Vote Mama, the first political action committee (PAC) focused solely on electing Democratic moms, on Monday announced its endorsement of two candidates running for the South Carolina House of Representatives – Michelle Brandt (District 114, pictured at right) and Ashlyn Preaux (District 61).
“With so much on the line in November, many of our rights and freedoms now lay in the hands of state legislatures across the country,” said Liuba Grechen Shirley, Vote Mama Founder, and CEO. “At a time when the rights of women and children are under attack, it is crucial that we elect quality candidates who understand the needs of working families who will fight for us. It's time to elect more Democratic moms. Vote Mama is proud to endorse Michelle Brandt and Ashlyn Preaux in their campaigns for South Carolina House of Representatives. Michelle and Ashlyn are not only amazing candidates, but they also have the lived experience of motherhood that we so desperately need in office. I am confident that Michelle Brandt and Ashlyn Preaux will fight for working families when elected, and we are so proud to support their campaigns!”
Since launching in 2019, Vote Mama has helped more than 375 Democratic moms run for office. The current slate of Vote Mama endorsed candidates is available here .
“Running for the State House as a mama with young children has been challenging,” Brandt said. “Everyday I have to balance taking care of their needs, my own, and the demands of campaign life. It has been incredible to have them campaign with me and share this experience as a family. I have worked so hard on this campaign and it is so encouraging and special to me to have Vote Mama's endorsement. I feel seen.”
Vote Mama endorses, funds, and trains Democratic moms running for office up and down the ballot and across the country. The organization is attempting to increase the political power of mothers by providing the tools and training to break down the systemic barriers that hold women and mothers back.
“Our current political landscape is not set up for moms to run for office,” said Preaux. “It's built to keep us out, and I want to change that, which is why I was thrilled to receive Vote Mama's endorsement and support. If you want to get something done, ask a mom. The status quo isn't working for anyone, it's time for us to change it.”
