2026 CANDIDATES

Tia Hudgins Taylor is running for District Court Judge to continue serving her community with integrity, fairness, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Since her appointment to the bench, she has dedicated herself to applying the law consistently, treating every person with dignity, and honoring the public trust placed in the judiciary.

Her campaign is rooted in the belief that the justice system must be both fair and accessible to all. Judge Hudgins Taylor understands that confidence in the courts is earned through impartial decision-making, transparency, and respect for every individual who comes before the bench. She is committed to ensuring that the courtroom remains a place where the rule of law is upheld with professionalism, compassion, and accountability.

With a strong record of public service and a steadfast commitment to ethical leadership, Tia Hudgins Taylor seeks to strengthen public confidence in the judicial system while preserving the integrity and independence of the courts. Her focus is on ensuring that every person is heard, every case is considered fairly, and justice is administered without bias.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Tia Hudgins Taylor embodies the principles of The Politician's Creed: leading with honor, protecting the public trust, and ensuring that public service remains rooted in integrity, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.

Joanna Whaley is running for the Michigan House of Representatives to bring active and attentive leadership to Michigan. Motivated by her experience within a marginalized community and by a desire to ensure that every resident has their rights and dignity protected, Joana believes elected officials have a responsibility to stand firmly for the people they represent.

Her campaign is rooted in a commitment to human rights, representation, and accountability. Joana believes that marginalized communities deserve leaders who will listen to their concerns, remain engaged with the people they serve, and refuse to compromise when fundamental rights are at stake. She is committed to ensuring that government reflects the needs and experiences of all Michiganders—not just those who have traditionally held power.

Joanna's approach to public service is grounded in courage and conviction. She believes effective leadership requires showing up, paying attention, listening to constituents, and having the strength to stand by one's principles even when doing so is difficult.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Joanna Whaley embodies the principles of The Politician's Creed: leading with integrity, standing accountable to the people, and ensuring that public office remains a commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of every person.

Shannon Dicely is running for the Texas Senate to bring a stronger sense of community, compassion, and practical leadership to Austin. Her decision to enter public service was shaped by her experience battling breast cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she relied on the kindness and support of others throughout her treatment. That experience strengthened her commitment to ensuring that no one facing a difficult circumstance is left without the support they need.

Shannon believes government has a responsibility to build stronger systems of support for families and individuals navigating life's most challenging moments. Her campaign is focused on creating a more connected and resilient community while addressing the concerns that matter to Texas families.

With a desire to help her community and concern about increasing political division, Shannon is running to provide a different kind of leadership—one focused on bringing people together, finding practical solutions, and protecting the future of the next generation. As a mother, she is particularly motivated to help ensure that her children and other Texas families inherit a state filled with opportunity and stability.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Shannon Dicely embodies the principles of The Politician's Creed: leading with compassion, serving with integrity, and ensuring that public office remains a commitment to the people and the communities it represents.

Dr. Janelle St. Louis is running for Chesapeake City Council because she believes public service should always put people before politics. Throughout her career as a clinical pharmacist, educator, small business owner, and healthcare advocate, she has dedicated herself to improving lives through compassionate leadership, community engagement, and a commitment to service.

Her campaign is a continuation of that lifelong mission. Dr. St. Louis believes every resident deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued, and she is committed to building a city government that is responsive, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. By listening to her community and working collaboratively to solve local challenges, she aims to strengthen trust between residents and their elected leaders.

Drawing on her diverse professional experience, Dr. St. Louis brings a practical, service-oriented perspective to public office. She understands the importance of making thoughtful decisions that improve quality of life, support local families and businesses, and create opportunities for every member of the Chesapeake community to thrive.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Dr. Janelle St. Louis embodies the principles of The Politician's Creed: leading with integrity, serving with compassion, and ensuring that public office remains a sacred trust dedicated to the people.

Candidate for Chesapeake City Council
Jennifer Naperala is running for Chesapeake City Council to serve everyone who calls Chesapeake home and bring a greater focus on accountability and citizen participation to local government. She believes residents deserve elected officials who listen to their concerns and remain accountable to the communities they represent.

Jennifer’s perspective is shaped by a working-class, pro-union upbringing and years of personal and professional experience. She began working at 15, raised three children as a single mother, and built her life through what she describes as grit and hustle. Her commitment to service has also been reflected throughout her career in education.

Jennifer holds a Master’s in Education and began teaching English for Chesapeake Public Schools in 2000. She has a particular passion for supporting students who need additional help as well as those who are ready for greater challenges. She brings that experience of listening, teaching, and meeting people where they are to her campaign for City Council.

Jennifer’s campaign is centered on making local government more responsive to residents and ensuring that the interests of Chesapeake citizens remain at the forefront of public decision-making.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Jennifer Naperala embodies the principles of The Politician’s Creed: leading with integrity, remaining accountable to the people, and ensuring that public office remains a commitment to serving the community.

Josh Wallenstein is running for the Texas House of Representatives to bring practical, common-sense leadership to District 133. His campaign is focused on the issues that directly affect families every day: keeping communities safe, lowering costs, and protecting taxpayers.

Josh believes government should remain focused on the kitchen-table issues that matter most to working families. His approach emphasizes practical problem-solving and responsible leadership, with a commitment to ensuring that taxpayers' interests remain at the center of legislative decisions.

As a father, Josh is also motivated by the future he wants to create for his son and for the next generation. He believes that building a better Texas requires citizens to step forward and take an active role in shaping their communities and their state's future.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Josh Wallenstein embodies the principles of The Politician's Creed: leading with responsibility, focusing on the needs of the people, and ensuring that public service remains a commitment to the communities it represents.

Demi Palecek is running for the Illinois House of Representatives to ensure that working-class families have a voice in Springfield. Raised in a low-income household where hard work was a necessity, Demi understands the challenges facing everyday Illinoisans because she has lived them. From washing dishes at 14 to help support her family to serving her country in the military, her life has been defined by resilience, service, and determination.

Demi believes that public office should be held by leaders who understand struggle not as an abstract concept, but through lived experience. Her campaign is focused on expanding opportunity, strengthening communities, and ensuring that working families have an advocate who will fight for fairness, accountability, and policies that create pathways to success for everyone—not just those with wealth or influence.

Her commitment to service has guided every chapter of her life, and she is ready to bring that same dedication to the people of Illinois' 13th District. Demi is determined to be a representative who listens to her constituents, earns their trust, and works every day to improve the lives of the families she serves.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Demi Palecek embodies the principles of The Politician's Creed: leading with integrity, serving with humility, and ensuring that public office remains a sacred trust dedicated to the people.

Brittany Newton is running for the North Carolina House of Representatives to bring a stronger focus on listening, accountability, and community-centered leadership to Columbus County. She believes residents deserve representatives who are accessible, responsive, and committed to understanding the challenges facing the people they serve.

Her campaign is rooted in the belief that government should create opportunities for working families and support communities striving for a stronger future. Brittany is focused on fostering economic development, advocating for a living wage, and ensuring that public schools have the resources needed to provide students with the opportunities they deserve.

Having experienced the importance of constituent voices being heard, Brittany is committed to building a more responsive relationship between elected officials and the communities they represent. She believes effective leadership requires listening to residents, addressing their concerns, and working toward practical solutions that improve everyday lives.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Brittany Newton embodies the principles of The Politician’s Creed: leading with integrity, remaining accountable to the people, and ensuring that public service truly serves the public.

Joshua Florence is running for Putnam County Commissioner to bring a perspective rooted in service, resilience, and a deep understanding of the everyday challenges facing local families. As someone who grew up in a financially constrained household, became a first-generation college student, and continues to balance education, work, and raising a family, Joshua believes public service should be grounded in the lived experiences of the people it represents.

His commitment to leadership and community service has shaped every stage of his life. Through his life, Joshua has consistently embraced opportunities to lead, support others, and contribute to his community. In 2021, he was recognized as Florida Volunteer Firefighter of the Year, reflecting his dedication to helping others and strengthening the communities around him.

Joshua’s campaign is focused on ensuring that the people of Putnam County have a representative who understands their daily realities and remains committed to listening, serving, and finding solutions. He brings a strong commitment to accountability, community engagement, and public service to his candidacy for County Commissioner.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Joshua Florence embodies the principles of The Politician’s Creed: leading with integrity, serving with humility, and ensuring that public office remains a commitment to the people and communities it represents.

Brittany Black is running for the Texas House of Representatives to bring a focus on accountability, affordability, and responsible leadership to District 61. She believes residents deserve representatives who understand complex systems, maintain clear ethical boundaries, and put the interests of their communities ahead of personal or financial considerations.

Brittany believes elected officials should be held to high standards of transparency and accountability and that public resources should be managed with the interests of residents as the foremost consideration.

Brittany's campaign emphasizes practical action and responsible governance. She seeks to bring her experience navigating complex systems to the Legislature while maintaining a clear separation between public responsibilities and private interests.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Brittany Black represents the principles of The Politician's Creed: accountability in public service, transparency in government, and a commitment to ensuring that the responsibilities of elected office are exercised for the benefit of the public.

Steven Shook is running for Congress to restore a simple but essential principle to public service: elected office should be about service to the community. As a healthcare provider, Steven has built his career around putting people first and understands that accountability is not optional when the well-being of others is at stake.

His experience working in an ICU has taught him the importance of showing up, taking responsibility, and making decisions with people's lives in mind. Steven believes that same standard must apply to elected officials. His campaign is focused on restoring trust in government by demanding honesty, accountability, and a commitment to putting constituents ahead of political interests.

Steven is committed to representing the people of North Texas with integrity and purpose. He believes voters deserve a representative who takes the oath of office seriously, communicates honestly, and remains accountable to the people who entrusted them with public service.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Steven Shook embodies the principles of The Politician's Creed: leading with integrity, putting people before politics, and honoring the responsibility that comes with holding public office.

Pat Fitzpatrick is running for the Montana Senate to address the challenges most directly affecting the lives of Montana families, including housing affordability, healthcare access, infrastructure, and the need for effective bipartisan problem-solving. He believes elected officials have a responsibility to practice personal accountability and responsible stewardship on behalf of the people they represent.

Raised in Montana, Patrick understands the challenges that can come with limited opportunity. His experiences leaving home to seek opportunity shaped his understanding of the importance of opportunity, stability, and access to the resources people need to build successful lives.  His 32 years as a Navy Veteran serving here and in foreign lands around the world and his time as a Commanding Officer gives Patrick both the perspective and leadership qualities to serve his constituents at home well.

Patrick's campaign is focused on practical solutions and responsible leadership. He seeks to bring a spirit of cooperation to the Montana Senate while ensuring that the needs of District 6 residents remain at the center of the decisions made in Helena.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Patrick Fitzpatrick embodies the principles of The Politician's Creed: leading with accountability, working across differences, and ensuring that public office remains a commitment to responsible stewardship and service to the people.

Austin May is running for McHenry County Board to bring a lifelong commitment to public service and constituent-focused leadership to local government. His understanding of service began early, when he worked as a political intern and saw firsthand how elected officials from different backgrounds could come together to help people in need and make a meaningful difference in their communities.

That experience shaped his belief that public service should be centered on listening, problem-solving, and helping residents navigate the challenges they face. Austin has shown his commitment to serving others as a Peace Corps teacher, where he gained a deeper understanding of the everyday struggles experienced by families and communities; and later through the United States Army, further strengthening his dedication to leadership and responsibility.

Austin’s campaign is built on the belief that local government works best when elected officials remain connected to the people they represent. He brings a perspective shaped by diverse forms of service and a commitment to building a more responsive, engaged, and community-focused McHenry County.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Austin May embodies the principles of The Politician’s Creed: leading with integrity, serving with dedication, and ensuring that public office remains a commitment to the people it represents.

Grandison Porter is running for Brazoria County District Clerk because he believes that public service is a sacred trust. After more than 17 years of service in the United States Army and now as an educator, Grandison has built his career on the values of discipline, integrity, and accountability—principles he is committed to bringing to one of the county's most essential public offices.

His campaign is centered on ensuring that the District Clerk's Office serves every resident with professionalism, transparency, and efficiency. Grandison understands that accurate court records, reliable case management, and accessible public information are fundamental to a fair and trusted justice system. He is committed to modernizing processes, safeguarding public records, and ensuring that every interaction with the office reflects respect for the people it serves.

Grandison believes that trust in government begins with competent, ethical leadership. By combining his experience in military service and education with a steadfast commitment to accountability, he is prepared to strengthen the integrity of the District Clerk's Office and ensure it operates in the best interests of Brazoria County.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Grandison Porter embodies the principles of The Politician's Creed: leading with honor, protecting the public trust, and ensuring that public service truly serves the public.

Candidate for Sangamon County Board Member District 18

Miguel Valente is a Chicago native, the son of immigrant parents from Mexico.  Miguel grew up on Chicago's South Side with a deep appreciation for hard work, service, and opportunity. He served in the Army National Guard from 2017 to 2024 before earning both a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Illinois Springfield. His combination of military service and academic preparation reflects a commitment to both leadership and effective public administration .

As an Oath Of Office endorsed candidate, Miguel Valente has pledged to uphold the Politician’s Creed for the people of his county and is committed to people-first leadership, accountability, and transparency in office.

California's 40th Congressional District

Dr. Tiffanie Tate is running for Congress to defend the freedoms and opportunities that shaped her own life and to ensure they remain available for future generations. A veteran U.S. Navy officer and retired OB-GYN, Dr. Tate has dedicated her career to service—first to her country, then to her patients, and now to her community.

Growing up with humble beginnings, she understands firsthand the promise America can offer. But she also sees those promises under threat. As families face rising financial pressures, as education comes under increasing attack, and as fundamental rights—especially for women—are challenged, Dr. Tate refuses to stand by. Her candidacy is a call to action: to speak up for those who cannot, to defend the Constitution, and to reaffirm that government must serve the people with integrity, compassion, and accountability.

A proud mother of two, Dr. Tate is committed to building a future where every child has a fair chance at success. She brings the discipline of military service, the empathy of a physician, and the courage of a lifelong advocate to her run for Congress.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Dr. Tiffanie Tate exemplifies the principles of The Politician’s Creed: leading with honor, fighting for fairness, and ensuring that public service truly serves the public.

Candidate for Michigan State Senate District 29

Ivan Diaz is a Grand Rapids native, the son of migrant farmworkers, and a fierce advocate for working families across Michigan. From organizing one of the country’s first credit union labor unions to serving on the Kent County Board of Commissioners, Ivan has proven he’s not afraid to challenge power and fight for people.

Now running for State Senate in District 29, Ivan brings both lived experience and governing experience to the table. His campaign is 100% grassroots—fueled by community, not corporations—and grounded in a bold vision for healthcare access, affordable housing, workers’ rights, and real accountability in government.

As an Oath Of Office endorsed candidate, Ivan Diaz has pledged to uphold the Politician’s Creed and is committed to putting constituents before special interests, always.

Alex Hardy is a disabled veteran and a global thinker whose life experiences have uniquely prepared him to serve the people of Indiana’s 6th Congressional District with strength, empathy, and vision. From defending his country to exploring international solutions to complex issues—from studying water quality in China to observing peace negotiations in Colombia—Alex has consistently stepped beyond his comfort zone to stand up for others.

Whether advocating for fellow veterans, interning at the Smithsonian Libraries, or traveling the world on scholarship, Alex has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to service, learning, and principled leadership. He understands firsthand what it means to fight for something bigger than oneself—and now, he’s ready to bring that same fight to Washington on behalf of his constituents.

Alex is not a career politician. He’s a public servant with the courage to speak truth, the resilience to confront entrenched interests, and the integrity to put people over party. That’s the kind of leadership Congress needs—and the kind Hoosiers deserve.

Candidate for U.S. House—MI‑04 

Born and raised in Battle Creek, MI, Diop Harris grew up in a family with just $30 of spare money and a TV perched on a milk crate—yet he was shaped by community resilience and Midwestern grit. A lifelong member of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi tribe, Diop has built a career in service—from leading youth grantmaking, organizing on Capitol Hill, to fighting for fair immigration reform, rural broadband, and constituent access to government.

He’s now running to return public service to public office—to bring real solutions to Southwest Michigan. Diop stands for:

• Reinforcing good governance: A Congressperson who listens, responds, and believes public office is a job to serve—not a platform for special interests.

• Facing the climate crisis: Backing bold, community-driven strategies that preserve Michigan’s environment and create clean-energy jobs.

• Supporting education & veterans: Securing resources for schools, combating MAGA-driven curriculum cuts, and ensuring veterans receive comprehensive care and post-service opportunities.

Diop’s campaign is powered by real people, not corporations or consultants. As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, he’s publicly pledged to uphold the Politician’s Creed—transparency, integrity, and constituent-first leadership. Southwest Michigan deserves a fighter who’s from here, of here—and running to serve us.

Candidate for Maryland U.S. House of Representative District 4

Shavonne Hedgepeth  is running for Congress to make government work for everyone—not just those already at the table. A lifelong advocate for fairness and opportunity, she believes federal systems should serve all communities, especially those too often left behind in housing, transit, education, and food security.

Her campaign focuses on transparency, accountability, and inter-generational equity—bringing federal resources home and ensuring they’re spent where they matter most. Shavonne is committed to expanding pathways to prosperity through job training and union apprenticeship programs, empowering residents to build sustainable futures for themselves and their families.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, she embodies the spirit of The Politician’s Creed: leading with integrity, aligning action with community needs, and ensuring that public service truly serves the public.

Candidate for Florida House, District 25

Banks Helfrich is an independent farmer and teacher of sustainability from South Lake County—and a born-and-raised Floridian who deeply values his home. He’s spent years building community through practical, hands-on engagement: teaching farming, stewarding local conservation efforts, and promoting ecological resilience. He has served as Chairperson of the Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District and currently leads the Keep Lake Beautiful Committee

Banks isn’t just rooted in the soil—he’s rooted in his community as well. Whether through local garden clubs, permaculture groups, or cultural partnerships, he shows up and listens—turning community care into real solutions. His campaign centers on lowering the cost of living, reducing congestion, protecting natural resources, and ensuring government truly serves its citizens.

As an Oath Of Office endorsed candidate, Banks Helfrich stands for honest, service‑first leadership—bringing sustainability, stewardship, and authentic connection to the people of South Lake Country.  Florida deserves representatives who show up for the land and the people, and will hold themselves accountable to their fellow constituents.  Banks is such a leader.

Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives – Florida’s 15th Congressional District

Robert People is a retired U.S. Army veteran with 21 years of service—a commitment rooted in the higher oath he took to the Constitution, not party or politics.  Now, he’s running for Congress to bring that ethos of service, accountability, and courage to Florida’s 15th District.

"I am running because I have spoken up over the years about how Congress does business—and I feel that now is the time to step up for the people,” he says. “My goal is to bring the focus back to the people, which has been lost for too long." 

Robert pledges to center constituents’ voices in every decision—reflecting his belief that public office should, at its core, serve the people who elected you and not special interests.

As an Oath Of Office endorsed candidate, Robert People has taken the oath of Politician’s Creed and committed himself to transparency, integrity, and unwavering constituent-first leadership. Florida’s 15th District deserves representation rooted in principle—to which Robert is ready to serve.

Candidate for Covina Treasurer

Neil Polzin is running for City Treasurer to bring accountability, transparency, and ethical stewardship back to Covina’s public finances. A third-generation resident of the city and a lifelong activist for justice, Neil believes that public resources must be managed with integrity and always in the service of the community—not for personal gain or political favoritism.

With an academic background that includes an M.A. in Philosophy from California State University, Los Angeles and an MBA from the University of California, Irvine, Neil brings both principled leadership and practical financial expertise to the role. He believes the Treasurer’s office should serve as a vigilant guardian of taxpayer funds, ensuring that every dollar is handled responsibly and that the public is fully informed about how their money is managed.

Neil’s campaign is grounded in the conviction that Covina should be a city where all residents are treated with dignity and respect. He is committed to holding officials accountable for misuse of public resources and to helping build a local government that truly reflects the values of fairness, transparency, and inclusion.

As an Oath of Office endorsed candidate, Neil Polzin embodies the principles of The Politician’s Creed: leading with integrity, protecting the public trust, and ensuring that public service truly serves the public