For full transparency, I am writing these guidelines in response to a club that recently reached out, that I will not name, that positioned joining their organization as a way to gain favor with voters during their upcoming endorsement process.  I fully admit that this is a common practice.  That does not make it ethical.

Due to that club’s actions, I have chosen to abstain from joining ANY Democratic club during this primary.  I am happy to engage with and support clubs and their members, but any action that could reasonably be viewed as pay-to-play will be declined.  

I will revisit this stance at the completion of the primary (and once we all know each other a little better).

As a candidate for Congress, my primary goal is to serve the people, not political elites or corporate interests. I am deeply committed to bringing real change to our political system, and part of that means engaging with the community on an honest, grassroots level. I want to make sure that every voice is heard, and that the democratic process is transparent and accessible to all.

That said, membership in any political club or organization is an important decision that requires careful thought and reflection. I believe in the power of collective action and local organizing, but I also recognize that these affiliations should be built on mutual respect, shared values, and clear intentions to drive meaningful change.

Guiding Principles for Joining Democratic Clubs:

1. Transparency and Accountability: I am committed to a transparent approach to politics. Any organization or group I engage with must be open and forthright about its goals, operations, and connections to the community. I will not align with clubs or groups that prioritize corporate donors, special interests, or establishment politics over people-centered solutions.

2. Respect for Grassroots Movements: My focus is on building a movement from the ground up, not from the top down. I will engage with clubs that have deep roots in the community and focus on organizing people based on shared values and a commitment to progressive policies.

3. Building Real Relationships: I want to take the time to get to know the members of any club or organization before committing to membership or an endorsement. I believe in relationship-building and having open, honest conversations about what truly matters to the community. Camaraderie and genuine trust should come first.

4. Commitment to Change, Not Stagnation: I will not engage in any pay-to-play politics. If joining a club or organization is positioned as a method to increase my chances for an endorsement, I will decline. My commitment is to meaningful change—not to supporting the status quo that has failed working families.

5. Independence and Integrity: I believe in an independent voice. While I am a Democrat, I will never compromise my principles to fit the mold of the party establishment. I will join clubs that encourage open dialogue, respectful debate, and a shared vision for the future.

6. Earning Trust, Not Rushing the Process: I will not rush into memberships or risk my integrity for endorsements. I value taking the time to build genuine relationships with the people and organizations that support me, and will only commit to affiliations that reflect my values and the values of the people I aim to serve.

In Conclusion:

I believe that true change starts when we unite around common goals and respect for each other’s voices. I will not be swayed by money, power, or political pressure to align with any organization that doesn’t represent the values of the people. I am committed to engaging in authentic and transparent relationships with Democratic clubs, ensuring that any partnership we forge is rooted in our shared vision for a better, more just future.