There are only TWO competitive special elections for Congress this year and we have two incredible Democratic scientists running in both the Texas and New Mexico special elections. BUT: Early voting is already underway in Texas and about to begin in New Mexico. Please, rush in a donation toward our Special Election Fund to power Melanie Stansbury and Shawn Lassiter to VICTORY in these special elections.
As President of 314 Action, Shaughnessy Naughton is frequently called upon by media outlets and other interest groups to speak about the urgent need to elect more scientists at every level of government. Her passionate commitment to increasing the number of professionals with scientific training in Congress is deeply personal.
With staff ranging from an entrepreneurial scientist who stepped into the electoral arena, seasoned political operatives, and skilled fundraisers, 314 provides critical resources and expertise to STEM candidates new to politics.
As Executive Director, Joshua oversees 314 Action’s operations and runs the independent expenditure arm of 314 Action Fund. In this role, he oversees the organization’s mobilization efforts, paid communications, and critical research and data collection. Joshua also liaises with progressive allies nationally, ensuring 314 Action has a place at decision-making tables.
A veteran campaign manager and communications expert, Joshua got his start as the field director for Harry Reid’s U.S. Senate campaign in 1998. He has managed campaigns in eight states, and abroad in South and Central America.
Joshua’s campaign experience includes managing statewide gubernatorial, senate, congressional, and mayoral campaigns in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York City, and Philadelphia.
With his extensive on-the-ground campaign experience, Joshua brings a deep understanding of the nuts-and-bolts of building and running strong campaigns to the work of 314 Action and 314 Action Fund.
Erik is Director of Campaigns for 314. In that capacity, he advises candidates on how to build strong campaigns, raise money, and secure grassroots support. He helps screen potential candidates interested in running for elected office at different levels.
Prior to joining 314 Action, Erik was previously Campaign Manager for Shaughnessy Naughton in 2016. He was the Deputy Finance Director in Tammy Duckworth’s successful 2016 Senate bid, while also serving as the Finance Director of the Illinois Democratic Coordinated Campaign. Erik also worked as Finance Director for a DCCC Red to Blue race in 2014, on Tammy Duckworth’s election to Congress in 2012, and with Congresswoman Lois Frankel.
His hands-on experience building successful campaign operations, and raising money are invaluable skills for mentoring a new generation of candidates teaming up with 314 Action.
As National Development Director, Hilary manages fundraising and development for 314. Hilary was previously the President of Badger Strategies Consulting where she advised Members of Congress, PAC’s, and candidates on national fundraising strategy.
In the 2018 cycle, Hilary was the National Finance Director for Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ11), one of the highest raising House campaigns of the cycle, raising over $8 million dollars.
In addition to her campaign work, Hilary worked in Congress, serving Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty (CT05) in the U.S. House of Representatives. She also worked at the Center for American Progress, serving as the Special Assistant to the Executive Vice President of Policy.
Hilary’s fundraising expertise is integral to the success of pro-science candidates running with the support of 314 Action Fund.
As Digital Director, Esteban Rodriguez-Vazquez leads 314 Action’s digital fundraising efforts and strategy, online messaging, and supporter outreach. He helps fundraise for and connect 314 Action endorsed candidates with the supporters they need to win in some of the nation’s toughest races.
Prior to joining 314 Action, Esteban worked at a range of digital and consulting firms including a leading role in converting a startup operating out of a single room into a multi-million dollar firm.
As a senior digital strategist and copywriter, Esteban has written for and/or ran digital fundraising programs on behalf of 21 Democratic Senators, 44 Democratic members of the House, several 2020 Presidential hopefuls, the Speaker of the House, and the nation’s premier organization devoted to saving America’s wild horses, raising tens of millions of dollars to support progressive and pro-science causes.
With his extensive digital experience from non-profits to campaigns of all sizes, from the Speaker of the House and Senators down to state and local races, Esteban ensures our candidates have the support they need to be competitive and win.
