New American Candidates Emerging Across the Country 

Today, New American Leaders Action Fund announced additional candidate endorsements in Michigan and Arizona—two states that have seen an uptick in New American voter participation with the number of New Americans running for office and winning.

“As an organization dedicated to uplifting diverse and progressive state and local leaders, New American Leaders Action Fund has no shortage of outstanding candidates in this year’s elections. With these campaigns, the narrative of who can and should run is transforming, and forging a path for a stronger democracy that reflects the true makeup of our country,” said Sara Jameel Le Brusq, Interim President of New American Leaders Action Fund.

“Each of these endorsements represents a voice who shares the lived experiences of their constituents, which will directly inform equitable, inclusive policies once in office. Our work has never been focused on representation for the sake of representation. When we have some elected leaders barring critical race theory, limiting abortion access, and passing blatant voter suppression laws, it could not be more important to support and uplift young progressive leaders running for down-ballot seats. These new candidates are a reflection of the work we need to do at the state and local level.”

Arizona

• Andrés Portela III, Second Generation Puerto Rican, Tucson City Council, Ward 6

Michigan

• Kamal Alsawafy, First Generation Iraqi American, Dearborn City Council, At-Large

• Alex Garza, Third Generation Mexican American, Mayor, City of Taylor

• Abdullah Hammoud, Second Generation Lebanese American, Mayor, City of Dearborn

“We have been very intentional in Arizona and Michigan, building the bench and the support needed to shore up the success for New American leadership. There is clear excitement for these races, and we anticipate a strong showing in the primaries.”