Michelle Brandt, former 3rd Vice Chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party and current South Carolina Foster Care Review Board Member has been accepted to the prestigious The Campaign School at Yale’s annual 5-day Summer Session campaigning boot camp June 8 to 12 at Yale Law School in New Haven, Conn. Just 80 women (and men who support them) nationwide and beyond are accepted into this intensive nonpartisan campaign training program for candidates and campaign staff.
Brandt will learn the tools and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of modern political campaigns from experts from both major political parties. Lessons will emphasize the unique challenges women face in running for office, including asking for contributions (often a special challenge for women), security on the campaign trail, the economics of campaigning, and more.
Women are underrepresented in politics. Just 28 percent of the U.S. Congress and 31.6 percent of state legislators identify as women. Only 24 of out the 170 members of the South Carolina State House are women and South Carolina is ranked 49th in nation for female representation in the State House. The Campaign School at Yale’s mission is to train women – and the men helping them – win elected office.
“Michelle Brandt represents a wave of women who know they can lead in a less ego-driven and more collaborative way,” said Patricia (Patti) Russo, executive director of The Campaign School at Yale. “Women lead differently, and we need strong, enthusiastic women like Brandt in office to help bridge the bipartisan gap that is plaguing our government.”
“Service is in my heart, but it takes strategy to win the elections. I am honored to be among just 80 people accepted to The Campaign School at Yale’s Summer Session and look forward to learning from some of the most accomplished campaign leaders from all parties,” Michelle Brandt said
Among the teachers of past Summer Sessions are Betsy Ankney, campaign manager for Nikki Haley’s presidential run, Earnestine Dawson, Director of Strategic Planning & Special Projects for U.S Representative Hakeem Jeffries, Emmy Ruiz, Director of Political Strategy and Outreach at The White House, and experts from the most prominent campaign consultants.
Alums of the Summer Session include sitting Congresswomen Erin Houchin (R-IN), Becca Balint (D-VT), Lauren Underwood (D-IL), Nikema Williama (D-VT), and Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY).