Candidates



We’re Running!
“All we need are decent, honest, hard-working people who are accountable and who have America’s best interests at heart. And they’ll step up and they’ll join our government, and they will make things better if they have support." - President Obama
It is thrilling to see so many from this community seek to contribute by running for office, just as Barack Obama did more than 20 years ago. Recognizing that we share a set of values and experiences but not necessarily all of the same views, the Alumni Association sees our role as spreading awareness of alumni candidates, not endorsing them.
Support or learn about any of the candidates below by clicking on their website. If you are an alum running for office, let us know! Click here to be included on this list. And make sure to check out our Resources to Run.

California Kelly Gonez
Visit WebsiteOffice:
Los Angeles Unified School Board Member, District 6
Alumni Experience:
Policy Advisor - U.S. Department of Education (2014-2016), Communications and Field Organizer for Nevada - Obama for America (2012), Speechwriting Intern - The White House (2011)

Texas Jessica González
Visit WebsiteOffice:
Texas State Representative (HD-104), Won Re-Election in 2024
Alumni Experience:
Nevada Voter Protection Director - Obama for America (2012)

Colorado Jena Griswold
Visit WebsiteOffice:
Colorado Secretary of State, Running for Colorado Attorney General
General Election Date:
11/03/2026
Alumni Experience:
Deputy Voter Protection Director in Colorado - Obama for America (2012)

New Mexico Debra Haaland
Visit WebsiteOffice:
Former member of Congress and Secretary of the Interior, running for Governor of New Mexico
Alumni Experience:
Native American Vote Director for New Mexico - Obama for America (2012),

California Matt Haney
Visit WebsiteOffice:
California State Assembly member, District 17, Won Re-Election in 2024
Alumni Experience:
Youth Vote Director for New Mexico - Obama for America (2008), Field Organizer for Texas - Obama for America (2008), Director - Stanford Students for Obama (2008)

Illinois Patrick Hanley
Visit WebsiteOffice:
Running for State Senate
General Election Date:
11/03/2026
Primary Election Date:
03/17/2026
Alumni Experience:
Regional Field Director, OFA-VA (2012)