WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the New Democrat Coalition Action Fund announced its first endorsement of the 2024 cycle: George Whitesides for California’s 27th Congressional District. From his time as a Chief of Staff at NASA to his role as CEO at Virgin Galactic and his work as a Founder of an organization dedicated to fighting wildfires, George has over 20 years of career experience solving the top problems facing our nation. This seat, which is currently represented by Republican Mike Garcia, is a top pickup opportunity for Democrats and will be key to NewDems’ mission to take back the House.
In 2022, NewDems protected 22 Frontline Members, elected 17 new Members, and flipped five seats from red to blue. The NewDem Action Fund plans to build on this progress with its first ever National Finance Team, led by Reps. Marc Veasey and Mikie Sherrill, and its first Recruitment Team, led by Reps. Pat Ryan and Josh Harder.
“As the majority makers, NewDems will be the key to taking back the House in 2024, starting with this critical seat in California,” said Honorary NewDem Action Fund Chair Ami Bera. “George Whitesides shares our NewDem values and is already building an impressive campaign centered on creating good-paying American jobs, protecting women’s fundamental freedoms, and tackling the wildfire crisis. The NewDem Action Fund looks forward to working closely with George in the coming months to win this race.”
“NewDems are focused on recruiting talented candidates across the country who can flip the seats Democrats need to win the majority in 2024,” said Recruitment Co-Chair Josh Harder. “George is the best person to represent this seat and there’s no doubt he can win this competitive race. NewDems will work with him every step of the way.”
"I am honored to receive the NewDems’ endorsement because of our shared commitment to growing the economy, smart outcome-based policy, and helping to create good jobs,” said George Whitesides (CA-27). “Our district is one of the most competitive in the nation. As I have talked to people throughout the district, it is clear that people are focused on their economic well being— good jobs, reliable infrastructure, and creating economic opportunity. With an understanding of what voters are looking for from their representative, we can win this seat and return to rational leadership in Washington.”
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The New Democrat Coalition counts more than forty percent of the House Democratic caucus as Members. The nearly 100 NewDems represent a central core of the Democratic Party and advocate within Congress, and the party as a whole, for innovative approaches and constructive solutions to move America forward. Formed by Members of the New Democrat Coalition, the NewDem Action Fund helps re-elect NewDems and elect new, like-minded leaders who can help develop a positive policy agenda and message.