July 1, 2025
(Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) — 314 Action Fund today announced the endorsement of 14 downballot candidates in 11 different states. In 2025, 314 Action Fund has endorsed 100 new scientists and doctors answering the call to run for local offices in 2025. Of the 100 candidates, 65 candidates are either first-time candidates or non-incumbents demonstrating our commitment to supporting a pipeline of new Democratic leaders.
“Change begins at the local level, which is why we’re proud to endorse these new candidates,” said Shaughnessy Naughton, President of 314 Action Fund. “Now more than ever, we need leaders in office with a background in science who understand the importance of using facts to make policy. We know that supporting scientists and doctors in local races ensures that the work on health care, education, and more is being done at every level.”
Naughton continued, “Our downballot candidates also represent an incredible pipeline of talent for future federal races. As anti-science Republicans continue to attack public health, these candidates will have the leadership and expertise needed to take on the next challenge. In 2024, six out of seven candidates 314 Action previously supported downballot were elected to Congress — these candidates are our future leaders and we’re excited to support them.”
Endorsed candidates
- MA: Justin Klekota, Somerville City Council
- MI: Nick Moroz, Plymouth City Council Commissioner
- MI: Brian Smith, Novi City Council
- MT: Daniel Carlino, Missoula City Council Ward 3
- NC: Cassidy Santaguida, Wilmington City Council
- NM: Becky Corran, Las Cruces City Council District 5
- OH: Gregory Lam, Dublin City Council Ward 3
- PA: Kyle Ricker, Columbia Borough City Council
- NY: Kristina Owens, Henrietta City Council
- NY: Adam Vinson, LD-Tompkins County Legislature District 4
- SC: Aditi Bussells, Columbia City Council
- TX: Audrey Nath, Houston HISD District 7
- WA: Jude Anthony, King County Council District 9
- WA: Erica Tomas, City Council Position 4
314 Action Fund is the only national organization working to recruit, train and elect Democratic scientists across all levels of government—from the Senate down to local school boards. The organization is powered by a grassroots community of over six million people supporting scientists and health care professionals who will use science and facts to address the most urgent issues facing our generation.
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