, who demonstrate dedication to advancing democratic reforms and immigrant justice.


What states are we endorsing in?

NALAF will prioritize endorsements in regions with high populations of New Americans. New Americans from all 50 states and territories are encouraged to apply and will be considered for endorsements.


What does the process entail?

  1. The first step is to fill out the endorsement questionnaire. 

  2. Some candidates may be invited to a virtual interview with a NALAF staff member. Candidates who go through the interview and do well will be recommended for endorsement. Candidates who aren’t invited to an interview but meet our criteria will be recommended for endorsement. 

  3. The last step includes a NALAF board vote on their candidacy.


What can candidates expect to receive from a NALAF endorsement?

Candidates are eligible to receive a mix of the following:

  • Candidate promotion on all NALAF platforms and NALAF email list

  • Resources on building a winning campaign

  • Connections to vendors

  • Referrals to other endorsing organizations

  • Invite to NALAF Events & activities

  • Potential media opportunities

  • Membership to our network of New American endorsees and leaders


Does NALAF fundraise or make campaign donations?

Due to our 501(c)(4) tax status, NALAF cannot directly make campaign contributions or fundraise for candidates. We invite and encourage everyone in the NALAF network to make individual donations to our endorsed candidates as long as they are not done on behalf of NAL or NALAF.